The girl laughed.
"And I'll demand of him an explanation—"
Before he could protest Socola walked into the room and grasped Jennie's hand.
"Captain Welford," she laughed, "has just accused you of hobnobbing with the enemy on the streets—what explanation can you offer?"
"Need I explain?" he asked lightly.
"Miss Van Lew is a suspicious character."
"That's my excuse, I fear. She is a character. I've been curious to know if she is really sane. I stopped her on the street and asked her a question. Is it forbidden in Richmond?"
He spoke with easy convincing carelessness.
Jennie smiled.
"Captain Welford evidently thinks so—"