He joined Agnes, and together they walked away from the scene of violence and death.
“You’re tired to death,” said he. “I’m going to take possession of Boyle’s tent down there for you, and you’ve got to take a long sleep. After that we’ll think about the future.”
She walked on beside him, silent and submissive, interposing no objection to his plan. They found the tent very well equipped; he started to leave her there to her repose. She stood in the door with her hat in her hand, her hair in disorder, dust over her dress and shoes.
“Could you send word to Smith by the stage this morning and ask him to bring my things–tent and everything–down here?” she asked.
“Then you’re not planning to go back there?” he asked, his heart jumping with hope.
She shook her head, smiling wanly.
“I can’t bear the thought of it,” said she.
CHAPTER XX
A SUDDEN CLOUD
Dr. Slavens went back to his camp, concluding on the way that it would be wise to have a complete understanding with Governor Boyle in regard to taking further charge of his son’s case. If, after three days allowed for infection to manifest itself, the wound remained healthy and clean, there would be little need of a doctor in constant attendance. Young Boyle would be able to express his preference in the matter then, and Slavens did not want to act as physician to him against his will.