"
"Are you really! Well, so much for that--your way and mine aren't the
same. I wish you good evening."
"Stop a moment, Esther."
"And my mistress waiting for her dinner. I've to go and get some more
beer."
"Shall I wait for you?"
"Wait for me! I should think not, indeed."
Esther ran down the area steps. Her hand paused as it was about to lift
the jug down from the dresser, and a number of thoughts fled across her
mind. That man would be waiting for her outside. What was she to do? How
unfortunate! If he continued to come after her he and Fred would be sure
to meet.
"What are you waiting for, I should like to know?" she cried, as she came
up the steps.
"That's 'ardly civil, Esther, and after so many years too; one would
think--"
"I want none of your thinking; get out of my sight. Do you 'ear? I want no
truck with you whatever. Haven't you done me enough mischief already?"
"Be quiet; listen to me. I'll explain."
"I don't want none of your explanation. Go away."
Her whole nature was now in full revolt, and quick with passionate
remembrance of the injustice that had been done her, she drew back from
him, her eyes flashing. Perhaps it was some passing remembrance of the
breakage of the first beer-jug that prevented her from striking him with
the second. The spasm passed, and then her rage, instead of venting itself
in violent action, assumed the form of dogged silence.
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