Then she stepped across the root, and opened the door.

Framed against the black background of the hall, his dark, rather handsome face clearly revealed as he fronted the window, his black, audacious eyes fixed appreciatingly upon the lady, stood "Black Bart" Hawley.

He saw no one but her, realized no other presence, had no thought except to make a good impression.

He was facing a beautiful woman, whom he sought to use, and he bowed low, hat in hand.
"Miss Maclaire," he said, pleasantly, "I trust you will pardon all that has occurred between us, and permit me to explain." "I--I do not understand," she replied, puzzled by these unexpected words.

"There has nothing occurred between us, I am sure, which requires explanation.