Get a move on." He half dragged, half shoved the now sobbing Mary along the platform.
For an instant no one of the astonished girls moved or protested.

Then a small, lithe figure flung itself in front of the brutal fellow, barring his progress.

"Take your hands off that girl," commanded a tense, authoritative voice.
As if in recognition of its authority the man's cruel hold on Mary's slender shoulder relaxed.

Kathleen West's black eyes were blazing.

With a swift forward movement she threw her arm protectingly across Mary's shoulder and drew her close.