While she was doing this the men
around her were either silent or spoke in low tones. The thought
grew in her mind, "How these Northern soldiers have been
misrepresented to me! Even when I am approaching and before they are
aware I am near, I hear no rough talk as I do among our men. The
world is so different from uncle's idea of it! Whether these men are
right or wrong, I will never listen patiently again when they are
spoken of as the scum of the earth."
As she rose and saw the respectful attitude toward her, faltered,
"I--I--wish to thank you for your--your kindness to me."
At these words there was a general smile even on the wannest and
most pain-pinched face, for they struck the men as very droll.
"We were under the impression that the kindness was chiefly on your
side," said Captain Hanfield. "Still we are glad you find us a civil
lot of Indians."
"Please remember," she answered earnestly, "that was not my thought,
but one impressed upon me by those who did not know. Only within a
very short time have I ever seen Northern people or soldiers, and
they treat me with nothing but courtesy.
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