experience was considerable.

"You must have noticed my--my attachment. I hope it was without
displeasure?"

This clearly called for an answer, but Claudia gave none. She sighed
slightly and put up her parasol.

"Claudia, is there any hope for me? I love you more--"

"Mr. Haddington," said Claudia, "this is a painful scene. I trust
nothing in my conduct has misled you. [This was known--how, I do not
know--to her brothers as "Claudia's formula," but it is believed not to
be uncommon.] But what you propose is utterly impossible."

"Why do you say that? Perhaps you do not know me well enough yet--but in
time, surely?"

"Mr. Haddington," said Claudia, "let me speak plainly. Even if I loved
you--which I don't and never shall, for immense admiration for a man's
abilities is a different thing from love [Haddington looked somewhat
soothed], I could never consent to accept the position of a _pis-aller_.
That is not the Territon way." And Lady Claudia looked very proud.

"A _pis-aller_! What in the world do you mean?"

"Girls are not supposed to see anything. But do you think I imagine you
would ever have honored me in this way unless a greater prize had
been--had appeared to be out of reach?"