For awhile they went brushing through the heather in silence.

“May I ask you one question, Mr. Ingram?” said Alexa.

“Surely, ma'am! Ask me anything you like.”

“And you will answer me?”

“If I am at liberty to answer you I will.”

“What do you mean by being at liberty? Are you under any vow?”

“I am under the law of love. I am bound to do nothing to hurt. An answer that would do you no good I will not give.”

“How do you know what will or will not do me good?”

“I must use what judgment I have.”

“Is it true, then, that you believe God gives you whatever you ask?”