"Well, then, I thought it was right. There was an urgent call for
men and strong public feeling. I was at college. I couldn't see
others go and not go with them. I had no influence, no one to push
my interests, so I simply enlisted, and am trying to push my way by
extra services. Now, Miss Baron, think for yourself a little. Here
we are, two young people thrown together by a strange chance. We
have been brought up differently, surrounded by different
influences. Even if you think me wrong, can you not believe that
I've followed my conscience and lived up to such light as I had? I
can believe this of you. I don't wish you to think that we Yankees
are monsters. Do I look like a monster? Why, Miss Baron, if I should
live to be a hundred years I should regard a chance to do you a
kindness as the best good-fortune that could befall me."

As he spoke these words his face flushed, there was a slight quiver
in his dark mustache, betokening deep, honest feeling, and his
expression was one of frank admiration and respect. She looked at
him in silent wonder, and asked herself, "Can this be one of the
Yankees of whom I have heard such horrible things?"

She began saying, "I am trying to think for myself, but I have been
so shut out from the world that--" when she was suddenly
interrupted. Chunk appeared and said, "Marse Scoville, des git up de
ladder en shut de trap-do' quicker'n lightnin'. Miss Lou, kin'er
peramberlate slow to'rd de house, des nachel like ez ef you ain'
keerin' 'bout not'n. Wash away, granny. Play possum, ev'y one."

Miss Lou had gone but a little way before Mad Whately joined her,
having ordered his men to pass on before. "Chunk," he shouted, "take