CHAPTER XXII.
THE BEGINNING OF THE HARVEST.
As Faith wrapped her arms around the woman Mr. Denton appeared in the department. He was just in time to hear her ringing question.
There were a dozen or more customers standing around the counters, and they all stood staring in wide-eyed astonishment.
Mr. Denton saw that something must be done at once. It would never do to have a scene like this in the store, for, besides stopping business, it was productive of mischief.
In an instant he realized that he had to deal with Faith, for the woman was clinging to the girl and imploring her protection.
He went forward at once and spoke as calmly as possible.
"Take her up to the office, Miss Marvin, and quiet her if you can. She shall not be harmed. I have no doubt she is innocent."
"And I know she isn't," blurted out Hardy, angrily. He was frantic to think that the woman might escape him.