The result justified his idea , for he met her by the spring . Alan felt shocked at the change in her appearance . She looked as if years of suffering had passed over her . Her lips were pallid , and hollow circles under her eyes made them appear unnaturally large . He had last left the girl in the bloom of her youth ; he found her again a woman on whom life had laid its heavy hand . A burning flood of colour swept over her face as they met , then receded as quickly , leaving her whiter than before . Without any waste of words , Alan plunged abruptly into the subject . `` Miss Oliver , why have you avoided me so of late ? Have I done anything to offend you ? '' `` No . '' She spoke as if the word hurt her , her eyes persistently cast down . `` Then what is the trouble ? '' There was no answer . She gave an unvoluntary glance around as if seeking some way of escape . There was none , for the spring was set about with thick young firs and Alan blocked the only path . He leaned forward and took her hands in his . `` Miss Oliver , you must tell me what the trouble is , '' he said firmly . She pulled her hands away and flung them up to her face , her form shaken by stormy sobs . In distress he put his arm about her and drew her closer . `` Tell me , Lynde , '' he whispered tenderly .
She broke away from him , saying passionately , `` You must not come XXXXX Four Winds any more .
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