doubly interested.

"Oh, you must see her," Betty exclaimed. "She is the most wonderful
person I ever saw. Isn't it strange that you have never met her!"

"Why, what chance have I had?" Jasper asked. "Anyway, she wouldn't
want anything to do with such a rough fellow as I am."

"Indeed she would. She's not that kind; there's nothing stuckup about
her. Maybe you'll see her passing some day. She might call, too, for
she is so friendly."

"Call! What do you mean? How could she call upon me if I am miles
away from this place?"

"Oh, but you won't be. You'll be right here where you have been for
some time."

Into Jasper's eyes came a look of surprise, and he felt his face flush
under the girl's keen scrutiny.

"There, I knew I was right," she laughed in glee.

"You thought you could deceive me, did you?"

"Why, how in the world did you know that I live here?" Jasper asked.
"Did anybody tell you?"

"No, certainly not. But the Lord didn't give Betty Bean eyes and a
mind for nothing. Who else would be poking around this place on a
night like this but the owner? And didn't you know where your dry coat
was when you came in? and your slippers? and your pipe and tobacco?
and----"

"There, there, you have produced evidence enough, and I plead guilty,"
Jasper laughed. He was greatly amused at the girl's quickness. "You
are not offended, are you, at the little joke I played upon you?"

"Oh, no, not all. But next time you do anything like that try it upon
a man. A woman's eyes are pretty sharp, and it's hard to deceive her.
Mine are, anyway."

David had listened to this conversation and slowly the truth dawned
upon him that the owner of the cabin was before him.

"I wish to apologise, sir," he began, "for our rudeness in entering
your house. It was only necessity which compelled us to do so, I
assure you, and when I am in a position, I shall recompense you
handsomely for the entertainment to-night."

"Please do not say a word about it," Jasper replied. "I am very
thankful that you have been able to make use of my humble abode. I
have enjoyed your company very much. But I think it is time for us to
retire, as you need rest. The girl can use that room there, while you
can sleep upon that cot."

"But what about yourself?" David inquired.

"Oh, I shall make a place for myself right by the stove. I shall be
very comfortable there."

David at first refused to listen to such an arrangement, but Ja