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.
"Will you go--for my sake?" Like lightning her mood changed
and she was close to him again, hands on his, her face white,
her whole presence sweetly alluring.
"Nell, I won't disobey Belding," protested Gale. "I won't break
my word."
"Dick, it'll not be so bad as that.
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