Bending down he caught her words.

"Jim ... I'm sorry about Toni. She's safe--in Italy--in Naples...."

"You're sure, dear?" He spoke quietly, though his heart gave a throb of
relief at her words.

"Yes. I can't remember her address." Her brows contracted pitifully.
"But she works in the library of an Italian called Zanoni--is that
enough? Can you find her from that?"

"Why, yes, dear." He knew it would only be a matter of time to trace the
girl now. "And you must not worry about her any more. Close those big
eyes of yours and go to sleep."

She gave a little sigh, and her tiny bandaged hand lifted itself feebly
as though seeking his. Instantly he laid his own warm fingers over hers;
and a moment later Eva was asleep.

* * * * *

So it happened that Eva did not die, but crept slowly back to life; and
throughout her painful and often halting convalescence she exhibited a
patience, a gentleness which won her husband's heart afresh.

It seemed as though the fire had burnt out all the evil thoughts and
desires which had ravaged her soul. Gone were all thoughts of revenge,
of callous retribution for the sufferings she had endured. No longer
bitter and hard and reckless, Eva was once again the engaging girl who
had won Herrick's love; and although it was probable she would never
again be quite so light-hearted, so thoughtless as she had been in the
days before her marriage, Herrick was very strongly attracted to this
oddly gentle, shy, wistful girl who gave him a new and passionate
gratitude and love in place of her former half-careless,
half-contemptuous affection.

* * * * *

Her first question on coming fully to herself had concerned Toni; and
within a very short space of time Herrick was able to inform her that
the girl had been found.

"Is she well--happy? Is Mr. Rose going to forgive her?"

"He has done that already," said Herrick with a smile. "By this time he
is on his way to Italy; and I have no doubt he will bring her home to
Greenriver as fast as boat and train can do it."

"Must I see her, Jim?" Into her eyes came a look of dread which touched
him oddly. "I know it was all through my wickedness that she went
away--but--must I ask her to forgive me?"

"You needn't trouble about that, dear. Mrs. Rose has forgiven you long
ago. And as soon as ever you are well enough to travel, I'm going to
take you right away where I can have you to myse