Suddenly she heard
the click of a musket lock just beneath her, and, looking down, saw
Perkins levelling a piece at Scoville. Quick as light she drew off
her slipper and dashed it into the man's face as he fired. By reason
of his disconcerted aim the bullet flew harmlessly by the Union
officer, who gave a quick, stern glance toward his assailant,
recognized him, and galloped after his men.
"You vile murderer!" cried Miss Lou, "would you shoot a man in his
back?"
"Oh, come, Perkins, that's hardly the thing, no matter what your
provocation," Mr. Baron added.
Perkins bestowed a malignant glance on Miss Lou, then limped away,
wearing a sullen look. The officer in command of the Confederates
sheered off across the lawn toward the grove, and the girl quickly
saw that his force greatly outnumbered that of Scoville. Mad Whately
dashed up to the piazza steps and asked breathlessly, "Are you all
safe?"
"Yes," cried his mother. "Thank God! I see you are safe also."
He turned his eyes on his cousin, but in her cold, steady gaze found
no encouragement.
Pages:
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260