She took his hat from him with an anxious smile, and then the crutch
that he held towards her.

"Tell me exactly what to do!" she said in her sweet, low voice. "I am
very strong."

"If I may put my arm on your shoulder," Durant said, "I think it can be
managed. But say at once if it is too much for you!"

Her face was deeply flushed as she bent from the step to give him the
help he needed.

"Bear harder!" she said, as he leant his weight upon her. "Bear much
harder!"

There was an odd little quiver in her voice, but, slight as she was, she
supported him with sturdy strength.

The door opened straight into the tiny cottage parlour. A large wicker
chair, well cushioned, stood in readiness. As Durant lowered himself
into it, he saw that the girl's eyes were brimming with tears.

"I've hurt you!" he exclaimed.

"No, no!" she said, and turned quickly away. "You didn't bear nearly
hard enough."

He laughed a little, though his teeth were clenched.