Part 24 (1/2)

He leaned over and put his hand oncaldron and no witches”

”There are troubles of sorts other than those the caldron brewed,” I remarked

We turned a bend in the road ”And witches of other sorts than those of Fores' Heath,” he laughed ”Behold!”

A hundred yards ahead, rode the Princess and Lady Helen Radnor

”Here's your opportunity, Courtney,” I observed

He stared at me

”To escort Lady Helen back to town” I explained

”Thank you,” he said, and shrugged his shoulders

”Don't be a bear,” said I; ”h for the chance”

Then we reined aside and saluted

”Will you join us?” said the Princess

”We shall be delighted,” I said and swung over beside her

”I don't knohat to do with Lady Helen,” she whispered hurriedly

”Courtney will look after her,” I volunteered

But she did not seem to hear ”I came alone to meet you,” she went on, ”and overtook her on the way”

”You came to meet me?” I asked

She nodded ”I fear you will think me very forward, but I--well, I wanted to know your decision”

”Have you any doubt of it after the note--and now?”

”Then you will accept?” she exclai

”Yes,” said I ”I shall accept--are you glad?”

She plucked at her horse's lanced at me covertly; then she turned and s to lad You are a--dear”

I reined over closer ”Soan----