Suddenly then it was there--the quick, spiritual rending of her heart--followed by a profound emotion of intimate and irretrievable loss--and after that grief and bitter realization.
An hour later Ellen found strength to go to the fire and partake of the food and drink her body sorely needed.
Colter and the men waited on her solicitously, and in silence, now and then stealing furtive glances at her from under the shadow of their black sombreros.

The dark night settled down like a blanket.

There were no stars.

The wind moaned fitfully among the pines, and all about that lonely, hidden recess was in harmony with Ellen's thoughts.
"Girl, y'u're shore game," said Colter, admiringly.

"An' I reckon y'u never got it from the Jorths." "Tad in there--he's game," said Queen, in mild protest.
"Not to my notion," replied Colter.