"Well, I can't think it is true, because, if it were, why should he say it was a joke? We shall soon know. Perhaps Mr. Carmel will enlighten us."
"I thought he seemed in awe of that man," I said.
"So did I," answered Miss Grey. "Perhaps he is his superior."
"I'll write to-day to papa, and tell him all about it; you shall help me; and I'll implore of him not to think of anything so horrible and cruel."
Laura Grey stopped short, and laid her hand on my wrist for a moment, thinking.
"Perhaps it would be as well if we were to turn about and walk a little further, so as to give him time to get quite away."
"But if he wants to take me away in that carriage, or whatever it is, he'll wait any time for my return."
"So he would; but the more I think over it, the more persuaded I am that there is nothing in it."
"In any case, I'll go back," I said. "Let us go into the house and lock the doors; and if that odious Mr. Droqville attempts to force his way in, Thomas Jones will knock him down; and we'll send Anne Owen to Cardyllion, for Williams, the policeman. I hate suspense. If there is to be anything unpleasant, it is better to have it decided, one way or other, as soon as possible."
Laura Grey smiled, and spoke merrily of our apprehensions; but I don't think she was quite so much at ease as she assumed to be.