“Oh, she is in your pay?” leered the man.

“If you say an insulting word I think very probably I will finish you,” said the Harvester. “I can, with my naked hands, and all your neighbours will say it is a a good job. You have felt my grip! I warn you!”

“How does my niece come to be taking money from you!”

“You have forfeited all right to know. Ruth, you cannot remain here. You must come with me. I will take you to Onabasha and find you a room.”

A horrible laugh broke from the man.

“So that is the end of my saintly niece!” he said.

“Remember!” cried the Harvester advancing a step. “Ruth, will you go to the rest I suggested for you?”

“I cannot.”

“Will you go to Doctor Carey's wife?”

“Impossible!”