We bowed to each other as men salute on the duelling field. In his eyes
I read an unforgiveness, a bitter personal enmity, which I returned
with interest, and secretly rejoiced over.

"The lady seems to be in control at present," he said shortly, shoving
back the revolver into his belt. "Nevertheless I shall do my military
duty, and hold you as a prisoner. May I inquire your full name and
rank?"

"Philip Wayne, Captain ----th Virginia Cavalry, Shirtley's Brigade."

"Why are you within our lines?"

"I attempted to pass through them last night with despatches, but was
prevented by my desire to be of assistance to this lady."

"Indeed?" He smiled incredulously. "Your tale is quite interesting and
rather romantic. I presume you yet carry the papers with you as
evidence of its truth?"

"If you refer to the despatches, I do not. I sincerely trust they are
already safely deposited in the hands of the one for whom they were
intended."

A malignant look crept into Brennan's face, and his jaws set ominously.

"You will have to concoct a far better story than that, my friend,
before you face Sheridan," he said insolently, "or you will be very apt
to learn how a rope feels. He is not inclined to parley long with such