But now, away from the distraction of her presence
and with Slingerland's eloquent words ringing in his ears, he
realized the truth. Love of him had saved the girl's mind and had
made her beautiful and wonderful. He had heard of the infinite
transforming power of love; here in Allie Lee was its manifestation.
Whether or not he deserved such a blessing was not the question. It
was his, and he felt unutterably grateful and swore he would be
worthy of this great gift.
Darkness had set in when Neale returned to the cabin, the interior
of which was lighted by blazing sticks in a huge stone fireplace.
Slingerland was in the shadow, busy as usual, but laughing at some
sally of Larry's. The cowboy and Allie, however, were in plain
sight. Neale needed only one look at Larry to divine what had come
over that young man. Allie appeared perplexed.
"He objects to my calling him Mr. King and even Larry," she said.
Larry suddenly looked sheepish.
"Allie, this cowboy is a bad fellow with guns, ropes, horses--and I
suspect with girls," replied Neale, severely.
"Neale, he doesn't look bad," she rejoined. "You're fooling me....
He wants me to call him Reddy."
"Ahuh!" grunted Neale. He laughed grimly at himself, for again he
had felt a pang of jealousy. He knew what to expect from Larry or
any other young man who ever had the wonderful good luck to get near
Allie Lee.
Pages:
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118