"The same fair heroine who brought the despatches from Johnston.

I hoped I might reach here in time, my dear, to tell you in person how greatly I appreciate your service.

May I ask if you are Major Hardy's daughter ?" Her cheeks burning, she murmured "Yes," curtsying to his rather stately bow.
"I knew your mother rather well in the old days,--a sweet girl, a Du Verne, of Baton Rouge.

You have her eyes and hair." He turned toward Moran.

"A courier but just arrived has brought me orders to halt my men, as Johnston is marching westward, and it is imperative that we protect the bridge yonder with sufficient force.