had not suspected it; however obvious it may appear now to those who
read this tale, the possibility that she had been masquerading in an
officer's uniform, indulging in warlike deeds, had never once occurred to
me. She was so thoroughly feminine that her acknowledgment came as a
distinct shock. I had, it is true, seen sufficient of life to be of
charitable mind, and yet there was that within me which instantly
revolted. She read all this in my face, but fronted me without the quiver
of an eyelash, firmly withdrawing her hand.

"It is easy to perceive your disapproval," she said more coldly, "but I
have no further explanation to make. I am sorry to have you think ill of
me, but I felt that perhaps you might realize my action was justified."

"It is not that," I hastened to explain, ashamed of myself. "I have not
lost faith in you. But I was brought up in a strict school; my mother was
almost puritanical in her rules of conduct, and I have never entirely
outgrown her conception of feminine limitations. I am sure you have only
done what is right and womanly. Do not permit my first surprise to end
our friendship."

"That is for you to determine, Major Lawrence. I have confessed, and thus
cleared my conscience of deceit. Some day you may also learn the cause of
my action, but in the meantime it must bear your disapproval. However, we
need discuss the matter no longer--"

She sprang to the door, and glanced out into the hall, stepping back once
more as Peter appeared. His eyes swept the room in silent observation.

"Captain Grant and the two officers with him have concluded their meal,
Mistress Claire," he announced calmly, "and one of them has gone for a
file of soldiers to begin the search of the house."

"Very well, Peter; go back and assist them. I will see to the safe
concealment of Major Lawrence."

He bowed graciously, and disappeared.

"You have not given me your pardon," I implored as our eyes again met.

"There is nothing to pardon, to my knowledge. I respect you because of
your sense of propriety, but we cannot talk longer now. You must enter
the passage at once."

"You will give me your hand first?"

"Gladly," and I felt its firm pressure, her face brightened by a smile.
"Now let us remember rather the danger, the necessity of concealment, and
not delay too long. Wait a moment, Major; is it true you absolutely trust
me?"

"It certainly is."

"I am going to put that to the test. You have papers you