"Yes, it is no other," replied Zulma with a laugh.
"Roderick!"
"Yes, and no better choice could have been made. A handsome loyalist against a handsome rebel. But there is a disparity of age."
"Hardly."
"I beg your pardon. Our tall, beautiful rebel is hardly twenty-one, I am sure, while your Lieutenant, Pauline, is more mature."
It was indeed Roderick Hardinge who had been commissioned to go forward and meet the American messenger. As he neared him, the two young officers bowed politely to each other and exchanged the military salute. Then the following brief conversation took place, as learned afterwards from the lips of the participants themselves.
"I presume, sir, that you have been detailed to meet me here," said the Continental.
"I have that honor, sir," responded Roderick.
"And to receive my message."
"I beg your pardon, sir, but I regret to say that I have instructions not to receive any message whatever."