She was breathing quickly, but she did not smile; she made no response to his greeting, gave no sign even of recognition.
What happened after that was so sudden and amazing that his heart stopped dead still.

Without warning she stepped back from the cell and began to scream and then drew away from him, still facing him and still screaming, as if something had terrified her.
Kent heard the crash of a chair in the detachment office, excited voices, and the running of feet.

Marette Radisson had withdrawn to the far corner of the alcove, and as Carter and Pelly ran toward her, she stood, a picture of horror, pointing at Kent's cell.

The two constables rushed past her.

Close behind them followed the special officer detailed to take Kent to Edmonton.
Kent had not moved.