AN AVOWAL OF LOVE Winston sat gazing at the delicate contour of her face, partially turned away from him, the long, silken lashes shading eyes lowered upon the floor.

A single gleam of the westering sun rested in golden beauty across her dark hair, stirred by the slight breeze blowing through the open window.

In the silence he could hear his heart beat, and distinguish the faint sound of her breathing.

She was the first to speak, yet without moving her head.
"Is it true that you are now under arrest ?" she questioned, her voice scarcely audible.
"Technically yes, although, as you may perceive, the sheriff is powerless to prevent an escape if I desired to attempt one." "Is it because of that--that charge he made ?" He arose to his feet in brave attempt at self-control.
"Oh, no, certainly not! I think that was merely a threat, a cowardly threat, utterly without provocation, without purpose, unless he sought in that way to work you a serious injury.

The real charge against me is murder.