"Oh, no, not really afraid," she answered, "but just—scared. I didn't mean——"
Judge Brewster was enjoying the situation hugely. He had quite made up his mind what to do, but he liked to quiz this bold young woman who had not been afraid to show him where his duty lay. Striving to keep a serious face, he said:
"Oh, yes, you did, and I want you to understand I'm not afraid of any man. As to allowing my personal interests to interfere with my duty——"
Annie took alarm. She was really afraid she had offended him.
"Oh, I didn't say that, did I?" she exclaimed timidly.
Judge Brewster forced his face into a frown.
"You said I knew on which side my bread was buttered!"
"Did I?" she exclaimed in consternation.
"You say a great many things, Mrs. Jeffries," said the lawyer solemnly. "Of course, I realize how deeply you feel, and I make excuses for you. But I'm not afraid. Please understand that——"
He rapped the table with his eyeglasses as if he were very much offended indeed.