"He has gone with his father," I answered, with a shrug.
"That is not fair. The Duke was too ill to go alone."
"He came with you, General."
He shook his head. "Christabel! If matters were not so sad here, I might almost be tempted to put that forbidden question."
"If you were so minded, I might not now forbid it, perhaps."
"I think I am glad to hear you say that. The girl in you can perhaps scarcely help resenting Karl's going away just now; but then any girl can be unjust at such a moment."
"Are you pleading for him?"
"Oh, no; there is no need. You will do that very well yourself when you are alone."
"You are very provoking."
"All I mean is that"—he paused and smiled again—"Karl is and will remain a rebel."