on of some Yankee stronghold, and
Evilena hoped it did not mean that Kenneth must leave before the
party.

* * * * *

The man whom Pluto showed into the library with the information that
Madame Caron would be down at once, glanced about him quickly, and
with annoyance, when he found there was another man in the room. But
the instant Monroe's face was seen by him, he uttered an exclamation
of pleasure.

"By Jove! Captain Jack?" and he turned to him eagerly, after noting
that Pluto had left the door.

"I don't think I know you, sir, though you evidently know one of my
names," and his tone was not particularly cordial as he eyed the
stranger.

"Don't you remember the night run you made on the yacht _Marquise_,
last March?" and the man's tone was low and hurried. "I had no beard
then, which makes a difference. This trip is not quite so important,
but has been more annoying. I've been followed, have doubled like a
hare for hours, and don't believe I've thrown them off the track after
all. I have a message to deliver; if I can't see Madame alone at once
you get it to her."

"Can't do it; don't want to see it!" and Monroe's tone was quick and
decided as the man's own. "I am on parole."

"Parole!" and the stranger looked at him skeptically. "Look here, you
are evidently working with Madame, and afraid to trust me, but it's
all right. I swear it is! I destroyed the message when I saw I was
followed, but I know the contents, and if you will take it--"

"You mistake. I have absolutely no knowledge of Madame's affairs at
present."

"Then you won't take it?" and the man's tones held smothered rage.
"So, when put to the test, Captain Jack Monroe is afraid to risk what
thousands are risking for the cause, at the front and in secret--a
life!"

"It is just as well not to say 'afraid,' my good fellow," and
Monroe's words were a trifle colder, a shade more deliberate. "Do you
know what a parole means? I excuse your words because of your present
position, which may be desperate. If you are her friend I will do what
I can to save you; but the contents of the dispatch I refuse to
hear."

Judithe entered the door as he spoke, and came forward smilingly.

"Certainly; it was not intended that you should. This is the captain
of my yacht, and his messages only interest me."

"Madame Caron!" and Monroe's tones were imploring, "Consider where you
are. Think of the risks you run!"

"Risk