I ever got out of its possession was in the service. My colonel was
never content merely with returning my salute. He always uncovered to
me. That ribbon will have little weight with your father, I fear, when
I ask him to set aside the foreclosure, grant me a new mortgage, and
give me a fighting chance to retain the thing I love." And his
outflung arm indicated the silent, moonlit valley.

"Perhaps," she replied, soberly. "He is a businessman. Nevertheless,
it might not be a bad idea if you were to defer the crossing of your
bridges until you come to them." She unlatched the gate and swung it
open for him to pass through.

He hesitated.

"I didn't intend to enter the house to-night," he explained. "I merely
wanted to see Pablo and have a talk with him. My sudden appearance on
the scene might, perhaps, prove very embarrassing to your family."

"I dare say. But that cannot be helped. Your right of entrance and
occupancy cannot be questioned. Until the period of redemption
expires, I think nobody will dispute your authority as master here."

"I had forgotten that phase of the situation. Thank you." He passed
through the gate and closed it for her. Then he stepped to the side of
the road, wet his handkerchief in a pool of clean rain-water, and
mopped his eyes. "I'll have to abandon the luxury of tears," he
declared, grimly. "They make one's eyes burn. By the way, I do not
know your name."

"I am Kay Parker."