ke this sacrifice I am no longer to consider
myself as his daughter. I must go out as if I were a mere underling to
earn my own living. Very well; I am ready to do so. No, I don't want
words from either of you. My mind is made up, and there is no more to be
said."

May turned away, and left the library with her head held high and a
bright colour burning her cheeks. She was very near to tears, but was
grateful for the pride which had carried her through this trying
interview without the semblance of a breakdown. When they were alone Sir
George turned to his companion.

"I wouldn't have believed it," he said apologetically. "I never expected
that May would be so disobedient. But you must make allowance for her. I
daresay in time----"

"Never," Copley said emphatically. "She means every word she says. If
you had half the pluck and grit she has you would never have found
yourself in your present position. We have made a mistake, Haredale; we
have gone the wrong way to work. I don't blame you any more than myself,
but you may depend upon it that your daughter will never be my wife.
She will keep her word; she will go out into the world, if necessary, to
earn her own living, and I shouldn't wonder if she made a very good one.
I must put up with my disappointment, I suppose. I would give half I
possess to be able to say that your daughter was my wife. But there must
be none of these harsh measures, Haredale. Just think what people would
say! We should both be boycotted. The thing would get into the papers
and your life wouldn't be worth living. We must find some other way out.
Now let us change the subject."

Sir George was perfectly willing. Despite his selfish obstinacy the
interview had been a trial to him, and he was exceedingly glad to get it
over.

"What else have you in your mind?" he asked.

"Oh, business, of course. About the Blenheim colt? I am taking it for
granted that you will scratch him. I don't see very well how you can
back out. I have made the arrangements with Absalom & Co., and as they
have withdrawn their action they will expect you to do your part. Now
what do you say to letting the colt have a run in the Champion Stakes
next week at Mirst Park? I thought it would be a very good way of
getting out. To begin with, the public will be glad to see whether or
not their fears are justified, and if the horse cuts up badly, why,
then, you can scratch him at once. It would appear absolutely fair and
above