He whispers with
eagerness:
"Her father is"--
"Philip Hardin," falters the woman, whose stately head is now bowed
in her hands.
"I'll protect that child. She shall never want a friend, if you do
one thing," Joe falters.
Natalie raises a white face to his.
"What is it?" she huskily whispers.
"Will you swear, in open court, which of these two girls is your
own child, if I ask you to?" He is eager and pleading.
She reads his very soul. She hesitates. "And you will protect the
innocent girl, against his wrath?" There is all a mother's love in
her appeal.
"Both of you. I swear it. You shall not want for money or protection,"
Joe solemnly says.
"Then, I will!" Natalie firmly answers.
He springs to her side.
"Does Hardin know which girl is his daughter?"
"He does not!" Natalie says slowly.
There is a silence; Joe can hear his own heart beat. Victory at
last.
"I have nothing to ask you, except to see no one but myself, Padre
Francisco, or my lawyer. If Hardin wants to see you, I'll be present.
Now I am going to see him to-night. You will be watched over night
and day. I am going to have every precaution taken. I shall be near
you always. Rest in safety. I think I can save you any opening up
of the old days.
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