A burning flood of colour swept over her face as they met , then receded as quickly , leaving her whiter than before . Without any waste of words , Alan plunged abruptly into the subject . `` Miss Oliver , why have you avoided me so of late ? Have I done anything to offend you ? '' `` No . '' She spoke as if the word hurt her , her eyes persistently cast down . `` Then what is the trouble ? '' There was no answer . She gave an unvoluntary glance around as if seeking some way of escape . There was none , for the spring was set about with thick young firs and Alan blocked the only path . He leaned forward and took her hands in his . `` Miss Oliver , you must tell me what the trouble is , '' he said firmly . She pulled her hands away and flung them up to her face , her form shaken by stormy sobs . In distress he put his arm about her and drew her closer . `` Tell me , Lynde , '' he whispered tenderly . She broke away from him , saying passionately , `` You must not come to Four Winds any more . You must not have anything more to do with us -- any of us . We have done you enough harm already . But I never thought it could hurt you -- oh , I am sorry , sorry ! '' `` Miss Oliver , I want to see that letter you received the other evening .
Oh '' -- as she started with surprise -- `` I know XXXXX it -- Emily told me .
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