"
"Oh no. There are sure to be plenty of people about! You shall go as far
as Cheapside, but not a step further."
Vane accepted the compromise, but when Cheapside was reached it was full
of a noisy throng and most of the crowd, both men and women, were the
worse for drink. He easily overcame her protest that she could proceed
alone and they went on to St. Paul's. Here it was comparatively quiet,
and she flatly refused to permit him to accompany her beyond the
Cathedral.
They passed the Chapter coffee house. Lavinia's thoughts reverted to her
warning to Vane on Moor Fields.
"You've not given me your promise to have nothing to do with that man--I
don't know his name and I don't want to--who made you drink too much
last night in there."
"I'll promise you anything," he cried pressing the arm which was within
his.
"Thank you, but that's not all. Swear that you will never drink too much
again. It makes me sad."
"On my honour I never will. I'd rather die than hurt you by word or
deed."
"Are you sure?" she returned with more concern in her voice than she
suspected.
"Sure? If I don't keep my word I should fear to face your anger."
"I shouldn't be angry, only sorry."
"I'd rather have your anger than your pity. I might pacify the first but
the second--while you are pitying me you might also despise me. I could
never endure that."
His voice trembled with genuine emotion.
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