Coates. Her tone was assured. She was confident that of those
before her she was the master, and that of that fact they were
aware.

"I know," she went on, "just how you tried to impose upon my
uncle -- how you tried to rob me, and tonight I have invited the
reporters to my house to give them the facts."

With a cry Vera ran to her.

"No!" she begged, "you won't do that. You must not do that!"

"Let her talk!" growled Vance. "Let her talk! She's funny."

"No!" commanded Vera. Her voice rang with the distress. "She
cannot do that!" She turned to Miss Coates. "We haven't hurt
you," she pleaded; "we haven't taken your money. I promise you,"
she cried," we will never see Mr. Hallowell again. I beg of you
-- "

Vance indignantly caught her by the arm and drew her back. "You
don't beg nothing of her!" he cried.

"I do," Vera answered wildly. She caught Vance's hand in both of
hers. "I have a chance, Paul," she entreated, "don't force me
through it again. I can't stand the shame of it again." Once
more she appealed to the visitor. "Don't!" she begged. "Don't
shame me."

But the eyes of the older girl, blind to everything save what,