As David talked, the hard look which had been exorcised for a time by the gentle influence of that home, and more than all by the sight of Cassandra performing the gracious services of the household, settled again upon the youth’s face. His lips were drawn, and his eyes ceased following Cassandra, and became fixed and narrowed on one spot.

“You have come near losing that splendid eye of yours, do you know that, little chap?” Hoyle grinned. “It’s a shame, you know. I have something up at the cabin would help to heal this, but — ” he glanced about the room — ”What are those dried herbs up there?”

“Thar is witch hazel yandah in the cupboard. Cass, ye mount bile some up fer th’ doctah,” said the mother. “Tell th’