"It is too late now to think of that. I tell you I shall not trouble you any more."
"When the paper fell on the stones," said Elsie, "I was so frightened."
Elizabeth gasped for breath at the very thought.
"But I managed cleverly. I am very weak and nervous, but I have my wits about me sometimes."
Elizabeth was shivering from head to foot, whether with remorse at the knowledge of evil which this young girl had gained through her, or some hidden fear, no one could tell.
"I must go to town," she said; "but what excuse can I make?"
"Oh, anything! Tell Grant we want to make purchases. I'll do it. But why must you go?"
"The money, I tell you the money! I have those stocks; if I could sell them. I might tell Mr. Hinchley I was in debt and feared to have my husband know it. Another lie—another lie!"
"Oh," groaned Elsie, "the lying is the least part of it! if that could do you any good!"
"You don't know the worst. If you had to face him! Oh, Elsie, the shame, the remorse!"