[_Aside._] I must leave Charleston to-day. [_Sighs._] Does
she love me?
GERTRUDE. I am ready to start, Mr. West, when you are.
KERCHIVAL. Oh! Of course, I forgot. [_Rising._] I shall be delighted
to ride at your side.
GERTRUDE. At my side! [_Rising._] There isn't a horse in America that
can keep by the side of my Jack, when I give him his head, and I'm
sure to do it. You may follow us. But you can hardly ride in that
costume; while you are changing it, I'll give Jack his bonbons.
[_Turning to window._] There he is, bless him! Pawing the ground, and
impatient for me to be on his back. Let him come, Pete. [_Holding up
bonbons at window_]. I love you.
KERCHIVAL. Eh? [_Turning suddenly._
GERTRUDE. [_Looking at him._] What?
KERCHIVAL. You were saying--
GERTRUDE. Jack! [_looking out. The head of a large black horse appears
through the window._] You dear old fellow! [_Feeds with bonbons._]
Jack has been my boy ever since he was a little colt. I brought you
up, didn't I, Jack? He's the truest, and kindest, and best of friends;
I wouldn't be parted from him for the world, and I'm the only woman
he'll allow to be near him.
KERCHIVAL.
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