never bothered his head about me then. No, and he didn't even know me
out yonder, until after the sergeant spoke up. What business has that
fellow got planning what I shall do?"

Hampton made no attempt to answer. It was better to let her
indignation die out naturally, and so he asked a question. "What is
this Brant doing at Bethune? There is no cavalry stationed there."

She glanced up quickly, interested by the sudden change in his voice.
"I heard dad say he was kept there on some special detail. His
regiment is stationed at Fort Lincoln, somewhere farther north. He
used to come down and talk with dad evenings, because daddy saw service
in the Seventh when it was first organized after the war."

"Did you--did you ever hear either of them say anything about Major
Alfred Brant? He must have been this lad's father."

"No, I never heard much they said. Did you know him?"

"The father, yes, but that was years ago. Come, Kid, all this is only
ancient history, and just as well forgotten. Now, you are a sensible
girl, when your temper don't get away with you, and I am simply going
to leave this matter to your better judgment. Will you go to Mrs.
Herndon's, and find out how you like it? You need n't stop there an
hour if she is n't good to you, but you ought not to want to remain
with me, and grow up like a rough boy."

"You--you really want me to go, don't you?"

"Yes, I want you to go. It's a chance for you, Kid, and there is n't a