Besides, Barry," she moved close to him, "you'll need me.

Won't you?
Haven't I always been near you when you've needed me?
And aren't you taking on the biggest sort of job now ?" Houston smiled at her.

True, she had always been near in time of trouble and it was only natural that now-- "Of course," came his answer.

"Come, I'll have you made comfortable in the cottage." Then, as he started away, "May I see you, Ba'tiste, sometime to-night ?" "Ah, _oui_." The Canadian was moving toward his wagon and the waiting dog.

"In the cabin." Three hours later, the last of the men paid off, Agnes installed in the best of three little cottages in care of the motherly old cook, Barry Houston approached the door of Ba'tiste's cabin, the wolf-dog, who had picked him up a hundred yards away, trotting beside him.