over it now, Marse Tom?"

"Oh, well, yes; but it would try anybody to be doing the best he
could, offering every kindness he could think of, only to have it
rejected with contumely and . . . Oh, well, let it go; it's no
matter--I'll talk to the doctor. Is that satisfactory, or are you
going to break out again?"

"Yes, sir, it is; and it's only right to talk to him, too, because
it's just as she says; she's trying to keep up discipline in the
Rangers, and this insubordination of his is a bad example for them-
-now ain't it so, Marse Tom?"

"Well, there IS reason in it, I can't deny it; so I will speak to
him, though at bottom I think hanging would be more lasting. What
is the rest of your errand, Dorcas?"

"Of course her room is Ranger headquarters now, Marse Tom, while
she's sick. Well, soldiers of the cavalry and the dragoons that
are off duty come and get her sentries to let them relieve them and
serve in their place. It's only out of affection, sir, and because
they know military honors please her, and please the children too,
for her sake; and they don't bring their muskets; and so--"

"I've noticed them there, but didn't twig the idea. They are
standing guard, are they?"

"Yes, sir, and she is afraid you will reprove them and hurt their
feelings, if you see them there; so she begs, if--if you don't mind
coming in the back way--"