And to tell the truth, I am as anxious for the
answers as you are. I myself suspected mischief, when my men brought
to me the alleged prisoner, number 406. I have since been conducting
my own investigation into the matter.
"In fact, it was to this very end that I despatched my son---to the
place where the capture is said to have occurred---to secure further
details. I'm sorry I could not have been more forthcoming with you on
this. Perhaps you will understand if an old soldier, far from his
native soil, feels a certain loyalty to the men who help him defend an
often hostile frontier? I did not wish to hold one or more of them
before you as criminal, until there was conclusive evidence against
him."
He touched his fingertips lightly together, continued.
"As to the second charge---that of an illegitimate daughter---I must
confess that I myself am bewildered. There is in fact a young woman
here who claims that title---or rather, her guardian claims it for
her. And though the evidence is quite clearly against them, still the
woman persists.
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