Miss Lois Ann hid her--I only knew a week ago. I ain't told a
soul!"
A look of contempt grew upon Burke's face and hardened there. He was
thinking quick and desperately. In a vague way he realized that he had
the reins in his hands; his only concern was to know whither he should
drive. But, above and beyond all--deep true, and spiritual--were his
love and pity for Nella-Rose.
They had all betrayed and deserted her. Not for an instant did Lawson
doubt that. Their cowardice and duplicity neither surprised nor daunted
him; but his pride--his sense of superiority--bade him pause and reflect
before he plunged ahead. Finally he said:
"So you-all depend upon her safety for your safety! Take it--and be
damned! She's been with me--yo' followin' me? She's been with me,
rightful married and happy--happy! From now on I'll manage lil'
Nella-Rose's doings, and the first whisper from man or woman agin her
will be agin me--and God knows I won't be blamed for what I do then!
Tell that skunk of yours," Lawson glared at the terrified Marg, "I'm
strong enough to outbid him with the devil, but from now on him and
you--mind this well, Marg Greyson--him and you are to be our loving
brother and sister. See?"
With a wild laugh Burke took to the woods.
CHAPTER XIV
Two years and a half following William Truedale's death found things
much as the old gentleman would have liked.
Pages:
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193