{59}
Notwithstanding her opinion of him, however, she was not prepared for his next move. He had noticed the grave look that had followed her laughter, and he turned away and was silent for a few moments.
'The Derby's a side show,' he said at last. 'I've come over to get married, and I want you to help me. Will you?'
'Can I?' asked Lady Maud, evasively.
'Yes, you can, and I believe there'll be trouble unless you do.'
'Who is she? Do I know her?' She was trying to put off the evil moment.
'Oh, yes, you know her quite well. It's Madame Cordova.'
'But she's engaged to Monsieur Logotheti——'
'I don't care. I mean to marry her if she marries any one. He shan't have her anyway.' {60}
{60}
'But I cannot deliberately help you to break off her engagement! It's impossible!'
'See here,' answered Mr. Van Torp. 'You know that Greek, and you know me. Which of us will make the best husband for an English girl? That's what Madame Cordova is, after all. I put it to you. If you were forced to choose one of us yourself, which would you take? That's the way to look at it.'
'But Miss Donne is not "forced" to take one of you——'
'She's going to be. It's the same. Besides, I said "if." Won't you answer me?'
'She's in love with Monsieur Logotheti,' said Lady Maud, rather desperately.
'Is she, now? I wonder. I don't much think so myself. He's clever and he's obstinate, and he's just made her think she's in love, that's all. Anyhow, that's not an answer to my question. Other things being alike, if she had to choose, which of us would be the best husband for her?—the better, I mean. You taught me to say "better," didn't you?'
Lady Maud tried to smile.
'Of two, yes,' she answered. 'You are forcing my hand, my dear friend,' she went on very gravely. 'You know
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