Even Mrs. Fitzgerald felt a weight upon her tongue.

"It was a clumsy attempt," she went on. "I should have had no
idea where to raise money upon the thing, but I apologize to you,
nevertheless, Mrs. Fitzgerald, for the anxiety which my removal
of your valuable property must have caused you," she added,
turning to the owner of the bracelet, whose cheeks were once more
hot with anger at the contempt in the girl's tone. "I suppose I
ought to thank you, Mr. Tavernake, also, for your well-meant
effort to preserve my character. In future, that shall be my
sole charge. Has any one anything more to say to me before I
go?"

Somehow or other, no one had. Mrs. Fitzgerald was irritated and
fuming, but she contented herself with a snort. Her speech was
ready enough as a rule, but there was a look in this girl's eyes
from which she was glad enough to turn away. Mrs. Lawrence made
a weak attempt at a farewell.

"I am sure," she began, "we are all sorry for what's occurred and
that you must go--not that perhaps it isn't better, under the
circumstances," she added hastily. "As regards--"

"There is nothing owing to you," the girl interrupted calmly.
"You may congratulate yourself upon that, for if there were you
would not get it. Nor have I stolen anything else."

"About your luggage?" Mrs. Lawrence asked.

"When I need it, I will send for it," the girl replied.