And she had recognised him from that time when Davidson, who had been pearling himself in his youth, had been associating with Harry the Pearler and others, the quietest of a rather rowdy set.
"Before Davidson retraced his steps to go on board the steamer, he had heard much of Laughing Anne's story, and had even had an interview, on the path, with Bamtz himself.

She ran back to the hut to fetch him, and he came out lounging, with his hands in his pockets, with the detached, casual manner under which he concealed his propensity to cringe.
Ya-a-as-as.

He thought he would settle here permanently--with her.

This with a nod at Laughing Anne, who stood by, a haggard, tragically anxious figure, her black hair hanging over her shoulders.
"'No more paint and dyes for me, Davy,' she struck in, 'if only you will do what he wants you to do.

You know that I was always ready to stand by my men--if they had only let me.' "Davidson had no doubt of her earnestness.