Mr. O'Connor tells me that your services have been
invaluable. For myself, my wife and babies and my people, I thank you
again. I wish I might do something to repay you--"
"I've only done my duty," was the modest response. "But I think you
might help me a little--"
"If it's within my power--"
"You remember Miss Barton?"
"I've just shaken hands with her--she is here!"
"Would you mind putting in a word--"
"I'll do more, sir--I'm in command to-day. I'll issue positive orders--"
Jennie moved, he saw her and beckoned. She came, blushing.
"What's this, my little comrade?" he whispered, seizing her hands. "The
war is over. I've shaken hands with Horace Greeley and Gerrit Smith
to-day. There can be no stragglers in our camp, I owe my life to this
young man."
He took Jennie's hand, placed it on Socola's arm, and he led her silent
and blushing from the crowd to an alcove in the far corner of the hall.
She looked up into his face with tenderness.
"You've done a noble and beautiful thing in the gift of your life to our
Chief for these two miserable years--"
"They've been miserable to you?"
She smiled.
"But I knew you would come--"
"You'll not send me away again?"
She slowly slipped her arms around his neck and kissed him.
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