She grew white from second to second.
"It is the charge of the Light Brigade," said Captain Drummond
to himself. He had heard and watched the whole proceeding, and
had the key to it. He thought good-naturedly to suggest to
Daisy an escape from her difficulty, by substituting for the
opera song something else that she _could_ sing. Rising and
walking slowly up and down the room, he hummed near enough for
her to hear and catch it, the air of "Die in the field of
battle." Daisy heard and caught it, but not his suggestion. It
was the thought of the _words_ that went to her heart, — not the
thought of the tune. She stood as before, only clasped her
little hands close upon her breast. Captain Drummond watched
her. So did her father, who could make nothing of her.
"Do you understand me, Daisy?"
"Papa —"
"Obey me first, and then talk about it."
Daisy was in no condition to talk; she could hardly breathe
that one word. She knew the tone of great displeasure in her
father's voice. He saw her condition.
"You are not able to sing at this minute," said he. "Go to
your room — I will give you ten minutes to recover yourself.
Then, Daisy, come here and sing — if you like to be at peace
with me.
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