“Yes, even I.�
“But if I don’t want you along?�
“I shall meekly stay at home, of course. But it strikes me you are extremely unkind.�
“Not to myself. Besides, I do not want you to run into danger. See?� She gave him a sidelong glance from the corner of her eyes. “Mr. Bartram, I am going to ride and meditate all by myself to-day.�
“If I withdrew to a safe distance couldn’t you meditate at home?�
Donald looked through half-closed lids at the mocking eyes and pouting lips before him.
“There is nothing like a canter over the prairies to aid one’s meditation.�
“I wish I could persuade you to stay at home to-day. You are certainly taking a great risk in going, at least in going so far.�
“It is my risk. No one else need worry about it.�
“You are of too much value to your friends to expect their unconcern in what affects you so seriously. Even I am anxious, you see,� continued Donald, speaking quietly.