"No, it is some one high up, but I'll get him yet."
The next day Colonel Clay continued on his way to the south. In a few days he had the satisfaction of hearing that Independence was taken and Foster defeated. But a little later came the discouraging news that the Confederate forces in Southwest Missouri were again in full retreat for Arkansas.
This time Mark was not gone as long as before but he returned in a weak and exhausted condition.
When Colonel Clay went away he left orders for Mark to join him in Arkansas on his return.
"I shall do no such thing. He has no right to order me," exclaimed Mark. "What I have done I have done of my own volition."
"Good for you, Mark," said Mr. Chittenden. "Stay right here and get entirely well. Then you can help me, as I have some important orders to fill for supplies for General Hindman."
"Thank you. You are very kind," replied Mark. "So kind that I am afraid I shall trespass on your hospitality longer than is well." As he said it, his eyes wandered over to where Grace was sitting.