GERTRUDE. He was captured at the battle of Fair Oaks, but I recognized him the moment I saw him; and I am sure he knew me, too, when I went up to him. He whinnied and looked so happy. You are in command here—[Running down.]—you will compel them to give him up to me?
KERCHIVAL. If he is in my command, your pet shall be returned to you. I'll give one of my own horses to the Government as a substitute, if necessary.
GERTRUDE. Oh, thank you, my dear Kerchival! [Going to him; he takes her hand, looking into her eyes.] I—I could almost—
KERCHIVAL. Can you almost confess, at last, Gertrude, that you—love me? [Tenderly; she draws back, hanging her head, but leaving her hand in his.] Have I been wrong? I felt that that confession was hovering on your tongue when we were separated in Charleston. Have I seen that confession in your eyes since we met again to-day—even among the angry flashes which they have shot out at me? During all this terrible war—in the camp and the trench—in the battle—I have dreamed of a meeting like this. You are still silent? [Her hand is still in his. She is looking down. A smile steals over her face, and she raises her eyes to his, taking his hand in both her own.
GERTRUDE. Kerchival! I—[Enter BENSON. She looks around over her shoulder. KERCHIVAL looks up stage. A TROOPER, leading the large black horse of Act I, now caparisoned in military saddle, bridle, &c., follows BENSON across; another TROOPER follows.] Jack! [She runs up stage, meeting horse. KERCHIVAL turns.
KERCHIVAL. Confound Jack! That infernal horse was always in my way!
GERTRUDE. [With her arm about her horse's neck.] My darling old fellow! Is he not beautiful, Kerchival? They have taken good care of him. How soft his coat is!
KERCHIVAL. Benson, explain this!
BENSON. I was instructed to show this horse and his leader through the lines, sir.
KERCHIVAL. What are your orders, my man? [Moving up, the TROOPER hands him a paper. He moves a few steps down, reading it.