"Well, at least not in the presence of others."
"Very well," I answered; "but always when we are alone?"
"Yes," she whispered; "when we are alone. I trust you." And she put her little hand out to me. I took it, and by a sudden impulse kissed it.
"You may always trust me," I said—"always."
A question now arose as to the disposal of the money. There was no danger from natives, as the new house was inside the lines; there was not much, indeed, from soldiers, as there were sentries near. At the same time I told Giulia that it would be safer to transfer it to some other place. "Can you not," I suggested, "take it to the woman in whose quarters you live?"
"No, no," she replied; "I will take some to give to her—she has been very good to me—but you are in charge, you must keep the greater part."
"I?" I said in astonishment.
"Yes; if you do not, I will leave it here."
"But, Mademoiselle Julie, there are very bad men in every battalion, and someone may break in and steal all."
"Let the sentinels keep watch."