“Pay it,” returned Ruth.
As the maid turned away, she tore open the envelope. Before she could open the form, a firm hand was placed upon hers.
“Give me that,” said her mother’s voice.
Ruth recoiled; Mrs. Levice stood before her unusually quiet in her white night-dress; with a strong hand she endeavored to relax Ruth’s fingers from the paper.
“But, Mamma, it was addressed to me”
“It was a mistake, then; I know it was meant for me. Let go instantly, or I shall tear the paper. Obey me, Ruth.”
Her voice sounded harsh as a man’s. At the strange tone Ruth’s fingers loosened, and Mrs. Levice, taking the telegram, re-entered the room; Ruth followed her closely.
Standing under the chandelier, Mrs. Levice read. No change came over her face; when she had finished, she handed the paper without a word to Ruth. This was the message:—
RENO, Jan. 28, 188—
MISS RUTH LEVICE, San Francisco, Cal.