But though my outward mood of good humor may have been pretense, it certainly was a pleasure to be with the girls again way out in the open.

Both girls were quiet, and this made my task harder, and perhaps in my anxiety to ward off questions and appear happy for their own sakes I made an ass of myself with my silly talk and familiarity.

Had ever a Ranger such a job as mine?
"Diane, did Sally show you her engagement ring ?" I went on, bound to talk.
Miss Sampson either did not notice my use of her first name or she did not object.

She seemed so friendly, so helplessly wistful.

"Yes.