“By so doing you would disobey your father, who has told you not to leave the house to-day.”

“But I can’t bear inaction and suspense at such a time.”

“You must bear it, Miss Vosburgh.  Seeing the mood you are in, I shall not permit that door to be opened to any one except your father or some one that you recognize.”

“You cannot help yourself,” she replied, scornfully, approaching the door.

He was there before her, and, taking out the key, put it in his pocket.

“Oh, this is shameful!” she cried, blushing scarlet “Can your fears carry you so far?”

“Yes, and much farther, if needful,” he replied, with a grim laugh.  “When you are calm enough to listen to me, to be sane and just, I’ll explain.  Until you are I shall remain master here and protect you and your home.”  Then, in a tone of stern authority, he added:  “Mrs. Borden, sit yonder in that darkened parlor, and don’t move unless I tell you to hide.  Then hide in earnest, as you value your life.”

“Would you not also like a hiding-place provided, Mr. Merwyn?” Marian asked, almost beside herself with anger and anxiety.

His reply was to go to the window and look up and down the still quiet street.

“A respite,” he remarked, then turned to the colored woman, and in a tone which she instantly obeyed, said, “Go to that parlor, where you cannot be seen from the street.”  Then to Marian, “I have no authority over you.”

“No, I should hope not.  Is there no escape from this intrusion?”

“None for the present,” he replied, coldly.  “You settled it long since that I was a coward, and now that I am not a gentleman.  I shall make no self-defence except to your father, whom I expect momentarily.  He cannot leave you alone to-day an instant longer than is unavoidable.  I wish to remind you of one thing, however:  your soldier friends have long been your pride.”

“Oh that these friends were here to day!”

“They would be surprised at your lack of quiet fortitude.”

“Must I be humiliated in my own home?”

“You are humiliating yourself.  Had you treated me with even your old cool toleration and civility, I would have told you all that has happened since morning; but you have left me no chance for anything except to take the precautions heedful to save your home and yourself.  You think I fled here as a disguised fugitive.  When shall I forget this crowning proof of your estimate and esteem?  You see I did not come unarmed,” partially drawing a revolver.  “I repeat, you are proud of your soldier friends.  You have not learned that the first duty of a soldier is to obey orders; and you have your father’s orders.  Obey them quietly, and you are under no necessity to speak to me again.  When your father comes I will relieve you of my hated presence.  If he wishes it, I will still serve you both for his sake, for he always kept a little faith and fairness for me.  Now, regard me as a sentinel, a common soldier, to whom you need not speak until your father comes;” and he turned to the windows and began fastening them.