the darkness,--that her suspicions were now fully aroused; yet her
quick retort surprised me.

"You lie!" she said coldly. "That was a Federal picket he killed."

It was no time for argument, and I knew it. Any moment might bring to
us the sound of hoof-beats in pursuit; more, I realized that anything I
might hope to say would only tend to make matters worse. There was but
one course open. She must be compelled to ride, by force if necessary.
Why should I hesitate? She had no claim on my consideration, and I
hardened my heart to make her comprehend, once and for all, that I was
the master. Even as I reached this decision, Craig, noting our pause,
had ridden back, and reined in beside us without a word.

"You are right," I said tersely. "In one sense of the word you are
prisoner, for the time being at least, but not through any wish of
mine. We do not make war on women, and your being in this situation is
altogether an accident. However, be that as it may, we must, first of
all, protect ourselves. I would very gladly leave you with your
friends, if possible, but as things have shaped themselves there
remains but one alternative--_you must ride as I order."_

I could mark her quick breathing while I spoke, and when I concluded
one hand went up to her throat as if she choked.

"You--you are not Major Brennan's friend then? You were not sent by
Frank to meet me?" The questions burst from her lips so rapidly that I
scarcely caught their import.

"I am Captain Philip Wayne, ----th Virginia Cavalry, at your service,