The only other sign of life was a black speck in the distance, a speck which came nearer and nearer until he paused to watch it, standing upon a little incline and looking steadily along the rude cart track.

The speck grew in size.

A person on horseback,--a woman! Soon she swung her horse around as though she recognised him, jumped a little dike to reach him the quicker and reined up her horse by his side, holding one hand down to him.

"Mr.
Tallente!" she exclaimed.

"How wonderful!" He held her hand, looking steadfastly, almost eagerly, up into her flushed face.