COMPELLING SPEECH She was gone before I could speak, before I could even grasp the full purport of her decision.

I followed the flutter of her skirt up the stairs, half tempted to rush after, yet as instantly comprehended the uselessness of any attempt at influencing her.

Even the short space of our acquaintance had served to convince me that she was a woman of resource, of character, and determination.

If she felt it right to remain no argument would be effective, or have the slightest weight.
Perhaps another night would change her mood, but now, in the sunshine, her courage would hold steadfast.

Even as these considerations flashed across my mind, I heard the thud of Coombs' feet upon the steps of the veranda.