The sheriff hastened into the house just as Rose, pale and agitated, rose from a crouching posture at the window.
"Was the policeman killed?"
This was her question, given in an agitated voice.
"Not killed, but he may die."
"Just Heaven, why did he do it?"
The country officer regarded the beautiful speaker keenly.
"So it was you who met this man, this outlaw, outside, Miss Alstine?"
She made no reply, but stood with clasped hands gazing into vacancy, the very picture of woe and despair.
"Miss Alstine, I demand an explanation," uttered the sheriff, sternly, at the same time taking her arm and shaking her sharply.
"Sir, I—I cannot explain."