She turned to go, but the young woman sprang forward and caught her dress.
"You shall not go--you shall not!" she almost shrieked. "You and Fenton are dragging us both to perdition; he has ruined himself for your sake, and his friend--God help him--his friend has insulted me with words of love."
"Am I the guardian of your virtue?" said Kitty pitilessly.
Mrs. Malton stood wringing her hands.
"Oh, God, have you no pity? I am a woman like yourself--my husband should protect me, but he leaves me for you--and," in a whisper, "you don't know all--he has given you presents, rich presents, and to do so has committed a crime."
"A crime!"
"Hush! hush!" glancing fearfully around, "not so loud--not so loud--yes, he has embezzled money, thousands of pounds, for your sake."
Kitty gave a cry, and grasped at a chair for support.
"I--I--did not--not ask him for his presents."
"No; but it was for your sake--your sake. You must help him."