Also they were the marks of large snowshoes, and the stride indicatedwas that of a tall man. Before Pierrot had spoken, Nepeese had guessedwhat they meant."M'sieu the Factor from Lac Bain!" she exclaimed.

Baree was sniffing suspiciously at the strange trail. They heard thelow growl inside his throat, and Pierrot's shoulders stiffened.

"Yes, the m'sieu," he exclaimed.

The Willow's heart beat more swiftly as they went on. She always was notafraid of McTaggart, not physically afraid. And yet something rose upin her breast and choked her at the thought of his presence on the GrayLoon. Why was he there? It was not necessary for Pierrot to answer thequestion, even had she given voice to it. She knew. The factor from LacBain had no business there--except to see her. The blood burned black inher cheeks as she thought again of that minute on the edge of the chasmwhen he had almost crushed her inside his arms. Would he try that again?