“I believe ye, Miss—ye’d have an easy time with me. But I ain’t the Coort!”
“Stella, dear,” John pleaded.
“Leave this house!” Stella cried with fury.
“Sure m’am, but yer friend comes wid me,” said the sergeant, taking another step toward John.
“I tell you he’s not guilty! It’s all a mistake. I’ll explain to your commander in the morning.”
John smiled in spite of himself.
“Stella dear, this is nonsense. The sergeant is acting under orders. I must go at once.”
“Ye see, m’am!” said the sergeant with a polite bow.
“All right then, sergeant,” said Stella, suddenly changing her tone, “I’ll excuse you for your rudeness; I’ll go with you.”
“You mustn’t, my love,” John protested.