The storm raged outside and the wind beat against the window as the three sat and talked.  The room was warm and cosy, and Jasper was pleased to have these two visitors on such a lonely night.  Simon Squabbles and his meanness he forgot for awhile as he listened to Betty as she told him of her home life.  It was just what he needed to take him out of himself, and to make him think of others.  But when the girl spoke of Lois and how she had been with them that afternoon on the river, he became doubly interested.

“Oh, you must see her,” Betty exclaimed.  “She is the most wonderful person I ever saw.  Isn’t it strange that you have never met her!”

“Why, what chance have I had?” Jasper asked.  “Anyway, she wouldn’t want anything to do with such a rough fellow as I am.”

“Indeed she would.  She’s not that kind; there’s nothing stuckup about her.  Maybe you’ll see her passing some day.  She might call, too, for she is so friendly.”

“Call!  What do you mean?  How could she call upon me if I am miles away from this place?”

“Oh, but you won’t be.  You’ll be right here where you have been for some time.”

Into Jasper’s eyes came a look of surprise, and he felt his face flush under the girl’s keen scrutiny.

“There, I knew I was right,” she laughed in glee.

“You thought you could deceive me, did you?”

“Why, how in the world did you know that I live here?” Jasper asked.  “Did anybody tell you?”

“No, certainly not.  But the Lord didn’t give Betty Bean eyes and a mind for nothing.  Who else would be poking around this place on a night like this but the owner?  And didn’t you know where your dry coat was when you came in? and your slippers? and your pipe and tobacco? and——­”

“There, there, you have produced evidence enough, and I plead guilty,” Jasper laughed.  He was greatly amused at the girl’s quickness.  “You are not offended, are you, at the little joke I played upon you?”

“Oh, no, not all.  But next time you do anything like that try it upon a man.  A woman’s eyes are pretty sharp, and it’s hard to deceive her.  Mine are, anyway.”

David had listened to this conversation and slowly the truth dawned upon him that the owner of the cabin was before him.

“I wish to apologise, sir,” he began, “for our rudeness in entering your house.  It was only necessity which compelled us to do so, I assure you, and when I am in a position, I shall recompense you handsomely for the entertainment to-night.”

“Please do not say a word about it,” Jasper replied.  “I am very thankful that you have been able to make use of my humble abode.  I have enjoyed your company very much.  But I think it is time for us to retire, as you need rest.  The girl can use that room there, while you can sleep upon that cot.”

“But what about yourself?” David inquired.

“Oh, I shall make a place for myself right by the stove.  I shall be very comfortable there.”