"You are exceedingly kind."

The tone in which she spoke was most sarcastic, "I thank you for your
approbation," and I bowed again; "but I venture to tell you this merely
because I have already fully determined to despatch the Sergeant
forward with the message, and remain behind myself to render you every
protection possible."

"Do you mean that we are to remain here alone?"

"There is no other way."

She made no reply, but her proud unbelieving eyes were no longer upon
my face.

"I beg you to believe, madam," I pleaded gently, for I confess my
interest in her good opinion was growing stronger, "that I do this only
because I believe it to be a duty, and not that I desire in any way to
distress you with my presence."

She swept my upturned face suddenly with questioning eyes.

"As your prisoner I presume I have no choice in the matter."

"I should prefer that you took a different view, but in a measure you
are right."

"Very well, sir; I simply yield to what I am powerless to avoid, and
will obey your orders however distasteful they may be. What is your