The knowledge in the minds of both, that a time for separation must inevitably come soon now, if all the rumours of war proved true, softened their emotions, and drew the cousins towards each other again.
The intercourse between them had, as of old, its usual charm, but was strange and constrained, for as Allan did not attempt again the rôle of lover, but seemed to 'bide his time,' Olive felt her pride alarmed, and would often reply to him coldly, with a straightening of her slim form, and a cresting up of her graceful neck and handsome head.
Time passed on; she heard nothing of Hawke Holcroft or his threats, and the courage of Olive rose; but it was awful to think of her name being at the mercy of such a creature, even if she were married!
Once the love that was really smouldering in the hearts of both nearly burst into a flame again.
Olive was seated in the garden at Maviswood so deeply lost in thought that she was unaware of Allan's approach until he overhung the rustic sofa she occupied.
'A penny for your thoughts, Olive,' said he.
'The sum usually offered for what might prove a perilous secret to know.'
'Well?'
'My thoughts were of many things till your voice scattered them,' said she, twirling her sunshade on her shoulder.
'I was in hope they were of—me.'