"No, he is the most human of men," said the Captain. "Though true hearted, he can love as well as hate. He can face the cannon's mouth without flinching an inch, and the next moment shed tears over a comrade's grave. When storming a stronghold, he can see his best friend shot down by his side, and step over his body without even giving him a look."
"I can understand that," said Maud gravely, "and a woman could do it, too, if it had to be."
"I know one woman who could," said Morris, and Maud's face flushed as she turned away.
At this moment the knocker sounded and Miss Maxwell ushered in Dr. Fairchilds.
"Knowing how fond you are of whist, Captain," she said, "I asked the Doctor over for another rubber before you go. I hope you and Maud are both agreeable."
"Eugenia is fond of surprises," said Maud with a sharp glance at her sister; "but I shall be glad to have you for my partner, Captain, if you can spare the time."
"Thank you, but our game must be short. I am due at the Citadel at eleven, and a soldier has to obey orders to the minute, you know."
Soon the table was arranged and the young people sat down to play.
In cutting for deal the choice fell to Maud; and when she turned up Queen of Hearts, Eugenia smiled significantly. By-and-bye the first two games were over, each side scoring one.
"Now for the rubber," said the Captain. Again it was Maud's deal, and again Queen of Hearts was trump.
"Extraordinary!" exclaimed Fairchilds. "Your hands have been red all evening."
"Not only that," said Morris, smiling across the table, "but my partner's have always been hearts."
For a while the game was played in silence, she and the Captain gradually winning. Finally, his deal came, and cutting, the King of Hearts turned up.
"I score you one better!" he exclaimed to Maud. Their eyes met and a ripple went round the table. The game was soon finished. They had won the rubber.
Refreshments were served, and half an hour later the gentlemen rose to go.
"My Queen of Hearts," said the Captain to Maud in a low voice as she accompanied him to the hall.
"To-night you were my King," she replied with a little laugh. "King of Hearts in our little game."
"And what is life but a game," he answered, "with hearts for trumps, which we all try to win?"