Page:Randall Parrish--My Lady of the South.djvu/378

MY LADY OF THE SOUTH safe passage into your own lines—you and your wild Irishman."

"I thank you very much, Colonel Donald," rising to my feet, and speaking rather stiffly.

"Not at all, Lieutenant. I believe I owe you my life, but that counts even less with me than Jean's desire. I have promised your release to her."

I could say nothing, and he went on gravely.

"I have just been given the details of what occurred at Denslow's plantation, and your connection with the affair. It makes a very peculiar story. I had heard it hinted at before, but had no reason to suppose you the man. May I ask, do you propose taking advantage of this situation in any way? My own relations with Jean give me the right to ask this."

"I am aware of that, Colonel Donald, and will answer frankly. I mean to make every amend in my power. I respect and admire Miss Denslow sincerely, and will never stand in the way of her happiness. I pledge you my word to this, and ask your confidence."

"You certainly have that, King," he said heartily. "I feel that I can trust you both. This is an occasion when the Blue and the Gray can clasp hands," and he held out his own. "Your horses are at the steps, and the more promptly you get away the better. It may be we shall never meet again, but I wish your remembrance of me to be a kindly one."

"It could not be otherwise."

We passed out into the hall together, and the light rested on his handsome, genial face. It was indeed easy [ 358 ]