Page:Henry rideout--The siamese cat.djvu/120

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THE SIAMESE CAT

es and tall crotons. "He was big, very tall even crouching; he ran forward a few steps, dodged back until the Sikh passed, and then stood out an instant watching. I can't be sure: but the moonlight was like day, and he stood there so broad, with his feet braced apart—you know—yes, like our courier Borkman. He held a sort of staff in one hand, and the end flashed bluish, like steel—a sword-blade or a spear-head. But you don't look surprised."

"I'm not," said Scarlett dryly. "Where did the cat stay last night?"

"In my room," replied Laura. "Then you think, too—"

"Had you always kept him?" he interrupted.

"Why, no," she answered. "Last night was the first time. The guide had always taken care of him. But last night when we landed, Mr. Sanders said, 'Bring him along to show the

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