CHAPTER XIII DUTY BEFORE EVERYTHING.
NADIA, with the clear perception of a right-minded woman, guessed that some secret motive directed all Michael Strogoff's actions; that he, for a reason unknown to her, did not belong to himself; and that in this instance especially he had heroically sacrificed to duty even his resentment at the gross injury he had received.
Nadia, therefore, asked no explanation from Michael.

Had not the hand which she had extended to him already replied to all that he might have been able to tell her?
Michael remained silent all the evening.

The postmaster not being able to supply them with fresh horses until the next morning, a whole night must be passed at the house.

Nadia could profit by it to take some rest, and a room was therefore prepared for her.
The young girl would no doubt have preferred not to leave her companion, but she felt that he would rather be alone, and she made ready to go to her room.
Just as she was about to retire she could not refrain from going up to Michael to say good-night.
"Brother," she whispered.

But he checked her with a gesture.