“Yes, of course,” Gardenia agreed.
“Then we must not quarrel,” the Baron went on. “She is fond of you. Indeed she loves you for she has told me so. You are taking the place in her heart of the child she never had. As for me I am of no importance, but all I want is her happiness and her contentment. Can you see that?”
“Yes, of course,” Gardenia said again.
“Then you forgive me,” the Baron asked.
“I forgive you,” Gardenia replied.
There was really nothing else she could say.
“That then is finished,” the Baron said positively. “And now, my dear Gardenia, sit down for I have something of importance to say to you, which is why I have called so early this evening. I wanted to see you without your aunt knowing anything of our conversation.”
Gardenia stiffened again.
“Why?” she asked.
“Si
