"Is that all?"
"Is that not enough?"
"Hardly. I don't labor for such poor pay. As you say, I have gone to a great deal of trouble, and lost three nights' sleep running. I want something more than 'thank you' for all that."
Mollie tried to laugh—all in a flutter.
"Name your price, then, sir. Though it were half my kingdom, you shall be paid."
"And don't mind me, sir," suggested Mrs. Sharpe, demurely.
"Ah! but I do mind you," said Mr. Ingelow; "and besides, the time for payment has not yet come. Doctor Oleander's little bill must be settled first. What do you mean to do about it, Miss Dane?"
"Punish him to the utmost of my power."
"And that will be pretty severe punishment, if you appeal to the laws of our beloved country. Abductions, and forcible marriages, and illegal imprisonment don't go for nothing, I fancy. Only, unfortunately, the whole land will ring with your story, and your notoriety will be more extensive than gratifying."
Mollie made a gesture of horror.