The only reply from Branch was a blow upon the head of the senseless captain.
"Thus will I revenge every word of insult you speak to me!"
"You will revenge but little more, for he is nearly gone. But you are mistaken if you deem him my lover. I never saw him until to-day."
"I do not believe you," replied Branch.
"Did you not hear him speak the name of Harry Hinton?"
"I did."
"Harry is the one I love. Captain Hayward spoke that name that I might recognize him as a friend. Harry was with the captain, and has escaped, and wo to you, Branch, when he returns!"
"Bah! Think you that I can be frightened from my purpose? No! Besides, I do not believe one word you have said. Has Hayward spoken recently?" asked Branch.
"Yes, several times. But he is evidently suffering great pain from riding in this manner, and he faints in an instant after the return of his reason," replied one of the soldiers.
"O Branch! in mercy do not torture this poor man in this manner," said Alibamo, imploringly.