|
So far she was inwardly elated with the success of her machinations. Deep
within her dwelt a respect for honesty and simplicity. But he doesnt care
whether Imsick or homesick, or what. She had learned to recognize a faint
fragrance of sage,which came only in a north breeze. It is you who have not
been aware of mypresence. I think it the most exquisite in the world. You made
it without a stop, returned Randolph, admiringly.
Im glad you are so
optimistic, returned Janey.
You made it without a stop, returned Randolph,
admiringly. Well,finally, to prove my interest in his old cave I climbed down
in one ofhis graves.
Janey was blandly innocent, and apparently unconscious of
Randolphsslight start and quick look.
A dry, dusty,musty odor, not unpleasant,
permeated the place. Shehad not been in the least lonely for him or homesick.
It has been a lonely, awful day, replied Janey, pathetically.
Only the other
day she had fancied she wore a tiredbored look.
Anyone would think Id been
absent a month. One of theIndians was nothing if not frankly admiring.
Plain
indeed was it that they were fond ofRandolph and proud of his archaeological
work. You must pardon my manners, he said, rising.
Im perfectly miserable now,
he retorted, grimly. Wal, not if youre ridin back with him, returned Ray,
reluctantly. Dad said you had set yourheart on discovering it. She never called
him Father exceptin cases like this. If he annoys you hell be a daid redskin
damn quick.
Miss Endicott, I didnt say in any woman, returned Randolph,
sharply.
Arent you going to ask me to get down and come in?
Im sorry you were
indisposed, said Randolph, solicitously. Youve scarcely looked at me, since
your arrival. She would reduce himto such a state of love-sick misery that he
would want to die.
The beauty and color and solitude, the vastness of it had
calledto something deep in her. He was just thick-headed,and too much concerned
about her affairs. What few words and glances it had taken to upset Phillip
Randolph!
Randolph held her hand longer than necessary.
Ray, Ill compromise
this ride with you, said Janey. There certainly is, added Randolph,
emphatically.
Endicott, youre taking advantage of human nature,
repliedRandolph, with agitation.
There was somethingwarm and sweet in the
thought of his really caring for her like that.
But man, I cant believe that
wonderful girl is going to hell.
Janey started down, aware that he followed
closely.
|
