ignorance. It tore his heart to
see this girl, for whom he felt a growing affection, in such
distress, knowing that all the time he possessed the knowledge to
sweep away her grief. And yet would it? Was it not probable that a
girl like her would feel even greater grief at the knowledge that
her father was a hunted criminal instead of merely dead? She
presented a most pitiable figure standing there, absolutely alone in
the world. She had gone through experiences that day which would
have made the average woman collapse, and to cap it all she had
received the final blow in the news of her father's death.

Marsh's heart went out to her: He longed to take her into his arms
and ask her to allow him to henceforward be her protector. It was
hard to hold himself in check, yet he knew that it was no time for
this disclosure of his own feelings. Instead, he stepped quietly
through the door and sat down in the living room, where the girl
joined him. She wept silently for a few moments, while Marsh sat and
waited. At last she spoke.

"My father is dead, Mr. Marsh."

"What a shock!" he exclaimed. "I am so sorry. How did it happen?"

"You know I received a letter from him this morning. It said that
his health had failed, that he could no longer work, and that by the
time the letter reached me he world have committed suicide."

Marsh's life had been devoted to running down criminals. He had had
very little to do with women except those of the criminal type. He
was at a loss, therefore, for words to comfort this delicate girl.
He was further embarrassed by the knowledge of facts which he dared
not divulge. Everything he said sounded crude and rough in his ears,
but somehow his words seemed to have a soothing effect on the girl
and eventually her weeping ceased.

"She's a wonder!" thought Marsh. "The bravest little woman I ever
knew." Then addressing her, he said, "Miss Atwood, after all that
has happened, it is not possible for you to stay here alone tonight.
You should go to an hotel, where you will feel protected and secure,
and at least know that, even though they are not your friends, you
have people all about you." He hesitated a moment, then added, "I
hope you will receive my offer in the spirit in which it is
intended. If you are in any way financially embarrassed at the
moment, I would be glad to take care of your hotel expenses until
you can straighten out your affairs."

"Thank you, Mr. Marsh," she returned. "I appr