"I did not wish to ask that privilege of——" She hesitated, then
bent her head. "—— of any man. What harm have I caused you by
following?"
I said, still amazed and wondering:
"I understand it all now. The Sagamore brings you food. Is that
true?"
"Yes," she said sullenly.
"And you have kept in touch with us ever since we started?"
"With Mayaro."
"Why?"
"I have told you that I had no wish to travel in your
company."
"But for protection——"
"Protection! I have heard that, too, from men. It is ever on
men's lips— that word meaning damnation. I thank you, Mr. Loskiel,
I require no protection."
"Do you distrust Lieutenant Boyd or me? Or what?"
"Men! And you twain are two of them."
"You fear such men as we are!" I demanded impatiently.
"I know nothing of you," she answered, "save
