He not
only marries against his father's will (that is done every day), but
slanders and maligns him publicy in his hour of poverty and distress. But
now that he has broken faith and insulted Miss Dodd as well as me, I
declare I am glad you were there, Jenny. It will separate us from his
abominable conduct. But what does he say for himself? What reason does he
give?"
"Oh, it is all mystery as yet."
"Well, but he must have sent some explanation to the Dodds."
"He may have: I don't know. I have not ventured to intrude on my poor
insulted friend. Papa, I hear her distress is fearful; they fear for her
reason. Oh, if harm comes to her, God will assuredly punish him whose
heartlessness and treachery has brought her to it. Mark my words," she
continued with great emotion, "this cruel act will not go unpunished even
in this world."
"There, there, change the subject," said Mr. Hardie peevishly. "What have
I to do with his pranks? He has disowned me for his father, and I disown
him for my son."
The next day Peggy Black called, and asked to see master. Old Betty,
after the first surprise, looked at her from head to foot, and foot to
head, as if measuring her for a suit of disdain; and told her she might
carry her own message; then flounced into the kitchen, and left her to
shut the street door, which she did.
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