"I have engaged Umbesheiden to cut the trees."
Ellen turned upon him swiftly, her eyes flashing.
"What trees?"
"I'm going to cut the woodland."
"My trees!"
"They are no more yours than mine. I have Grandfather's permission, and it's only what any far-sighted person would do. It will in the end be very profitable to you, as well as to me."
Ellen took a step forward. Here was the last of heaped-up injuries! Considering the turmoil of anger and grief within, she spoke quietly.
"I've decided that unless you and Grandfather are willing for me to go to college at once, I'm going to leave home altogether."
"Where are you going, Ellen?" Matthew asked gently. He knew that he had postponed too long telling his plans, but Ellen made everything hard.
"I'm going to live with Mrs. Sassaman at her sister's and earn my living."