"That is true, dear uncle; but this time, I am afraid, you will be more difficult to be prevailed upon."
"Ah! ah!" the general said, gaily; "it must be something serious, then!"
"Quite the contrary, uncle; and yet, I confess, I am afraid you will refuse me."
"Speak, notwithstanding, my child," said the old soldier; "speak without fear; when you have told me what this mighty affair is, I will soon answer you."
"Well, uncle," the girl said, blushing, but determined on her purpose, "I am compelled to say that the residence in the camp has nothing agreeable about it."
"I can conceive that, my child; but what do you wish me to do to make it otherwise?"
"Everything."
"How so, dear?"
"Nay, dear, uncle, if you were always here, it would not be dull; I should have your company."
"What you say is very amiable; but, as you know I am absent every morning, I cannot be here, and——-