Rojas

It was upon Gale's coming from this conference that he encountered
Nell. Since the interrupted siesta episode she had been more than
ordinarily elusive, and about all he had received from her was a
tantalizing smile from a distance. He got the impression now, however,
that she had awaited him. When he drew close to her he was certain of
it, and he experienced more than surprise.

"Dick," she began, hurriedly. "Dad's not going to send any one to see
about Thorne?"

"No, not yet. He thinks it best not to. We all think so. I'm sorry.
Poor Mercedes!"

"I knew it. I tried to coax him to send Laddy or even Yaqui. He
wouldn't listen to me. Dick, Mercedes is dying by inches. Can't you
see what ails her? It's more than love or fear. It's
uncertainty--suspense. Oh, can't we find out for her?"

"Nell, I feel as badly as you about her. I wanted to ride in to
Casita. Belding shut me up quick, the last time."

Nell came close to Gale, clasped his arm. There was no color in her
face. Her eyes held a dark, eager excitement.

"Dick, will you slip off without Dad's consent? Risk it! Go to Casita
and find out what's happened to Thorne--at least if he ever started for
Forlorn River?"

"No, Nell, I won't do that."

She drew away from him with passionate suddenness.

"Are you afraid?"

This certainly was not the Nell Burton that Gale knew.

"No, I'm not afraid," Gale replied, a little nettled.