That would leave you time to behave."

"Have we so many houses?" almost sneered the younger woman.

"There are holes, and caves and rivers," answered the woman, with the
plain intention of frightening the disloyal one into submission.

"We left off that sort of thing when we came to America," replied Helka
undaunted. "I will take care of this prisoner. I have agreed to."

The old woman shuffled up nearer to the screen. Cora felt as if she
must cry out or faint, but Helka spoke quickly.

"Don't you dare to step one inch nearer," she said, assuming a voice of
power. "I have told you to go!"

A dog was barking fiercely under the window.

"They will watch," said the old woman, meaning that the dogs would stay
on guard if Cora should attempt escape.

"Oh, I know that," answered Helka. "But I have told you to go!"

Cora was trembling. She remembered the voice, although she was too
deeply under the effects of the chloroform when in the wagon to recall
more of this woman.

"I only came to warn you," said the woman.

"You are always warning," and Helka laughed. "I am afraid, Mother
Hull, that we will begin to doubt your warnings. This young girl makes
an admirable gypsy, yet you warned me so much before she came."

The woman stooped over and whispered into Helka's ear. "And I warn you
now," she said, "that if she gets away I will not save you from Sam.
_You_ will _marry_ him."

"Go away instantly," commanded the queen, springing up like an
infuriated animal. "I have told you that before I will marry Sam I
will--I will---- He sent you to threaten me! I----"

"Helka! Helka!" soothed the woman, "be careful--what you say."

"You leave me! I could throw myself from this window," and she went
toward the open casement.

"There now, girl! Mother Hull was always good to you-----"

"Go!"

The hag shuffled to the door. Turning, she watched Helka and looked
toward the screen. Helka never moved, but stood like a tragedy queen,
her finger pointing to the door.

It was exactly like a scene in a play. Cora was very frightened, for
she could see plainly through the hinge spaces of her hiding place.

When there was no longer a step to be heard in the hall, Helka sank
down on the floor and laughed as merrily as if she had been playing
some absurd game.

Cora was amazed to hear that girl laugh.

"Were you frightened?" Helka asked.

"A little," replied Cora, "she has such a dreadful face."

"Like a w