Page:The Baron of Diamond Tail (1923).pdf/268

 as a moonbeam through the window pane, he could not enter there unseen. They would rush out like hounds, and kill Barrett at the door.

Teresa returned sweating, panting, exclaiming under her breath. The ruffians in the kitchen had tried to kiss her; she had been forced to use the hot water before its intended time.

"Come in, Teresa!" Alma pulled her by the arm, frantically. "He's coming—he's coming for me!"

Nearing was in the hall. He came slowly to Alma's door, behind which the two women stood in fearful expectancy.

"Alma!" he called, knocking softly.

"Yes, Uncle Hal," she answered, opening immediately.

Teresa hid in the closet among the dresses, where she quaked in fear of discovery, even through the closed door.

"We're ready to proceed, Alma," Nearing announced, with such briskness as he could assume.

"Give me a few minutes, Uncle Hal," she asked, her voice steadier than his own. "I have reconsidered it; I'll do what you ask of me to spare you the ruin and disgrace that you fear more than you value your manhood and humanity."

"I knew when you reflected, I knew when you thought it over!"

"Go back to him, then, and tell him I'll do what you ask me. Tell him to consider me, in this unexpected situation, and be patient a little while."

"Ten minutes?" he suggested, watch in hand.