But she could not address his admission now, for too many things were left undone. Hoping he understood, she said, “I tried to steal the painting.” In mock reprimand, he replied, “You’re a wretched failure at thievery.” “You’re a knave for taking advantage of the moment. You know I’m too miserable to mount a defense.” He grinned like a sailor home from the sea. “Guilty as charged. Why did you ask Henry to marry you?” Drawing in a deep breath, she stared at the gold braid on his coat. “You will not believe me. My reasoning will sound too simple, which it truly is. Too much has occurred between us.” “Enough has occurred between us for you to know that I am a man who makes up his own mind—when I am afforded the opportunity.” His eloquent words answered all of her reservations. “I proposed to Henry because he was the first man with all of his teeth who could even read my stipulations.” A smile danced in his eyes. “And he agreed to them.” “Yes. You see, I must have money and means of my own.
