So long," he added, and so he left her.
She heard his hobbling footfalls across the boards at the end of the house, heard them pass into silence on the turf.

What had he meant?
How long could she maintain her supremacy over him, here alone in the wilderness, helpless, blind?
And those other women?
What, indeed, was her status to be here?
When would he tire of this?
When would he change?
Questions came to Sim Gage's mind also.

Now and again he paused and leaned against the fence.

He was in much pain alike of body and of mind.
He saw Wid himself turn out at his gate and approach him; dreaded the grin on Wid's face even before he saw it.
"Well, there, neighbor," said the oncomer.

"You're out at last.