FRANK. That I am dead. I am dead to him. It would have been better
if I had died. Nothing but my death--not even that--can wipe out the
disgrace which I brought upon his name.

HEARTSEASE. [_Looking right._] General Haverill has arrived.

_Enter_ GENERAL HAVERILL _with a_ STAFF OFFICER.

FRANK. My father!

HAVERILL. [_Exchanging salutes with the three officers. He turns to
the_ STAFF OFFICER, _giving him a paper and brief instructions in dumb
show. The_ OFFICER _goes out over the incline. Another_ STAFF OFFICER
_enters, salutes and hands him a paper, then stands up stage._]
Ah! The men are ready. [_Looking at the paper. Then to_ KERCHIVAL.]
Colonel! I have a very important matter to arrange with you; there
is not a moment to be lost. I will ask Captain Heartsease to remain.
[FRANK _salutes and starts up stage;_ HAVERILL _looks at him, starting
slightly; raises his hand to detain him._] One moment; your name!

HEARTSEASE. Lieutenant Bedloe, General, of my own troop, and one of
our best officers. [HAVERILL _steps to_ FRANK, _looking into his face
a moment._

HAVERILL. Pardon me! [_Stepping down stage._ FRANK _moves up, stops
and looks back at him._ HAVERILL _stands a moment in thought, covers
his face with one hand, then draws up._] Colonel West! We have a
most dangerous piece of work for a young officer--[FRANK _starts
joyfully._]--to lead a party of men, whom I have already selected. I