The struggle was unequal. He was the stronger. Further resistance was futile.
"All right," she said breathlessly; "I'll give it to you."
Slowly, she drew the pieces out of her bosom, and handed them to him. He took them, and, keeping his eyes fixed on hers, slowly smoothed them out, and pieced them together so that he could read the dispatch. When, at last, he began to read, she staggered back apprehensively.
He read it slowly, deliberately. When he had finished, he looked up. Sternly, he said:
"Then you knew?"
"Yes," she faltered.
"But you didn't know he was coming until he arrived?"
"No."
"And you didn't mail the letter, did you?"
"No——"