"Then I will ask Captain Le Gaire to accompany me to the dining-room. I
shall return in a few moments."
We watched them pass out, and then Hardy and I turned, and looked into
each others' faces.
CHAPTER XXIV
I BECOME A FAMOUS SWORDSMAN
"Sergeant," I said shortly, "I think you can be of greater service in
the hall."
He disappeared reluctantly enough, and, as the door closed, I extended
my hand to the major.
"I certainly appreciate your assistance," I began warmly. "I know very
little about these affairs, or how they are conducted."
He took my hand, yet with no great cordiality, plainly enough already
somewhat doubtful as to his course.
"I presumed as much, sir, but first, and before we proceed further, I
should like to have some explanation of the trouble between you and Le
Gaire. You are doubtless aware that I am the father of Willifred Hardy."
"Yes, Major, and I am perfectly willing to tell you the whole story.
Shall I send for Miss Hardy to corroborate whatever I may say?"
"No, sir. You are a Yankee, but a gentleman, and I accept your word. I
prefer Billie should know nothing of what is occurring."
I told it swiftly from the beginning, yet was careful to leave no
impression that she had performed anything more than a mere friendly
service to an enemy in danger.
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