through the branches to the clear blue sky.

But things are oddly timed. Just at this moment I heard Madame's voice
close at my ear, and her large bony hand was laid on my shoulder. We were
instantly face to face--I recoiling, and for a moment speechless with
fright.

In very early youth we do not appreciate the restraints which act upon
malignity, or know how effectually fear protects us where conscience is
wanting. Quite alone, in this solitary spot, detected and overtaken with an
awful instinct by my enemy, what might not be about to happen to me at that
moment?

'Frightened as usual, Maud,' she said quietly, and eyeing me with a
sinister smile, 'and with cause you think, no doubt. Wat 'av you done to
injure poor Madame? Well, I think I know, little girl, and have quite
discover the cleverness of my sweet little Maud. Eh--is not so? Petite
carogne--ah, ha, ha!'

I was too much confounded to answer.

'You see, my dear cheaile,' she said, shaking her uplifted finger with a
hideous archness at me, 'you could not hide what you 'av done from poor
Madame. You cannot look so innocent but I can see your pretty little
villany quite plain--you dear little diablesse.

'Wat I 'av done I 'av no reproach of myself for it. If I could explain,
your papa would say I 'av done right, and you should thank me on your
knees; but I cannot explain yet.'