Tess stood as if she had died standing, her face devoid of blood even to the lips. Misery, deep and unutterable, rested upon the white face. When she raised her eyes and saw Letts at her side, and Griggs with an open book in front of her, she wheeled away without a word.
"Marry him!" cried Waldstricker.
"No," said Tess.
"Letts, take hold of her hand," commanded the elder.
Sandy, rage working alive in his eyes, tried to obey the churchman. But the girl took another step away.
"Gimme yer hand," growled Sandy.
All he wanted was to get the squatter girl into his possession. He had not forgotten the threats he had made in other days, and in another hour, he would wring from her the name he wanted.
"No," said Tess again.
"You mean you're not going to marry Mr. Letts?" asked Griggs.
Tessibel caught her breath, swayed, but shook her head.