“Peggy,” he gasped. “In the name of all that’s wonderful, what are you doing here?”
“I might ask thee the same thing,” she returned. “I was thinking of thee but now, John.”
“Were you?” he cried gladly. “I am a lieutenant now, Peggy.” He squared his shoulders with the jaunty air which the girl remembered so well, and which had always caused Harriet so much amusement. “What think you of that?”
“Oh, I am glad, glad,” she returned.
“There is so much to tell you,” continued he. “Just wait until I place this other sentinel, and then we can have a nice long talk.”
“I can’t, John,” exclaimed she, remembering her mission. “I bear despatches for the general.”
“You with despatches,” he ejaculated laughing. “Have you ’listed, Peggy?”
“Nay,” returned she gravely, his lightness of heart striking her like a blow. How could she tell him? “John, let me give the letters first.”
“Come,” said he. “I will take you there at once. I am curious as to why you are the bearer of such missives.”
“’Tis ill tidings,” spoke Peggy.