Western Kansas world. [volume] (WaKeeney, Kan.) 1885-current, 1917-10-11

then he failed to see me. Was it you,
and are you here again tonight to make
sure?"
you have guessed the exact TRUTH"
I confessed, almost regretfully. Last
night 1t was a mere accident, but to-
night my presence here had an object"
Indeed! What interest is it of
yours?'
"None directly, except as 1 am a
friend to Mr.. Darlington. the owner:
Of this yacht, and also his guest. He
assured me only this morning that
there was no woman on board, and
laughed at me for even imagining such
a thing. Naturally desired to vindI-
cate myself; then besides the mystery
also had its attractions"
mo Doubt And now that you have
progressed so far, what further do you
purpose doing-turn me over to the
authorities?"
ST do not know" I said honestly.
'sBut am in hopes you will trust me
enough to explain your object in thus
coming unlimited aboard. I should pre-
fer being your friend. If that prove
possible"
She did not answer. apparently hest
tating in surprise at my unexpected
plea, and doubtful as to my sincerity.
"What is your manner"
Robert Hollis live In Chicago"
She nodded, and imagined the ex-
preston of her eyes changed slightly.
The merest semblance of a smile
curved her lips.
ST am rather glad you are my dis
coverer." she said quietly, 'for know
who you are. You are not altogether
q stranger"
ST am notl" exclaimed in surprise.
"OhI I understand: Seeley has told
you of me-"
"Has he indeedI Why Seeley"
Because have some reason to be-
lieve that the second officer is your
special friend on board: that through
his aid you have found concealment.
Am I altogether wrong"
She 1aughed-the sound barely au-
dible, yet evidence of her swift amuse-
ment.
eff did not chance to know better,
Mr.. Hollis, should almost suspect you
of being a lawyer" she said cheer
fully. However, in spite of my pres
emit position, / am inclined to be q
truthful person. I fear Mr.. Seeley's in
| terest In me is altogether. or at least
largely, mercenary. I will confide in
you, and confess that he has already
cost me one hundred dollars, and
heaven alone knows how much more
will be required before we attain deep
water, when hope to be free from
bondage"
"Goodi I am encouraged; now you
will tell me more?"
| She shook her head
mot another word, sir. So far, as
they say in New York, you have the
goods on me- and denial would be use
less. OF course, I might have told a
falsehood. I am perfectly capable of
so doing, and had been conversing
| with some others on board, I would
have chosen to do so"
(Which would seem to imply that
you possess measure of confidence In
mer'
ST do, Mr.. Hollis,' quietly.
"Seeley must have given me a most
excellent reputation, and deserves re-
ward"
'sMr. Seeley gave me your name as
one of the passengers. nothing more
1 cannot at present explain when, OF
how, I acquired my information regard.
ing you To you I am perfect
stranger, and must remain so, but. by
some good fortune, I chance to know
enough of you to trust you thoroughly
as a gentleman. You understand what
mean7"
Her eyes met mine frankly; they
were clear, honest eyes. and felt that
read their direct challenge.
perhaps So" answered with feel
ing of disappointment you mean
am to ask no further questions? to for
get, II possible. your presence or
boardf"
Eyes; can you do this?"
"Well. to be perfectly frank, I an
not altogether certain that can. OIL
that I ought. I am Mr.. Darlington.
guest. and owe him a certain loyalty
you admit that?'
Eyes"
"Have I a right to conceal from m,
host the knowledge which I have dis
covered. that strange young woman
, has been hidden on board his yacht b.
one of his officers7"
: ssThat must depend altogether o.
your sense Of duty to both Mr. Caring
. ton and myself she returned calmly
! | do appear Ike thief9 conspira