"It means that she is mad, and will do herself or somebody else much mischief," cried Paul, sharply.
"For shame, Paul! Release her instantly," said Thurston, authoritatively.
"Would you release a lunatic, bent upon setting the house on fire?" expostulated the young man, still holding her.
"She is no lunatic; let her go instantly, sir."
Paul, with a groan, complied.
Miriam hastened onward, cast one look of anguish back to Thurston's face, rushed back, and threw herself upon her knees at his feet, clasped his hands, and cried:
"I do not ask you to pardon me—I dare not! But God deliver you! if it brand me and my accusation with infamy! and God forever bless you!" Then rising, she fled from the room.
The brothers looked at each other.
"Thurston, do you know where she has gone? what she intends to do?"
"Yes."