George thought this her first false step. But there were no witnesses.
“It will be war between us,” she went on in growing excitement. “I will stand at nothing—nothing—to crush you; and I will do it.”
“You must not try to frighten me,” said George.
Neaera surveyed him from head to foot. Then she stretched out her white hand again, and said,
“Go!”
George shrugged his shoulders, took his hat, and went, feeling very much as if Neaera had detected him in theft. So great is the virtue of a good presence and dramatic instincts.
Suddenly he paused; then he went back again, and knocked at the door.
“Come in,” cried Neaera.
As he entered she made an impatient movement. She was still standing where he had left her.
“Pray pardon me. I forgot to say one thing. Of course I am only interested in this—matter, as one of the family. I am not a detective. If you give up Gerald, my mouth is sealed.”