“But what has become of his body?” asked the young lady in tearful tones.
“How can I tell you that? Supposing he had thrown himself into the Thames, isn’t it a thousand to one that his body would be lost for ever?”
“Perhaps, perhaps,” murmured Maude sadly.
“Very well then, since there is no chance of the Count ever turning up again why should you keep me in suspense?”
“But, Jack, dear, what would you have me do?” Maude asked in great distress, and seemingly ready to burst into tears.
“Marry me at once.”
“I cannot do that.”
“Why not. You are your own mistress.”
“Not while papa is alive. It would be a fearful thing to deceive him like that.”
“I can’t see that it would. And I tell you what it is, Maude, I feel as if I should go mad if I have to wait for you any longer, and I am convi
