Why was it that a few hours ago he had laughed boldly when her husband had cursed her and said vile things in her presence--and now he could not meet the steady gaze of her eyes?
DIEU! he had never before observed how lovely she was! He drew himself together, and stated the business in his mind.
"You will not want the dog," he said.

"I will take him away." Nanette did not answer.

She seemed scarcely to be breathing as she looked at him.

It seemed to him that she was waiting for him to explain; and then the inspiration to lie leapt into his mind.
"You know, there was to be the big fight between HIS dog and mine at Post Fort O' God at the New Year carnival," he went on, shuffling his heavy feet.

"For that, Jacques--your husband--was training the wild dog.