l, that is rank ingratitude. You've been up
to some mighty doings, that I know, or you would not be hungering for
more glory. Oh, I can see a bit ahead of my nose. Time was when you hung
around, not knowing glory because it had not come your way. You've
tasted it, Andy, and your thirst grows. I know a thing or two. You're
getting strong, too, Andy; you're an inch taller than I. Father
mentioned the fact this very morning. You're taking on airs, but
remember, I knew you when you were less a man. Have a care; a woman has
a tongue. I'll be calling you down if you carry things with too high a
hand."

Andy laughed and stood straighter. Then, very quietly:

"Andy, what was the master's name?"

"Ruth, I do not know."

"Do not, or will not tell?"

"I do not know."

"Can you tell me why he stayed here?"

"I cannot tell you, Ruth. Why do you ask?" The girl paused and dropped
her clear eyes.

"They do say, the whisper has reached my father, that he was a spy,
and--and a dangerous one!"

"They lie!" said Andy, hotly; "he, a spy!" Then the boyish voice fell.
The last, sad talk under the stars came clearly back, and in the shock
of the memory the boy trembled.

Ruth watched him closely. "I'm not over-curious," she faltered, "but I
fear for you. If he--if he were a spy you were seen with him far too
often for your good. Father even feared for me."

"Ruth" (Andy's voice had a new tone), "I can believe no dishonor of the
master, and I am proud that I walked with him and was his friend!"

"Aye" (Ruth looked doubtful), "but a spy is not a good thing, Andy, no
matter what shape it takes."

Old, rigid training held them both, but Andy must defend his friend,
though the honest soul of Ruth shone from her eyes, and challenged him.

"It is as a thing is used," he began, lamely, but seeing his way dimly.

"Father does not preach that," Ruth broke in.

"No; nor would I preach it," sighed Andy.

"But you would act it?" Ruth flashed.

"I do--not know. I cannot think the master was aught but honest. If he
were--were--" Andy could not use the hard word--"if he were finding
things out, you may be sure, Ruth, it was not for his own uplifting. If
he gave what other men would call--would call their honor--it was
because he held not even _that_ from his country. I can--see--how--that
could--be!"

Ruth raised her eyes. "Could you, Andy?" she said.

"Yes. I could give it as I could my life. I would take no recompense, I
would jus