She resisted, and implored him to release her.

He dropped her arm, and whispered in her ear.

She looked at him--and instantly made up her mind.
"Let me tell my mother where I am going," she said; "and I will consent." "Be it so!" he answered.

"And remember one thing: every minute is precious; the fewest words are the best." Mrs.Bowmore re-entered the cottage by the adjoining room, and met them in the passage.

In few words, Charlotte spoke.
"I must go at once to Justice Bervie's house.