Winnie suddenly felt that, in this man who usually remained calm, there seemed to be a subtle, almost imperceptible emotion hidden in his words.

"Mr. Marlowe, did you ever have a horse?" she asked softly.

Van smiled slightly. "I did. It was called 'Black Shadow,' all black, with a small white mark on its forehead. It was a gift for my sixth birthday."

The rest didn't need to be asked. Winnie lowered her head, her eyes dimming. She felt the night breeze and the scent of the ...