“No; but upon Town. Farnesworth, whom he hates above all else upon earth, and whom he believes loves you.”
Madge looked closely into the face of her companion as she spoke, and saw a crimson flush mount to her cheeks.
“But, you know, Madge, that Town. does not love me.”
“Why should I know, Clara.”
“Because Town. loves you.”
“You surprise me, Clara; however, Sherwood believes that Town. loves you, and he has set his wicked heart on marrying you for revenge.”
“Oh, Madge! I wish I was as brave and fearless as you are, then I would know how to decide. You must advise me, Madge. Your judgment will dictate the proper course for me to pursue.”
Madge’s eyes shone brightly.
“Clara,” she said, softly, “although Dick Sherwood is a desperate character, I believe there is some honor about him; and I further believe that if you marry him, he will set us free. Of course, when we are free, we will declare your marriage a forced one, and that will make it null and void, though the wretch does not know it; so he will have no claim upon you after all, and it will be such a clever joke on him.”
Clara smiled sadly, and her lips quivered as, half in doubt, she asked: