“You use strong words, Mr. Riggleston,” added the lady, whose bright eyes flashed as she spoke.
“I say what I mean,” continued the host.
“Is there any doubt of the fact that the state has been invaded by the rebels?” asked Somers, with a smile.
“None whatever; but Mr. Riggleston called them traitors,” replied Miss Hasbrouk.
“Is there any doubt of that fact?”
“Are men who are fighting for the dearest rights of man traitors?” demanded she, warmly.
“Undoubtedly not. But the rebels are not fighting for any such thing.”
“I beg your pardon, Captain Somers. I think they are. Permit me to add, that I am a rebel.”
“I am very sorry to hear it,” laughed Somers, pleased with the spirit, no less than the beauty, of the lady.
“I suppose you are,” replied she. “The South is fighting for the right of self-government—for its own existence. The right of secession is just as evident to me as the right to live.”