An angel had come forward to save them? No, not an angel, but a loving, grateful girl! It was in her power, at least, to make an effort which by a happy chance might be successful. She could go to her father and appeal to him. She would humble herself to him; she would implore him on her knees; she would promise to obey him in everything—
"In everything?" Yes, in everything. She shuddered as she thought of Jeremiah Pamflett. But even that sacrifice she would make if all else failed.
The effort must be made at once—this very night—and it must be made without first consulting Aunt Leth. Full well did she know that the dear woman would divine the sacrifice she was prepared to make, and would endeavour to prevent it.
She put on her hat and mantle, and quietly left the house. A few doors down the street she met 'Melia Jane.
"Why, Miss Phœbe!" cried that model servant-of-all-work. "Where are you going all alone?"
"If my aunt or my cousin asks for me," said Phœbe, hurriedly, "tell them I have gone to Parksides to see my father."
Before 'Melia Jane could reply, Phœbe had turned the corner of the street, and was hastening to the railway station.