If so, he might not have come too late.

When he next addressed his companion it was in a different tone and without the "Mister." "Bascom--or--er--Atkins," he said sharply, "I hoped--I sincerely hoped that you and I might not meet during my short stay here; but, as we have met, I think it best that we should understand each other.

Suppose we walk over to that clump of trees on the other side of the track.
We shall be alone there, and I can say what is necessary.

I don't wish--even when I remember your behavior toward my sister--to humiliate you in the town where you may be trying to lead a better life.

Come." He led the way, and Seth, yielding as of old to this man's almost hypnotic command over him and still bewildered by the unexpected meeting, followed like a whipped dog.