"Why, I think she's just starting for the Sayres'. Yes, there she goes now,—walking down the path." "WILL you excuse me then, Mrs. Parsons, if I make a hurried exit? I want to see her on a MOST important matter."
Big Bill fairly flung himself down the little staircase that led from the upper veranda to the lower one, and in a few moments, with long strides, he had overtaken Daisy, who was alone.
"Whoop-ee! Daisy, wait a minute!" he cried, as he neared her.
"What for?" and Daisy turned, smiling, but her smile faded as she caught sight of Bill's face.
"Because I tell you to!" thundered Bill. "Because I want to talk to you,—and, right now!"
"I—I'm going on an errand—" faltered Daisy, fairly frightened at his vehemence.
"I don't care if you're going on an errand for the Czar of Russia; you turn around, and walk along with me."
"Where to?"
"Wherever I lead you! Here's a rose arbour, this will do. In with you!"
Daisy entered the arbour, trembling. She had never seen Farnsworth so angry before, and her guilty conscience made her feel sure he had discovered her treachery. In the arbour they were screened from observation, and Bill lowered his voice.