But the colonel only kissed her, and told her not to keep her father and mother waiting; and so she went away.
But that afternoon there came a little note to Mr. Bradford from Mrs. Rush:—
"Dear Friend,—
"Can you come to my husband? He has opened his heart to me, and asked for you.
"Marion Rush."
Mr. Bradford went over directly.
The colonel looked pale and worn, and had a tired, anxious expression in his eye. But after Mr. Bradford came in, he talked of everything but that of which he was thinking so much, though it seemed as if he did not feel a great deal of interest in what he was saying. At last his wife rose to go away, but he called her back, and told her to stay. He was silent for a little while, till Mr. Bradford laid his hand on his arm.
"Rush, my friend," he said, "are you looking for the light?"
The colonel did not speak for a moment then he said in a low voice,—