What else could I think, but that you had escaped into the Confederate lines with the news ?" She stared into my face, breathing heavily, yet without speaking.

Then she released the clasp of my hand, and leaned back against the wall, shading her eyes.
"Do not misunderstand me, Billie," I urged anxiously.

"I could never have blamed you.

I sent that word to you through your father.

You are a daughter of the South, and I honored your loyalty.