"You have been away so long," I began petulantly, but she interrupted,
"No, dear, scarcely fifteen minutes, and I have had such good news. I hurried back just to share it with you. The doctor says you are going to get well, that all you need is nursing, and--and I have heard from father."
I looked at her, dimly understanding, and beginning to reflect her own happiness.
"How did you hear? Is he a prisoner?"
"Oh, no! Could I be happy under those conditions? He is unhurt, and has sent for me. General Johnston despatched an officer through the lines with a flag of truce. He was brought here, and that was why I left you. He had a letter for me, and authority to conduct me back to the general's headquarters. Was not that thoughtful of them?"
"Yes," I answered wearily, clinging to her hand, "and--and you are going now? You came to say good-bye?"
"You poor boy, do you really think that? Shall I tell you what message I sent back?"
My face must have answered, for she lowered her head until her cheek rested against mine, her eyes hidden.
"I--I said I would stay here with my soldier."
I was still a long while it seemed to me, our hands clasped, our cheeks pressing. I could feel her soft breath, and the strands of her hair.