What was my most important duty--that which I owed the Federal army, or that I owed to this girl?
And then again--did I really have a choice?
There was never a doubt in my mind as to what she would do if the occasion arose.

I had tested her quality already, and fully comprehended the promise to turn me over to the Confederate guard was no idle threat.

She would trust my word, but, failing that, would certainly do the other thing.

There was no spirit of play in those eyes watching me.
"Apparently I possess no real choice," I answered, at last.

"Either way I am a prisoner." She smiled, evidently relieved at my tone.
"Yes--but have you no preference as to captors ?" "Put thus, hesitation ends; I accept the terms of parole." "You mean it ?" "Yes." She extended her hand across the table, and I as instantly grasped it, both almost unconscious of the actions.
"I ought to thank you," I began, but she broke in as quickly: "No; please don't.