At that the Colonel's face changed a little. He had not yet grown used to the name of Fortescue of Rosehill. But Betty did not mind. She saw only that Mr. Fortescue was young and had a fine, supple figure and a pair of laughing eyes like her own, and a trim little black mustache and a close-cropped black head and a very graceful manner. "I thank you, too, Mr. Fortescue," she said, holding out her slim hand, which the young lieutenant took. "I think our acquaintanceship has had a very auspicious beginning." To this Fortescue replied gallantly: "If it saved you from a fall, I shall certainly consider it most auspicious." Then, they looked into each other's eyes and laughed, as young creatures do who have the sweet and subtle understanding of youth. The Colonel then said: "Perhaps you know my name--Colonel Beverley--and this is my granddaughter, Miss Elizabeth Beverley. Will you be seated?" "Grandfather only calls me Elizabeth when he is introducing me, or is very much vexed with me. On all other occasions, I am Betty," explained Betty gravely. "Miss Betty Beverley--what a charming name!" answered Fortescue, determined to admire everything concerning this adorable Betty. Uncle Cesar took Fortescue's military cloak away, and the young officer sat with his handsome head and elegant figure outlined against the strong light of the window. "I must beg pardon for my intrusion," he said to the Colonel, "but I have come upon official business--hence my uniform." "I understand, sir," replied the Colonel. "I have worn both the cadet gray and the army blue. Later, I resigned and spent some tranquil years at Rosehill. When the irrepressible conflict came, I put on a gray uniform, as did my son--my only son--the father of this young lady." Here the Colonel indicated Betty, who spoke quickly and with pride: "Yes, I am a soldier's daughter and proud of it." "The soldier should be proud of it," promptly answered Fortescue, with a smile. Betty was no Quaker maiden, but came of fighting stock. "My errand," continued Fortescue, turning to the Colonel, "is from my superior officer, Major Studly, who is engaged in making some military surveys in this neighborhood. We hope to go in camp by March. I have found an excellent place for our encampment, with running water for the animals, and a spring, about five miles from here, in the rolling country. I understand that the land is yours, and Major Studly asks your permission to occupy it for a month or six weeks, perhaps. Of course--er--er--compensation will be made for its use by the Government." "Compensation be hanged!" replied the Colonel blandly. "It gives me pleasure to oblige a brother officer, although the United States Government may go to the devil!"