Tomlin raised a protesting finger.
"Tut, tut, Joe. You leave this to me."
He continued majestically, picking his words:
"I don't think you can be aware, ma'am, that James Miggott is threatening your husband, and"—he turned to Posy—"your dear father."
Susan snapped out:
"Joe told me as much last night. I know well what James is threatening. He's not the only man of his word in this house. He's threatening to take the girl he loves as she is. He's not thinking of anything else. He's made it plain that he's only to hold up his finger, and Posy'll go to him gladly."
"Just what I told you, Tom," remarked Quinney.
"You're under a misapprehension, ma'am. Miggott is threatening us—me and Joe."
At this Posy became more alert, listening attentively to Tomlin, but keeping her clear eyes upon her sire. Susan betrayed astonishment.
"Threatening you, Mr. Tomlin? Why should he threaten you, and why should you care tuppence whether he threatens you or not?"