Then he smiled wryly.

"And this is what you have brought Townshead and his daughter to, and there is more behind.

What you have made of me counts for little after that," he said.
Some time had passed when he walked quietly into the house.

Nellie Townshead rose as he entered and stood looking at him very white in face.
"I wonder if you will believe what I have to tell you, Miss Townshead," he commenced, and stopped when the rancher turned towards him, "My daughter has, I think, been taught that it is unwise to place much confidence in any one," he said.
Alton glanced at the girl, and stood silent a moment when she made a little gesture of agreement.

"I am afraid appearances are against me," he said.
"Yes," said the girl.