IV


He stopped and lifted his hat with a shy smile. "I beg your pardon," he
said. "I thought there was no one here."

Charity stood before him, barring his way. "You can't come in. The
library ain't open to the public Wednesdays."

"I know it's not; but my cousin gave me her key."

"Miss Hatchard's got no right to give her key to other folks, any more'n
I have. I'm the librarian and I know the by-laws. This is my library."

The young man looked profoundly surprised.

"Why, I know it is; I'm so sorry if you mind my coming."

"I suppose you came to see what more you could say to set her against
me? But you needn't trouble: it's my library today, but it won't be
this time tomorrow. I'm on the way now to take her back the key and the
register."

Young Harney's face grew grave, but without betraying the consciousness
of guilt she had looked for.

"I don't understand," he said. "There must be some mistake. Why should I
say things against you to Miss Hatchard--or to anyone?"