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134 with the ruffians, in that you let Gardener Tom escape from your house when you knew we were after him!"

"Sir, there was a higher duty before us then, than that of aiding in the capture of a criminal. We would have done the same for you, had you been staying under our roof, ay, had you been accused of murder," said the girl, with spirit.

"Well said, my lass," cried her father.

But the brigadier's chivalry was not proof against the provocation he was receiving from this valiant and outspoken young woman. He gave her one angry look, gulped down the words he dared not utter to her, and turning hastily back to the parson, said shortly—

"This, sir, is no affair to discuss with ladies. 'Tis with you I would have my talk out, and 'tis your explanation I wish to hear. The lady must pardon me, but this is an affair which touches my honor and my fame as a commander."

"Go, my dear, go back to your work," said her father, patting her hand affectionately, and giving her a nod of command. "Leave these gentlemen and me to settle this together."