"That man was either my best friend, or my worst enemy; under heaven, I know not which.

Why, it is like a miracle, the finding of this bag out here in the desert.

It is the clue I have been searching after for nearly five years." He seemed to pull himself together with an effort, realizing her presence.

"Excuse me, Miss McDonald, but this thing knocked me silly.

I hardly knew what I was saying." "It means much to you?
To your life ?" "Everything, if I can only trace it back, and thus discover the present whereabouts of the original owner." "Was that your regiment, then--the Fourth Texas Infantry ?" He bowed his head, now looking frankly at her.
"Would you mind telling me your rank ?" "I became Captain of 'B' Company after the fight at Chancellorsville; we served in Virginia under Massa Robert, and lost every commissioned officer in that affair." He hesitated to go on, but she prompted him by a question: "And then what?
What was it that happened?
Don't be afraid to tell me." His gray eyes met hers, and then turned away, his lips pressed together.
"Nothing until the day we fought at Fisher's Hill," he said slowly.
"Then I was dismissed from the service--for cowardice." "Cowardice!" repeating the word in quick protest.