She stood with bowed head in the centre of the circle. The blood flew from her cheeks, then she turned to go.
Douglas stepped quickly to her side. “Wait a minute,” he said. She paused, all eyes were turned upon them. “Is this a game that grown-ups can play?”
“Why, yes, of course.”
“Good! Then I'll make up your set. I need a little amusement just now. Excuse me,” he added, turning to the deacons. Then he ran with her out through the trees.
The deacons and the women stared at each other, aghast.
“Well, what do you think of that?” said Mrs. Willoughby, as the flying skirts of the girl and the black figure of the man disappeared up the path.
“I think it's scandalous, if you are talking to me,” said Miss Perkins. “The idea of a full-grown parson a-runnin' off to play children's games with a circus ridin' girl!”
“She isn't such a child,” sneered Julia.
“It's ENOUGH to make folks talk,” put in Mrs. Willoughby, with a sly look at the deacons.
“And me a-waitin' to discuss the new church service,” bellowed Strong.