The Southern woman's head went up and her eyes flashed. "I do," she said
contemptuously and moved away.

"Thank you," was the grave reply, and he turned to dismiss his men. Then
a thought struck him and he detained her with a gesture.

"Pardon me, but if it _was_ true--if a brother or a father--was
concealed in there--wouldn't your answer be the same?"

The answer that came proudly back did not amaze him. "I would try to
protect them--yes! Even with a _perjury_!"

"Ah!" he said sharply. "Then, don't you you see, you tie the hands of
courtesy and _force_ me to--to this invasion of your home. _Corporal!_
Make a search of the house for hidden arms or stragglers and report to
me. If any rebels are found--bring them out. Wait," he ordered, as the
Corporal promptly started forward, "nothing else, _whatever_, must be
taken or molested."

"One moment," commanded Mrs. Cary in her turn and beckoned to Uncle
Billy who had been standing by in silence. "William! conduct these
soldiers through my house--and show them every courtesy. If the
Colonel's orders are not obeyed, report to me."

"Yas'm," grinned Uncle Billy, with an opera bouffe salute. "Ev'ry
molestashun I'se gwine report."

Morrison laughed outright. "I'm sorry you still have doubts of my
honorable intentions. May--may my soldiers go in now? Thank you."