“Yes,” consented Elizabeth.
Colonel Thomas led the way to a library whose walls were lined to the ceiling with books. If she had been less worried, Elizabeth would have exclaimed with delight. As it was, she gave a long sigh.
Colonel Thomas took from a shelf a thick book. Elizabeth could see on its back the title “Recollections of a Confederate General.” Her heart stood still. Was their disgrace printed? What kind of disgrace could it be?
“Sit down.”
Elizabeth obeyed.
“I should decline to tell you if it weren’t inevitable that you should know.” Even yet Colonel Thomas hesitated.
“I’d rather know it quickly, sir.”
Colonel Thomas began to speak as rapidly as Elizabeth could wish.
“There was a certain fact long gossiped about in this county. It was said that John Baring had given the Confederates valuable aid when they came here and that he had even guided them a part of the way. Before that his neighbors had never dreamed that he was anything but loyal.”
“Was it just neighborhood gossip?” asked Elizabeth. Her cheeks were pale, but her eyes held the old gentleman’s bravely. “Was it confirmed in any way?”