"It's hard—it's hard," the strong man cried bitterly.
The mother and daughter studied his face in eager, anxious waiting. On his word life hung. Stuart glanced at their tense faces and couldn't find speech. He turned and spoke briskly.
"I must hurry, sir. I'll be in Richmond before sunset."
The sound of carriage wheels grated on the road and a foaming pair of horses drew under the portico. A woman sprang out.
Mrs. Lee turned to the Colonel.
"It's your sister, Annie, Colonel."
"Yes," Stuart added, "I passed her on the way—"
Mrs. Marshall hurried to greet Mrs. Lee. The two women embraced and wept in silence.
"Mary!"
"Annie!"