scheme. Been in the back of my head all along. We'll show a clean pair of heels. Time something definite happened. Bella!—you know—how I love you."
A slight impediment, unfamiliar to the startled woman, made itself noticeable in his voice. His control was limited. Already his true condition disclosed itself. Fear as powerful as that which had greeted his stealthy approach returned to her eyes.
"You know I won't come with you, Freddy. Perhaps later things will be arranged. John and I had a talk to-night."
His face worked evilly.
"He had a talk with me, too," he said. "It's come to a showdown. No use talking about waiting, Bella. It's now or never. You've held me off too long. Got to choose. We love each other."
He advanced. She stepped behind the table.
"Don't come any nearer, Freddy. What's the matter with you?"
He laughed.
"Just you."
He tapped the side pocket of his coat.
"By gad! I'd have killed him to-night to get to you if it had been necessary. That's what you've done to me, Bella."
He reached across and grasped her arm. He held her tight while he glided around the table. A book fell to the floor, and another. A vase of roses toppled over and shattered musically. The flowers made brilliant patches on the dull carpet.
