“Earle never was either of those,” she said, proudly.
“No matter; he has suffered the disgrace of them all, and there can be no peace between you and me until you promise to yield to me.”
“I cannot in this instance.”
“Then the consequences be upon your own head. I’ll try and have patience with you until the year is out; then, if you defy me, I’ll make you rue it. Go!” and he pointed impatiently toward the door.
Without a word, Editha glided from the room, her heart heavy and sore.
Soon after she heard him leave the house, and ten minutes later there came a ring at the door that, spite of her pain, sent the rosy blood leaping to her very brow, in a burning tide, and made her heart leap like a frightened bird in her bosom.
“Earle has come,” she murmured, as she sat listening for the servant to come to summon her, and trying to still her throbbing nerves.
CHAPTER X
“MY LIFE SHALL BE FOURSQUARE”
The servant who answered the ring at Mr. Dalton’s door found standing there a tall, dignified young man, with the unmistakable stamp of the gentleman upon him.
To his inquiry if Miss Dalton was at home, he replied that she was, and ushered him into a small reception-room opposite the drawing-room.