He's only just
asleep.

Winth. I'm sorry to hear this. How is he now?

Gordon (hesitates for a second). I think--He's very much better
now.

Winth. But you will he enough. Now Cabell, first you must
understand why we come here to-night. We came to try and save your life.
You and Hillary have been captured in disguise, which means you both are
spies, but we found no papers on you, and for that reason I could send
you here. Now, Hopkins and I have thought and thought about your
capture: but we cannot understand it, and that is why we come to you.
You've played a part--a desperate game. You had some motive back of your
surrender, but what we cannot guess. Now, man, I want to help you for
your sake and for the sake of those back there. Go call out Hillary, and
make a clean breast of it all. Tell me your game. Confess, and I will
get you both your liberty.

[Gordon stands looking at him for a second, then very slowly:

Gordon. I--I--don't understand what you ask. Surely, you have
forgotten that you are speaking to an enlisted soldier of the South.

Winth. (quickly). I didn't mean that. See here--I only thought
you'd fail, and then there was a chance to save the hearts of those you
love, even as I love them.

Gordon. We'll not fail!

Winth. Where's Hillary? I must see him.

Gordon (going to the door). No, no; not that. I tell you, he is
ill--asleep. Surely, I can answer you. Speak; say all you have to me.
I'll answer you, but not to him.

[The bell strikes the half hour.

What's that--the bell again?

Winth. 12:30. Hopkins, we must see the man. (To Gordon)--I tell
you, sir, we must.

[Enter Bill.

Bill. Are ye all right, sir?

Hop. Here, take the light and go in softly, and see if Mr.
Hillary is awake.

Bill. What's wrong with him?

Hop. You ought to know; he's very ill.

Bill. Ill! He? Not a healthier man than him in here.

Hop. What!

Gordon (at the door). I tell you, don't disturb him.

Winth. It is essential. (To Bill)--Call Mr. Hillary.

[Exit Bill: pushes past Gordon with lantern. He is heard
shouting, "Here, git up! Whar's Hillary? You thar!
Get up!" A confused sound of voices: then Bill says
loudly, "Here, whar is he? None of your damned jokes!"
The voices grow louder.

[Enter Bill, hurriedly.

Bill (excited). He's not in thar! Look 'round the room. Ain't h