"But how is it possible—once this thought has found its way into your mind? If I am a spy, as your Captain Welford says, it is my business to deceive the enemy. I couldn't tell the truth and live in Richmond. I would swing from the nearest limb if I should be discovered—"
Jennie covered her face with her hands:
"Don't—don't—please—"
"Can't you see how useless such a question?"
"You can't convince me?" she asked pathetically.
"I won't try," he said firmly. "You must trust me because you love me. Nothing I could say could convince you—"
He paused and held her hands in a desperate clasp—
"Trust me, dear—I promise in good time to convince you that I am all your heart has told you—"
"You must convince me now—or I'll die," she sobbed.