"Ah yes! many times—and he asked for you, Percy, in the kindest way, speaking in the highest terms of your services to the country."
"It is like him," the major exclaimed with emotion.
"And this young doctor, Nell," pursued Clare, with a meaning smile, "what is he like?"
"Just what he has shown himself to-night," the girl answered, blushing slightly, as she had a trick of doing, the rich blood showing readily through the clear, transparent skin.
"A handsome, polished, courteous gentleman, intelligent and well informed above the generality, that is about all one could learn in so short an interview," and Clare laughed low and musically. "But you have had an opportunity to study his character pretty thoroughly."
"A thing I never thought of doing," returned Nell, with some annoyance; "but I can tell you that he is very patient and very kind."
"Any one might well be that to you, Nell," remarked her brother, regarding her with a proud, affectionate smile.
"But it was not only to me, but to everybody, and to the very horses and dogs. He seems to be always thinking of others, never of himself, and to have a kind look or word or smile for the humblest and meanest creature that crosses his path, and," low and hesitatingly, "I believe it's because he is a real, true Christian."
"I know it, one can read it in his face," said the major heartily, "and I am rejoiced; for such men are needed here."
"There they are!" cried Nell, starting up. "See! the wagons are just crossing the ferry!"