An irresistible impulse swept Beverley to Alice's side, and his attitude was that of a protector. Helm sprang up.
A Lieutenant came in and respectfully, but with evident over-haste, reported that Captain Farnsworth had been shot and was at Roussillon place in care of the surgeon.
"Take this girl into custody. Confine her and put a strong guard over her."
In giving the order Hamilton jerked his thumb contemptuously toward Alice, and at the same time gave Beverley a look of supreme defiance and hatred. When Helm began to speak he turned fiercely upon him and stopped him with:
"None of your advice, sir. I have had all I want of it. Keep your place or I'll make you."
Then to Beverley:
"Retire, sir. When I wish to see you I'll send for you. At present you are not needed here."
The English Lieutenant saluted his commander, bowed respectfully to Alice and said:
"Come with me, Miss, please."
Helm and Beverley exchanged a look of helpless and enquiring rage. It was as if they had said: "What can we do? Must we bear it?" Certainly they could do nothing. Any interference on their part would be sure to increase Alice's danger, and at the same time add to the weight of their own humiliation.