“No!” said Paul.
“Young man, I must do my duty.” At the word Paul wavered.
“Your duty? Yes, you must do your duty. But she is very ill. She is dying. Ask Mr. Chambers. He knows.” The distress in his face touched the sergeant’s heart.
“I shall see the missionary,” he said.
“Oh, thank you,” said Paul, impulsively offering his hand. “She is very ill. She would be afraid of you, and she must not be troubled. It will be only a few days.”
“All right, young man. We won’t do anything to hurt her. You are all right.” He shook hands warmly and went on his way.
CHAPTER XVIII
It was the Indian woman herself that settled the matter of the interview with Sergeant Starr. After a day’s pain more acute than usual she sent for the missionary.
“I have something to tell you. Can you receive my confession and give me absolution?” she asked him, acute anxiety shining in her dark eyes.
The missionary, being more man than missionary and having had large experience of the soul with its burdens of sin and terror, answered quietly, “Tell me your trouble. Do not fear. There is forgiveness for you, and peace.”