She took the mackintosh on her arm and walked out and down the path. Then suddenly she heard the sound of a sob, and, looking back, saw Mrs. Day with her hand to her face.
Even in that hour of her supreme anguish, Margaret's gentle heart could beat in sympathy with another's sorrow, and she went back.
"What is the matter?" she asked hoarsely.
Mrs. Day forced a smile, but her eyes were full of tears.
"It's nothing—nothing much, ma'am," she said. "I beg your pardon for distressing you, but—but the boat hasn't come back yet!" and she looked beyond Margaret toward the sea.
"Oh, I hope it will be all right," Margaret faltered. "Do not be anxious, it will be back before the storm."
She could not trust herself to say any more, and turning, walked quickly away down the path.
She felt tired, but she reached the bottom by the aid of a handrail, and went toward the station. Then suddenly she remembered that she had forgotten her purse!
She had a few pounds in gold and a little silver in her pocket, but the purse, containing the bank-notes given her by the earl, she had left in a drawer at the cottage.
She stood, aghast and trembling. To go back she felt was impossible; and yet, what should she do? How could she accomplish her flight and hope to hide herself without money?