So Mr. Carmel crossed the stile at the road-side, and disappeared by the path leading to the stables of Malory. And then turning again to me, the stranger said:
"Suppose your father and mother have placed you in my sole charge, with a direction to remove you from Malory, and take you under my immediate care and supervision, to-day; you will hold yourself in readiness to depart immediately, attended by a lady appointed to look after you, with the approbation of your parents—eh?"
"No, sir, I'll not go. I'll remain with Miss Grey. I'll not leave Malory," I replied, stopping short, and turning towards him. I felt myself growing very pale, but I spoke with resolution.
"You'll not? what, my good young lady, not if I show you your father's letter?"
"Certainly not. Nothing but violence shall remove me from Malory, until I see papa himself. He certainly would not do anything so cruel!" I exclaimed, while my heart sank within me.
He studied my face for a moment with his dark and fiery eyes.
"You are a spirited young lady; a will of your own!" he said. "Then you won't obey your parents?"
"I'll do as I have said," I answered, inwardly quaking.
He addressed Miss Grey now.
"You'll make her do as she's ordered?" said this man, whose looks seemed to me more sinister every moment.