Page:The Valley of Fear.pdf/290

Rh day. I think the time is coming. I had news tonight, bad news, and I see trouble coming.”

“The police?”

“Well, a Pinkerton. But, sure, you wouldn’t know what that is, acushla, nor what it may mean to the likes of me. I’m too deep in this thing, and I may have to get out of it quick. You said you would come with me if I went.”

“Oh, Jack, it would be the saving of you!”

“I’m an honest man in some things, Ettie. I wouldn’t hurt a hair of your bonny head for all that the world can give, nor ever pull you down one inch from the golden throne above the clouds where I always see you. Would you trust me?”

She put her hand in his without a word. “Well, then, listen to what I say, and do as I order you; for indeed it’s the only way for us. Things are going to happen in this valley. I feel it in my bones. There may be many of us that will have to look out for ourselves. I’m one, anyhow. If I go, by day or night, it’s you that must come with me!”

“I’d come after you, Jack.”

“No, no, you shall come with me. If this valley is closed to me and I can never come back, [288]