He stood irresolute, torn by conflicting emotions. Then with an effort he replied:
"Muriel, I must. I can't break my word."
Mrs. Norton gave a mocking laugh. The girl shrank from him and hid her face in her hands for a moment. Then she looked up and said, desperately calm:
"Very well, be it so. You've decided and there's nothing more to be said. You've shamed me before this woman; and I never want to see you again."
She turned and walked out of the room.
CHAPTER XIII
THE COURSE OF TRUE LOVE
As Muriel passed through the door Wargrave started to follow her; but Violet cried peremptorily:
"Frank, stay here. Please realise that I come first now. Sit down."