Page:The traitor; a story of the fall of the invisible empire (IA traitorstoryoffa00dixo).pdf/139

 these masked men in this house would be a mortal insult to me?"

"Certainly not. A crowd of gay masqueraders who come to do me honour."

"You must stop it, my child."

"It is impossible now. My friends are getting ready. I've hired a band."

"You refuse to respect my wishes?"

"I refuse to make a fool of myself!"

"Come, my dear, you must be reasonable know I've spoiled you. I've loved you too well. I've indulged every whim of your heart and allowed you to rule me, but you can't do this absurd and dangerous thing. You forget that you are not only making a fool of me but that you are putting my life in jeopardy."

"I'll assume the responsibility!" she broke in, drawing herself up with pride. "If you receive the slightest insult or a hair of your head is harmed I'll give my life to avenge it."

"You persist?" asked her father with a scowl.

"I do," flashed the answer.

The Judge rose, hesitated a moment and then said with stern determination:

"Then for the first time in my life, I forbid you a thing on which you have set your heart. These masked men shall not enter my house!"

Stella's eyes flashed fire.