She's takin' on terribly." William made a stride forward.

"I'll go in and see her," he said, hoarsely; but Mrs.Jim Sloane stood suddenly in his way, her slender back against the door.
"No, you ain't goin' in," said she, "I told her I wouldn't let you go in." William looked at her.
"She's dreadful set against either one of you comin' in, an' I told her you shouldn't," she said, firmly.

She smoothed her wild locks down tightly over her ears as she spoke.

All the coquettish look was gone.
William turned around, and looked helplessly at Barney, and Barney looked back at him.

Then Barney put on his hat, and shrugged himself more closely into his great-coat.
"I'll go and get the minister," he said.
Mrs.Sloane thrust her chin out alertly.