The Trail of the Axe: A Story of Red Sand Valley

"It's good, Betty. It's good. We've won out – you and I."

Her lips moved to protest at the part she had played, but he silenced her.

"Yes, you and I," he said softly. "It's all ours – yours and mine. You'll share it with me?" The girl's supporting arm moved convulsively. "No, no," he went on quickly. "Don't take your arm away. I need – I need its support. Betty – little Betty – I need more than that. I need your support always. Say, dear, you'll give it me. You won't leave me alone now? Betty – Betty, I love you – so – so almighty badly."

The girl moved her head as though to avoid his kisses upon her hair. Somehow her face was lifted in doing so, and they fell at once upon her lips instead.