"You must understand my only interest is in getting away as soon as possible. I am in constant danger here."
"Of course," nodding, her cheeks flushed. "And you also possess very important information. Because I have aided you to escape capture, do you conclude I am a fool?"
"Most assuredly not."
"Or a traitress to the South?"
"I could not think that."
"Then let us clearly understand each other once for all. I have saved you from capture, perhaps death. The reason I have done this need not be discussed; indeed I could not satisfactorily explain my action even to myself. But if the truth ever becomes known I shall be placed in a most embarrassing position. Surely you understand this, and you are a gentleman; I am sure of that. You are not going to carry that news to your camp. Before I should permit that to happen I would denounce you openly, and permit those men yonder to think evil of me. But I do not believe that course necessary. Instead, I am going to trust you as a gentleman--am going to accept your word of honor."
"My word? You mean my parole?"
"You may call it that--your pledge to remain in this house until I say you may go."
"But--"
"Stop! Lieutenant Galesworth, do you not owe this to me?"