The perplexed matron
felt that she must have more time to think and to acquire fuller
knowledge of the affair.
"Brother," she said finally, "you are the guardian of Louise and in
authority. She is now helpless and at present quiet. If quiet of
mind and body can be maintained long enough she will no doubt get
well. In a sense I am now her physician, and I say as Surgeon Ackley
said of his patients, she cannot be disturbed. I positively forbid
it. Dr. Pelton who must soon be here will take the same ground.
Public opinion will support him and me in holding you responsible if
you order anything endangering your ward's life and health at this
time. Mrs. Waldo and her son would be witnesses. How far the former
is acquainted with affairs we do not know. She watched with Louise
all last night. If you act hastily you may be sorry indeed. I am
trying kindness and conciliation with my people and they are doing
better. I fear your policy is mistaken. Chunk is gone and beyond
punishment. It is asking much to expect that his grandmother and the
girl who loves him after her fashion would give information against
him.
Pages:
505
506
507
508
509
510
511
512
513
514
515
516
517
518
519
520
521
522
523
524
525
526
527
528
529