Yes, that was
decidedly the strongest impression he gave. And yet in his face
there was nothing animal in a bad sense. Certainly it showed no
grossness. The man was wild, untamed, rather than sensual, and
despite his careless use of the plains vernacular he seemed to be
rather above the average in education and intelligence. At any
rate, without being stupidly tongue-tied, he knew enough to remain
silent when there was nothing to say, and that was a blessing, for
Mrs. Austin herself was not talkative, and idle chatter distressed
her.
On the whole, when Alaire had finished her analysis she rather
resented the good impression Law had made upon her, for on general
principles she chose to dislike and distrust men. Rising, she
walked painfully to the pond and made a leisurely toilet.
Breakfast was ready when she returned, and once more the man sat
upon his heels and smoked while she ate. Alaire could not catch
his eyes upon her, except when he spoke, at which time his gaze
was direct and open; yet never did she feel free from his
intensest observation.
After a while she remarked: "I'm glad to see a Ranger in this
county. There has been a lot of stealing down our way, and the
Association men can't seem to stop it.
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