If she had opened an argument with the gentleman at her side she would have found that he was well posted with the old arguments about the canteen being an institution to keep the soldiers from the greed of evil saloons outside the different posts, but her companion respected her silence, and did not speak until they had passed the great iron gate, when it became necessary.
"Now," said he, "if you will direct the way, and have no objections, it will give me pleasure to see you safely home."
"I am Miss Thorn," said Jean, giving him her address.
"Miss Thorn? Perhaps you are related to Judge Thorn?"
"I am," replied Jean, smiling.
"That is nice. I have had the pleasure of meeting the judge, and I do not know a man whom I would rather oblige. He is a man all men honor."
"I am his daughter," Jean said, proudly, "and I assure you my father will feel under lasting obligations to you for your kindness to me this afternoon, Mr. ——"
"Allison," the gentleman said.
"Allison?" It was Jean's turn to look surprised.
"Yes, madam. Allison—Gilbert Allison."