Wade, who had returned to his seat on the end of the porch, listened to them, while his keen gaze seemed fixed down the lane toward the cabins.

How intent must he have been not to hear Columbine's step behind him! "Good morning, Ben," she said.
Wade wheeled as if internal violence had ordered his movement.
"Lass, good mornin'," he replied.

"You sure look sweet this October first--like the flower for which you're named." "My friend, it _is_ October first--my marriage day!" murmured Columbine.
Wade felt her intensity, and he thrilled to the brave, sweet resignation of her face.

Hope and faith were unquenchable in her, yet she had fortified herself to the wreck of dreams and love.
"I'd seen you before now, but I had some job with Wils, persuadin' him that we'd not have to offer you congratulations yet awhile," replied Wade, in his slow, gentle voice.
"_Oh!_" breathed Columbine.
Wade saw her full breast swell and the leaping blood wave over her pale face.

She bent to him to see his eyes.