to him. She seemed to be urging something with many vehement gestures. Was it possible, Nan asked herself, that he was hesitating?
He showed distress, indignation even; but there was nothing in his manner which conveyed the impression that he was burning with a knightly eagerness to rescue a fair maiden from the consequences of her indiscretion. He accompanied Mrs. Gallagher with no great alacrity, Nan thought, and her chin went a little higher in the air.
"I am sorry that it is necessary for us to bother you with our difficulties"
"The mujer here has told me"—he looked at her with troubled eyes—"but I don't just see how I can do what she asks."
"And what is that?"
"Run in her horse and one for you. They're waiting for me and if I—if I" he reddened as he hesitated.
"Yes?"
He blurted the truth helplessly.
"If I took time I'd lose my job, seeing as Spiser ordered them all turned out!"
Nan stared at him—speechless. She almost doubted her own ears. This towering, pic-
