There was an awkward silence. Mrs. Palma stirred the coals with the poker, and at last asked abruptly:
"Miss Orme, I presume you have breakfasted?"
"I do not wish any, thank you."
Something in her quiet tone attracted attention, and as the lady and gentleman turned to look at her, both noticed a brilliant flush on her cheek, a peculiar sparkle dancing in her eyes.
Passing her arm through the handle of her satchel, she put both her hands upon Hero's silver collar.
"Hattie will show you up to your room, Miss Orme; and if you need anything call upon her for it. Farley, take that dog away, and do not let me see him here again."
The blunt but kind-hearted coachman looked irresolute, glancing first at his mistress, and then pityingly at the girl. As he advanced to obey, Regina said in a quiet but clear and decisive tone:
"Don't you touch him. He is mine, and no one shall take him from me. I am sorry, Mrs. Palma, that I have annoyed you so much, and I have no right to force unpleasant things upon you, even if I had the power. Come, Hero! we will find a place somewhere; New York is large enough to hold us both. Good-bye, Mr. Roscoe. Good-day, Mrs. Palma."
She walked toward the door, leading Hero, who rubbed his head caressingly against her.
"Where are you going?" cried Mr. Roscoe following, and catching her arm.