"Yes, it was easy, for I really took him at an unfair advantage, but it was the only way--that or nothing."
"Yes," she said, but nothing more, for she could not understand him. But she knew there was a sweet feeling of security when he was near. He could do anything; of that she was entirely confident.
"There's small-pox in the county," said John, presently, with such sudden irrelevance that the girl half rose from her seat.
"Some paupers out this road--I don't think you need be scared. I'm waiting on them."
"Yes, I'm a doctor, you know. Old Mr. Hoonover came in yesterday afternoon with the news, and I am constrained to believe that it was more a matter of personal interest with him than it was love for his neighbour. He lives close to them. But what's worse than small-pox is the fact that I was compelled to strike Devil Marston yesterday afternoon on the streets of your town."
He rapidly detailed the encounter. Julia was all interest and concern, and hovered on his words eagerly, yet with dread.
"Travers told me last night that he's gone to Jericho," concluded Glenning.
John turned upon her with a face every lineament of which bespoke suffering and strength.
"I came away from there, my friend, because had I stayed I would have gone to hell, along the broadest and most flowery of all the broad and flowery ways which lead there. My feet had turned in at that wide gate--God forgive me!--when all at once I awoke! I can't tell you now--I have no right--but some day I will tell you, some day when we know each other better, and there's nothing which makes for quick and understanding companionship like a common danger. We are each threatened, you the most, poor girl, for you cannot fight--but I have strength for two--" he stopped, and shut his teeth. He had nearly gone too far. Then he leaned towards her and took one of her hands, crushing it in both of his almost roughly. The flowers fell in a gorgeous heap between them, strewing her lap with their fresh beauty. He looked steadily into her eyes, and she looked back into his, fearlessly and earnestly.
"Trust me!" he said, in a strained voice. "Trust me! Believe in me! It will come to you! Devil Marston will not let his news suffer for want of garnishment--and you will hear! Am I asking too much to ask for your faith and trust? It means much to me--now! It means more to me than all of life, I believe--right now! Will you do it? Will you believe in me? It is going to be a strong test, Miss Dudley. Answer me!"