His voice rose, and excitement glowed in his deep-set, clear gray eyes. His face lost its pallor, and his well-shaped, yet strong hands clutched nervously at the arms of his chair.
The girl turned toward him soothingly, when both paused and listened.
"It is some Indian going by," said the man, as hoof-beats became distinct.
"The Indians don't ride this late. Besides, no Indian would stop here."
The man stepped to an adjoining room. As he disappeared, there came the sound of footfalls on the porch and Bill Talpers's heavy knock made the front door panels shake.
The girl hesitated a moment, and then opened the door. The trader walked in without invitation, his new boots squeaking noisily. If he had expected any exhibition of fear on the part of the girl, Talpers was mistaken. She looked at him calmly, and Bill shifted uneasily from one foot to another as he took off his hat.
"I thought I'd drop in for a little social call, seein' as you ain't called on me sence our talk about that letter," said Bill, seating himself at the table.
"It was what I might have expected," replied the girl.
"That's fine," said Bill amiably. "I'm tickled to know that you expected me."
"Yes, knowing what a coward you are, I thought you would come."