For a moment it seemed as if Mrs. Lahens were going to take her daughter in her arms. But some thought or feeling checked the impulse, and she said:
'Talk to your father, Agnes. I cannot stay.'
'You shall not go,' said the Major, laying his hand on her arm. 'You shall not go to Lord Chadwick.'
'Oh, father; oh, father, I beg of you…. It is with gentleness and love that we overcome our troubles. Let mother go if she wants to go.'
The Major took his hand from his wife's arm, and Mrs. Lahens said:
'You're a good girl, Agnes. I wish you had always remained with me. If your father had not taken you from me, I might—-'
She left the room hurriedly, and, a few moments after, they heard her drive away in a cab.
'Father, I know everything.'
'You overheard?'
'Yes, father. As your voices grew more angry I crept downstairs. I heard about Lord Chadwick. You must have patience; you must be gentle.'