"And what is your objection to him?" asked he in surprise.
"Hugh, yesterday you told me you loved me," she said, looking seriously into his face.
"Yes, dearest, I did. I meant it."
"Then, as I explained to you, I have many enemies as well as friends. Jack Egerton is one of the former, and will do all in his power to part us when he finds out our affection is mutual. Now you understand my antipathy."
"Clearly," he replied, puzzled. "But I know Jack too well; he would not be guilty of an underhand action."
"Do not trust him, but promise me one thing."
"Of course, I'll promise you anything to make you happy. What is it?"
"That you will take no heed of any allegations he may make against me."
She was intensely in earnest, and gazed at him with eyes that were entirely human in their quick sympathy, their gentleness—in their appeal to the world for a favoring word.
"Rest assured, nothing he may say will ever turn me from you, Valérie."
She heaved a sigh of relief when he gave his answer.
"Somehow or other I am always being scandalized," she exclaimed bitterly. "I have done nothing of which I am ashamed, yet my select circle of enemies seem to conspire to cause the world to deride me. Because I am unmarried, and do not believe in burying myself, they endeavor to besmirch my fair name."
She spoke with a touch of emotion, which she ineffectually tried to hide.
Then, as Hugh addressed her in a tone in which
