With an air of martyrdom he folded his arms over the golden bands of his military coat and prepared to suffer.
"You have never once inquired as to my business. A careful officer should be more interested in the affairs of those under his command."
"Well, imagine my interest wide awake, and hurry on to the sea."
"I will not trifle with you, Pearl. I went in search of a young girl in whose history I had become nervously interested. George and Ellen St. Clair told me about her; and in Virginia a young soldier, who was brought to the hospital, added some information that awakened an uncontrollable desire in my heart to see her. I went to Boston for that purpose."
"Woman's curiosity!" he laughed. "Did you find her?"
"I did."
"What was she like?"
"I have her picture. Shall I show it to you?"
"Yes, if it will hasten you to the sea."
Lillian arose, and taking from the table the three photographs, returned to the sofa. "This is a Mrs. Gaylord, who has the girl in her care—a southern lady of great wealth, I believe."