But, ever faithful and true, having learned that Inza seemingly cared for Starbright, Elsie had resolved on a course of self-sacrifice which she fancied would be the only honorable course she could pursue. She would crush back any rising passion in her heart, she would not permit herself to care for Hodge, and she would not marry Frank. She would remain single!
Frank knew well enough how many girls say in joking mood that they will never marry, but something had convinced him that Elsie was in sober earnest, having made that resolve when she decided that it was the only course for her to pursue.
Such being the case, it was probable that when she found Frank no longer held a fancied claim upon her she would give up to the dictation of her heart and surrender to Hodge, which would bring untold happiness to the dark-eyed lad.
Having reached this point, Frank came over and sat down, a sigh of relief escaping him.
“Well?” said Starbright inquiringly.
“I hope it is well,” said Frank. “I can talk no more about it to-night. Let’s go to bed.”
But, somehow, Dick was satisfied.
CHAPTER XXI
FRANK AND INZA.
All night Frank dreamed of Inza. In the morning he received a brief message from her. Her father had been taken ill again and was convinced that he could not withstand the attack. He was pleading to see Fardale again before he died, and Inza and her brother had resolved to take him back there if he could endure the journey. She could not leave him, but would not Frank and Dick come to her that she might thank them for having saved her brother?