It was evident
that the dilemma proposed by de Moche was not without weight. She
had now coloured a flaming red. The woman had struck her in a
vital spot.
"Mr. Lockwood is not here to defend himself," Inez said quietly.
"I will not have him attacked by innuendo."
She had risen. Neither the ardour of Alfonso nor the seeds of
doubt of the Senora had shaken her faith. It was a test that
Kennedy evidently was glad to have witnessed. For some day she
might learn the truth about the foot-prints. He understood her
character better. The Senora, too, had learned that if she were to
bring pressure on the girl she might break her, but she would not
bend.
Without another word Inez, scarcely bowing stiffly, moved out of
the tea room, and we followed, leaving the mother and son there,
baffled.
"I hope you will pardon me for allowing you to come here," said
Kennedy, in a low voice. "I did it because there are certain
things that you ought to hear. It was in fairness to you. I would
not have you delude yourself about Mr. Whitney, about--Mr.
Lockwood, even. I want you to feel that, no matter what you hear
or see, you can come to me and know that I will tell you the
truth. It may hurt, but it will be best.
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