Even my penance on the road was--was like the rest." "Your _penance_!" "I bought a corncrib and a mule," flung out Kenny, roaming turbulently around the room, "and thrashed a farmer.

And I hated the rain and the smell of cheese and burned up the corn-crib--" "Kenny, what are you talking about ?" Inexorably intent upon the easing of his conscience Kenny told the tale of his penance with terrifying honesty and truth.
Brian listened and dared not smile.
"At first I--I hoped to find a clue," finished Kenny, wiping the sweat from his forehead.

"And then after I--I saw Joan I hoped I wouldn't.
You're not blamin' me, Brian ?" "Not a bit.

I'd have lingered myself." "The heart of you!" said Kenny, biting his lips.

"I don't deserve it.
Lad, dear, the sunsets are past.