They could have no reason to attempt his life, no grudge against him.

Yet every Confederate was under guard, and the fellow Billie had seen in the hall wore our uniform, even to the detached buttons--she had noted that.

If the man had been on guard, merely performing his military duty, there would have been no secrecy; he would have reported the affair long before this.

But Le Gaire had been murdered, treacherously killed, without doubt struck from behind, and there must be some reason, some cause for the act.
"I understand this no better than you," I admitted finally.

"I shall have the house thoroughly searched, and every one of my men examined.
But I am afraid we shall be obliged to leave before the mystery is solved.