CHAPTER XIX
THE CONFESSION
Jo was not one to take any step hurriedly. Though her heart broke, she was cautious. Upon entering her quiet house she found a note from Alton. It merely said that Donelle would explain. Going to the room above, Jo saw that a hurried but orderly departure had evidently been made.
"He hasn't messed much," she muttered vaguely, while a great fear rose in her heart, she knew not why.
"Well, there's nothing to do but wait for Donelle," she concluded, and began the waiting.
She went to the stable and sheds. The animals had evidently been fed the night before, so Jo milked the cow, did the chores, and whistled aimlessly for Nick. She was comforted by his absence, he was with Donelle. But where was Donelle? The sun was setting, what should be done?
Jo decided to wait until the sun had gone wholly down before she took any steps. She was not one to set tongues wagging.
It was nearing sundown when Marcel Longville, standing by her kitchen window, saw Donelle coming toward the house. The Captain was at Dan's Place. Donelle walked slowly, and when she saw Marcel, smiled wanly and opened the door.
"Marcel," she began, and her voice was tired and thin, "I want you to do something for me. I want you to—to tell a lie for me."
"Why, child, what's the matter?"