military officer is paramount to all other considerations.  You have been captured within the lines of this army, and under circumstances which lead me to think that you have important despatches upon your person.  I trust that you will give me whatever you have at once.  I shall be exceedingly sorry if you compel me to adopt the extreme—­and the very disagreeable course—­for both of us—­of having—­you—­I—­I hesitate even to use the word, madam—­but military law is absolute—­having you—­

GERTRUDE.  Searched!  If you dare, Colonel West! [Turning to him suddenly and drawing up to her full height.

KERCHIVAL.  Gertrude Ellingham! [Springs across to her, with his arms extended.] My dear Gertrude!

GERTRUDE. [Turning her back upon him.] Not “dear Gertrude” to you, sir!

KERCHIVAL.  Not?—­Oh!  I forgot.

GERTRUDE. [Coldly.] I am your prisoner.

KERCHIVAL.  Yes. [Drawing up firmly, with a change of manner.] We will return to the painful realities of war.  I am very sorry that you have placed yourself in a position like this, and, believe me, Gertrude—­[With growing tenderness.]—­I am still more sorry to be in such a position myself. [Resting one hand on her arm, and his other arm about her waist.

GERTRUDE. [After looking down at his hands.] You don’t like the position? [He starts back, drawing up with dignity.] Is that the paramount duty of a military officer?

KERCHIVAL.  You will please hand me whatever despatches or other papers may be in your possession.

GERTRUDE. [Looking away.] You will force me, I suppose.  I am a woman; you have the power.  Order in the guard!  A corporal and two men—­you’d better make it a dozen—­I am dangerous!  Call the whole regiment to arms!  Beat the long roll!  I won’t give up, if all the armies of the United States surround me.

Enter GENERAL BUCKTHORN.

KERCHIVAL.  General Buckthorn! [Saluting.

BUCKTHORN.  Colonel West.

GERTRUDE. [Aside.] Jenny’s father! [BUCKTHORN glances at GERTRUDE, who still stands looking away.  He moves down to KERCHIVAL.

BUCKTHORN. [Apart, gruffly.] I was passing with my staff, and I was informed that you had captured a woman bearing despatches to the enemy.  Is this the one?

KERCHIVAL.  Yes, General.

BUCKTHORN.  Ah! [Turning, looks at her.

GERTRUDE.  I wonder if he will recognize me.  He hasn’t seen me since I was a little girl. [Turns toward, him.

BUCKTHORN. [Turning to KERCHIVAL; punches him in the ribs.] Fine young woman!—­[Turns and bows to her very gallantly, removing his hat.  She bows deeply in return.] A-h-e-m! [Suddenly pulling himself up to a stern, military air; then gruffly to KERCHIVAL, extending his hand.] Let me see the despatches.