"Cross my heart—"
Dick laughed aloud.
"Say—I tell you what I'm going to do!"
"Yes?"
"If Virginia don't secede in ten days—I will. I'll resign my job here with old Hunter and join the Confederacy. I don't like this new clerkship business anyhow—expect me in ten days—"
Before Jennie could answer he turned suddenly and left the car.
At the end of the platform he ran squarely into Socola. He was about to pass without recognition, stopped on an impulse, and extended his hand:
"Fine day, Signor!"
"Beautiful, M'sieur," was the smooth answer.