"As for what your father is owing me, it
shall, at the moment of your acceptance, be wiped entirely from the
books."
Patty was incensed at the hint of insolence in the gambler's allusion to
her improvident father's financial condition.
"Believe me, Mr. Saul," she said, with spirit, "no ulterior motive for
worldly advancement has the power to coerce my afflections."
"But you will consider my proposition of marriage?"
Patty's honest gaze encountered the appraising glint in the coot grey
eyes of the foppish scape-grace before her. She lowered her own eys
quickly to hid a hunted look in their dark depths as she answered:
"Sir, after the week of races, you shall have your answer."
"And then I shall give up my present means of gaining a livelihood, and,
repairing to San Francisco, shall enter into a profession more fitting
the social station of the lady who is to become my wife." He bowed
deeply and withdrew, leaving Patty with a sad face and tearfilled eyes.
At last she straightened her tall figure resolutely.
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