The angry color flamed into the old man's cheeks. His sorely tried patience was on the point of giving way, but a cry from the window recalled him.
"Where has he gone?"
"He left for the East at four o'clock," faltered the secretary, after a moment of wretched irresolution.
The general's face became white, as his anger yielded to a more powerful emotion.
"Impossible!" he cried.
"The North matter has been left in my hands," said the secretary haltingly.
The general's hope revived as he heard this. He stepped to Elizabeth's side and rested his hand protectingly on her shoulder.
"You have the governor's decision?" he asked.
"Yes," answered the secretary unsteadily.
There was a moment's silence.