Page:Randall Parrish - The Red Mist.djvu/317

 Rh learned the truth; but Major Harwood would never wish you to mourn here in the midst of all this danger—you are listening?"

"Yes; I will do just as you say; but—but I cannot remain here in presence of this man's body. It—it will drive me insane."

"It will be best to go; safer, I think also, for Anse and his gang may return here. There would be no mercy shown us in such a case. Sit here a moment," and I forced her upon a stool with her back to the dead man, "while I search for food. I can trust you alone?"

Her hands clung to me, but she was no longer crying, although unshed tears dimmed her eyes.

"I—I thank God," she faltered, "that he sent you to me. I could not bear all this alone."

"I am glad you care to have me here," I answered eagerly. "I was half afraid you did not."

"Oh, but I do; I cannot tell you all it means. I—I think I have never felt more helpless, or—or discouraged."

"It is the strain of so much occurring at once, and you are worn out. We will get away from here, somewhere back into the hills where we can feel safe from discovery. Then we can rest all day, and you will be all right again. We need sleep and food."