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And with that she gave her pony the signal to more forward.

Nevertheless, she met the ranger at the foot of the little hill

with distinct coldness. When he came up to shake hands, she was

too busy dismounting to notice.

"Your heart must be a good deal better. I suppose Lost Valley

agrees with you." She had swung down on the other side of the

horse, and her glance at him across the saddle seat was like a

rapier thrust.

He was aware at once of being in disgrace with her, and it chafed

him that he had no adequate answer to her implied charge.

"My heart's all right," he said a little gruffly.

"Yes, it seems to be, lieutenant."