Great Scott, but I sure thought you was goin' to flop over that time." He assisted her to a convenient chair, then stepped back, gazing curiously into her face, the black bottle still in his hand.

"What's the trouble, anyhow ?" he questioned, his mind filled with sudden suspicion.

"That--that fellow did n't throw you, did he ?" Miss Norvell, her fingers clasping the chair arm for support, rose hurriedly to her feet, a red flush sweeping into her pallid cheeks.
For an instant her intense indignation held her speechless.
"'Throw' me?
What is it you mean ?" she exclaimed, her voice faltering.
"Do you rank me with those shameless creatures out yonder?
It is for Mr.Winston's sake I sought word with him; it has nothing whatever to do with myself.

I chanced to learn news of the utmost importance, news which he must possess before morning; yet it is not a message I can trust to any one else.

My God! what can I do ?" She paused irresolute, her hands pressing her temples.