Page:The Mystery of Central Park.djvu/160

154 great pity for this lonely girl. She will say I was making love to her, because I held her hand, and she will never forgive it. What an ass I am to risk a life-time of happiness with Penelope, just to sympathize with a girl whose life is lonely, and yet, poor little devil— It's all up with Penelope, I know. I can tell by the look on her face that she will not forgive or believe me. I'll give up. It's no use now trying to solve the Park mystery—no use trying to do anything."

Dido looked uneasy. She had seen all and she partly understood. She said, in a little strained voice: "I am very sorry."

"I wish some man would tramp on my toes or punch me in the ribs. I'd just like a chance to knock the life out of somebody," Dick said, savagely.

Dido laughed softly at Dick's outburst, but she delicately avoided the subject of the lady who looked so angry.