CHAPTER XXI.
MOLLY DISAPPEARS The speaker was Mrs.Dupont, but Hamlin's one thought was to prevent any discovery of Miss McDonald.

Without an instant's hesitation he drew aside the curtain, and stepped into the room.
"Pardon me," he said quietly, as the two started back at his rather abrupt entrance, "but I did not care to overhear your conversation.

No doubt it was intended to be private." [Illustration: The two started back at his rather abrupt entrance.] The woman stepped somewhat in advance of her companion, as though to shield him from observation, instantly mastering her surprise.
"Nothing at all serious, Mr.Sergeant Hamlin," she retorted scornfully.
"Don't be melodramatic, please; it gets on the nerves.

If you must know, I was merely giving our ranch foreman a few final instructions, as he leaves to-morrow.

Have you objections ?" "Assuredly not--your ranch foreman, you say?
Met him before, I think.
You are the fellow I ordered out of this room, are n't you ?" The man growled something unintelligible, but Mrs.Dupont prevented any direct reply.
"That's all right, John," she broke in impatiently.