Page:A strange, sad comedy (IA strangesadcomedy00seawiala).pdf/168

156 "Just listen to this, if you please," she cried, flourishing her pen in dangerous proximity to the Colonel's nose. "I think Mr. Romaine will find that he has got a Roland for his Oliver."

Then, in a melodramatic voice, she read:

As you say, you have a right to do as you please with your own. This personal liberty pertaining to you likewise pertains to me—and I decline positively to be benefited against my will. I will not have your money. Pardon me if I have copied your own brevity and positiveness in settling this question. I am,

Very truly yours,

The Colonel chuckled over this letter; nevertheless it was against his code to send it, but Letty was firm, and Tom Battercake was despatched for the second time that day to Shrewsbury, with an important communication.

Letty was radiant with triumph. It was no mean victory to achieve over Mr. Romaine.

"And if he reads between the lines he will see that he won't be here with those sharp black eyes and that cackling laugh of his when