His look was changed to the face of Frances, who,
startled by the earnestness of his expression, arose, and hastily
inquired if he would have any assistance.
"If you can pardon the rudeness," said the wounded officer, making a
feeble effort to raise his body, "I would request to have Captain
Lawton's company for a moment."
Frances hastened instantly to communicate his wish to that gentleman,
and impelled by an interest she could not control, she returned again to
her seat by the side of Miss Singleton.
"Lawton," said the youth, impatiently, as the trooper entered, "hear you
from the major?"
The eye of the sister was now bent on the face of the trooper, who made
his salutations to the lady with ease, blended with the frankness of
a soldier.
"His man has been here twice," he said, "to inquire how we fared in the
lazaretto."
"And why not himself?"
"That is a question the major can answer best; but you know the redcoats
are abroad, and Dunwoodie commands in the county; these English must be
looked to."
"True," said Singleton, slowly, as if struck with the other's reasons.
"But how is it that you are idle, when there is work to do?"
"My sword arm is not in the best condition, and Roanoke has but a
shambling gait this morning; besides, there is another reason I could
mention, if it were not that Miss Wharton would never forgive me.
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