Coloring, as she hangs her head, she does not notice his act.
"What's that to you?" she said, doggedly.
"It's everything; speak, or take the consequences."
"He didn't, then; but he's not free to marry that hussy, since I have his writ promise, where is my paper? Give it me."
"Softly, softly, young woman; I want him to do right by you."
"But you'll only rouse the devil in him, sir; and he'll see me no more," she says, wringing her hands.
"Listen to reason, girl, I will borrow this paper, and on my honor; but pshaw, you won't credit me with so scarce a commodity," he says, half aside. "Lend me the letter until this time to-morrow, and here is ten dollars; when I return it you shall have ten more."
"Not much; you bet, it shan't leave my eye-sight for any money."
But after a weary talk she unwillingly consents; when he leaves the house.
During the next three days and nights Mr. Blair was half beside himself with anxieties, doubts and fears; for Mr. Dale, even with the letter to Beatrice Hill in his hand, could do nothing with Mr. Cobbe. As mulish as the girl Hill, he refused to release Mrs. Gower from her oath; finally, in fiery wrath declaring there would be a heavy breach of promise case, did she break faith.