He was now chiefly anxious to explain to her that though he must abide by the threat he had made, he was quite willing to go on with his engagement if she would oblige him in the matter of the diamonds.

"It was necessary that I should explain to you that I could not allow that necklace to be brought into my house." "No one thought of taking it to your house." "What were you to do with it, then ?" "Keep it in my own," said Lizzie stoutly.

They were still walking together, and were now altogether out of sight of the house.

Lizzie in her excitement had forgotten church, had forgotten the Fawn women,--had forgotten everything except the battle which it was necessary that she should fight for herself.

She did not mean to allow the marriage to be broken off,--but she meant to retain the necklace.