"What only a woman can do—a woman like you, and in your position."
"Yes, if it were only myself. But think of the household—think of Maud. People will talk so. It is hard to know how to act."
"Nay; how did One act—how would He act now, if He stood in the street this day? If we take care of aught of His, will He not take care of us and of our children?"
Mrs. Halifax paused, thought a moment, hesitated—yielded.
"John, you are right; you are always right. I will do anything you please."
And then I saw, through the astonished crowd, in face of scores of window-gazers, all of whom knew them, and a great number of whom they also knew, Mr. Halifax and his wife walk up to where the miserable woman lay.
John touched her lightly on the shoulder—she screamed and cowered down.
"Are you the constable? He said he would send the constable."
"Hush—do not be afraid. Cousin—Cousin Caroline."
God knows how long it was since any woman had spoken to her in that tone. It seemed to startle back her shattered wits. She rose to her feet, smiling airily.