This expression of extreme disapprobation had a very demoralizing effect

upon Hoopdriver, a demoralization that was immediately completed by the

advent of the massive Widgery.

"Is this the man?" said Widgery very grimly, and producing a special

voice for the occasion from somewhere deep in his neck.

Don't hurt him!" said Mrs. Milton, with clasped hands. "However much

wrong he has done her--No violence!"

"'Ow many more of you?" said Hoopdriver, at bay before the umbrella

stand. "Where is she? What has he done with her?" said Mrs. Milton.

I'm not going to stand here and be insulted by a lot of strangers,"

said Mr. Hoopdriver. "So you needn't think it."

"Please don't worry, Mr. Hoopdriver," said Jessie, suddenly appearing in

the door of the dining-room. "I'm here, mother." Her face was white.

Mrs. Milton said something about her child, and made an emotional charge

at Jessie. The embrace vanished into the dining-room. Widgery moved as

if to follow, and hesitated. "You'd better make yourself scarce," he

said to Mr. Hoopdriver.

I shan't do anything of the kind," said Mr. Hoopdriver, with a catching

of the breath. "I'm here defending that young lady."

The Wheels of Chance