y stirring up
the dead ashes with one foot. Plainly enough the events of the night
had overcome all his boasted self-control, his gambler's coolness, and
the real underlying brutality of his nature demanded expression. He
yearned to crush, and hurt something--something that would cringe
before him. I ventured to raise my head cautiously, so as to gain a
glimpse of the man, and was surprised to note the change in his face.
It was as though he had removed a mask. Heretofore, always holding the
winning hand, and able to sneer at opposition, he had always in my
presence assumed an air of cold bravado, insolent and sarcastic; but
now, baffled in his plans, checkmated by a girl, and believing himself
unobserved, the gambler had given way to his true nature, both
expression and manner exhibiting a temper beyond control.

I had but a moment in which to observe this new exhibit of the man's
personality, for almost immediately Carver flung the door of the room
open, and Kirby swung impatiently about to face the entrance. Except
for a possibility of thus attracting the attention of the newcomer, I
was in no special danger of being detected by those within.
Nevertheless I sank lower, with eyes barely above the edge of the sill,
eager to witness this meeting, and especially interested in gaining a
first view of their prisoner. Carver thrust her forward, but remained
himself blocking the doorway. I use the word thrust, for I noted the
grip of his hand on her arm, yet in truth she instantly stepped forward
herself, her bearing in no way devoid of pride and dignity, her head
held erect, her eyes fearlessly seeking the face of Kirby. Their
glances met, and she advanced to the table, the light of the swinging
lamp full upon her. The impression she made is with me yet. Hers was
a refined, patrician face, crowned by a wealth of dark hair. Indignant
eyes of hazel brown, shadowed by long lashes, brightened a face
whitened by intense emotion, and brought into agreeable contrast
flushed cheeks, and red, scornful lips. A dimpled chin, a round, full
throat, and the figure of young womanhood, slender and yet softly
curved, altogether formed a picture so entrancing as to never again
desert my imagination. With one bound my heart went out to her in
sympathy, in admiration, in full and complete surrender. Yet, even in
that instant, the knowledge of the truth, in all its unspeakable
horror, assailed me--this girl, this proud, beautiful