[_Exit_ R. _Rob_ (_seating his mother in her chair, and kneeling at her side_). Mother, there's one reason why I could not ask Gaylie for assistance. I should like to tell you, for I would want her to know it should I never return. _Mrs. T._ Never return! O Rob! do not say that. _Rob._ That is one of the chances of war, mother. We must think of it. 'Tis the unlucky chance in this game of life, when so much depends on my success. But Gaylie, mother. _Mrs. T._ Well, Rob, what of Gaylie? _Rob._ Mother, you will, perhaps, call me mad; but, since Gaylie left us, a wild and strong desire has taken possession of my heart. I could not see her growing up so good and beautiful, without becoming more and more strongly attached to her. At college my dreams were of her; my waking thoughts again and again fashioned her image into dear companionship; and I have at last dared to believe that I might one day woo her, perhaps win her. _Mrs. T._ Rob, my boy, 'tis a wild dream. She is a rich heiress; in a year will be mistress of that grand estate yonder. (_Enter door in flat_ WILDER ROWELL.) _Rob._ Yes, mother; but I am a soldier of the Union; and, out of that glorious majority who are to battle for its rights, the North will pick its trusty leaders. Why may not I rise? Why may not I win rank and glory? and, when that is gained, why may not I dare to ask the hand of her I love so dearly, Gaylie Gifford? _Rowell_ (_at back_). I beg your pardon if I intrude. (ROB _rises_.) Mr. Jenks asked me to step inside. He will soon join me to complete the sale. _Mrs. T._ (_rising_). You are in your own house, sir. 'Tis we who intrude. _Rob._ Mr. Rowell, I shall take immediate steps to find another home for my mother and sister. We will not long trespass. _Rowell_ (_down_ L.). Oh, take your own time: perhaps 'twill not be necessary to remove. _Rob._ How? I do not understand you. _Rowell._ I will speak with you again: for the present, make yourself perfectly at home in my house. _Rob_ (_aside_). His house. Poor old house! you have fallen among thieves. Come, mother. (_Puts his arm about his mother's waist, and they exeunt_ R. ROWELL _looks after them, then places his hat on bureau at back, and sits at table_.)