Just as McTeague is insecure and concerned about finances, Trina is insecure about whether McTeague loves her. Although McTeague’s response is not convincing, it is not clear that Trina’s answer would be any different. From the beginning of their marriage, she has never been sure of her love for McTeague. Meanwhile, Marcus’s farewell seems suspicious as there is no reason for him to suddenly wish for McTeague’s success, leading the reader to wonder whether he has ulterior motives.