"That is it, believe me: it is a way we men have. But, as I was saying, I don't care one straw for Bolton and Hernshaw. It is you I love; not your land nor your house, but your sweet self: so give me that, and let the lawyers make over this famous house and lands to Mr. Gaunt. His antagonist I have been in the field, and his rival I am and must be, but not his enemy, you see, and not his ill-wisher." Kate was softened a little. "This is all mighty romantic," said she, "and very like a prolix chevalier, as you are; but you know very well he would fling land and house in your face if you offered them him on these terms." "Ay, in my face if I offered them; but not in yours if you." "I am sure he would, all the same." "Try him." "What is the use?" "Try him." Kate showed symptoms of uneasiness. "Well, I will," said she, stoutly. "No, that I will not. You begin by bribing me; and then you would set me to bribe him." "It is the only way to make two honest men happy." "If I thought that?" "You know it. Try him." "And suppose he says nay?" "Then we shall be no worse than we are." "And suppose he says ay?" "Then he will wed Bolton Hall and Hernshaw; and the pearl of England will wed me." "I have a great mind to take you at your word," said Kate; "but no; it is really too indelicate." George Neville fixed his eyes on her. "Are you not deceiving yourself?" said he. "Do you not like Mr. Gaunt better than you think? I begin to fear you dare not put him to this test: you fear his love would not stand it?" Kate colored high, and tossed her head proudly. "How shrewd you gentlemen are," she said. "Much you know of a lady's heart. Now the truth is I don't know what might happen were I to do what you bid me. Nay, I'm wiser than you would have me, and I'll pity Mr. Gaunt at a safe distance, if you please, sir." Neville bowed gravely: he felt sure this was a plausible evasion; and that she really was afraid to apply his test to his rival's love. So now for the first time he became silent and reserved by her side. The change was noticed by Father Francis, and he fixed a grave remonstrating glance on Kate. She received it, understood it, affected not to notice it, and acted upon it. Drive a donkey too hard; it kicks. Drive a man too hard; it hits. Drive a woman too hard; it cajoles.