He was surprised, after the first shock of disappointment had passed away, to find how indifferent he was becoming in regard to the loss of his position on the Banner. One morning he awakened to a keen sense of incompleteness where completeness had dwelt. Also around Gold Bluff, he [141] covered a vein of discontent where contentment had reigned supreme. His love of the mountains, the rivers, and the picturesque scenery was but a prelude of promise, thumbing sweetly of the great, unselfish love awakened in him for Louise. This unrest dated from a certain evening when Louise first sang for him. He was quite entranced by the full, rich volume of her contralto voice. She began by striking the chords in a hesitating way; but presently the genius of her musical nature seized her with its wonderful power, and she sang with wild abandon: ‘We seemed to those who saw us meet The casual friends of every day; His courtesy was frank and sweet, My smile was unrestrained and gay. But yet, if one the other’s name In some unguarded moment heard, The heart you thought so free and tame Would flutter like a frightened bird.” As she sang Vance gave himself up to the intoxication of the moment. His soul broke through the barriers and went out to hers, and as the song died on her lips, and the music ceased with a few reluctant farewell chords, he knew that a great and tender love had sprung up in his heart—a love that was not for a day, but for all time. “Miss Bonifield,” said Vance, with emotion, “you are, indeed, a constant surprise to me. Your playing is [142] certainly superb, while your voice; not only soft and musical, but has great range. To hear you sing fills me with a longing to be a better man.” “Thank you,” said Louise, “I seldom play or sing excepting for papa. Your compliment, however, is highly appreciated.” “As long as I remain in Gold Bluff I hope I will be privileged in hearing you sing occasionally.” “We will promise not to ostracize you altogether, Mr. Gilder,” said Louise, laughingly, “but may I ask how long you expect to remain with us?” There was just enough hesitation in the question to suggest interest. “I do not know,” replied Vance. “I presume you think it is strange that I have remained as long as I have. To be frank with you, Miss Bonifield, I have lost my position on the Banner.” “Lost your position!” said Louise, with unmistakable concern. “I am indeed sorry,” replied Vance, “whether it is a misfortune or not. I had an offer to-day to take charge of the Gold Bluff Prospector, and am thinking seriously of accepting.” “You quite [143] astonish me,” said Louise, “but I know papa will be delighted if you conclude to remain permanently in Gold Bluff.”