t merely as to his outward person. He opened
a bag on deck and displayed with pride a pearl necklace he had purchased
for his daughter-in-law, a handsome watch for young Edith and another
for his grandson, whom Mrs. Congdon had left with a friend in the east.

"I guess I haven't been square with Putney," he remarked, "and now's a
good time to let him know how I feel about it. Here," he continued,
producing a bulky envelope, "is two hundred and fifty thousand dollars
in government bonds that he may use as he likes."

"Grand; perfectly bully!" cried Archie. "Please consider yourself
discharged from the ship. We'll go right over to Heart o' Dreams and
spread the glad tidings."

Though so many vistas were brightening, Archie was still troubled by
Isabel's persistent refusal to see him alone, or to give him any
opportunity to break down the barriers she had raised against him. After
luncheon at the camp, where Eliphalet Congdon proved himself a very
likable human being, he sought her as she was leaving the dining hall.

Her young charges were skipping gaily about her; there was no question
of their admiration and affection for her. He caught the spirit of their
gaiety and took advantage of a moment when Isabel emerged smiling from
an adoring group to plant himself before her.

"You are running away from me!" he said sternly. "And that's not fair."

"Oh, this is my busiest day! You mustn't think a place like this runs
automatically."

"I think nothing of the kind. But your studied efforts to escape from me
are embarrassing. Ruth, the Congdons, Mrs. Graybill--everybody is
noticing it!"

"Certain matters are one's personal affair," she answered. "Really I
must ask you to excuse me."

"I refuse to be snubbed again! You are trampling me under foot, and I
refuse to be stepped on any more. I wish to assure you, Miss Perry, that
my love for you is not to be spurned with impunity!"

"Please be careful! Those girls over there are watching us."

"A wonderful opportunity for them to see a desperate man making love; an
invaluable part of their education! They will never forget how I fell
upon my knees and declared myself!"

"Oh, you wouldn't! You really wouldn't! You forget that these children
are highly impressionable!"

"So am I, and extremely sensitive. It would be fine if you'd join me in
a little walk. If you refuse I shall follow you the rest of the day
singing. The Governor and I did a good deal of singing in our tr