Winefred was composed. She answered, 'My father can give you the best reply as to her name.'
Mr. Holwood shook like an aspen leaf, and turned about as though he sought the door by which to run away.
'My name is the same as hers,' said Winefred. 'I will bear that of Holwood only if I have a right to do so.'
She waited. No word came from her father.
'I am glad of this opportunity having arisen at once,' said the girl. 'I returned to Bath with full intent to have everything cleared up. On descending from the coach, I went direct to my father. I have brought him here that misunderstandings might at once be got rid of. I wish everything to be open and plain before those who have so kindly received me.'
Jesse pressed her arm.
'I hate everything that is not true and aboveboard. I have been unhappy here hitherto, through no lack of kindness or consideration on the part of Mrs. Tomkin-Jones and of you, Jesse, but because I was in a false position. I myself did not know, I do not know now, how I stand. Am I Winefred Holwood, or am I Winefred Marley? Father, answer me that.'
He was turned half round and was blowing at his finger-tips as though playing on pan-pipes.
She waited, and then repeated her question in a peremptory tone.