And
you're no wiser than the rest. You lost your head once--over a rotter.
You might again. Who knows?"
"Oh, really, Jack!" The girl's face flushed very deeply. She turned it
aside instinctively, though he was not looking at her. But the colour
died as quickly as it came, leaving her white and quivering.
She stood mutely struggling for self-control while Jack continued. "I
know Fletcher. I know he's sound. He's a man who always gets what he
wants. He wouldn't be a magistrate now if he didn't. And when I saw he
wanted you, I made up my mind he should have you if I could possibly work
it. I gave him my word I'd help him, and I begged him to wait a bit, to
give you time to get over that other affair. He's been waiting--ever
since."
Dot's hands clenched slowly. She spoke with a great effort. "Then he'd
better stop waiting--at once, Jack, and marry someone else."
"He won't do that," said Jack. He stood up again abruptly and faced round
upon her. "Look here, dear! Why can't you give in and marry him? He's
such a good sort if you only get to know him well. You've always kept him
at arm's length, haven't you? Well, let him come a bit nearer! You'll
soon like him well enough to marry him. He'd make you happy, Dot. Take my
word for it!"
She met his look bravely, though the distress still lingered in her eyes.
"But, dear old Jack," she said, "no woman can possibly love at will.
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