On the threshold smiled the young captain he had watched from the window that morning, marching at the head of his company.

His cap was doffed, and his left hand rested easily on the hilt of his sword.

He stepped inside as one sure of his welcome.
"Good morning, Miss Prudence, good morning, Mr.Rae, good morning, madam--good morning--" He looked questioningly at the stranger.

Prudence stepped forward.
"This is Joel Rae, Captain Girnway." They bowed, somewhat stiffly.

Each was dark.