"To-morrow or next day sure,--even if I have to go part way with the
stage myself. When do you want this money?" said Hay, tapping the
envelope Webb had given him.
"Well, now, if agreeable to you. I prefer to keep such funds at the
quartermaster's. Oh--Good morning, Mrs. Ray!" he cheerily called,
lifting his cap, at sight of a young matron at an upper window. "Can you
see them still?" he added, for the elder of the two boys was peering
through a long telescope, perched on its brass tripod upon a little
shelf projecting from the sill. Many a time had the "Rays' spyglass"
been the last to discern some departing troop as it crossed the low
divide ten miles away to the north. Many a time had the first
announcement of "courier coming" reached headquarters through Master
Sandy, the first born of their olive branches. There were unshed tears
in the gentle voice that answered. There was wordless anxiety in the
sweet, pallid face that smiled so bravely through its sorrow. "The troop
passed out of sight quarter of an hour ago, major," said Mrs. Ray. "But
Sandy could see the flankers on their left until within the last five
minutes."
"_Way_ out on their left, major!" interposed that young gentleman, big
with importance.
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