“And it is mine, too, when I see you doing an injustice,” replied Shirley. “You would be terribly sorry in the morning, and I don’t want you to have any such regrets.”
“Thank you, Miss Shirley,” said Jimmy quietly, “but it is best that I go.”
He moved toward the door.
Mr. Willing’s manner underwent a sudden change. He turned sharply to Jimmy.
“Didn’t you just hear my daughter tell you to stay?” he demanded.
“Why—why——” began Jimmy.
“Don’t stand there and stutter at me,” said Mr. Willing. “My daughter’s wishes must be obeyed. What do you mean by trying to run away?”
In spite of herself, Shirley was forced to smile. Mr. Willing noticed this smile, and his face grew red. He turned again to Jimmy, held out his hand, and with an effort that was apparent, said:
“Jimmy, I beg your pardon. I should have known better. And forgive my last outburst, too. If you know how hard it is for me to admit that I was wrong——”
Shirley cut short the rest of the apology by throwing her arms tightly about her father’s neck.