The expressions of good-will, of
smiling embarrassment and general satisfaction which Lieutenant
Crosby observed on the countenances of those present seemed to give
him a momentary check.
"Oh," he exclaimed, disappointedly, "someone has told you!"
Ranson laughed and took the hand which Crosby held doubtfully toward
him. "No one has told me," he said. "I've been telling them."
"Then you haven't heard?" Crosby cried, delightedly. "That's good. I
begged to be the first to let you know, because I felt so badly at
having doubted you. You must let me congratulate you. You are free."
"Free?" smiled Ranson.
"Yes, relieved from arrest," Crosby cried, joyfully. He turned and
took Ranson's sword from the hands of the adjutant. "And the
colonel's let your troop have the band to give you a serenade."
But Ranson's face showed no sign of satisfaction.
"Wait!" he cried. "Why am I relieved from arrest?"
"Why? Because the other fellow has confessed."
Ranson placed himself suddenly in front of Mary Cahill as though to
shield her. His eyes stole stealthily towards Cahill's confession.
Still unread and still unsigned, it lay unopened upon the table.
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