“Is it not so, Miss Joan?”
“Nay, Mr. Tregenna, ’tis not so. I would not have you come to harm. If you pursue those whom I have reason to hold in more esteem than you do, I know that ’tis but your duty you are doing.”
“And ’tis in the performance of my duty that I must visit Rede Hall again.”
“And I tell you again that you must not. Without saying aught against the people that live there, I know there are others that frequent that neighborhood that would not scruple to set upon you, perhaps to kill you, for what you have done to their friends and confederates. No, Mr. Tregenna, if you go, go with your men, or with the general, but go not alone.”
“I thank you for your warning. But ’tis alone I must go. Surely you do not credit your friend Mistress Ann with any intention of luring me into a danger she must know of.”
But to his surprise, Joan’s face clearly betrayed that she did believe Ann Price capable of such a proceeding. At least, this was what he read in her perturbed expression.
“Ann is a strange creature,” said she dubiously. “She is a most loyal friend, but——”
The pause which ensued was expressive.
“But a dangerous enemy. Is that what you would say?”
“Maybe,” said Joan, curtly.