Reg. I was, sir!
Mor. Did you fulfill your duty to the letter? [Reginald hangs his head.] You are silent! Speak!
Reg. Colonel Morrell, it is with shame I acknowledge that I have proved unfaithful to my duty—I deserted my post, sir!
Mor. Maitland, it pains me to know that you, on whose honor and probity I would have staked my existence, should be guilty of this offense. It is with regret that I am obliged to perform the duty which devolves upon me!
Reg. Colonel, the offense is a grave one. I have merited the punishment it demands. I am ready to receive it.
Mor. What was your motive in forsaking duty?
Reg. It was an uncontrollable impulse to see my child, whom I had never seen before, that swayed my being—I knew not what I did! My heart was filled with a mad desire to see my child. Duty, honor, all was forgotten. I could not resist the longing, the yearning of the father, but I followed the impulse which completely overpowered my reason.
Mor. And do you know that the penalty for your offense, according to the rules and regulations of war, is death?
Reg. I do! and I will not shrink from receiving my punishment. I am ready, Colonel, to receive sentence.