“Mr. Walden, may I ask if we have not met before?”
“I think we have, Miss Newville.”
“I thought so, but was not sure. May I say I cannot tell you how grateful I am for the service you rendered me yesterday. I never shall forget it. I have not mentioned it, not even to my parents, for I would not have them concerned in the future for my welfare.”
“I can understand how anxious they might be, and I appreciate your prudence. The incident, I understand, is making some stir in town, especially among the soldiers. Doctor Warren has just informed me of it, and was kind enough to say it would be well for me to be on my guard, as the soldiers threaten retaliation. I learn, also, that no one as yet has been able to discover who the young lady was. People are wondering that no complaint has been made to the proper authorities by her or her friends.”
“Oh, I am so glad that no one knows it except ourselves. May I not ask that it shall be our secret, and ours only?”
“Most certainly, Miss Newville.”
“I cannot express my obligation to you, Mr. Walden. It is very honorable in you, and you will not let the soldiers injure you?” she said inquiringly.
“I do not think they will molest me. I shall not put myself in their way, neither shall I avoid them. I am a free citizen; this is my country. I know my rights, and I trust I shall ever be enough of a man to resent an insult to myself, and most certainly to a lady.”
“Do you remain long in town?” she asked.