Page:The traitor; a story of the fall of the invisible empire (IA traitorstoryoffa00dixo).pdf/237

 purty as an angel her voice jest like her Ma's, low an' sweet."

"Tell her I'm here and wish to see her"—John interrupted with impatience.

Aunt Julie Ann shook her head again:

"You better not honey!"

"I must see her. Try!"

John stood at the foot of the stairs nervously fumbling his hat while Aunt Julie Ann climbed to the floor and knocked on her door.

He listened breathlessly for her answer. The key clicked in the lock and Stella opened it wide enough to be distinctly heard. Her voice rang cold and clear:

"Tell Mr. Graham to leave this house instantly and never enter it again!"

The door closed and the bolt flashed into its place again.

John's face flushed red, the colour slowly fading as his strong jaws snapped with new determination.

"In spite of the devil, I'll win her yet!"