It seems an impertinence to thrust my affairs upon you; but if you will listen I should like to tell you--it will take but a moment--why and what--" "Please do not! As I told you, I have no curiosity in the matter.

I can't allow you to tell me; I really don't want to know!" "I am willing that every one should know--to-morrow--or the day after--not later." She lifted her head, as though with the earnestness of some new thought.
"The day after may be too late.

Whatever it is that you have done--" "I have done nothing to be ashamed of,--I swear I have not!" "Whatever it is,--and I don't care what it is,"-- she said deliberately, "-- it is something quite serious, Mr.Armitage.My brother--" She hesitated for a moment, then spoke rapidly.
"My brother has been detailed to help in the search for you.

He is at Storm Springs now." "But _he_ doesn't understand--" "My brother is a soldier and it is not necessary for him to understand." "And you have done this--you have come to warn me--" "It does look pretty bad," she said, changing her tone and laughing a little.

"But my brother and I--we always had very different ideas about you, Mr.Armitage.We hold briefs for different sides of the case." "Oh, I'm a case, am I ?" and he caught gladly at the suggestion of lightness in her tone.