“Well, then let him claim it, and get the fortune if he can. The papers I have will prove all I want, in spite of all Ellerton can do. I’ll make a bargain with you. If you’ll help the matter along, when it is all settled, I will acknowledge you as a relative, perhaps a cousin or something of the kind.”
“Never! You do but insult me the more by such an offer! I tell you it shall never be. If I cannot see Ralph, I can at least go to Mr. Ellerton and warn him, so that his son may be saved from such suffering and disgrace. I have sinned in the past, but I trust I have repented, and am willing to do what is right now, even to the sacrificing of my own son! Let me pass.”
She tried to leave the arbor, but he barred the way, standing firm within the entrance.
“No,” he said, “you do not go until you give me those pictures, and a promise not to meddle with my affairs.”
Her heart quailed, for there was a wicked look in his eye that was fearful. But she put on the semblance of boldness.
“Let me pass.”
She drew herself to her full height, raised her head haughtily, sweeping back with one hand the heavy masses of her hair, while she flashed her brilliant eyes witheringly upon him.
She must have been glorious in her youthful days, for there was majesty even now in her look and mien, despite the soiled and tattered clothing.
“Never!” he growled between his teeth.
Swifter than a flash she darted toward him, seized him around one knee, and he fell to the ground, crashing and struggling among the thick branches of the arbor vitæ.