"By Jove, it was my fault," Jack said, contritely. "I should not have tempted you to go on that unlucky trip last Tuesday. So you were seen near Richmond station by some meddlesome individual—probably when you got out of the trap! But it may turn out for the best; your father could not have been kept in ignorance much longer. Was he angry?"
"Yes, Jack; but he seemed more hurt and grieved. Oh, it was such a wretched time!"
"My poor girl! Does—does he want you to give me up?"
"He forbade me to see you again."
"And you are here!"
"Did you expect me to obey him?"
"What did you tell him, dearest?"
"All—everything. I spoke up bravely, Jack. I told him I was a woman now, and that I loved you with all my heart, and intended to marry you!"
"My own plucky Madge! And I suppose that made him the more angry?"
"No; my defiance surprised him—he thought I would yield. He talked about ingratitude, and called me a foolish girl who did not know her own mind. He looked awfully sad and stern, Jack, but when I kissed him and begged him not to be angry, he melted a little."