Pereira, who was among them, was also very genial, begging me to be sure and get well, since he did not wish to beat one who was still crippled, even at a game of goose shooting.

I answered that I would do my best; as for my part, I did not like being beaten it any game which I had set my heart on winning, whether it were little or big.

Then I turned my head, for I was lying on my back all this time, to bid good-bye to Marie, who had slipped out of the house into the yard where the cart was.
"Good-bye, Allan," she said, giving me her hand and a look from her eyes that I trusted was not seen.

Then, under pretence of arranging the kaross which was over me, she bent down and whispered swiftly: "Win that match if you love me.

I shall pray God that you may every night, for it will be an omen." I think the whisper was heard, though not the words, for I saw Pereira bite his lip and make a movement as though to interrupt her.