But he disregarded her intervention, and renewed the command to the servant, who at once disappeared to obey it.
Then he strode towards the door leading to Mrs. Cusworth's apartments, but Salome, quick as thought, threw herself in his way, and stood against the door, with outstretched arms.
'No, Philip; not—not, if you love me.'
'Why not?'—spoken sternly.
'Because——' She faltered, her face bowed on her bosom; then she recovered herself, looked him entreatingly in the eyes, and said, 'I will tell you afterwards—in private. I cannot now. Oh, Philip—I beseech you!'
'Salome,' said her husband very gravely, 'that man is in there.'
'I know, I know he is,' she answered timorously.
'Oh, Philip, don't mind her. He will get away, and he has my money!' entreated Mrs. Sidebottom on her part.
'Why do you seek to shelter him?' asked Philip of his wife, ignoring the words of his aunt.
'I cannot tell you now. Will you not trust me? Do allow him to escape.'