“For whom then?”

“For a brave gentleman who iss marching south with the Prince—a kind friend of mine.”

“You seem to have many of them. For which one is the favour?” I queried, a little bitterly.

She looked at me askance, demure yet whimsical.

“You will can tell when you see him wearing it.”

I fell sulky, at the which mirth bubbled up in her.

“Is he as good a friend as I am, this fine lover of yours?” I asked.

“Every whit.” Mockery of my sullenness danced in her blue eyes.

“And do you—like him as well?” I blurted out, face flaming.

She nodded yes, gaily, without the least sentiment in the world.