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"You're to sit down," she ordered, without looking up from the

sheaf of anemone blossoms she was arranging.

He sank down beside her, aware vaguely of something new and

poignant in his life.

CHAPTER V -- JED BRISCOE TAKES A HAND

Suddenly a footfall, and a voice:

"Hello, Arlie! I been looking for you everywhere."

The Texan's gaze took in a slim dark man, goodlooking after a

fashion, but with dissipation written on the rather sullen face.

"Well, you've found me," the girl answered coolly.

"Yes, I've found you," the man answered, with a steady, watchful

eye on the Texan.

Miss Dillon was embarrassed at this plain hostility, but

indignation too sparkled in her eye. "Anything in particular you

want?"

The newcomer ignored her question. His hard gaze challenged the

Southerner; did more than challenge--weighed and condemned.

But this young woman was not used to being ignored. Her voice

took on an edge of sharpness.

"What can I do for you, Jed?"

"Who's your friend?" the man demanded bluntly, insolently.