She sprang up on the steps, but Dunvegan caught her by the arms.
"Don't," she protested. "There are people passing."
"They can't see," he replied feverishly. "You musn't go like this without telling me more. Why will you keep this barrier between us?"
"I have vowed I will never wed a man except he be of my own company."
"But why? What is the loyalty of old service to a woman?"
"As much as to a man. Remember every man of the companies was bred of woman. It is a matter of blood. And loyalty to the Northwest Company is in my blood."
Because the feminine soul of her was beyond his understanding, the chief trader was smitten with bitterness and anger. "And you will forever swear by these Nor'westers?" he demanded. "You will swear by a lot of frontier ruffians herded under the leadership of such a scoundrel as Black Ferguson? Tell me that!"
"I must," Desirée answered.
Dunvegan turned on his heel without another word.
But Desirée was flying after him as he reached the trail. Her hand was on his shoulder.