alone like that, I told you I--I liked you, and--I do. Now remember
that, please, and be good. From now on I am not Major McDonald's
daughter, not even Miss McDonald--I 'm just Molly McDonald."

The gray eyes laughed.

"You are assuming a great risk."

"I don't believe it," her forehead wrinkling a little, but her eyes
bright. "You and I can be friends--can't we?"

"We 'll try, out here, at least. Even if the dream does n't last long,
it will be pleasant to remember."

"You do not think it will last, then?"

He shook his head.

"I would be a fool to hope; I have been in the army too long."

They were still for a minute, the girl's fingers toying with the flap
of the haversack, her eyes gazing across the river. He thought they
were misty.

"I am sorry you are so prejudiced," she said at last slowly, "for I am
not like that at all. I am not going to be ashamed of a friend because
he--he is in the ranks. I shall be only the more proud. What is your
full name?"

He passed his hand over his hair, and laughed.