"'Twould be awful—simply too awful," moaned Kate, "if anyone should learn what has happened on so short acquaintance. Beside, I'd be the principal sufferer, whereas it wasn't in the least particular my fault."
"'Twas all your fault, my dear," protested Jermyn. "If you hadn't been the most incomparable woman in all the world——"
"Please don't forget," interrupted Kate, "that we are not alone."
"I'll take Trixy aside at once," said Trif, "and caution her thoroughly."
"You will make us everlastingly your debtors," said Jermyn. "Let me find her for you."
While the young man was absent, the two women talked as rapidly and earnestly and ecstatically as only women can talk about the most important event—but one—that can befall one of their sex. Almost as soon as Jermyn returned with the child, an orderly from the fort appeared with the word that the officer was wanted at his company quarters, so Jermyn bade a reluctant adieu, and hurried away.
As he passed through the postern gate of the fort, he met an officer who seemed to be looking for some one, and who exclaimed:
"Hurry along, old fellow! Every one is waiting impatiently."
"Every one waiting? What has happened?"