Part 28 (2/2)
”Honest now, Jennie--you don't care for any other fellow?”
”Nor for you, either!” she laughed.
”Of course, I know that--but I can keep on trying, can't I?”
”I don't see how I can prevent it!”
d.i.c.k grinned good-naturedly and Jennie laughed again.
”You're in for a siege with me, I'll tell you right now.”
”It's a free fight, d.i.c.k. I'm indifferent to the results.”
”Then you don't _mind_ if I win?”
”Not in the least. At the present moment I'm a curious spectator--that's all.”
”Lord, I wish I were going with you--”
”I wish so, too--”
”Honest, Jennie?”
”Cross my heart--”
d.i.c.k laughed aloud.
”Say--I tell you what I'm going to do!”
”Yes?”
”If Virginia don't secede in ten days--I will. I'll resign my job here with old Hunter and join the Confederacy. I don't like this new clerks.h.i.+p business anyhow--expect me in ten days--”
Before Jennie could answer he turned suddenly and left the car.
At the end of the platform he ran squarely into Socola. He was about to pa.s.s without recognition, stopped on an impulse, and extended his hand:
”Fine day, Signor!”
”Beautiful, M'sieur,” was the smooth answer.
d.i.c.k hesitated.
”I'm afraid I was a little rude the other day?”
”No offense, I'm sure, Mr. Welford--”
”Of course, you can guess I'm in love with Miss Barton--”
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