He was never deterred by circumstances, never turned back
from any purpose upon the accomplishment of which he had set his mind.
His subordinates were afraid to tell him of failure. She had heard it
said that Bloodhound Hill could be a savage animal when roused.
There came a low sound at her door, the soft turning of the handle,
Jack's voice whispered through the gloom.
"Are you asleep, little 'un?"
She started up on the bed. "Oh, Jack, come in, dear! Come in!"
He came to her, put his arms about her, and held her close. "Fletcher's
been telling me," he whispered into her ear. "Adela's gone to bed. It's
quite all right, little 'un, is it? You're not--sorry?"
She caught the anxiety in the words as she clung to him. "I--don't think
so," she whispered back. "Only I--I'm rather frightened, Jack."
"There's no need, darling," said Jack, and kissed her very tenderly.
"He's a good fellow--the best of fellows. He's sworn to me to make you
happy."
She was trembling a little in his hold. "He--doesn't want to marry me
yet, does he?" she asked, nervously.
He put a very gentle hand upon her head. "Don't funk the last fence, old
girl!" he said, softly. "You'll like being married."
"Ah!" She was breathing quickly. "I am not so sure. And there's no
getting back, is there, Jack? Oh, please, do ask him to wait a little
while! I'm sure he will. He is very kind.
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