`` You have had a terrible experience and a narrow escape , '' said Alan lamely . He could think of nothing more to say ; his usual readiness of utterance seemed to have failed him . `` You saved my life , '' she said , `` you and Pat -- for doggie must have his share of credit . '' `` A much larger share than mine , '' said Alan , smiling . `` If Pat had not come for me , I would not have known of your danger . What a magnificent fellow he is ! '' `` Is n't he ? '' she agreed proudly . `` And so is Laddie , my other dog . He went with Father today . I love my dogs more than people . '' She looked at him with a little defiance in her eyes . `` I suppose you think that terrible . '' `` I think many dogs are much more lovable -- and worthy of love -- than many people , '' said Alan , laughing . How childlike she was in some ways ! That trace of defiance -- it was so like a child who expected to be scolded for some wrong attitude of mind . And yet there were moments when she looked the tall proud queen . Sometimes , when the path grew narrow , she walked before him , her hand on the dog 's head . Alan liked this , since it left him free to watch admiringly the swinging grace of her step and the white curves of her neck beneath the thick braid of hair , which today was wound about her head . When she dropped back beside him in the wider spaces , he could only have stolen glances at her profile , delicately , strongly cut , virginal in its soft curves , childlike in its purity .
Once she looked around and caught his glance ; again she flushed , and something strange and exultant stirred XXXXX Alan 's heart .
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