When I turned to her she was staring at him, and looked
as if some one had hit her with a club.
"It is too bad, daughter," I said. "I would never have thought that he
was that kind of a man."
Then the poor girl grabbed my arm with a clutch which actually hurt.
The doctor and the old man were coming very near. I saw the lad look up
at us, and it was really pathetic to see how he tried to straighten
himself up and steady his gait as he took his cap off, with a shaking
hand.
"It's really too bad," I said again.
And then Helen just stared at me for an instant, shaking her head.
"I don't believe it," she cried. "I won't believe it."
She let go my arm and dashed away from me. I could see that the poor
child was moved again by that instinct of helpfulness which you dear
women have, and by the sense of loyalty to friends which girls like Helen
always show.
"Oh! What is the matter?" she cried.
Then I saw the doctor move back, and hold up his hand as if seeking to
repel her.
"Go back! Don't come near me," he said, hoarsely, and hurried on,
unsteadily, while she stood there, dumbfounded, unable to understand.
I saw her sense of helplessness grow into resentment and wounded pride.
The poor little girl was hurt, Jennie, deeply hurt.
Our men had already invaded the house and were carrying the things away,
and the population of Sweetapple Cove was gathering, for our departure
was even a more wonderful event than our arrival.
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