"You can't work for Big John with your ribs bound!" she protested, when she'd recovered somewhat. "How will you ride?" "I'm glad you're concerned about my well-being," Steven replied in a voice meant to carry beyond the fence, where two women were strolling by, pretending not to notice that Emma Chalmers was entertaining the much-talked-about stranger. "I wish you'd just go away and leave me alone!" Emma reached for the screened door, and the hinges squeaked loudly as she wrenched it open. Steven grinned broadly. "Like I said before, Miss Emma--you're going to be seeing a lot of me from now on. In fact, I mean to come calling again as soon as I can." One of the curtains moved behind Steven, and Emma wondered who was eavesdropping--Chloe or Daisy. Emma's desperation drove her to lie. "That would not be proper, I'm afraid. You see, I plan to become engaged to Mr. Whitney very soon." Steven caught hold of her hand and dragged it to his mouth, where he kissed the knuckles. It was as though she hadn't spoken. "Good night, Miss Emma," he said fondly. "Sweet dreams." There"