XXX
"Look!" whispered Magdalena.
They had reached the steps of the verandah, and were about to mount whenshe laid her hand on his arm. Mr. Polk stood by one of the windows. Hishead was thrust forward. He was staring into the room with hungry eyesand twitching jaw. The light was full on his white face. In the roomTiny was standing on a chair fanning Alan Rush. Fort was commanding Ilato pick up his handkerchief. The others were laughing and applauding.Lee and Coralie in their obscure corner were wide-eyed with excitement,and happy. Mr. Polk's chest heaved spasmodically. He screwed up hiseyes. His face grinned. He looked like a man on the rack. He opened hiseyes and glared about; but he saw nothing, for they were blind withtears. He turned and fled.
Magdalena clung to Trennahan, shaking. "Take me home," she said. "Icannot stand any more to-night."
BOOK II
The Californians Page 30