“That is the only plea.�
“You did not discover this danger until I locked you up, did you?�
She laughed mockingly, but there was music in her voice for me, albeit her words were harsh and unjust.
“I tell you that it is not for myself I fear, but for you,� I persisted.
“And was it for that you insulted me on the quarter-deck before the men and—�
“No,� said I savagely. “By heavens, I did that for myself.�
“Arcester could have done no worse,� she said cuttingly.
“Curse Arcester!� I burst out, the mention of the man’s name always inflaming me, “he would have made you his—�
“Silence!� cried the woman. “I will hear no more. It is a foolish plea, the men are devoted to me and—�
“For God’s sake, Mistress Wilberforce,� I cried, but this time she was gone.