"Well, if you really think so——" she began.
"I don't wish to stay here," cried Gertrude, "Mr. Bulson may be back at any moment."
"Well, if he comes, I guess he'll get the worst of it," answered Nelson.
But Gertrude would not stay, and a few minutes later they quitted the cottage.
The girl still had her pocketbook, with her money and the railroad ticket, so she would have no trouble in getting back to the metropolis. She also had over a dollar in addition, and she insisted upon having Nelson dine with her at a modest-looking restaurant, where the rates were not high.
"Your uncle ought to be told of your cousin's doings," said our hero, when they were waiting for the train. "I don't believe he would stand for it, no matter if he is displeased with you."
"I will not take the story to him," answered Gertrude with spirit. "He cast me out, and I shall not go near him until he asks me to come."
"Well, I guess I'd feel that way," answered Nelson, after a thoughtful pause. "I can't understand how he can treat his own blood as he is treating you."
"Uncle Mark was not always this way, Nelson. In years gone by he was very kind and considerate."