Miss L. Yes, it all hung on concealment. It must have looked quite simple to you. You didn't know that the ghost of a child that had never seen the light, the frail thing you meant to sweep aside and forget—have swept aside and forgotten—you didn't know it was strong enough to push you out of my life. (Lower with an added intensity.) It can do more. (Leans over him and whispers.) It can push that girl out. (Stonor's face changes.) It can do more still.
Stonor. Are you threatening me?
Miss L. No, I am preparing you.
Stonor. For what?
Miss L. For the work that must be done. Either with your help—or that girl's.
(Stonor lifts his eyes a moment.)
Miss L. One of two things. Either her life, and all she has, given to this new service—or a Ransom, if I give her up to you.
Stonor. I see. A price. Well——?
Miss L. (looks searchingly in his face, hesitates and shakes her head). Even if I could trust you to pay—no, it would be a poor bargain to give her up for anything you could do.
Stonor (rising). In spite of your assumption—she may not be your tool.