"Don't be so down-hearted," she whispered, handing him a piece of corn-pone. "Our fate might be worse. I feel sure we will escape somehow."
"You are a brave girl to take it that way," he answered, and his eyes kindled with admiration. "I wonder how many men would have gone through this morning's humiliating experience and to-night's capture with such pluck."
Nancy laughed softly. "It is well you judge me from the exterior. I assure you I am 'all av a trimble,' and my heart quakes with fear of what the future may have in store for me," and she glanced anxiously at the rough men about her.
"Miss Newton, won't you sing for us?" called Captain Tucker across the camp fire. "It is not often we capture ladies, and I am longing for the sound of a woman's voice."
"Do," pleaded Goddard, low in Nancy's ear.
She hesitated before answering; then: "Certainly, Captain Tucker, provided you will sing first."
"Agreed." Tucker cleared his throat, thought a moment, then began:
'Tis years since last we met,
And we may not meet again,
I have struggled to forget,