"I know its contents," she said, observing him keenly. "The Government has chosen wisely. You can render invaluable service—"
She paused and looked at Socola with a curious smile.
"You know any girls in Richmond?"
"But one and she has just arrived with the Presidential party—Miss Jennie Barton—"
"The Senator's daughter?"
"The same."
"Wonderful!" the little woman went on eagerly. "Her father is on the staff of Jefferson Davis. Old Barton is a loud-mouthed fool who can't keep a secret ten minutes. You must make love to his daughter—"
Socola laughed. "Is it necessary?"
"Absolutely. You can't remain in Richmond indefinitely without a better excuse than your unofficial connection with the Ministry of Sardinia. You are young. You are handsome. All Southern girls have sweethearts—all Southern boys. They can't understand the boy who hasn't. You'll be suspected at once unless you comply with the custom of the country."
"Of course. I needn't actually make love to her—"