"And you have given me an opportunity of showing it pretty plainly."
"Oh!"
"Consequently, I'm very much obliged to you; and I do hope you don't mind helping me to shock Monty Gilroy?"
"I am proud."
But the kick had gone out of his voice, and to her hand his arm was suddenly as a log of wood. She mused a space. Then—
"It isn't everyone I would ask to help me in such—in such a delicate matter," she said, in a troubled tone. "You see I am a woman at the mercy of men. They're all very kind and loyal in their own way, but their way is their own, as you know. I thought as I had given you a hand with them—well, I thought you would be in sympathy."
"I am, I am—Heaven knows!"
The log had become exceedingly alive.
"Then let us skirt in and out, on the edge of the plantation, so that Mr. Gilroy may have the pleasure of seeing my frock from time to time."