"I do not wish to see any one," Edith weakly responded, but in a voice of decision which told the listener outside that the girl had no intention of yielding the point.
"Very well; then I will wait until she feels stronger," said the baffled woman, whereupon she beat an ignominious retreat, and the invalid was left in peace.
Mrs. Weld spent as much time as possible with her, but she of course had her duties below to attend to; so, at Edith's request, she locked her in and took the key with her when she was obliged to go downstairs.
Once, while she was absent, some one crept stealthily to the door and knocked.
Edith started up, and leaned upon her elbow, a momentary look of fear sweeping her face; but she made no response.
The knock was repeated.
Still the girl remained motionless and voiceless, only her great blue eyes began to blaze with mingled indignation and contempt, for she knew, instinctively, who was seeking admission.
"Miss Al—Edith, I must speak with you—I must have an interview with you," said the voice of Emil Correlli from without.
Still no answer from within; but the dazzling gleam in the girl's eyes plainly showed that that voice had aroused all the spirit within her in spite of her weak condition.
"Pray grant me an interview, Edith—I have much to say to you—much to explain—much to entreat of you," continued the voice, with a note of earnest appeal.