For an instant she had half feared that this declaration had been made in a spirit of bravado, and she was prepared to be disagreeably disappointed in Calumet.

She told herself when she saw his face, however, that she ought to have known better, for whatever his other shortcomings she had never heard him boast.
And that he was not boasting now was plainly evident, both to her and Kelton.

His declaration had been merely a calm announcement of a deliberate purpose.

He was as natural now as he had been all along.
She saw Kelton's expression change--saw the incredulity go out of it, observed his face whiten a little.
But his former vindictiveness remained.

"I reckon if you want to be a damn fool I ain't interferin'.