Uncle Tom started: an oath Mr. Allen was savaging died on his lips. Aunt Harriet released her nephew and stood up, staring.
Ann continued steadily.
“Are you going to question my right?”
Bob’s eyes fell.
“Of course,” he said clumsily, “of course, if you like to——”
“I do. I want to go. It’s my wish. I want you to take me away—out of the house—now. Come, please.”
“Out of the ’ouse?” said Bob.
“Out of the house,” said Ann. “And—at once. Come.”
She turned to the door.
No one said anything at all. The quiet, cold air of one having authority tied up their tongues. They felt suddenly diminished. A wave of detestable respect had swept them off their feet. Blood had told.