The dog was standing where Ralph had knelt, and was howling wofully.
"Laddie, come here," Ralph said; "Rotha, come away." "I could bear the truth, Ralph--I think I could," she answered.
He put his arm about her, and drew her along without a word.

She felt his powerful frame quiver and his strong voice die within him.

She guessed the truth.

She knew this man as few had known him, as none other could know him.
"Go back, Ralph," she said; "I'll hurry on." And still the dog howled behind them.
Ralph seemed not to hear her, but continued to walk by her side.

Her heart sank, and she looked piteously into his face.
And now the noise reached them of hurrying footsteps in front.