GERTRUDE. [_Facing him._] Listen to my confession, sir! From the
bottom of my heart--

KERCHIVAL. Stop!

GERTRUDE. I will not stop!

KERCHIVAL. I command you.

GERTRUDE. Indeed! [_He throws open the wallet in his hand and raises
the letter._] Ah! [_She turns away; turns again, as if to speak. He
half opens the letter. She stamps her foot and walks up steps of the
veranda. Here she turns again._] I tell you, I--[_He opens the letter.
She turns, and exits with spiteful step._

KERCHIVAL. I wonder if that document orders me to cut her head off!
[_Returning it to wallet and pocket._] Was ever lover in such a
position? I am obliged to cross the woman I love at every step.

_Enter_ CORPORAL DUNN, _very hurriedly._

CORPORAL DUNN. A message from Adjutant Rollins, sir! The prisoner,
Captain Thornton, dashed away from the special guard which was placed
over him, and he has escaped. He had a knife concealed, and two of the
guard are badly wounded. Adjutant Rollins thinks the prisoner is still
within the lines of the camp--in one of the houses or the stables.

KERCHIVAL. Tell Major Wilson to place the remainder of the guard under
arrest, and to take every possible means to recapture the prisoner.