The young officer rode silent and at a walk, his eyes occasionally studying the face of the other and noting its drawn, gray look.

The very sight of Hampton had been a shock.

Why was he here and with Murphy?
Could this strange journey have anything to do with Naida?
Could it concern his own future, as well as hers?
He felt no lingering jealousy of this man, for her truthful words had forever settled that matter.

Yet who was he?
What peculiar power did he wield over her life?
"Is Custer here ?" said Hampton.
"No; that is, not with my party.

We are guarding the pack-train.