Enter GENERAL BUCKTHORN.
KERCHIVAL. General Buckthorn! [Saluting.
BUCKTHORN. Colonel West.
GERTRUDE. [Aside.] Jenny's father! [BUCKTHORN glances at GERTRUDE, who still stands looking away. He moves down to KERCHIVAL.
BUCKTHORN. [Apart, gruffly.] I was passing with my staff, and I was informed that you had captured a woman bearing despatches to the enemy. Is this the one?
KERCHIVAL. Yes, General.
BUCKTHORN. Ah! [Turning, looks at her.
GERTRUDE. I wonder if he will recognize me. He hasn't seen me since I was a little girl. [Turns toward, him.
BUCKTHORN. [Turning to KERCHIVAL; punches him in the ribs.] Fine young woman!—[Turns and bows to her very gallantly, removing his hat. She bows deeply in return.] A-h-e-m! [Suddenly pulling himself up to a stern, military air; then gruffly to KERCHIVAL, extending his hand.] Let me see the despatches.
KERCHIVAL. She declines positively to give them up.