“Well then, sir, have the goodness to gratify my curiosity, which is much piqued on one point.”

He looked disturbed.

“What? what?” he said hastily. “Curiosity is a dangerous petition: it is well I have not taken a vow to accord every request — ”

“But there can be no danger in complying with this, sir.”

“Utter it, Jane: but I wish that instead of a mere inquiry into, perhaps, a secret, it was a wish for half my estate.”

“Now, King Ahasuerus! What do I want with half your estate? Do you think I am a Jew-usurer, seeking good investment in land? I would much rather have all your confidence. You will not exclude me from your confidence if you admit me to your heart?”