"Then say it," he commanded with mock fierceness. "Say it this minute, or I'll—"
But her soft palm was against his lips, cutting short his threat.
"It is—Kyrle," she said demurely.
"Aye, so it is, and I never thought it could sound so sweet. Now say the rest of it—there's a good child. Ah, little one," he exclaimed with sudden passion, "I can scarcely yet believe all this is true. Lay all doubt at rest forever by telling me you love me!"
The laughter was gone from her eyes, and a solemn light came into them.
"Kyrle Southorn, I love you—I do love you!"
They now heard voices and steps outside the door, and Dorothy sprang to her feet, while Captain Southorn arose hastily from the chair and set it back in place.
It was John Devereux who entered, followed by a soldier.
"Well, good people," he said cheerily, giving the young Britisher a glance of swift scrutiny, and then looking smilingly at Dorothy, "there is a supper waiting for this small sister of mine; and, Dot, you must come with me—and that speedily, as I am famishing."
He advanced and drew her hand within his arm; then turning with more dignity of manner to the Englishman, he added, "After we have supped, Captain Southorn, I will look for you in your room, as General Washington will then be ready to receive us."