Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/179

Rh dent from their expression that consciousness had returned Robert's first feeling was almost one of chagrin. Had the man seen him when he had thrust the letter into his pocket? He could not determine, but the fact that the man had regained consciousness was a solution for one of his perplexing problems, for now he felt that he would be able to leave him and could speedily resume his own journey.

"Are you all right now?" he inquired, bending low as he spoke.

The man did not reply, but the expression in his eyes indicated that he understood what was said.

"I heard you in here," Robert continued, "and I came to see what I could do to help you. I think you 'll soon be all right now."

Still the man made no attempt to reply, though it was plain that he understood.

"I'd stay and help you," said Robert, "only I must go on at once. Is there any one near here to whom you would have me take any word? I could do that much for you."

The man shook his head slightly, but it was sufficient to indicate that he had no message which he desired to be carried.

"Do you know what has become of Ha—