GERTRUDE. She is here.

BUCKTHORN. [_Tapping her under the chin._] You're an arrant little
Rebel, my dear; but I like you immensely. [_Draws up suddenly,
with an_ "Ahem!" _Turns to_ KERCHIVAL.] Colonel West, I leave this
dangerous young woman in your charge. [KERCHIVAL _approaches._] If
she disobeys you in any way, or attempts to escape--read that letter!
[_Giving him the letter._

GERTRUDE. Oh! General!

BUCKTHORN. But not till then.

KERCHIVAL. [_Tenderly, taking her hand_.] My--prisoner!

GERTRUDE. [_Aside_.] I could scratch my own eyes out--or his,
either--rather than have him read that letter.

_Enter_ CORPORAL DUNN, _with_ GUARD _of four soldiers and_ CAPTAIN
EDWARD THORNTON _as a prisoner_.

KERCHIVAL. Edward Thornton!

GERTRUDE. They have taken him also! He has the despatch!

CORPORAL DUNN. The Confederate Officer, Colonel, who was pursued by
our troops at Oak Run, after they captured the young lady.

BUCKTHORN. The little witch has been communicating with the enemy!