He sent the young man away happy with his promise of consideration. That he should have asked this beardless boy's pardon in so pointed a manner Socola thought remarkable. That the Chief Executive of nine million people should blush suddenly over such a trifle was the flash that revealed a great soul.
The President advanced and gave Jennie both his hands in cordial greeting.
"I've brought you a recruit, sir," the girl cried with a merry laugh.
"Indeed?"
"I have resigned my commission with the Sardinian Ministry, Mr. President, and wish to offer my services to the South."
"We need every true friend the world can send us, Signor—I thank you—"
"I wish, sir," Socola hastened to say, "to render the most efficient service possible. I have no training as a soldier. I have experience as a diplomat. I speak three languages and I am an expert stenographer—"
"I'm sorry, Signor," the President interrupted, "that I have no vacancy in my office—or I should be pleased to have you here."
"Perhaps your State Department may find me useful?"