“It’s not Charley,” thought Dick. “If it was he would certainly answer. Who can it be? By gracious, it’s a woman! Hello, there! Hello! Don’t be afraid of me! I’ll not do you any harm.”
The shadow had turned and started to run away, but seeming to be reassured by Dick’s cry, stopped again and now waited for him to come up.
As Dick drew nearer he almost forgot Charley in the excitement which came over him as he recognized Clara Eglinton.
“Who is it?” she called out. “What do you want with me? I won’t go back! No, I won’t!”
“Miss Eglinton! Don’t you know me?” cried Dick.
She recognized him the instant he spoke.
“Oh, Mr. Darrell!” she exclaimed. “What ever brought you here? Oh, I am so thankful to see you! I—I——”
She paused and burst into a passion of tears.
Dick caught her in his arms and spoke such soothing words as came first to his tongue.
“I am here to help you,” he said, “although my coming here is only the result of an accident. Tell me about yourself. What brought you here and how is it that you are alone?”