Page:Randall Parrish - The Red Mist.djvu/218

 202 Fox gripped my arm, and as I glanced at him, I was surprised to see a mist of tears in his eyes. "Wyatt," he exclaimed, making no pretense at calmness, "do not be hasty in your decision. I would not counsel you to any act of dishonor, but surely some compromise is possible. I not only ask you to consider the situation from your own standpoint, but also from ours. I accompanied Colonel Pickney in the hope I might have some influence." He hesitated an instant, as though doubtful of his words. "Perhaps I should say, my boy, that another urged me to come."

"Another?"

"Yes—a lady."

My head swam, my heart beating like a triphammer.

"Do—do you mean, Captain Fox, that she actually asked you to urge me to save myself by such an act?"

"No, Wyatt; not that. She requested me to accompany Colonel Pickney, and do all I could on your behalf."

I drew a long breath of relief, my mind clearing, my resolve strengthened. She did care then! God knew I was glad; and she had not urged me to an act of dishonor. And I knew, I understood—she wished me to realize that she was not indifferent to