"In one year, if all is well, at most in two, I shall return.

You know I cannot stay with you, and you know why." He took the miniature from his pocket and opening it, held it before her face.

"Your mother gave her life for her country." For some moments he gazed upon the beautiful face in the miniature.

"She was a lady, and feared not death.

Ah! ah! such a death!" He struggled fiercely with his emotions.
"She was willing to die.