“Why do you stare at me in that manner, 281 Beth?” he questioned, motioning her to his side.
“I don’t know.” She gave no evidence that she saw his effort to draw her near him.
“Then, stop glaring like that. How many times have I told you that it is unladylike?”
“You’re going to take his place from him because he cannot pay that loan!” she whispered. “How can you be so cruel?”
Mr. Fox was left without excuse or reply. When he spoke, his voice was harsh, and his words were sharp.
“I see, I have been unwise in telling you.”
“You didn’t tell me, but I could not help guessing the truth.”
“I’m doing it for his good, and unless you believe me,–––”
“For his good! You can’t mean that! You shall not stoop–––”
“Stoop!” He caught up the word with a hiss. But he soon controlled his anger, and dropped his pale face into trembling hands. “God help me! They that hurt me are even of my own household!”