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"That man from Texas."

Arlie felt the blood sting her cheeks. The musicians were just

starting a waltz. She leaned slightly toward Jed, and said, in a

low voice:

"Did you ask me to dance this with you?"

He had not, but he did now. He got to his feet, with shining

eyes, and whirled her off. The girl did not look toward the

Texan. Nevertheless, as they circled the room, she was constantly

aware of him. Sitting there, with a smile on his strong face,

apparently unperturbed, he gave no hint of the stern fact that he

was circled by enemies, any one of whom might carry his death in

a hip pocket. His gaze was serene, unabashed, even amused.