'That is true, but now she has given way. I could not allow you to remain here. I took a firm stand with my mother, and she admitted that I was right, and yielded. Now, have you got all ready for the sledge?' 'I have packed everything.' 'Then jump on to the sleigh, and I will run you along upon the ice, which is in prime condition.' Zita's arm convulsively nipped the dog. How happy she had been on that day when Mark had run her along on the ice on the same bones that were now to bear her successful rival! Wolf protested against the pressure of her arm by a growl. 'Where are you, Wolf?' called Mark. Zita released the dog, and he sprang upon the platform. 'I wonder what the old fellow means,' said the young man. 'He does not usually give false alarms. I daresay he's puzzled at our proceedings. Something affecting his interests is in view, Kainie, and he can't understand it. It is so dark one can't see far; but had any one been coming, he would have given tongue lustily.' 'Perhaps it may be Pip.' 'Pip will have to be careful for the next day or two. If he be caught, 'twill go hard with him for certain.' 'But you will get him away from the Fens?' 'Yes. I am making arrangements. If he can keep hidden for a few more days and nights, I shall have managed matters, and be able to clear him off; to clear him not only from the Fens, but out of England. Now, however, we must think of you. Take with you only such traps as you need immediately, and which you can carry in your arms or on your lap. I'll return for the rest to-morrow.' 'I shall leave the fire burning and the light on the table.' 'Yes, for Pip when he comes. Folk will think nothing of seeing the light, making sure it is yours. He can hide here till I am ready to send him away; and Wolf shall remain to give him notice if any one approaches. I'll tie him up.' Kainie re-entered the cottage, and Mark proceeded to tie Wolf by a piece of twine that he had in his pocket. Whilst he was thus engaged, Kainie came out with her little package, and stood watching the proceedings of the young man. The dog was restless, and objected to being fastened. 'Don't be angry with me, Mark,' said Kainie, 'if I ask you a question.' 'No; what may it be?' 'It concerns that wretched creature—that Cheap Jack girl. You were rather taken with her at first, Mark, till you found out what she was. You are quite sure you don't fancy her no longer?' The young fellow had been stooping over the dog. He stood up and said gravely— 'Kainie! I regard her now no more than I do the dirt under my soles.' 'Hark! what is that?' The sound was that of a gasp or sob. 'There is certainly some one here,' said Mark. 'Bring a light.' 'You need not,' said Zita, rising from behind the thorns. 'It is I.' 'You here, Zita?' 'Yes. I heard what you said of me.' 'I am sorry for that.' 'It is cruelly false.' 'I cannot go into that matter. What has brought you here at this time o' night?'