believe you WOULD marry me if I wanted you
to; you've done everything else I've ever asked. But you needn't be
afraid; I won't take you up." In all her life this man had never spoken
of love to her, and she had no hint of the dream he cherished. He had
sung his songs to her and told her stories till his frank and boyish
mind was like an open page to her; she knew the romance that was the
very fibre of him, and loved his exaggerated chivalry, for it minded
her of old tales she had read; but that he could care for her save as a
friend, as a brother--such a thought had never dawned upon her.

While they were talking a boat had drawn inshore and made fast to the
bank in front of them. An Indian landed and, approaching, entered into
talk with the Frenchman.

By-and-by Poleon turned to the girl, and said:

"Dere's'hondred marten-skin come in; you min' de store w'ile I mak'
trade wit' dis man."

Together the two went down to the boat, leaving Necia behind, and not
long after Runnion sauntered up to the store and addressed her
familiarly.

"Hello, Necia! I just heard about the strike on your claim. That's fine
and dandy."

She acknowledged his congratulations curtly, for although it was
customary for most of the old-timers to call her by her Christian name,
she resented it from this man. She chose to let it pass, however.

"I had some good news last night myself," he continued. "One of my men
has hit some good dirt, and we'll know what it means in a day or so.
I'll gamble we're into the money big, though, for I always was a lucky
cuss. Say, where's your father?"

"He's out at the mine."

"We've used up all of our bar sugar at the saloon, and I want to buy
what you've got."

"Very well, I'll get it for you."

He followed her inside, watching her graceful movements, and
attempting, with his free-and-easy insolence, to make friendly
advances, but, seeing that she refused to notice him, he became piqued,
and grew bolder.

"Look here, Necia, you're a mighty pretty girl. I've had my eye on you
ever since I landed, and the more I see of you the better I like you."

"It isn't necessary to tell me that," she replied. "The price of the
sugar will be just the same."

"Yes, and you're bright, too," he declared. "That's what I like in a
woman--good looks and brains. I believe in strong methods and straight
talk, too; none of this serenading and moonlight mush for me. When I
see a girl I like, I go and get her. That's me.