Читать книгу On the Brink of a Chasm: A record of plot and passion онлайн

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“That’s a civil way of asking why I take the liberty of calling. The fact is, I have come on a matter of great importance.”

Pelham remained motionless. He had not seated himself, but stood on the hearth where Tarbot had stood a minute or two before. His blue eyes were fixed upon Luke Tarbot’s face. The surgeon gazed straight up at the young man.

“So you are engaged to Barbara Evershed,” Tarbot said abruptly.

“Yes; but how do you know?” Pelham’s face was crimson.

“You are engaged to the girl I meant to marry. You must forgive me if I fail to congratulate you.”

Pelham’s blue eyes wore a stormy expression.

“This is an awful blow to me, but all the same, for the sake of the girl, I want to help you. I know more about Mrs. Evershed than you have any idea of. She is in serious difficulties. Although you are engaged to Miss Evershed, you have not a chance of marrying her, because you are a poor man. Miss Evershed, as far as I can make out, will not allow the engagement to become public. That is an awkward thing for you. You would like to have everything straight and above board, would you not?”