her womanhood. She had unsexed herself, and deserved treatment
accordingly. It was thus I felt as I clinched my teeth in pain; but
when I saw her leaning helplessly forward on her horse's neck, all
bravado gone, her hands pinioned behind her in the iron grip of the
Sergeant, my fierce resentment died away within me.

"Let go her hands. Craig." I commanded briefly.

She lifted her body slightly from its cramped, uncomfortable posture,
but her head remained bowed.

"Madam,"--I spoke sternly, for moments were of value now,--"listen to
what I say. We are Confederate soldiers passing through the Federal
lines with despatches. In order to save ourselves from discovery and
capture we were compelled to take you in charge. It was the fortune of
war. If now we could honorably leave you here we would most gladly do
so, for having you with us adds vastly to our own danger; but these
mountains are simply overrun with wandering guerillas who would show
you neither respect nor mercy. We simply dare not, as honorable men,
leave you here unprotected, and consequently you must continue to ride
in our company. Now answer me plainly, will you proceed quietly, or
shall we be compelled to tie you to your horse?"

I knew she was crying; but with an effort she succeeded in steadying
her voice sufficiently to reply.

"I will go," she said.

"Thank you," and I gravely lifted my hat as I spoke. "You have saved me
a most unpleasant duty. You may ride on, Sergeant; this lady and I will