Zonia caught the crumpled figure in her arms.
Vassar with a single leap was by Virginia’s side, seized her and rushed toward the shadows of the hedge.
He shouted to the commander:
“She’s mine, Colonel—by right of conquest!”
To Virginia he whispered hoarsely:
“Shout, fight, scratch, scream to him for help—”
Quick to catch his ruse, she struck wildly with her hands, and called for help.
The Colonel laughed.
“I had reserved higher honors for you!” he shouted. “You’re not worth it—go with your man!”