Athalie

"No, I didn't know it."

"Well it does. It's my own investment.... I've reduced rents--pending

improvements."

She looked up at him.

"The rent of your apartment has been reduced fifty per cent.," he said

carelessly; "so your rent is now paid until the new term begins next

October."

"Clive! That is perfectly ridiculous!" she began, hotly; but he swung

around, silencing her: "Are you criticising my business methods?" he demanded.

"But that is too silly--"

"Will you mind your business!" he exclaimed, turning and taking her by

both shoulders. She looked into his eyes, searching them in silence.

Then: "You're such a dear," she sighed; "why do you want to do a thing like

that when my sisters and I can afford to pay the present rent. You are

always doing such things, Clive; you have simply covered my

dressing-table with silver; my bureau is full of pretty things, all

gifts from you; you've given me the loveliest furniture of my own, and

books and desk-set and--and everything. And now you are asking me to

live rent-free.... And what have I to offer you in return?"

"The happiness of being with you now and then."

"Oh, Clive! You know that isn't very much to offer you. You know that

our being together is far more to me than it is to you! I dare not

even consider what I'd do without you, now. You mould me, alter my

thoughts, make me such a delightfully different girl, take entire

charge and possession of me.... I don't want you to give me anything

more--do anything more for me.... When you first began to give me

beautiful things I didn't want to take them. Do you remember how

awkward and shy I was--how I blushed. But I always end by doing

everything you wish.... And it seems to give us both so much

pleasure--all you do for me.... But please don't ask me to live

without paying rent--"

The limousine drew up by the curb; Clive jumped out, aided Athalie to

descend; and started for the grilled door where a light glimmered.

"This is not the house!" exclaimed Athalie, stopping short. "Where are

you taking me, Clive?"

"Come on," he said, "I merely want to show you how I've had the new

apartment house built--"

"But--it's too late! What an odd idea, taking me to inspect a new

apartment house at two in the morning! Are you really serious?"