The mere presence of Hamlin was an assurance of safety.
As she watched him, erect in saddle, his blue overcoat tightly buttoned, his revolver belt strapped outside, she no longer felt any consciousness of the surrounding desolation, or the nearness of savage foes.

Her heart beat fast and her cheeks flushed in memory of what had so swiftly occurred between them.

Without thought, or struggle, she gave herself unreservedly to his guidance, serenely confident in his power to succeed.

He was a man so strong, so resourceful, so fitted to the environment, that her trust in him was unquestioned.

She needed to ask nothing; was content to follow in silence.