Page:Fletcher--Where Highways Cross.djvu/188

 "And when we get home," asked Verrell, "what shall we do? Is—is Elisabeth at your house now?"

"No," answered Hepworth.

"I suppose I had better see her at once!" said Verrell. "Of course, you will have to tell her that the marriage cannot take place."

Hepworth set his teeth firmly together, and brought down the whip in his right hand with savage force across the horse's flanks. The horse started violently and then plunged forward. Hepworth tightened his hold on the reins, and laughed again. Verrell shivered and clutched at the seat.

"It frightens me," he said, "to hear you laugh like that."

"You think I'm mad," said Hepworth bluntly, "I know you do. Well, perhaps I am. I think I went mad when I found out who you are."

"I am sorry," said Verrell. "Very sorry. I wish it could have been different. I've