III
"First of all," she said, "how long may you remain? Will you dine with us, or what?"
"I shall be most pleased. I have several days. His Excellency has gone to Hartford to engage in conference. It was intended that I should accompany the staff. I begged leave, however, to return to Philadelphia."
They were seated on the sofa in the distant corner of the parlor. They were quite alone now for the first time, the mother having asked to be excused after many minutes with the announcement that since he would be pleased to remain, the supper must needs be prepared. No, Marjorie need not help her. She might entertain Captain Meagher.
"It's glorious to see you again," he said, sitting down beside her after Mrs. Allison had departed from the room.
"I am glad you have come," she replied softly, rubbing her hand across her apron as if to arrange it neatly.
"But you knew that I would come, didn't you?"
"I thought so."
"And yet I greatly feared that it would not be possible. Preparations are being made for the final campaign, and it is expected that the French will be asked to play an important part."
"It was very generous of His Excellency to grant you leave."