The doctor gave one or two very brief directions to Kitty, and left the tent. As soon as he had done so, Major Strause called her to his side.
"Stoop down, little girl," he said.
Kitty bent over him. Then she remembered the words she had heard the day before, and started back.
"I can't nurse you," she said.
"Why not?"
"Because—I did not know what you were; but I know now."
"What do you know, little girl?"
"I cannot tell you."
The major looked full at her.
"Never mind what you know," he said, after a pause. "Do you see that champagne bottle? Fill me out half a glass. I have a sinking sensation; I am not accustomed to it. Hold the wine to my lips."