I almost thought he was going to kiss me, so close he brought his bronzed cheek to mine.
"'God bless you, my child!' said he, taking both hands in his and looking earnestly in my face.

'I knew your father well.

He was a gallant officer,--a noble, honest man.

Peace to his ashes! The soldier fills an honored grave.' "This tribute to my father's memory filled my eyes with tears, while my cheek glowed with gratified pride.

I was proud that I was a soldier's daughter, proud to hear his praise from the lips of valor and of rank.
"I had brought a beautiful bouquet of flowers as a girlish offering to the veteran.