“Yes, Neil, dear; of course, I want to do what is right, and you will help me.”
“I will, dear, with all my strength. You know that Tom has his duty to do, like the rest of us, and you have yours to our poor father.”
“Yes, Neil, of course, and you know I try.”
“My darling, yes,” he cried, as he kissed the pale cheeks wet now with tears.
“Then tell me. I must know. When is Tom to go?”
“Isabel, your father forbade all engagement with him, and I have talked to Tom Beck as I thought was best for both of you. Come, you must act like a brave little woman and help me. We have both got our duty to do now at a very sad time. You will help me and try to be firm?”
“Yes—yes,” she whispered hoarsely, “but—but—Neil—tell me—when is he to go?”
“Isabel, dear, it was his duty as an officer and as an honourable man.”
“Yes,” she whispered in a strangely low tone. “Tom would do his duty always, I know—now—you are keeping something back. I can see it,” she cried, growing more excited and struggling in his arms. “I know now—and without bidding me good-bye. Neil, you have sent him away; he is gone!”
Neil bent his head sadly, and she literally snatched herself away.