"Were they cruel?
Did they question her, and were they harsh and cruel because she would not tell?
Why did you not tell them yourself?
Why did you not, Lyman Risley?
Why did you not tell the whole story rather than have that child blamed?
Well, I will go myself.

I will go this minute.

They shall not blame that darling.

What do you think I care for myself?
Let them lynch me if they want to.

I will go this minute!" Cynthia sprang to her feet, but Risley, with a hoarse shout under his breath, caught hold of her and forced her back.
"For God's sake, sit down, Cynthia!" he said.