“Yes—I did.”
“How could you, coming into our ranks with a dead man’s commission and forged papers? How long did you think it could last? Were you mad?”
He looked at her wistfully, smiled, and shook his head.
“Not mad, unless you are. Your risks are greater than were mine.”
She straightened up, stepped toward him, very pale.
“Will you come?” she asked. “I am sorry.”
“I am sorry—for us both,” he said gently. “Yes, I will come. Send those troopers away.”
“I cannot.”
“Yes, you can. I give my word of honor.”
She hesitated; a bright flush stained his face.