And sometimes--when they were kind--and I was lonely for something I--I didn't mind if one or another fooled round me.

I never thought.

It never looked as y'u have made it look....

Then--those few times ridin' the trail to Grass Valley--when people saw me--then I guess I encouraged such attentions....

Oh, I must be--I am a shameless little hussy!" "Hush thet kind of talk," said the old man, as he took her hand.
"Ellen, you're only young an' lonely an' bitter.