"But I can't bear inaction and suspense at such a time."
"You must bear it, Miss Vosburgh. Seeing the mood you are in, I shall not permit that door to be opened to any one except your father or some one that you recognize."
"You cannot help yourself," she replied, scornfully, approaching the door.
He was there before her, and, taking out the key, put it in his pocket.
"Oh, this is shameful!" she cried, blushing scarlet "Can your fears carry you so far?"
"Yes, and much farther, if needful," he replied, with a grim laugh. "When you are calm enough to listen to me, to be sane and just, I'll explain. Until you are I shall remain master here and protect you and your home." Then, in a tone of stern authority, he added: "Mrs. Borden, sit yonder in that darkened parlor, and don't move unless I tell you to hide. Then hide in earnest, as you value your life."
"Would you not also like a hiding-place provided, Mr. Merwyn?"
Marian asked, almost beside herself with anger and anxiety.
His reply was to go to the window and look up and down the still quiet street.
"A respite," he remarked, then turned to the colored woman, and in a tone which she instantly obeyed, said, "Go to that parlor, where you cannot be seen from the street." Then to Marian, "I have no authority over you."
"No, I should hope not. Is there no escape from this intrusion?"