"I was never very good at running away, and really I must get at the bottom of this affair.

Coombs is going to have a talk with me later--intends to make sure who I am, no doubt--and I may learn something from him during the interview.

Anyhow, I am just obstinate enough to stay it out." "What about me ?" "You better return to town; a traveling man on the train said there was a good hotel.

Probably Coombs has some kind of a rig we can drive down in.

I 'll ask him after breakfast." "Is it because you do not wish me with you ?" I hesitated slightly, confused by such direct questioning.
"I shall feel more free alone," I replied at last, "for I shall have only myself to guard.