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196 Joan's answer was given modestly, but with some dignity.

"If I blush at your words, Ann, 'tis because of the tone in which you utter them," she said, in a low voice, but so distinctly that every word reached Tregenna's ears, as, indeed, they reached his heart also. "'Tis no shame to have a liking for a brave man: and if all the world has the same, there is the less reason for my concealing it."

"Well, 'tis a pity your kindness for him hath brought you so far, alone, and by night," said Ann, dryly. "For 'tis a bad road you have to traverse on your way back, and none the safer for the rough fellows that are abroad, and that will be by this scarce sober enough to tell the parson's daughter from a farm wench on her way back from market."

"I can take care of myself, Ann, I thank you," answered Joan, coldly; "so you will but give me your word that Lieutenant Tregenna is not here to your knowledge, I'll return at once."

"There was a moment's pause. Tregenna, who heard the question, waited with interest for the answer. Ann gave it in solemn tones.