The touch of those fragrant tresses was a soft caress.

Almost unconsciously he pressed her closer to his heart.

And as a sweet mad longing grew upon him he was blind to all save that he held her in his arms, that uncertainty was gone forever, and that he loved her.

With these thoughts running riot in his brain he carried her down the hill to Colonel Zane's house.
The negro, Sam, who came out of the kitchen, dropped the bucket he had in his hand and ran into the house when he saw them.

When Alfred reached the gate Colonel Zane and Isaac were hurrying out to meet him.
"For Heaven's sake! What has happened?
Is she badly hurt?
I have always looked for this," said the Colonel, excitedly.
"You need not look so alarmed," answered Alfred.