He
wanted to spare her not only pain, but the necessity of watchful eyes on her
every moment. Lucy did not like to promise not to try to escape, if
opportunity presented. Still, she reasoned, that once deep in the canyons,
where she would be in another day, she would be worse off if she did get away.
The memory of Cordts's cavernous, hungry eyes upon her was not a small factor
in Lucy's decision.
"Creech, if I give my word not to try to get away, would you believe me?" she
asked.
Creech was slow in replying. "Reckon I would," he said, finally.
"All right, I'll give it."
"An' thet's sense. Now you lay down."
Lucy did as she was bidden and pulled the blanket over her. The place was
gloomy and still. She heard the sound of mustangs' teeth on grass, and the
soft footfalls of the men. Presently these sounds ceased. A cold wind blew
over her face and rustled in the sage near her. Gradually the chill passed
away, and a stealing warmth took its place. Her eyes grew tired. What had
happened to her? With eyes closed she thought it was all a dream.
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