THE MAN IN THE DARK For several seconds the two stood thus, the man dumfounded, moveless, gaping, the girl as grimly resolute as Fate itself, the little revolver steady, its muzzle unwaveringly menacing Brice's face.

The collie continued to gyrate, thunderously around the tree.
"I don't want to shoot you," said the girl presently, and, through her voice's persistent sternness, Gavin fancied he could read a thrill of very feminine concern.

"I don't want to shoot you.

If I can help it.

You will put your hands up." Meekly, Brice obeyed.
"Now," she resumed, "you will turn around, and go back the way you came.