The old Roman before him was a man of quick and strong decisions. The very courage of the young man had its appeal.
"At least you'll eat," said he. "I'd not turn even a black Secesh away hungry--not even a man with your record in the Army."
"No, I'll not eat with you."
"Wait then! I'll send the girl pretty soon, if you are here by her invitation. I'll see she never invites you again."
Wingate walked toward his wagon. Banion kept out of the light circle and found his horse. He stood, leaning his head on his arms in the saddle, waiting, until after what seemed an age she slipped out of the darkness, almost into his arms, standing pale, her fingers lacing and unlacing--the girl who had kissed him once--to say good-by.
[pg 204]
"Will Banion!" she whispered. "Yes, I sent for you. I felt you'd find the letter."
"Yes, Molly." It was long before he would look at her. "You're the same," said he. "Only you've grown more beautiful every day. It's hard to leave you--awfully hard. I couldn't, if I saw you often."
He reached out again and took her in his arms, softly, kissed her tenderly on each cheek, whispered things that lovers do say. But for his arms she would have dropped again, she was so weak. She fought him off feebly.