... And bowing my sweating temples between quivering fists, I
ground my teeth in agony.
Now as I crouched thus, plagued by the obscene demons of my
imagination, I was aroused by a distant sound and opening my eyes saw
how the sun touched Diana's sleeping form like the blessing of God.
And yet ... what of that night at Raydon Manor? She had volunteered me
no word of explanation--not one--and why?
Up to me, borne on the sunny air, came the sound of a whistle that
brought me to my feet eager for action, for conflict or death
itself--anything rather than the harrowing torment of my thoughts.
Very cautiously I crossed the uneven floor and lifting the trap as
silently as possible, I set the ladder in place and descended. The
whistling had stopped, but in its stead I caught a sound of stealthy
movement outside the barn, and glancing about, I presently espied my
whip where I had dropped it last night, and with this in my hand I
gently unbarred the doors and opening them a little way, stepped out
into the radiant morning. And then, tossing aside my whip, I ran
forward, both hands extended in eager greeting.
"Why, Jerry!" I exclaimed. "O Jerry Jarvis, you come like an angel of
heaven!"
"Lord!" exclaimed the Tinker, grasping my hands very hard. "Lord love
you, Mr. Vereker--"
"Call me Perry as you used."
"Why, then--here's j'y, Perry--but as to angels, who ever see an angel
in cord breeches--an' patched at that! But God bless us all--what
should bring you hereabouts--"
"Love, Jerry--love--"
"You mean--Anna?"
"Yes, we are to be married as soon as possible.
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