WEALTH WITHOUT WINGS. 101

 

‘“¢ Well, what do you say ?”’ imperatively demanded
Jasper, after waiting some moments for a reply.

‘¢We cannot part with the child,” said the young
man, in a low, appealing voice. |

“You must part with her!” was the quick, reso-
lute response.

“Must? That is a strong word, Mr. Jasper.”
Claire’s manner underwent another change, as was
shown by the firm compression of his lips, and the
steady gaze of his eyes, as he fixed them on the
merchant.

‘“‘T know it is strong, but no stronger than my
purpose; and I warn you not to stand in my way.
I’ve got an old grudge against you, so don’t provoke
me too far in this matter. <A pretty affair, indeed,
when you attempt to come between me and my legal
rights and duties.”’

“Duties!” There was a stinging contempt in
the young man’s voice. The manner of Jasper had
chafed him beyond all manner of self-control.

“You forget to whom you are speaking,” said
the latter, offended now, as well as angry. ‘But
we will not bandy words. Will you, without fur-
ther trouble, give into my hands the child of Mr.
Elder ?”’

“‘T cannot do it, Mr. Jasper.”

“Speak positively. Will you, or will you not do
as I wish ?”’

“T will not,” was the decided answer.

_ “Enough.” And Jasper turned away, muttering
m an undertone, ‘“‘ We’ll soon see who is to be mas-
ter here.”’

Claire lingered a short time, but, as Jasper showed

Q*

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