"You know very well, Mr.Merritt, that I'm not going to let you pose this child again." "I know you _are_,--and mighty quick, too," he retorted, in a low voice, but tones of great determination.

"I know everybody is out,--you are practically alone in the house, and I know you're coming with me,--willing or not! It won't hurt the baby a mite,--I've my little car out in the road,--and if you _don't_ consent,--I'll--" He voiced no threat, but Azalea felt pretty sure he meant to take the baby himself if she refused to go with them.
She thought quickly, but no avenue of escape could she see.

It would be utterly useless to call Janet, for she was a nervous, timid girl, and would probably run away at sight of this strange man.
The nursery, too, was on the other side of the house, and she couldn't make Janet hear if she tried.
The Gale house also was on the other side of the Farnsworth house, and so, indeed, if Azalea chose to call for help, it would do no good.
Doubtless Phil would be along shortly, but there was no telling, for there was always a merry crowd on the Gale's piazza and he would stay there talking for a time.
But Merritt was impatient, and he finally broke out with; "Make up your mind, please, and quickly.

Will you bring the baby quietly, or shall I just--take her along." He held out his arms to Fleurette, who, always ready to make friends with strangers, smiled and leaned toward him.
Azalea had wild thoughts of running away,--anywhere,--but she knew the futility of such a plan.

Merritt was a big and strong man, and though Azalea was a swift runner, she could not get a start without his intervening.
She tried pleading.