“Do you mean Miss Arden?”
“Yes, I ran over to see you, and, calling your name, she came out of the sitting-room to say that you and Mrs. Lester had gone out. I had a short talk with her, and, Clarice, I pity that poor girl from the bottom of my heart, for she really loves that villainous brother of hers.”
“I know that she does,” was the quiet reply of Clarice, who did not like it that Ruth, who had sought to avoid every one, had been intruded upon by Nina de Sutro.
When Nina left Ruth the latter gazed after her a moment and then said:
“Miss De Sutro came here on purpose to see me, I feel certain. Well, she accomplished her purpose, and what will be the result? I will ask Arden about her, and his saving her life.”
As it was time for her to visit her brother she put on her hat and went out. Just as she reached the end of the parade she came suddenly upon an officer, who started slightly, and, as he saw her face pale, said quickly:
“Do not be alarmed, Miss Arden, for I could never betray a woman, and your secret is safe with me.”
“You recognize me then, Surgeon Powell?”
“Yes, as Bonnie Belle, and Buffalo Bill also recognized you, but to no one else than myself has he made it known. We both know, Miss Arden, that you are here to rescue Silk Lasso Sam, and you are playing a bold game daringly; but it is our duty to thwart you if we can. Good morning,” and Surgeon Frank Powell raised his hat and went on his way.