I fear your books would not sell then."
Mrs. Octagon saw all this, and glared savagely at Cuthbert.
She would have liked to kill him, but he was the stronger of
the two, and knew much which she wished kept silent. Mallow
saw the impression he was making and went on persuasively.
"And think, Mrs. Octagon, Juliet can give you up the six
thousand a year--"
"Not she," laughed Mrs. Octagon, sneering.
"She will, at my request. I don't want my wife to possess
money made out of coining. The income will be made over to
you by deed of gift."
"Six thousand a year," mused the lady, "and you will hold your
tongue?"
"Of course, for Juliet's sake as well as for yours. But I
think it will be advisable for you to travel for a few years."
"I'll take up my abode in America forever," said Mrs. Octagon,
rising, "do you think I'll stop here and see you my daughter's
husband? Not for all the money in the world. Besides, Mr.
Octagon has been insolent over money, and I sha'n't stay with
him. Basil and myself will go to America and there we will
become famous."
"It is certainly better than becoming famous in another way,"
said Mallow, dryly, "you will, of course be quite amiable to
Juliet. Also to me, in public."
"Oh," she replied, with a short laugh, "I'll kiss you if you
like."
"There is no need to go so far. I am sorry for you."
"And I hate you--hate you! Leave me now at least. You can
come to-morrow, and I'll consent publicly to the marriage.
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