Page:The trail of the golden horn.djvu/121

Rh demanded, rising to his feet in his agitation. “You love Hugo, the trapper, you say?”

“I do, and I have a right to because he is my father.”

At this confession, made in a low voice, North’s tense body relaxed. His eyes brightened, and a smile illumined his face. Sitting down again by Marion’s side, he tenderly placed his arm about her and drew her close.

“So that was your trouble, darling, was it?” he asked. “Well, now that your confession is made, don’t worry any more. It is startling, I admit, and I know you will explain everything to me. I am so glad it was your father and not somebody else.”

“Oh, I feel so relieved,” Marion replied, letting her head rest against her lover’s shoulder. There were tears in her eyes, and her body was trembling slightly. “I know it won’t make any difference to you in carrying out your orders, but it will help us to work together, will it not?”

“Indeed it will,” was the emphatic reply. “Knowing what I do now about Bill, the Slugger, and also who Hugo is, certain difficulties have been removed. I see quite a clear trail ahead of me, thanks to your love and help.”