And, indeed,
if you really think that the articles which you saw were stolen, it
becomes your duty to inform the owners thereof, or you become, in a
measure, a partaker of the theft."
"That is true," said Mrs. Morris, rising, "and in that way I might
ultimately gain the ill-will of Mrs. Dawson; therefore I think I
will go at once and tell her my suspicions."
"Which, I am convinced, you will find erroneous," replied Mrs.
Freeman.
"We shall see," was the answer of her friend, accompanied by an
ominous shake of the head; and promising to call upon Mrs. Freeman
on her return, she took leave.
During her absence, the alarming cries from the next house were
again heard; and presently the old lady appeared on the side-walk,
apparently in great agitation and alarm, and gazing wildly about
her, as if seeking a place of refuge; but she was instantly seized
in the forcible manner Mrs. Morris had described, and carried into
the house.
"This is dreadful!" exclaimed Mrs. Freeman. "What excuse can there
be for such treatment?" and for a moment her heart was filled with
indignation toward her supposed barbarous neighbours; but a little
reflection caused her still to suspend her judgment, and endeavour
to learn both sides of the story.
As she sat ruminating on this singular occurrence, and considering
what was her duty in regard to it, she was aroused by the entrance
of Mrs.
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