Jane hesitated a moment; then said:
"He's gone out; he will not be long. You know my father?"
"Quite well."
Something in his appearance was familiar; she looked at him curiously. His eyes fascinated her; they were like a snake's, the eyes of Carl Meason, her husband, as she remembered them to have looked several times. It suddenly occurred to her that he might be her husband disguised; she was almost certain it was. What must she do?
Carl watched her. He caught signs that she recognized him, he had not much time to lose, he must make good use of it and act at once.
"It's me, my lady; I see you know me. Why did you run away from me?" he said.
"What have you come here for in this disguise?" she said.
"To take you away. I am running great risks, but I want you, Jane, and
I think you're worth it. You ought to be flattered."
She must parley with him until her father and Abel were at hand.
"I shall not go with you," she said firmly.