It was wonder over Dale's visit--over his coming to Okar.

Ben must have missed him, for Dale was alive! Dale could not have heard what had happened.
"You're better, eh ?" said Dale.
She merely nodded her reply, and watched Dale as he crossed the room.
Reaching a door that led into another room, Dale turned.
"Where's Maison ?" Peggy pointed at the door on whose threshold Dale stood.
Dale entered.

What he saw in the room caused him to come out again, his face ashen.
"What's happened ?" he demanded hoarsely, stepping to the side of the bed and looking down at Peggy.
Peggy told him.

The man's face grew gray with the great fear that clutched him, and he stepped back; then came forward again, looking keenly at the girl as though he doubted her.
"Nyland killed him--choked him to death ?" he said.
Peggy nodded silently.

The cringing fear showing in the man's eyes appalled her.