"Arrested!" gasped Stephen, in dismay.
"Yes, his plan didn't succeed. It is probably a disappointment to him and to you, but it serves you both right for conspiring against a boy."
"Who said I had anything to do with it?" asked Stephen.
"You have let it out yourself. I don't want any further proof."
"After this base conspiracy against your step-brother, Stephen Palmer," said the widow, with dignity, "I hope you will have the decency to stay away. Had you behaved with any decent regard to the tie that exists between us, I would not say this——"
"You'll repent this, Mrs. Palmer!" said Stephen, his face showing the malice he felt. "You treat me like a dog, you and your son there. I'll be even with you yet."
He left the room and the house, slamming the door behind him, but he did not renew his demand for money.