ger," said Somers, who had been riveted to the spot
by the astounding revelation to which he had just listened.

He had been almost paralyzed by the words of the rebel, in whom he
promptly recognized the young man whose name and antecedents he had
borrowed for the present occasion. His first impression was to take to
his heels, and to run away; but a certain worldly prudence prevented him
from adopting this doubtful policy. If you attempt to run away from an
angry dog, he will certainly bite you; whereas, by facing him boldly, you
may escape all injury. This fact, which Somers had fully exemplified in
his own experience before he left Pinchbrook, was the foundation of his
action. Seeing that the stranger was perplexed and annoyed by the failure
of the family to recognize him, even after he had told them everything
except his name, he decided that he might safely retire under the plea of
haste.

"I beg your pardon, sir, for this intrusion," said the soldier, blushing
with mortification as he retreated a pace towards the door. "You will
excuse me, Miss Raynes, for my unwarrantable familiarity; but I have made
a blunder, or you have," he added rather bitterly. "Perhaps, when Owen
comes to introduce me, you will know me better."

"Owen's friends are my friends, young man; and you are as welcome as my
son would be, whoever you are."

"Thank you, sir; but, with many regrets for this intrusion, I will take
my leave."

"No, no, my young friend," interposed the old man. "You must not leave us
in this manner. It is true, we do not recognize you; but you are none the
less welcome on that account."

"Thank you kindly, sir. I have deceived myself into the belief that I was
better known here than I find I am. It was weak in me to thrust myself
across your threshold without an introduction; and, if you will pardon
me, I will leave you, with the promise to come again with Owen."

"Not yet, sir; at least, not till you have told us who you are."

"Excuse me; but I must go now," replied the young rebel with an
exhibition of gentle dignity, which quite won the heart of Somers, as it
did that of the family.

"Pray, give me your name, sir," interposed Sue, whose woman's curiosity
could no longer endure the silence which maidenly reserve had imposed
upon her, especially as the stranger proposed to depart without solving
the mystery.

"You'll excuse me, Miss Raynes, if I decline for the present. My comrade
is in a desperate hurry,