'But suppose the lads decline the honour.'
'I should like to see the impertinence of the lad that did,' said Mrs. De Witt firmly. 'I have had experience with men, and I know them in and out that familiarly that I could find my way about their brains or heart, as you would about your marshes, in the dark. No, Elijah, the question is not will they have me, but whether I will be bothered with any more of the creatures. I will not unless I can help it. I will not unless the worst comes to the worst. But a woman must live, Elijah.'
'How much have you got for current expenses?'
'Only a few pounds.'
'There are five and twenty pounds owed you by the Sharlands. You are not going to let them have it as a present?'
'No, certain, I am not.'
'Do you expect to get it by waiting for it?'
'To tell you the truth, Elijah, I hadn't given that five and twenty pounds a thought. I will go over to the Ray and claim the money.'
'You will not get it.'
'I must have it.'