"I do not wish it," she exclaimed, greatly irritated by his manner.
"Margaret! Margaret!" pleaded Ralph.
"Oh, don't check her," sneered Laurence.
"He can not," returned Margaret. "I am weary of this rudeness—weary of you."
"Say and do what you please; I will leave you in more agreeable society," said Laurence, hurrying away.
Hinchley tried to expostulate with her, but words were thrown away. During the ride home, and the whole evening, Margaret and Laurence did not speak. Ralph kept near her, anxious to soothe her anger, while Laurence and Sybil Chase watched every movement and look.
Thus, with her proud spirit up in arms, and her heart aching with wounded tenderness, the poor girl rushed into the snare so insidiously laid beneath her feet.
[CHAPTER XIV.]
THE JAIL.