So the deep old voice rumbled on in the den, with only a brief word in Frank's boyish tones once in awhile.
Presently the door was opened and the General called.
The group advanced.
"Lee," said the General, "have you anything to say to this boy?"
There was a silence. Lee stiffened. Then Mrs. Sherman's tiny hand closed around Lee's great horny fingers and pressed them in the warmest, tenderest clasp. It was very unmilitary, but the General said nothing.
Lee looked down at the little lady and smiled; the first smile for many weeks.
Then he stepped forward a pace, still holding Mrs. Sherman's little hand. Lee raised it, looked at the General, at Mrs. Sherman and last at Frank. With a gesture of reverence he let the little hand drop.
"I forgive you!" he said, "Let's begin new." He held out his hand to the boy, but with a cry Frank turned away.
"Not yet, not yet! I can't take it!" he cried.
"You can if I can," said Lee.