GERTRUDE. Yes, General.
BUCKTHORN. I sent my daughter, Jenny, to your house, with an escort, this morning.
GERTRUDE. She is here.
BUCKTHORN. [Tapping her under the chin.] You're an arrant little Rebel, my dear; but I like you immensely. [Draws up suddenly, with an "Ahem!" Turns to KERCHIVAL.] Colonel West, I leave this dangerous young woman in your charge. [KERCHIVAL approaches.] If she disobeys you in any way, or attempts to escape—read that letter! [Giving him the letter.
GERTRUDE. Oh! General!
BUCKTHORN. But not till then.
KERCHIVAL. [Tenderly, taking her hand.] My—prisoner!
GERTRUDE. [Aside.] I could scratch my own eyes out—or his, either—rather than have him read that letter.
Enter CORPORAL DUNN, with GUARD of four soldiers and CAPTAIN EDWARD THORNTON as a prisoner.
KERCHIVAL. Edward Thornton!