“At no distant day I shall do so before a court-martial.”
“What do you mean?”
“Have you any doubt whatever in regard to my meaning?”
“Upon my word and honor as an officer and a gentleman, I have not the remotest idea what you mean.”
“Major Riggleston, if the nature of my mission would permit, I would return to the headquarters of the commanding general and denounce you as a traitor.”
“Captain Somers, those are words which no man can use to me with impunity,” replied the major, indignantly. “I shall hold you personally responsible for them.”
“I am willing to be held personally responsible for what I say,” answered Somers, coolly. “If you mean violence by that remark, I shall not be off my guard.”
“Captain Somers, you are a brave man. You have proved yourself to be a brave and true man,” said the major, with more calmness. “I think you are too noble a fellow to vilify me without giving me an opportunity to defend myself.”
“Of course you will have an opportunity to defend yourself.”
“You propose to denounce me as a traitor, you say.”