"Why?" came back to her over the wire.
"Because he needs punishment, and I am going to see that he gets it."
"And if I interfere?"
"I resign at once. Even as it is—"
"Do you think you are strong enough—strong enough physically, to fight to the finish?"
"I am strong enough for anything."
"I believe you. But if you should find him one too many for you, I shall be close at hand, and at a word from you I will come to the rescue."
"No fear of my needing help. Good-by!"
She hung up the receiver with a click of finality.
Outside, the sky grew gray and threatening. Inside, the evening shadows began to gather. First they thickened in the corners of the room; then spread and spread until the whole place turned vague and dusky.