Jasper could not fully understand the strange feeling that had come over him at Sammie’s unjust insinuation.  His first lightning thought was to knock the fellow down.  Then he wanted to explain, to say that he had not been spying.  But he knew that if he spoke he might get excited.  No, it was better for him to leave at once, and let Lois think whatever she liked.  He had saved her and that was all he cared for.  But as he moved along through the woods, the few words she had said and the expression in her eyes acted as balm to his wounded feelings.  He made up his mind, however, not to be caught in such a way again.  He would take good care to keep away from the Sinclairs after that.

Going back to the place where he had left his fish, he picked them up and started down along the brook.  He wished to get back to his cabin as quickly as possible that he might change his wet clothes.  He was hungry as well, and he longed for a couple of the trout he had caught.  He thought much of Lois, and wondered how she was getting along.  He hoped that she had not been seriously injured and that she would not catch cold from her plunge into the water.  He could not forget the feeling that had come over him as he had sprung forward and caught her as she was falling.  He should remember that sensation for the rest of his life, no matter what happened.

Having reached the end of the trail, he moved swiftly along the main highway.  He was almost to his cabin when he saw an auto by the side of the road.  Something had evidently gone wrong, for two men were anxiously examining it.  Jasper was about to pass when one of the men accosted him.

“Excuse me,” he began, “but could you tell me if there is a hotel or any place where we can get supper?  We have been stalled here for some time, and my chauffeur can’t find what is the matter with the car.”

“There is no hotel,” Jasper replied, “and I know of no people who serve meals.  But I have a place right near, and you are welcome to such accommodation as I have.  It is very humble, and I warn you not to expect much.  I have merely bachelor’s quarters, and so am my own housekeeper.”

“Thank you kindly,” the man returned, “I am very grateful to you, and we shall be delighted to go with you, though we do not wish to trouble you too much.  The trout you have make my mouth water.  You evidently went in head-first after them,” and he smiled as he observed the young man’s wet clothes.

Jasper liked this man, and this impression was increased as they walked toward the cabin.  He was well spoken, and so gentlemanly in manner that he found it quite easy to converse with him.  Everything seemed to interest and please him, especially the cabin.  He called Jasper a lucky fellow for having such a place where he could live so quietly away from all bustle and stress of the great outside world.

“It is quiet enough as a rule,” Jasper remarked with a laugh, as he lighted the fire in his little stove after he had changed his wet clothes for dry ones.