“You don't mind?” he cried anxiously.
“No, not in the least,” she said. “Go right ahead and see what you can do. He's a very bad, worldly man; and if you can soften his heart, it will be the best thing for all of us.”
“And it won't make any difference in our relationship?” he asked.
“In our relationship?” she repeated; and then, “Not in the least. But mind, of course, don't say anything about that to him. Don't give him any idea that you know me!”
“Of course not, Miss Gladys.”
“Tell him that you come from the church. And give it to him good and hard, Samuel—for I'm sure he's done everything you told me, and lots that is worse.”
“Miss Gladys!” gasped the other.
“And mind, Samuel!” she added. “Come and tell me about it afterwards. Perhaps I can advise you what to do next.”
There was a pause, while the two looked at each other. And then in a sudden burst of emotion Miss Gladys exclaimed, “Oh, Samuel, you are an angel!”
And she broke into a peal of laughter; and swiftly, like a bird upon the wing, she leaned toward him, and touched his cheek with her lips. And then, like a flash, she was gone; and Samuel was left alone with his bewilderment.