Kathie wrote a little note to Rob the next morning, beside getting her lessons; and before the day ended they had a letter from Mr. Morrison himself, announcing that he was to be sent home on a furlough.
"I shall have a dangerous rival," exclaimed Mr. Meredith, in his teasing tone, "and when General Mackenzie comes I expect to be quite overshadowed. No stars nor bars nor shoulder-straps,—nothing but a poor unknown private! What good could he do?"
"He followed his captain and did his duty."
"Good!" exclaimed Charlie, who was standing beside his brother-in-law. "You will never find Kathie being caught by the glitter and show."
The old smile twinkled in Mr. Meredith's eyes.
"Well, I will promise not to be very jealous. Only you know you sent me off to war, so you ought to allow me some special indulgence."
"I!" exclaimed Kathie, coloring violently.
"Yes, you cannot disown me; I am one of your soldiers. Dear little Kathie, I hope always to be true to my colors."
The last was uttered in a low tone, but it brought a more vivid flush than the preceding sentence. Though now her eyes were downcast, yet in her heart of hearts she understood.
"It seems as if Rob ought to come home in the general returning. How glad I shall be to see the dear old fellow!"