“No—no, for he is innocent, and if accused can no doubt prove it!” the girl cried proudly.
“How? By an alibi? How long had he left you when you were called here?” demanded the widow suspiciously, fearing the failure of her scheme.
But Daisie’s answer set her fears at rest.
“No, I could not prove an alibi for Dallas, because he left me at my door as soon as he had taken me home; but of course he went straight to his hotel, and can no doubt prove where he was at the time you thought you saw him here. Oh, believe me, you have made a terrible mistake in imputing this deed to him. Why should he wish to kill your cousin to set me free, when he knew that the law would break my fetters so easily?” pleaded Daisie wildly.
“It was jealous malice. He feared that Royall might persuade you to remain his wife.”
“Ah, no; for Dallas knew my love too well,” began Daisie; but they were interrupted by a tap on the door to summon them to Royall, who had awakened.
Mrs. Fleming whispered pleadingly:
“Oh, Daisie, be kind to my poor cousin. Tell him you will stay with him as long as he lives.”
“I will be kind to him, yes; how could I be harsh with him now? But I will make no rash promises,” the young girl returned, with sudden spirit.
“At least, promise not to hold any communication with Mr. Bain until to-morrow.”