“I will do my best. It is a great pity that you were not more cautious. Are you going back to-night? Must you?”
“Yes, I must. I am not afraid.”
“No one knew of your coming?”
“No, I sneaked out, and shall probably be well scolded for it. And what excuse can I make?”
“You are all well?”
“Yes. You have not seen Jamie yet, I suppose.”
“No.”
“He has just come from down the country, and to-night had to remain at home to help entertain this array of soldiers I left there. You will see him to-morrow, no doubt.”
“You volunteer the information as if you thought I had demanded it.”
“Well, don’t you demand it? There, Rhoda, I will not tease you. You have been very sweet and forbearing, and I thank you, and will thank you still more if you can help to get this dreadful matter righted.”