“No,” said Jimmy quietly, “I am not guilty. It is true I talked to Jones, but he did not even suggest treachery to me.”
“I know it! I know it!” declared Shirley. “And it is my fault that Dad has acted so.”
“It was your duty to your father, Miss Shirley,” declared the lad.
“It is good of you to say so,” declared the girl, “but what shall we do?”
“I shall find employment in town,” said Jimmy. “Some day, perhaps, your father will learn that he has misjudged me.”
“I’ll make him see it,” declared Shirley. “You shall yet win the Derby with Gabriel.”
Jimmy smiled sadly.
“I am afraid it is impossible,” he replied. “Should you ever need me, Mr. Wilson will tell you where to find me. I shall leave my address with him. Good-bye.”
He turned again, and before Shirley could protest, had continued on his way. For long minutes the girl looked after him, and then, stifling a sob, she made her way back toward the house.
A sudden cry of anguish came from the direction of the stable. Shirley listened intently, and heard another scream.