She is a non-combatant of their own, and will receive their
protection."
He had scarcely exchanged a dozen words with the aides-de-camp before
the field officer hurriedly entered. Taking Brant aside, he said
quickly,--
"Pardon me, General; but there is a strong feeling among the men that
this attack is the result of some information obtained by the enemy.
You must know that the woman you have just given a safeguard to is
suspected, and the men are indignant."
"The more reason why she should be conveyed beyond any consequences of
their folly, Major," said Brant frigidly, "and I look to you for her
safe convoy. There is nothing in this attack to show that the enemy has
received any information regarding us. But I would suggest that it would
be better to see that my orders are carried out regarding the slaves and
non-combatants who are passing our lines from divisional headquarters,
where valuable information may be obtained, than in the surveillance of
a testy and outspoken girl."
An angry flush crossed the major's cheek as he saluted and fell back,
and Brant turned to the aide-de-camp. The news was grave. The column
of the enemy was moving against the ridge--it was no longer possible
to hold it--and the brigade was cut off from its communication with the
divisional headquarters, although as yet no combined movement was made
against it.
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