was concerned. The girl felt that, if only she resisted this
unreasonable demand, it would be an act of rebellion against the
conditions of the girls' lives at "Dawes'"; she was sure that only
good would come of her action, and that He, who would not see a
sparrow fall to the ground without caring, would aid her in her
single-handed struggle against infamous oppression.

"I am sorry, sir; but I cannot."

"Cannot?"

"No, sir."

"Anything wrong with your plump, pretty arm?"

"No, sir."

"Then why not do as I wish?"

"Because--because it isn't right, sir."

"Eh!"

The man stared at Mavis, who looked him steadfastly in the eyes. In
his heart of hearts, he respected her scruples; he also admired her
spirit. But for "Madame the Marquise," nothing more would have been
said, but this young person was destined to be an instrument of the
fates that ruled Mavis's life. This chit was already resentful
against the strangely beautiful, self-possessed shop-girl; Mavis's
objection to the Marquis's request was in the nature of a reflection