It was a cheque, payable to her order for $5,000 and signed "John Burkett Ryder." A deep flush covered the girl's face as she saw the money--a flush of annoyance rather than of pleasure.

This man who had insulted her, who had wronged her father, who had driven her from his home, thought he could throw his gold at her and insolently send her her pay as one settles haughtily with a servant discharged for impertinence.

She would have none of his money--the work she had done she would make him a present of.

She replaced the cheque in the envelope and passed it back to Theresa.
"Give this to Mr.Ryder and tell him I cannot see him." "But Mr.Ryder said--" insisted the girl.
"Please deliver my message as I give it," commanded Shirley with authority.

"I cannot see Mr.Ryder." The maid withdrew, but she had barely closed the door when it was opened again and Mrs.Ryder rushed in, without knocking.