Part 8 (1/2)
”Also,” I added, with a sudden resurgance of bitterness that surprised myself, ”my conduct earlier in your behalf might have led you to a wiser judgment.”
”I am wise enough--after my own fas.h.i.+on,” she said indifferently.
”Does a man save and then return to destroy?”
”Many a hunter has saved many a spotted fawn from wolf and fox--so he might kill it himself, one day.”
”You do yourself much flattery, young woman,” I said, so unpleasantly that again the hot colour touched her throat and brow.
”I reason as I have been taught,” she said defiantly. ”Doubtless you are self-instructed.”
”No; men have taught me. You witnessed, I believe, one lesson. And your comrade gave me still another.”
”I care to witness nothing,” I said, furious; ”far less desire to attempt your education. Is all plain now?”
”Your words are,” she said, with quiet contempt.
”My words are one with my intention,” said I, angrily; far in spite of my own indifference and contempt, hers was somehow arousing me with its separate sting hidden in every word she uttered. ”And now,” I continued, ”all being plain and open between us, let me acquaint you with the sole object of my visit here to you.”
She shrugged her shabby shoulders and waited, her eyes, her expression, her very att.i.tude indifferent, yet dully watchful.
”You know the Sagamore, Mayaro?” I asked.
”You say so.”
”Where is he to be found?” I continued patiently.
”Why do you desire to know?”
The drab was exasperating me, and I think I looked it, for the slightest curl of her sullen lips hinted a scornful smile.
”Come, come, my la.s.s,” said I, with all the patience I could still command, ”there is a storm approaching, and I do not wish to get wet.
Answer my civil question and I'll thank you and be off about my business. Where is this Sagamore to be found?”
”Why do you wish to know?”
”Because I desire to consult him concerning certain matters.”
”What matters?”
”Matters which do not concern you!” I snapped out.
”Are you sure of that, pretty boy?”
”Am I sure?” I repeated, furious. ”What do you mean? Will you answer an honest question or not?”
”Why do you desire to see this Sagamore?” she repeated so obstinately that I fairly clenched my teeth.
”Answer me,” I said. ”Or had you rather I fetched a file of men up here?”