“And none to think that she doesn't. At all events she did not tell ME not to follow her. She did tell you. Why are you following her?”
It was a question I could not answer—to him. That reason no one should know. And yet what excuse could I give, after all my protestations?
“I—I feel that I have the right, everything considered,” I stammered. “She is not my niece, but she is Miss Cahoon's.”
“And she ran away from both of you, asking, as a last request, that you both make no attempt to learn where she was. The whole affair is beyond understanding. What the truth may be—”
“Are you hinting that I have lied to you?”
“I am not hinting at anything. All I can say is that it is deuced queer, all of it. And I sha'n't say more.”
“Will you tell me—”
“I shall tell you nothing. That would be her wish, according to your own statement and I will respect that wish, if you don't.”
I rose to my feet. There was little use in an open quarrel between us and I was by far the older man. Yes, and his position was infinitely stronger than mine, as he understood it. But I never was more strongly tempted. He knew where she was. He had seen her. The thought was maddening.
He had risen also and was facing me defiantly.