the broad hat brim. "Pray how did you work such a marvelous
transformation on so small a sum? I had a theory marriage was
expensive."

Her cheeks flamed.

"That depends," she replied; "I had excellent training. The marvel is
even greater than you suppose, for behold this case also filled with
necessities. Is this our train?"

"Yes," and I took up the grip she designated as hers. "Let us get
settled and into the diner, for I am hungry as a wolf."

I had procured opposite sections, and, before retiring, we studied the
papers, together with Vail's letter of instruction, and thus came to a
complete understanding. She was quick-witted, and spoke frankly, and
yet, when I finally lay down in my berth I felt less well acquainted
with her than before. Somehow, in a manner inexplainable, a vague
barrier had arisen between us. I could not trace it to any word or
action on her part, and yet I felt held away as by an invisible hand.
Her very cordiality exhibited a reserve which made me clearly
comprehend that the slightest familiarity would be checked. Evidently
she had determined coolly to carry out the deceit, to act her part to
perfection, because of the reward, and she meant I should comprehend
her exact position. I fell asleep dissatisfied, half believing she was
also playing a part with me, although it was impossible to conceive her
purpose. The conception even came that she was herself an adventuress,
yet I throttled the thought instantly, unwilling to harbor it.

It was at the close of the following afternoon when our train reached