The person for
whose opinion I cared the most--Miss Cullen--didn't say anything, but
she gave me a look that set my heart beating like a trip-hammer and
made me put the most hopeful construction on that speech of hers. It
seemed impossible that she didn't care for Lord Ralles, and that she
might care for me; but, after having had no hope whatsoever, the
smallest crumb of a chance nearly lifted me off my feet.
We had a consultation over what was best to be done, but didn't reach
any definite conclusion till the station-agent brought me a telegram
from the Postmaster-General. Breaking it open, I read aloud--
* * * * *
"Do not allow service of writ, and retain possession of letters
according to prior instructions. At the request of this department,
the Secretary of War has directed the commanding officer at Fort
Whipple to furnish you with military protection, and you will call
upon him at once, if in your judgment it is necessary. On no account
surrender United States property to Territorial authorities. Keep
Department notified."
* * * * *
"Oh, splendid!" cried Madge, clapping her hands.
"Mr. Camp will find that other people can give surprise parties as
well as himself," I said cheerfully.
"You'll telegraph at once?" asked Mr. Cullen.
"Instantly," I said, rising, and added, "Don't you want to see what I
say, Miss Cullen?"
"Of course I do," she cried, jumping up eagerly.
Lord Ralles scowled as he said, "Yes; let's see what Mr.
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