She slipped away from me. The laughter of the child yet rose through the dignity of the woman.
"When may I read this book, Eagle?"
"Never, of my free will, sire. How could I set down all I thought about you, for instance, if the certainty was hanging over me that you would read my candid opinions and punish me for them!"
"Then of what use is the key?"
"You would rather have it than give it to another, wouldn't you?"
"Decidedly."
"Well, you will have the key to my thoughts!"
"And if the book ever falls into my hands—"
"I will see that it doesn't!"
"I will say, years from now—"