"There! there! do not get so excited, Lynda. It is only for--three
years. McPherson and I understand."

"And then?"

"It will go to Conning--if--"

"If what?" Lynda was afraid now.

"If he--marries you!"

"Oh! this is beyond endurance! How could you be so cruel, Uncle
William?" The hot, passionate tears were burning the indignant face.

"He will not know. The years will test and prove him."

"But I shall know! If you thought best to do this thing, why have you
told me?"

"There have been hours when I myself did not know why; I understand
to-night. Your mother led me!"

"My mother could never have hurt me so. Never!"

"You must trust--her and me, Lynda."

"Suppose--oh! suppose--Con does not ... Oh! this is degrading!"

"Then the fortune will--be yours. McPherson and I have worked this
out--most carefully."