She lifted the pot from the fire, placed the customary share of its contents before Okoya, and retired to a corner, whence she soon returned with a piece of dried yucca-preserve, regarded as a great treat by the Indians, because it has a sweet taste.

As she was placing the dessert on the floor, the boy extended his hand, and she laid the sweetmeat in it instead of depositing it where she had originally intended.

Okoya's hand closed, grasping hers and holding it fast.

Mitsha tried to extricate her fingers, but he clutched them in his.

Stepping back, she made a lunge at his upper arm which caused him to let go her hand at once.