For an instant Vera stood motionless, staring, unconsciously
holding the attitude of appeal. But when, by these last words,
she recognized that her humiliation could go no further, with an
inarticulate exclamation she turned away.

"The public has the right to know," declared Miss Coates, "the
sort of people you are. I have the record of each of you -- "

From the hall Winthrop had entered quickly, but, disregarding
him, Vance broke in upon the speaker, savagely, defiantly.

"Print em, then!" he shouted, "print em!"

"I mean to," declared Miss Coates, "yours, and hers, she -- "

Winthrop placed himself in front of her, shutting her off from
the others. He spoke in an earnest whisper.

"Don't!" he begged. "She has asked for a chance. Give her a
chance."

Miss Coates scorned to speak in whispers.

"She has had a chance," she protested loudly. "She's had a
chance for nine years; and she's chosen to be a charlatan and a
cheat, and -- " The angry woman hesitated, and then flung the
word -- "and a thief!"

In the silence that followed no one turned toward Vera; but as