Quickly holding the handkerchief up to the gaze of the others they read the letters “C. R.” embroidered in one corner.
“They mean Curtis Remington—Cavalry Curt,” said the soldier with a smile of triumph. “He must have dropped it there.”
“And can’t be far away himself.”
“Perhaps he is hiding in this vicinity now.”
“More than likely. Miss Morland, you have deceived us.”
“Captain Dermot,” said Mara with quivering lips, “do you doubt my loyalty? I would rather die than betray the cause my brother has so nobly espoused.”
“I do not doubt it,” replied the Confederate, “but we must find that accursed spy if possible. General Johnston has offered a thousand dollars to the man who captures him. You will not object to our searching your buildings?”
“No—no. But is it necessary? Grandpa is away. Can’t you wait until he returns.”
“Delays are dangerous. Besides Cavalry Curt is no ordinary man. We must not waste any more time. Stand aside, Miss Morland, and let us begin our disagreeable task.”
She saw that it was madness to offer further opposition.