approach of a woman who came climbing wearily up the edge of the
sloping hill against which his cabin presented itself to the view as
a sort of fitment, and advanced towards him carrying a tin pail full
of milk. This she set down within a yard or so of him, and then,
straightening her back, she rested her hands on her hips and drew a
long breath. For a minute or two he took no notice of her. She
waited. She was a big handsome creature, sun-browned and black-
haired, with flashing dark eyes lit by a spark that was not
originally caught from heaven. Presently, becoming conscious of her
presence, he threw his book aside and looked up.

"Well! So you've come after all! Yesterday you said you wouldn't."

She shrugged her shoulders.

"I do not wish you to starve."

"Very kind of you! But nothing can starve me."

"If you had no food--"

"I should find some"--he said--"Yes!--I should find some,--
somewhere! I want very little."

He rose, stretching his arms lazily above his head,--then, stooping,
he lifted the pail of milk and carried it into his cabin.
Disappearing for a moment, he returned, bringing back the pail
empty.

"I have enough for two days now," he said--"and longer. What you