Page:Randall Parrish--My Lady of the South.djvu/78

MY LADY OF THE SOUTH of her inability to revolt, yet with the old spirit of rebellion still dominant.

"Then leave me here; it will not be long until morning."

"I shall do nothing of the kind. Do you consider me devoid of every attribute of manhood? You would not be safe here alone, even if uninjured. We are between the lines of two hostile armies, in a debatable land where guerillas and bushwhackers must be numerous enough. Not if I have to remain here with you until daylight, and thus face almost certain capture, will I desert you now. I want you to do what is right, and do it willingly. If you refuse I shall be obliged to use my greater strength to compel obedience."

"What do you mean? What is it you plan for me to do?"

"I intend taking you upon my own horse as far as Fairview, and I will leave you there safe with your friends."

"And—and then?"

"Then, of course, I propose riding at once for the lines of my own army."

She drew a quick breath, straightening her shoulders.

"And do you imagine I will ever permit that?" she questioned fiercely "I am a Southern girl, armed, and I know what you mean to do, Mister Spy."

I stood up before her quietly in the gloom.

"You can certainly shoot me if you wish," I acknowledged soberly. "Perhaps you might be justified in such an act. I am not going to disarm you, nor make any [ 70 ]