Where did _you_ get it, then ?" Now, as readily may be seen, I was obliged again to hesitate.

There were good reasons to keep my lips sealed.

I flushed.

The red of confusion which came to my cheek was matched by that of indignation in her own.

I could not tell her, and she could not understand, that my work for Mr.
Calhoun with that other woman was work for America, and so as sacred and as secret as my own love for her.