62
WYLDER'S HAJVD.
it is contrast, I suppose, but they do; and I'm sure, from
what Bracton has said to me — I know him intimately —
that Dorcas likes him, and I can't conceive why they are
not married."
Their walk continued silent for the greater part, nei-
ther was quite satisfied with the other. But Rachel at
last said —
"Stanley, you meditate some injury to Mark Wylder."
"I, Radie?" he answered quietly, "why on earth
should you think so?"
"I saw you twice watch him when you thought no one
observed you — and I know your face too well, Stanley,
to mistake."
"Now that's impossible, Radie; for I really don't
think I once thought of him all this evening — except
just while we were talking."
"You keep your secret as usual, Stanley," said the
young lady.
"Really, Radie, you're quite mistaken. I assure you,
upon my honor, I've no secret. You're a very odd girl
— why won't you believe me?"
"Well, Stanley, I ask no more — but you don't deceive
me."'
"I don't try to. If your feelings indeed had been dif-
ferent, and that you had not made such a point—you
know " —
"Don't insult me, Stanley, by talking again as you
did this morning. What I say is altogether on your own
account. Mark my words, you'll find him too strong for
you; aye, and too deep. I see very plainly that he sus-
pects you as I do. You saw it, too, for nothing of that
kind escapes you. Whatever you meditate, he probably
anticipates it — you know best — and you will find him
prepared. You were always the same, close, dark, and