"Now, Kitty, what does this mean? Why can you not see your brother and me when we call upon you?"
"My husband does not wish it," she said, faintly.
"Why not?"
"I don't know." Then, in a more decided tone: "He likes to thwart my wishes, that is all."
"That was why you warned Angela not to answer your letter?"
"Yes." Then, under her breath:—"I was afraid."
"But, my child, what are you afraid of?"
She uttered a short, stifled sob.
"I can't tell you," she said.
"Surely," said Rupert, "he would not hurt you?"