第217页 / 共439页

She could not take it so lightly as he did, even though she did

not know that he had barely escaped with his life. Something

about his debonair, smiling hardihood touched her imagination, as

did also the virile competence of the man. If the cool eyes in

his weatherbeaten face could be hard as agates, they could also

light up with sparkling imps of mischief. Certainly he was no

boy, but the close-cut waves of crisp, reddish hair and the ready

smile contributed to an impression of youth that came and went.

"Willie Speed is saddling you a horse. The one you came on has

been turned loose to go back when it wants to. I'm going to take

you home with me," she told him.

"Well, I'm willing to be kidnapped."

"I brought your horse Teddy. If you like, you may ride that, and

I'll take the other."

"Yore a gentleman, ma'am. I sure would."