Page:Lefty o' the Bush.djvu/119

 "Instead, I was glad of the opportunity to meet him."

King choked; the pallor of anger gave way to a flush of the same nature, and he gazed at her resentfully.

"You must be jesting," he said, endeavoring to restrain himself. "I hope you're not baiting me."

"Not at all. Ever since the game yesterday I have felt much curiosity concerning Tom Locke. To some extent, it has been satisfied. I admit I was surprised to find him plainly very much of a gentleman."

He bit his lip, his gloved hands gripping and crushing the soft felt hat, and for the moment he was afraid to speak again. Hatred for Tom Locke throbbed in every pulse beat.

She broke the momentary silence: "What are you doing here—now?"

"I am waiting to walk home with you."

"But it is too early. I told you after Sabbath school."

"I'll wait," he said.

"Don't let me put you to that trouble."

"I'll wait," he repeated grimly.

He was waiting at the door when she came forth after Sabbath school was over, and he fell in at