"No," Cook protested. "I want to see the inside of a Washington home."
The Colonel waved his arm toward the house.
"With you in a minute, children. Walk right in."
"Of course, if you wish it," the girl said softly.
They entered the fine old house, and sat down in the hall. Cook smiled at the easy fulfillment of his task. Directly in front of the door, set in a deep panel, was the portrait of the first President. On the right in a smaller panel hung the sword which Frederick the Great had given him. On the other side, the pistols from the hands of Lafayette. A tiny, gold plate, delicately engraved, marked each treasure.
Virginia showed him these souvenirs of her country's history. She spoke of them with breathless awe. She laughed with girlish pride.
"Aren't they just grand?"
Cook nodded.
He felt guilty of treachery. A betrayal of Southern hospitality in this sweet girl's presence! He ground his teeth at the thought of his weakness the next moment.
Colonel Washington appeared through the door from the dining room. He was followed by his ancient butler, bearing a tray filled with drinks.