'Name o' goodness, young 'ooman, what did you run away from our house for in such a sly, underhand way, and give us all this trouble and bother? Don't suppose I 'ould a run after you, if it wasn't for Miss Gwynne and your mistress.'
'Oh, sir, I am very thankful to ye and to them. I know I don't deserve such kindness.'
'Treue for you there. I should have thought you'd have known that one 'lopement was quite enough from one house. Pray, what have you done with my son Owen?'
'I, sir? Nothing, sir!' said Gladys, trembling at this abrupt question.
Lion licked her hand as if to reassure her.
'You needn't tell no lies about it, because I shall be seure to find out. Where is he gone?'
'Indeed—indeed, I don't know, sir. I thought he was at home at Glanyravon.'
'But he isn't at home. He went off with you.'
'Oh, not with me, sir—not with me, I assure you. I went away that he might stay, and that I might not cause anger between you. I am speaking the truth, sir, indeed I am.'
Mr Prothero looked at the agitated girl, and felt inclined to believe her.