He spoke hoarsely, and had grown quite white. Suddenly Columbine thought
of Wilson Moore! He had known where Jack had spent those years. He had
resisted a strong temptation to tell her. That was as noble in him as
the implication of Jack's whereabouts had been base.

"Jack, that is big of you," she replied, hurriedly. "I respect you--like
you for it. But you needn't tell me. I'd rather you didn't. I'll take
the will for the deed."

Belllounds evidently experienced a poignant shock of amaze, of relief,
of wonder, of gratitude. In an instant he seemed transformed.

"Collie, if I hadn't loved you before I'd love you now. That was going
to be the hardest job I ever had--to tell you my--my story. I meant it.
And now I'll not have to feel your shame for me and I'll not feel I'm a
cheat or a liar.... But I will tell you this--if you love me you'll make
a man of me!"



CHAPTER III

The rancher thought it best to wait till after the round-up before he
turned over the foremanship to his son. This was wise, but Jack did not
see it that way. He showed that his old, intolerant spirit had, if
anything, grown during his absence. Belllounds patiently argued with
him, explaining what certainly should have been clear to a young man
brought up in Colorado. The fall round-up was the most important time of
the year, and during the strenuous drive the appointed foreman should
have absolute control. Jack gave in finally with a bad grace.