The moonlight--the moonlight! The silence--the silence! The hush of a stilled world with all harsh things made beautiful by night! The girl with eager, motionless lips, one with the growing things that bid a man take as he finds! Allston shook himself free from the spell, breathing deeply. “Come,” he said, “it--it is time we went on.” Slowly, like a drooping flower, Roxie’s head lowered. Her limp arms stiffened. Her lips tightened even more. She fell into step by his side as he led the way at a faster pace than before along the mountain road leading to her home. Where the circuitous path ended in a clearing before her house, Allston left her. “I guess you’re safe enough now, Roxie.” “Yes, sir,” she answered. “And I hope you won’t find your mother very sick. If you think there’s anything more I can do--” “No, sir,” she broke in hurriedly, “I reckon there ain’t--isn’t.” “Then we’ll see you in the morning?” “I’ve gotter git yo’ breakfast.” “Not if your mother needs you.” “I’ve gotter git yo’ breakfast.” “We can manage somehow.” “I’ve gotter cook you hot muffins. Miss Wilmer she cain’t do that.” “Can’t she?” he smiled. “Then we must manage without them.” “No, sir. I gotter do that.” “Well, we’ll see. If you don’t come I’ll call here in the morning.” She looked frightened. “I reckon yer better not,” she decided. “Eh?” “Yer better not.” “But I will,” he replied. “Please, Mister Allston--that Bud--” Allston shrugged his shoulders impatiently. “I’ll let him do the worrying.” “Only yer don’t know Bud. He don’t ferget.” “That ought to be in my favor--if he doesn’t forget,” he suggested. “But you don’t think for a moment he’s going to keep me off the road?” “No,” she answered instantly. “That’s why I’m afeard fer you.” There was almost a mother light in her eyes. Impulsively Allston took one of her warm hands in his. “You’re a good little girl,” he said tenderly. “But you’ve got worries enough of your own without including me. Good-night.” “Good-night,” she answered. Her voice was as cooing low and sweet as that of a night bird. He dropped her hand and started to retrace his steps. Once he turned. He found her looking after him. “Good-night,” he called back. “Don’t worry.”