By the way, I know I was foolish about
Colonel Quaritch; but, Ida, I cannot bear to see that man near you. I
hope that you will now drop his acquaintance as much as possible."
Once more Ida's face set like a flint. "I am not your wife yet, Mr.
Cossey," she said; "when I am you will have a right to dictate to me
as to whom I shall associate with. At present you have no such right,
and if it pleases me to associate with Colonel Quaritch, I shall do
so. If you disapprove of my conduct, the remedy is simple--you can
break off the engagement."
He rose absolutely crushed, for Ida was by far the stronger of the
two, and besides, his passion gave her an unfair advantage over him.
Without attempting a reply he held out his hand and said good-night,
for he was afraid to venture on any demonstration of affection, adding
that he would come to see her father in the morning.
She touched his outstretched hand with her fingers, and then fearing
lest he should change his mind, promptly rang the bell.
In another minute the door had closed behind him and she was left
alone.
CHAPTER XXIV
"GOOD-BYE, MY DEAR, GOOD-BYE!"
When Edward Cossey had gone, Ida rose and put her hands to her head.
So the blow had fallen, the deed was done, and she was engaged to be
married to Edward Cossey.
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