Harriet sat in thoughtful silence a while and a curious searching look crept into her eyes as she softly asked:
"You have seen much of Mr. Bivens lately, Jim—I've wondered if you have never yet looked your dead love in the face?"
"No, little pal."
"You are still afraid?"
An answer started to his lips and he choked it back.
She laid her warm hand on his.
"Tell me, I want to help you. We are pals, you know."
"Well, I'm ashamed to confess it dear, but I am afraid, horribly afraid! I've been fighting some grim battles, but I'll have to see her sooner or later."
"I wish you wouldn't," the girl said, wistfully.
"I'll try to keep away—but every turn in the wheel seems only to bring us closer. My association with Bivens in this prosecution of crime was not of my choosing, but it came. I shall be compelled to see him often."