Ray’s brow darkened, and his eyes filled with a dusky fire.
“She did—often. My father was drowned! He was branded, tried, convicted, and condemned for the guilt of another. His day of retribution is to come yet! Enough of this—I cannot understand what possible interest all this can have for you.”
“You will soon learn. Come with me; Miss Lawless, remain with my wife until my return. This way, young man,” said the outlaw, turning to the inner apartment and motioning the other to precede him.
The astonished Ray did so, and the curtain fell between the wonder-struck assembly outside and the twain within.
CHAPTER XXXVI.
THE OUTLAW’S STORY.
“They did not know how hate can burn In hearts once changed from soft to stern, Nor all the false and fatal zeal The convert of revenge can feel.” —Byron.
“Be seated,” said the outlaw, with a wave of his hand.
Silent and wondering, Ray obeyed.