Charred Wood - Page 76/123

He caught the end of the blanket and once more covered the dead face. Then he turned and faced Mark and Saunders.

"God rest her. It is not Ruth."

Mark stared bewildered. Had the priest's, mind been affected by the blow, and the subsequent excitement? Father Murray sensed what was going on in Mark's mind.

"Can't you trust me, Mark? I know that the likeness is marvelous--"

"Likeness?" gasped Mark. But there was a whole world of hope in his voice.

"Yes, my friend--likeness. I--" the priest hesitated--"I knew her well. It is not Ruth."