The Hunted Woman by James Oliver Curwood
page 13 of 316 (04%)
page 13 of 316 (04%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
"I chanced to see you go in," he explained, without a tremor in his voice.
"I thought you were making a mistake. I heard you ask for shelter. If you will come with me I will take you to a friend's." "If it isn't too much trouble for you, I will go," she said. "And for that--in there--thank you!" CHAPTER II They passed down an aisle through the tall trees, on each side of which faced the vari-coloured and many-shaped architecture of the little town. It was chiefly of canvas. Now and then a structure of logs added an appearance of solidity to the whole. The girl did not look too closely. She knew that they passed places in which there were long rows of cots, and that others were devoted to trade. She noticed signs which advertised soft drinks and cigars--always "soft drinks," which sometimes came into camp marked as "dynamite," "salt pork," and "flour." She was conscious that every one stared at them as they passed. She heard clearly the expressions of wonder and curiosity of two women and a girl who were spreading out blankets in front of a rooming-tent. She looked at the man at her side. She appreciated his courtesy in not attempting to force an acquaintanceship. In her eyes was a ripple of amusement. "This is all strange and new to me--and not at all uninteresting," she said. "I came expecting--everything. And I am finding it. Why do they stare at me so? Am I a curiosity?" |
|