The visit of the young girl was discussed over and over again, not only in the officers’ families, but at the clubs, and also in the barracks among the men and in the settlement adjoining the fort.
It seemed strange to outsiders that Colonel Dunwoody should be so attentive to the sister of an outlaw, and that Major Lester and his wife should have her for their guest, while Clarice Carr had been seen so much with her.
At the officers’ club the younger men hinted that it was a case of love at first sight with the colonel, and all wondered just how it would turn out. Certain the colonel had made no effort thus far to get a pardon for the prisoner, even though doubtless urged to do so by the outlaw’s beautiful sister.
There was one thing which Ruth had asked of Clarice Carr, and that was to see her brother and try and influence him for a better life, even though, as she said, she knew that he was under the shadow of the gallows, and that the day of his doom was drawing near.
In obedience to this wish, the day after the departure of Ruth, Clarice Carr obtained permission from the colonel to visit the prisoner. It was given freely for her to go and come at will, as Ruth had asked it. She accordingly went to the cabin, accompanied by Captain Caruth, and the sentinel had orders to admit her.
Arden Leigh, the outlaw, sat there, as he had when his sister had visited him, taking matters very calmly. He arose at her entrance, the clanking of his chains sounding very harsh in the ears of Clarice.
“Miss Carr, this is an honor I had not anticipated,” he said, standing and motioning to her to take his seat.
“Your sister asked me to see you, and I have come to know if there is aught that I can do for you.”
“It is more than kind of you, Miss Carr, as you are the one I plotted to rob of a large ransom. You have a good heart to forgive me.”
“I only hope that all your sins may be forgiven as readily as I forgive your sin against me, sir. But is there aught that you need that I can send to you?”