Now she came back a few steps, and he was satisfied.
“What is the danger?” she haltingly asked.
“The danger is that he will be arrested. You know for what. And in case he is arrested he will be tried and condemned. A term of ten or twenty years must follow.”
She had straightened up to hear these words. For a moment she did not speak, and then, in a tone that indicated an effort to self-control, she asked:
“Has he been recognized here in Fardale?”
“Not yet; but one word from any one who knows him will set the law on his track.”
“From any one who knows him? Who is there who would betray him? Is it possible you mean that you——”
He stepped toward her quickly.
“I mean, Miss Burrage, that I love you!” he declared boldly. “Wait—you must listen! Understanding your brother’s peril, you will not refuse to listen!”
She put up a hand to check his advance.