In his voice there is a ring of command that none dares to question. As the miners stoop to lift the corpse Ethel utters a cry of anguish that pierces the hearts of even the most hardened men. It is the wail of humanity protesting against anarchy.
By a vigorous effort Trueman frees himself from the miners who are carrying him on their shoulders. He is at the side of Ethel in a moment.
"Do not be frightened. I am here and will protect you and your father's remains."
His words are spoken in a loud decisive tone and reach the ears of the crowd that press around the corpse.
Yielding to his indomitable will Ethel arises. She wavers an instant; then stretches out her arms toward her protector.
Trueman seizes the delicate hands and draws her to his side.
"You are safe in my charge," he whispers to her soothingly. "Come with me and you shall witness your father's burial. If it is done now the mob will be pacified and will cease to clamor for vengeance."
Ethel walks by his side in silence.
The magnate's body is picked up and placed on the improvised litter of boards which serves to support the body of Metz. In silence the procession moves on toward the town.
The battle for moderation is won.