“Not if I can help it, or——”
A tramp of hoofs was heard in front.
“Sergeant Patterson, sir,” announced the orderly, in the doorway.
“Send him in,” answered the colonel gruffly.
While he was talking with the sergeant, giving him his despatches and certain other oral directions, Mrs. Colonel had thrown herself across the exit to prevent the departure of Dell.
Dell threw her arms about Mrs. Colonel, kissed her, and set her aside as easily as she would have moved a child.
“Don’t worry about me, please!” and Dell went out.
A moment later Patterson followed her.
“Where’s Dell?” demanded the colonel, whirling around.
“She’s—she’s gone!” answered Mrs. Colonel.