shook. The memory of that awful night will haunt me all my life!"

She broke off with a shiver, and George looked very compassionate.

"I think," he said gently, "you had better not go on." "Ah!" replied
Sylvia, "I must grapple with the horror and not yield to it; with the
future to be faced, I can't be a coward. At last I heard the team and
opened the door. The snow was blinding, but I could dimly see the
horses standing in it. I called, but Dick didn't answer, and I ran out
and found him lying upon the load of logs. He was very still, and made
no sign, but I reached up and shook him--I couldn't believe the
dreadful thing. I think I screamed; the team started suddenly, and
Dick fell at my feet. Then the truth was clear to me."

A half-choked sob broke from her, but she went on.

"I couldn't move him; I must have gone nearly mad, for I tried to run
to Peterson's, three miles away. The snow blinded me, and I came back
again; and by and by another team arrived. Peterson had got lost
driving home from the settlement. After that, I can't remember
anything; I'm thankful it is so--I couldn't bear it!"

Then there was silence for a few moments until George rose and gently
laid his hand on her shoulder.

"My sympathy's not worth much, Sylvia, but it's yours," he said. "Can
I help in any practical way?"

Growing calmer, she glanced up at him with tearful eyes.