"I'll tell you when we get there." Something in tone or words stirred Adela.

She refrained from further bantering and gave her mind to speedy preparations for bed.
Then, as at last they were about to separate, she put a warm arm about the girl and held her close.

"What is it?
Aren't you happy ?" she said.
A great sob went through Dot.

Her trouble was more than she could bear.
She clung to Adela with unaccustomed closeness.
"I've promised to marry Fletcher at the end of the week--instead of going back with you to the farm." "I thought that was what he was after," said Adela.

"But--don't you want to ?" "No," whispered Dot, trembling.
"Well, why don't you tell him so--tell him he's got to wait?
Shall I tell him for you, you poor little thing ?" Adela's voice was full of compassion.
But Dot was instant in her refusal.