gine from
what you already know that he is acquainted with the Governor's party
and through them received an invitation to be present.

"Did he say aught of himself?"

"Scarcely a thing. He has not been a resident of the city for any length
of time, but where he originated, or what he purposes, I did not learn.
I rather like him. He is well-mannered, refined and richly talented."

"I sensed immediately that he was endowed with engaging personal
qualities, and gifted with more than ordinary abilities," Stephen
commented. "I have yet to learn his history, which is one of my duties,
notwithstanding the unfortunate state of affairs which has lately come
to pass."

He stopped and took the letter which she held out to him. He opened it
and read it carefully. Then he deliberately read it again.

"You say no one knows of this?"

"I am quite sure. Certainly no one saw me find it, although I am not
certain that I alone saw it fall."

"You are sure that it was in the Governor's possession?"

"Quite. I saw it distinctly in his belt. I saw it fall to the ground
when he caught hold of the sword knots."

He leaned forward and reflected for a moment with his eyes intent on the
note which he held opened before him. Suddenly he sat back in his chair
and looked straight at her.

"Marjorie," he said, "you promised to be of whatever assistance you
could. Do you recall that promise?"

"Very well."

"Will you lend your assistance to me now?"

She hesitated, wondering to what extent the demand might be made.

"Are you unwilling?" he asked, for he perceived her timid misgiving.

"No. What is it you want me to do?"

"Simply this. Let me have this note."

She deliberated.

"Would not that be unfair to Peggy?"

She feared that her sense of justice was being violated.

"She does not know that you have it."

"But I mean to tell her."

"Please!... Well!... Well!... Need you do that immediately? Could you
not let me have it for a few days? I shall return it to you. You can
then take it to her."

"You will let no one see it?"

"Absolutely!"

"Very well. And you will return it to me?"

"I promise."

And so it was agreed that Stephen should take the letter with him, which
he promised to return together with the earliest news of the result of
his court-martial.

He stood up.

II

Stephen came out the little white gate closing it very deliberately
behind him and immediately set off at a brisk pace down the street