The assistant auctioneer flushed up at these words. It was plain to see that he was an honest young man, and did not like such underhand work.
“Perhaps she hasn’t the money to pay?”
“Then she must take the consequences,” replied the auctioneer sourly.
“Not much!” put in Matt, who had overheard the best part of the conversation between Caleb Gulligan and his assistant. “Miss Bartlett, if I was 15 you I wouldn’t stay here another minute,” he went on to the stenographer, in a whisper.
“Why, what would you do?” she returned.
“Skip out. They haven’t any right to make you trouble.”
“But, Matt, that would not be right.”
“Never mind; go ahead. You haven’t any friend here but me. Mr. Fenton wouldn’t help you any, even if you ask him.”
The young lady stood still for a moment, and then made a sudden movement for the doorway. Caleb Gulligan rushed after her, only to find Matt Lincoln barring his progress.
“Get out of my way, boy!”