"I dare for a very good reason, and I'll tell you what it is if you'll take the letter and let me speak to you alone."
They stood looking at each other for a moment over Emmie's shoulder. Then Mrs. Gano caught the letter out of Emmie's hand and went back into her room. Val noticed how feebly she walked, followed, and quickly shut and locked the door.
"Open that door," said her grandmother.
"I want to speak to you alone."
"Open my door."
Val did so.
"Open it wide."
She obeyed.
"Emmeline, go away, and don't come back till I call you. Now," she resumed, as Emmie's footsteps died away, "let us understand—Who is mistress in this house?"
"You are."