Rising from her seat, she approached the lecturer.
"How dare you tell these lies? My mother housed you and helped you—for what? To have you come East and lie about us. Shame! Shame on you! How can you be so wicked!"
There was a murmur of disapproval throughout the audience. A man arose importantly.
"As a member of this congregation, I would kindly ask that this girl leave the church. She has disturbed a public meeting!"
Dr. McLeod arose quietly.
"This is most unfortunate. Miss Emmit. You have embarrassed your friends, who would have been fair to you."
Edith quietly left her seat and approached Betty. Dell followed.
"Come," said Edith, lovingly putting her arm about Betty's trembling form, and leading her out before the astonished audience.
"Edith Esterbrook! What next will she do?" thought each one, with a feeling of tolerance or scorn, according to their like and dislike of this strange girl, so socially well-known.
*****