But only Henry Myers heeded him. The others were engrossed by the awful scene before them.
Levi and Matthi, stunned by the sudden death of their mother, were motionless. Their wits had apparently deserted them, and they were unable to comprehend the situation.
Lizzī did not remain long on her knees. Struggling to her feet, she tore open her dress at the neck, as if to give her greater freedom in breathing, but really to reach her marriage-certificate, which she snatched from the little pocket made for it and held it before her mother.
"Are your eyes open in heaven, mother? If they are, read this. You died without seein' it."
Of the gaping, mystified crowd none guessed what the crumpled paper was. Thrusting it back in its hiding-place, she turned to the wide-mouthed throng, and said:
"Leave us alone."
Slowly the burly men and curious boys went away in obedience to the pathetic command. Thomas Myers closed the door behind him, shutting Henry in, who, thoroughly repentant, remained to be of service.
Cassi, who had staggered to his feet, seeing him, made an attack upon him, muttering as he swayed in uncertain advance:
"Yer hed no bizness ter drag my sister's name inter this bar-room!"
He tried to shake off Lizzī's enfolding arms, but they held him firmly.