Page:Randall Parrish--My Lady of the South.djvu/115

SCOUTING SERVICE Chaplain pronounced us husband and wife, and almost dared to resolve it should yet be so in reality—the very memory of her growing more and more distinct and alluring, as I comprehended the difficulties of our position. I wondered how she would meet me again; what message of friendliness or aversion I should read in her clear beautiful eyes. Surely whatever her heart felt would instantly find frank expression there.

Still half in a dream, yet clearly comprehending the hazard of our coming night's work, I routed out both Daniels and O'Brien from beside a comfortable camp-fire, told them briefly our orders, and set them to the necessary preparations. The Irish lad was noisily jubilant, but the silent mountaineer merely tightened his grim mouth, his eyes glowing feverishly. He made me think of a tiger who felt the prey already within reach of his claws, and I locked at him with a little shiver of apprehension. Much as I despised the guerillas, yet this was to be war, not murder, and I felt a strong inclination to pick another companion for the night scout. Yet why should I? Daniels knew both the ground and the man sought; he would be of the utmost value; and I experienced no doubt as to my ability to control his bloodthirstiness if it ever came to a contest of authority. Confident in my own strength and coolness I almost hoped it might occur, so I could openly assert myself. The very look upon the man's face grated upon my nerves; it was a constant temptation to me to give him what he was evidently looking for—a touch of the steel. I cared nothing for his feud spirit,—it seemed a small thing to [ 105 ]