“‘He made it with his cane by tapping on the plank fence. I dare say it was a signal to notify the woman of his arrival, for she is going out to meet him.’
“‘Look, Wallingford, he has taken her in his arms! How does that suit you for a husband for your sister?’
“‘I’ll kill him, if they hang me as high as Haman for it!’
“‘Dear Eddie,’ exclaimed the woman as she threw herself into the man’s arms, ‘what made you stay away so long? I have been lonesome and miserable; I cannot endure this suspense much longer—it is killing me. When will you take me away from this horrible place, darling?’
“‘Within two or three days at farthest, my dear,’ was the reply, as he pressed her again to his heart.
“‘What would your sister think of this hypocritical scoundrel if she knew what he was?’
“‘Don’t mention my sister’s name in connection with the double-faced traitor; she shall not be annoyed with him any more, you may depend on that; but hark! he is speaking to her; let us listen.’
“‘Has any one been here to-day, Mollie?’ said the man as he led her into the house.
“‘No one has been in the house, but I saw a man standing on the bluff there yesterday, and thought from his conduct he was watching the premises.’
“‘I dare say he was, because I begin to suspect that we are watched; and this makes me the more anxious to get away from here.’