"Early this mornin'," answered that youth sulkily. He had just received the emphatic warning against "tattling."
"This morning? What time this morning?"
"Oh, early; afore daylight."
Before daylight! She had gained a wild hope that it was during the time they were together; but from Jim's vague suggestion they had returned just about the time it had occurred—in time for it. She turned hopelessly toward the house, then hesitated and came back.
"Jim."
"Well?"
"Is Mowitza here?"
"Yes, can't you see?"
But she could not see very clearly. Something in her eyes blinded her as she thought of Mowitza and the glad days when they knew each other first; and of Mowitza's master, and his voice as she had heard it last—and the words! Oh, the despairing, exultant, compelling words! And then, after he had gone from her, could it be so?
"Take good care of the mare, Jim, until—until he needs her."