"Dearest, dearest, dearest!" she murmured, kissing him back as soon as he would let her. Whatever he had done, was doing, or desiring, however he had sinned or was sinning against her, he wanted her kiss now and she was powerless to do anything but give it.
He set her free after a moment and stood looking at her.
"Darling, I am so sorry, I have got to ask you something I hate. Will you do it for me?"
Regina's reply was instant.
"Of course, you know you have only to tell me your wishes."
"I am so sorry, so angry, so vexed, you have no idea, but will you stay in camp to-night and give up this expedition?"
Regina's face suddenly grew white and grave; the joyous flush vanished.
"You yourself going without me?"
"I and the other men, yes."