I
would realize the truth now. That is something not easily
counterfeited."

"And something evidently you need never try to counterfeit," I added,
forgetful of our peculiar relations, as I gazed at the arch face under
the broad hat brim. "Pray how did you work such a marvelous
transformation on so small a sum? I had a theory marriage was
expensive."

Her cheeks flamed.

"That depends," she replied; "I had excellent training. The marvel is
even greater than you suppose, for behold this case also filled with
necessities. Is this our train?"

"Yes," and I took up the grip she designated as hers. "Let us get
settled and into the diner, for I am hungry as a wolf."

I had procured opposite sections, and, before retiring, we studied the
papers, together with Vail's letter of instruction, and thus came to a
complete understanding. She was quick-witted, and spoke frankly, and
yet, when I finally lay down in my berth I felt less well acquainted
with her than before. Somehow, in a manner inexplainable, a vague
barrier had arisen between us. I could not trace it to any word or
action on her part, and yet I felt held away as by an invisible hand.
Her very cordiality exhibited a reserve which made me clearly
comprehend that the slightest familiarity would be checked. Evidently
she had determined coolly to carry out the deceit, to act her part to
perfection, because of the reward, and she meant I should comprehend
her exact position. I fell asleep dissatisfied, half believing she was
also playing a part with me, although it was impossible to conceive her
purpose. The conception even came that she was herself an adventuress,
yet I throttled the thought instantly, unwilling to harbor it.

It was at the close of the following afternoon when our train reached
Carrollton. The depot must have been a mile from the town, and very
few people were upon the platform, two drummers and ourselves the only
ones to disembark. The traveling men hastened to the nearest hack,
while I glanced about in search of a conveyance. The only other
vehicle present was a two-seated surrey, driven by a rather
disreputable negro. I approached in some doubt.

"No, sah," he said, grinning. "Dis yere am my own curridge, sah;
tain't nuthin' ter do wid de Henley plantation. I reckon dey done did
n't git no telegram. Dey sure did n't less dey wus oxpectin' one, an'
cum inter town after it. Yes, sah, I know whar de place am all right.
I done