I
was going to say, that the major is in a sad taking because of the
captain's being killed; but had I known how much store the lady set by
him, I wouldn't have been so plain-spoken."
Frances now rose quickly from her seat, with cheeks glowing with
confusion, and, leaning on her aunt, was about to retire, when Dunwoodie
himself appeared. The first emotion of the agitated girl was unalloyed
happiness; in the next instant she shrank back appalled from the unusual
expression that reigned in his countenance. The sternness of battle yet
sat on his brow; his eye was fixed and severe. The smile of affection
that used to lighten his dark features on meeting his mistress, was
supplanted by the lowering look of care; his whole soul seemed to be
absorbed in one engrossing emotion, and he proceeded at once to
his object.
"Mr. Wharton," he earnestly began, "in times like these, we need not
stand on idle ceremony: one of my officers, I am afraid, is hurt
mortally; and, presuming on your hospitality, I have brought him to
your door."
"I am happy, sir, that you have done so," said Mr. Wharton, at once
perceiving the importance of conciliating the American troops. "The
necessitous are always welcome, and doubly so, in being the friend of
Major Dunwoodie."
"Sir, I thank you for myself, and in behalf of him who is unable to
render you his thanks," returned the other, hastily.
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