I want to marry Mel Iden." "Why ?" rasped out the father, hoarsely.
"I understand Mel," replied Lane, and swiftly he told his convictions as to the meaning and cause of her sacrifice.

"Mel is good.

She never was bad.

These rotten people who see dishonor and disgrace in her have no minds, no hearts.

Mel is far above these painted, bare-kneed girls who scorn her....