第402页 / 共439页

"They figure me out a white man," he answered carelessly.

"Ah! That's where I made my mistake." She looked at him bravely,

though the color began to beat into her cheeks beneath the dusky

tan. "Yet I knew it all the time--in my heart. At least, after I

had given myself time to think it over. I knew you couldn't be

that. If I had given you time to explain--but I always think too

late."

His eyes, usually so clear and steely, softened at her words.

"I'm satisfied if you knew--in your heart."

"I meant----" she began, with a flush.

"Now, don't spoil it, please," he begged.