“No, my boy, you shall not go,” said Colonel Forrester, laying his hand upon his son’s shoulder. “It would be courting injury for no good purpose.”
“But if it would save Sir Godfrey and poor Scarlett?”
“It would not, Fred.”
“Don’t say that, father. If I could see Scar Markham, he would perhaps listen to me; and if he did, he might have as much influence upon Sir Godfrey as I have upon you. Father, let me try.”
“No, Fred, it cannot be,” said the colonel, sternly. “I am not in command here. The general has sent twice, the second appeal being made through my request, and in each case the answer was an insult.”
“Bit, father—”
“It is useless, my boy, so say no more. Sir Godfrey brings the assault on himself. I have done all I can. General Hedley acknowledges it, and you see I have ceased to be the stern officer to you, and have spoken kindly and in the spirit you wish.”
“But one moment, father. Do you think we could persuade Sir Godfrey through Scarlett?”
“No, my boy, and I am afraid I should act precisely the same were I in his place. No more now.”
“But, father, shall I be expected to go forward with the troops?”