Ruth (looks down). Yes, all; for at heart the colonel believes in your honor. He must, but his friend Newcomb has so woven his influence about him, that the poison has done its work. Oh, Roger, that man, how I despise and fear him.
Roger. And well you may. Never mind, Ruth, some day my name will stand without a blemish, and the colonel will be made to forget his doubts. Now, I shall serve my country with my heart and soul, believing and trusting that justice in good time will right my wrongs.
Colonel (outside). Yes, major, a capital plan.
Ruth. The colonel! he must not see you. I fear he may forget that you are my brother.
Roger. Never mind, Ruth, his words cannot hurt me.
(Enter Colonel leaning upon arm of Potts, who carries the Colonel's cloak and hat.)
Col. Ruth, dear, I am quite myself again. The major's active brain has helped to clear my cobwebbed intellect, and our united forces have conceived a most brilliant scheme. (Turns; sees Roger; sternly.) Roger Carruth, what are you doing here?
Roger. Calling upon my sister and my fiancée.
Col. And do you think, sir, that I, their only protector, will allow one whose name is sullied to hold an interview with them?
Ruth (goes to Colonel). Gordon, you forget that you are speaking to my brother.