I'm sorry I spoiled your dress, but I'll get you another--you bet I will." This explanation of his strange behavior seemed plausible enough to banish all personal fears from Necia's mind.

Indeed, Stark had now become so gentle and apologetic in his demeanor that her woman's curiosity overcame her instinct to flee, and she ventured the question: "So you really thought I was that other girl ?" "I did for a minute.

The mother was a--a--friend of mine, and so--I lost my head.

But I'm all right now, and if you'll overlook my roughness we'll go back to your troubles." These last few moments had driven her own worries from her mind, but he was bent on recalling them, and so continued, cautiously: "You were saying that you thought you'd go away.

I think that's a good plan, and you'd be wise to do it for more reasons than one.