did."

"You are holding me here a prisoner, then?"

"An involuntary guest, my brother puts it. Until the sheriff can make
other arrangements."

"You have no right to do it without notifying my father. He is at Noches
with my brother."

"Mr. Weaver will do as he thinks best about that." The spinster shut
her lips tight and walked from the room.

Supper was brought to Phyllis by the Mexican woman. In spite of her
indignation she ate and slept well. Nor did her appetite appear impaired
next morning, when she breakfasted in her bedroom. Noon found her
promoted to the family dining room. Weaver carried his arm in a sling,
but made no reference to the fact. He attempted conversation, but
Phyllis withdrew into herself and had nothing more friendly than a plain
"No" or "Yes" for him. His sister was presently called away to arrange
some household difficulty. At once Phyllis attacked the big man lounging
in his chair at his ease.

"I want to go home. I've got to be at the schoolhouse to-morrow
morning," she announced.

"It won't hurt you any to miss a few days' schooling, my dear. You'll
learn more here than you will there, anyhow," he assured her pleasantly.
Buck was cracking two walnuts in the palm of his hand and let his lazy
smile drift her way only casually.