One inquiry, however, sprang to his surprised lips.

"Do you know her ?" "Damn sight--better--than any one around here--know her--real name." Brant stared incredulously.

"Do you mean to insinuate that that young woman is living in this community under an assumed one?
Why, she is scarcely more than a child! What do you mean, man ?" The soldier's hat still rested on the grass where it had fallen, its military insignia hidden.
"I guess--I know--what I--know," the fellow muttered.

"What 's--your--regiment ?" "Seventh Cavalry." The man stiffened up as if an electric shock had swept through his limp frame.

"The hell!--and--did--she--call you--Brant ?" The young officer's face exhibited his disgust.