“Dr. Arrington,” said he, “Gen. A. is in search of a person to perform a delicate and hazardous duty. The service is of such a nature that no one but a lady can perform it well, and it must be a lady of bravery, discretion and intelligence.”
“I do not know where you can find one in this community who will fulfill such requirements,” said the Doctor.
“I have taken the liberty,” said Gen. B., without seeming to have noticed the Doctor’s remark, “to suggest your daughter, Miss Mildred.”
“I doubt,” replied the Doctor, “that she possesses the qualifications you have named—at least, I do not know that she is brave.”
“Probably,” suggested Gen. A., “you have never seen her courage put to the test.”
“No, I cannot say that I have.”
“However,” continued Gen. A., “the business I have in hand requires more tact than courage.”
“Is it a perilous business, General?”
“Perilous in case of detection; yes, sir.”
“I profess to love my country,” said the Doctor, “and I am willing to make sacrifices for it, but I cannot speak for my daughter. I will call her, if you wish, and let her speak for herself.”