“Then prove your innocence!” answered Major Dale.
The ladies were beginning to show signs of the nervous strain. Miss Mingle and Tavia were almost in hysterics, while Dorothy clung to Mrs. White’s arm.
“You do not understand the laws in this State,” declared Mr. Akerson. “There is no charge against me. I defy you to prove one!”
“Very well, we will summon one who understands the laws, and decide the matter at once,” said Major Dale; “meanwhile, you ladies leave these disagreeable surroundings.”
“After all,” said Miss Mingle, as they left the office building, “we won’t have the awful bother of moving; will we, dear Mrs. White?” Her voice was full of pleading.
“No, indeed, and as soon as everything is settled, we must try to find an honest agent to care for the place. I am convinced that Mr. Akerson is not honest, in spite of all he said,” said Mrs. White.
“My poor sister!” sighed Miss Mingle. “She almost collapsed at the mere thought of having to leave that apartment.”
“Never mind,” consoled Mrs. White, “everything will be all right now. And you dear girls, how you ever had the courage to face that situation all alone, I cannot understand!”
“Oh, it was nothing!” said Tavia, really believing, since the worst part of it was over, that it had been nothing at all.
“I almost imagine we enjoyed it!” Dorothy exclaimed.