"I understand," he said wearily. "Celia shall not be informed of my disgrace with you—unless you care to tell her."
"I do not care to tell her. Is there any reason to distress her with—such matters?"
"No," he said. "What do you wish me to do? Go out somewhere—" He glanced vaguely toward the darkness. "I'll go anywhere you wish."
"Why did you come—again?" asked Ailsa coldly.
"Orders—" he shrugged—"I did not solicit the detail; I could not refuse. Soldiers don't refuse in the army."
She stood looking at the floor for a moment. Then: "Why have you changed your name?"
"It's not a permanent change," he said carelessly.
"Oh. You wish to remain unrecognised in your regiment?"
"While my service lasts."
Her lips formed the question again; and he understood, though she had not spoken.