"Why should it? You can do nothing for me—now. You could have helped this afternoon—and you did not! You spoilt everything—made me drive him away—for ever! It was so cruel—so cruel! And now—to pretend—"
"Oh, Bee! Pretend!"
"I can't help it. You must give me time. I can't forgive you yet."
Bee turned away, with a low moan, and went towards the window.
Amy came close behind.
"Listen to me, dear. I promise you that I'll put it right. I'll explain—"
Bee turned fiercely, gripping her wrist. No limpness about her now!
"Never! Never! Not one word. Amy—if you dare—" and her breath grew short. "Have you no sense? Don't you see what it would mean for me, if—if he doesn't care? Promise—promise faithfully—that you never, never will say a single word to anybody about it. Promise!"
"Can't you trust me?"
"No, I can't—after to-day!—after what you did say! You must promise. Amy, I tell you plainly—if ever—ever!—you interfere again—it will be the end of our friendship."