Crane was remaining over night in Gravesend, and, going back to his
quarters, he reviewed the evening's campaign. He had expected
opposition from Allis, but had hoped to overcome the anticipated
objections; he had failed in this, but it was only a check, not defeat.
He smiled complacently over his power of self-control in having allowed
no hint of his absorbing passion to escape him.
Acceptance of this money by Allis, the money which was the outcome of an
isolated generous thought, would have given him a real advantage. To
have spoken, though never so briefly of his hopes for proprietary
rights, would have accentuated the girl's sensitive alarm. He was too
perfect a tactician to indulge in such poor sword play; he had really
left the question open. A little thought, influenced by the desperate
condition of Porter's fortunes, might make Allis amenable to what was
evidently her best interest, should she be approached from a different
quarter.
Crane had made the first move, and met checkmate; the second move would
be through Allis's mother; he determined upon that course. All his old
cunning must have surely departed from him if he could not win this
girl. Fate was backing him up most strenuously.
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