Once, in the last faint ray of light which gleamed from
the windows of the Miners' Retreat, she glanced up shyly into his face.
It was white and hard set, and she did not venture to break the
silence. Half-way up the gloomy ravine they met a man and woman coming
along the narrow path. Hampton drew her aside out of their way, then
spoke coldly.
"Mrs. Herndon, were you seeking your lost charge? I have her here."
The two passing figures halted, peering through the darkness.
"Who are you?" It was the gruff voice of the man.
Hampton stepped out directly in his path. "Herndon," he said, calmly,
"you and I have clashed once before, and the less you have to say
to-night the better. I am in no mood for trifling, and this happens to
be your wife's affair."
"Madam," and he lifted his hat, holding it in his hand, "I am bringing
back the runaway, and she has now pledged herself to remain with you."
"I was not seeking her," she returned, icily. "I have no desire to
cultivate the particular friends of Mr. Hampton."
"So I have understood, and consequently relinquish here and now all
claims upon Miss Gillis.
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