"I think it will not be necessary—that is, only you and I!"
"What do you mean, captain?"
"Why, her guard have all seen you, and by your own story, they think you a lover, although not altogether a favored one. I have met the beauty to-day—they have all seen me. They saw me kiss her, and think, that for a short acquaintance, I am a remarkably favored lover. You are a private, and I am an officer, and in that particular, of course, have the advantage. I will come upon you, after you have conversed a few moments, and take the lady under my protection. Her guard will be much more likely to permit me to walk with the lady alone than you, as I am an officer in favor with the general. Once near our horses, we have nothing to fear, and none of her guard are mounted. Now go Harry. If we must fight, all right."
As Adjutant Hinton started for the rock, Captain Hayward directed that the horses be brought into the main pathway. It was done, and all was in readiness.
As Harry reached the rock, Alibamo sprang forward to receive him.
"Let your action be constrained—do not embrace me—and speak low, dear Alibamo. The reason for this, you will discover presently."
"I know you have good cause for this request, my own Harry, but I must tell you how I love you!" replied Alibamo, as she bowed her head upon the breast of her lover. "But I have been here an hour—and I sang, in the hope you would hear my voice."
Some words of tenderness passed between the lovers, when Alibamo cried:
"What is that?"