Evidently Rodney was on the watch, for he slipped in a moment after.
"Have you told her, Ave?"
"Yes; and she does not believe it—at least, she says so."
"Do you think she does?"
"Certainly she believes it."
"Oh, she was always a game one," he returned. "Maud has plenty of pluck; she will brave it out in her own way. And she will not be pitied, mind you. Anyhow, you have got her off to-night?"
"I tried my best; but she says she will go. She is determined to find out the truth for herself."
Rodney's face fell. "Shall I tell my mother? She must not be allowed to go. No girl should put herself in such a position, with all her pluck; she could not face them like that."
"I believe she could and will. No; leave her alone. You do not know Maud; she has pride enough for ten women. Let her go and find out the truth for herself. If you take my advice you will say nothing to your mother. Mrs. Willmot will be able to control her feelings best before strangers."
"Well, perhaps you are right," he replied, reluctantly. "We must just make the best of a bad business."