JENNY. Yes; I always have been.
HEARTSEASE. If ever you decide to assume command of any other man,
I—I trust you will give me your orders.
JENNY. [Aside, starting back.] If that was intended for a proposal, it's the queerest-shaped one I ever heard of. [Aloud.] Do you mean, Captain, that—that you—I must command myself now. [Shouldering her parasol.] 'Bout—face! March! [Turning squarely around, marches up and out on veranda.
HEARTSEASE. I have been placed on waiting orders. [Stepping up and looking after her; then very quietly and without emotion.] I am in an agony of suspense. The sight of that girl always arouses the strongest emotions of my nature.
[Enter COLONEL KERCHIVAL WEST, looking at paper in his hand. The SENTINEL, in road, comes to a salute.]
Colonel West!
KERCHIVAL. Captain!
HEARTSEASE. You have rejoined the regiment sooner than we expected.
KERCHIVAL. [Looking at paper.] Yes; General Haverill is to meet me here at seven o'clock. Major Wilson tells me that some of your company captured Colonel Robert Ellingham, of the Tenth Virginia.
HEARTSEASE. He is here under parole.