'But, William,' I said, beginning to cry, 'but, William, what have I ever done to you ?' 'You know what you've done!' he said." "Oh!" breathed Mrs.De Peyster.
"I begged him to explain, but he just turned his back on me and walked away! And now, ma'am," wept Matilda, "I know he'll never explain, he's such a proud, obstinate, stiff-necked man! And I love him so, Mrs.De Peyster,--I love him so! Oh, my heart is broke!" Mrs.De Peyster gazed at her sobbing serving-woman in chilled dismay.
She was for a moment impelled to explain to Matilda; but she quickly realized it would never, never do for her housekeeper to know that her coachman had made love to her, and had--had even kissed her.

Every drop of De Peyster blood revolted against such a degradation.
"I hope it will come out all right, Matilda," she said in a shaking voice.
"Oh, it never can!" Matilda had already started for the door.

She paused, hesitant, with the knob in her hand.

"But you, ma'am," she faltered, "can you ever forgive me for the way I deceived you ?" Mrs.De Peyster tried to look severe, yet relenting.
"I'll try to overlook it, Matilda." "Thank you, ma'am," snuffled Matilda; and very humbly she went out..