Deuced queer, though, why he failed to show up on such an
occasion as this."
"He was unfortunate enough to be sent out in the other direction with
despatches--good-night, gentlemen."
It was sweet music to me to listen to their hoof-beats dying rapidly
away behind us as we turned back down the dark road, the Sergeant still
riding with his one hand grasping the stranger's rein. I endeavored to
scan her figure in the blackness, but found the effort useless, as
little more than a shadow was visible. Yet it was impressed upon me
that she sat straight and firm in the saddle, so I concluded she must
be young. Rapidly I reviewed our predicament, and sought for some
avenue of escape. If we were only certain as to where we were, we might
plan with better prospect of success. The woman? Doubtless she would
know, and possibly I might venture to question her without awakening
suspicion. Surely the experiment was well worth trying.
"Madam," I began, seeking to feel my way with caution into her
confidence, "I fear you must be quite wearied by your long ride."
She turned slightly at sound of my voice.
"Not at all, sir; I am merely eager to push on. Besides, my ride has
not been a long one, as we merely came from General Sigel's
headquarters."
The voice was pleasantly modulated and refined.
"Ah, yes, certainly," I stammered, fearful lest I had made a grave
mistake.
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