But in spite of a loving, eloquent, and insistent invitation Letty could not be induced to abandon Les Plans.
“I love you, and I am grateful, dearest Cousin Maude, my friend from the first; but here I am at home, and here I feel safe.”
“What is there to fear now?” demanded Mrs. Hesketh. “Blagdon will never trouble you; but should he do so, I will deal with him—leave him to me.”
“He would take Cara from me, and just at the critical age, when her character is forming.”
“Her character is formed,” rejoined the other, with conviction. As she spoke, her eyes were fixed upon a neighbouring apple tree, with Fritz among its shaking branches; immediately below, stood an expectant figure with an imperious voice, and outstretched skirts.
“I have a terrible presentiment,” continued Letty, “so keen, that it actually hurts me.”
“Bah,” scoffed Mrs. Hesketh, “I don’t believe in such things,—in absolutely nothing beyond the range of sense. Why go to meet trouble half way? What is your bug-a-boo?”
“That Hugo will find us yet—and take Cara from me.”
“My dear, I can assure you, that if Cara is taken—against her will—as I believe would be the case—she will make her father rue the day, and bitterly repent of his folly in sackcloth and ashes. For my part,” she went on courageously, “I wish to goodness, he would—steal her!”
“Oh, Cousin Maude!” cried Letty, turning to her a glowing face, “what a cruel, cruel thing to wish!”