Page:Randall Parrish--My Lady of the South.djvu/86

MY LADY OF THE SOUTH she was in years she had already learned the lesson of control. "I thank you; that was all."

I knocked twice before receiving any reply; then shuffling feet sounded within, and the voice of an aged man asked anxiously who was there.

"An officer of the Tenth Georgia Cavalry," I replied readily. "I have a lady with me who has been injured by a fall from her horse."

I heard him unbar the heavy door, opening it barely wide enough to peer cautiously forth. He had no light, yet I stood so close he doubtless was able to perceive my uniform. Before either of us could exchange words, the clear voice of the girl sounded from below.

"It is all right. Judge Dunn; I am Jean Denslow."

Our situation was explained in a few sentences, and, the Judge guiding me, I lifted her slender figure in my arms and bore her unresisting into the broad hallway. As he disappeared in a wheel chair propelled by a negro, seeking a light and assistance, I remained looking down to where I had deposited her on a comfortable haircloth couch.

"Is there anything more I can do?"

"No, nothing; I would much rather you would go before the others come."

"That will probably be best," reluctantly. "Yet I am beginning to wish I might come back again."

I heard the quick indrawing of her breath, but no spoken word.

"You will answer nothing?" [ 78 ]