The Border Spy; or, The Beautiful Captive of the Rebel Camp A Story of the War

CHAPTER VIII. Find them—bring them back—then ask for millions. Old Play. When William Margrave, the brother of Alibamo, had been discovered, and fired upon by the guard, after having seen his sister, and heard her voice, he knew that his assistance would be of no avail. He at once started for the cabin where were his friends Johnson and Fall-leaf, but not until he had seen Alibamo mount her horse, and, with her friend, dash forward from the camp. He saw the soldiers as they fired after the retreating form of his sister and her friend, and also saw that they were unhurt. "It is a rescue; still, I cannot understand it—I cannot conceive how she came to meet friends from the Union army, or how they became aware of her presence in the rebel camp." He pursued his course to the river, and crossing, soon reached the cabin. As he entered, Johnson rose to receive him. "Your return is sudden. What has happened?" he asked. "All for the best!" "Explain." "It was my sister's voice that I heard I saw her—I spoke to her." "Could you not save her?" "I would have done so, or died by her side. But she had other friends with her. I saw her with two men, one of them disguised as a rebel officer. Or, at least, so I suppose, for he led her to a horse, helped her to mount, and rode rapidly away, while the guard who had just come up, fired after them. She is on her way to the Union camp, and will reach it in a short time, if nothing happens." "Are you sure those who rescued her were Union soldiers?" "I can only judge by what I saw." "What do you intend doing?" "How is Fall-leaf?" asked Margrave. "Me well—well!" answered the Indian. "Why, how is this? I thought Fall-leaf was badly wounded." "No! his wounds are slight. That in his breast or side, is merely a flesh-wound. The shot struck a rib, and glanced off. A second shot struck him near the temple, and stunned him. But he is not seriously injured." "Can he walk?" "Me walk—well!" replied Fall-leaf, as he arose and strode across the room. "Then we must go at once to the federal camp. Can you walk so far, Fall-leaf?" "Me go down—horse—there!" "He has a horse concealed among the trees, but a short distance down the river, and on this side," replied Johnson. "Have you never entertained any suspicion that my sister was with Price?" "Oh, yes. But Price has never placed any confidence in me, and never, except at this last visit, have I been permitted to enter, or leave camp, without the presence of a guard." "Well, let us be off. We must keep on this side of the river to avoid scouts." The party walked down to the bank of the Osage, and striking a narrow path, took their course toward Warsaw. The Indian secured his horse, and mounting, rode by the side of his friends. It was late in the afternoon when they reached the Union camp. The first thing Margrave did upon his arrival was to acquaint the general with all the particulars, and requested to be shown those officers or soldiers who had that day returned from the rebel camp, in the hope of finding his sister. He was directed to Adjutant Hinton, and with a beating heart he sought his presence. He found the adjutant in deep grief, but he arose to receive him. "Why, you are the officer whom I saw standing upon the rock with my sister," said Margrave. "Then you are the brother of Alibamo?" "I am." "Do you know where she is?" "Where she is?" echoed Margrave, with surprise. "Why, I came here to learn where she is!" "Ah! yes. Well, my friend, I am deeply distressed with regard to your sister. She should have been here before this." "Why, did she not leave with you?" "She started with myself and friends, but we were met by overwhelming numbers about ten miles from this place, and a terrible fight ensued. Our captain was killed, or very badly wounded, and our party scattered. I saw Alibamo riding for the river, intending to swim her horse across it. The captain fell, and I turned to rescue him. He was nearly gone, but told me to save myself and Alibamo. That name acted like a magic, and, coward that I was, I left my captain, and sought her. But, I could not find her—neither any of my friends. I returned to camp alone! Oh! my God, if I had only remained, and died with them!" George, the negro, now entered the tent. His countenance was the very index of terror. "George, are they alive?" almost shrieked the adjutant. "Oh! yes—yes—Gor a mighty, massa adjutump—day's fifty ob em!" The adjutant saw the negro was too much frightened to give any correct account, and he tried to reassure him. "You are safe now. Nothing can harm you here." "Sartin shuah ob dat, massa adjutump?" "Sure, George. But now tell me what you know of our friends." "Oh! golly massa adjutump, dis chile neber was so skeered. Dar was fifty." "Where is Captain Hayward!" "Killed—dead—shuah pop—oh! golly!" "Where is Captain Young?" "He's here, massa adjutump." Captain Young entered the tent. "You are alive; but where are our friends?" asked the adjutant. "I know not, I lost sight of them, and supposed them all killed but myself." "George, where is Nettleton?" "I dun know. De las time dis chile see Cap'n Nettletum he jump his hos in the riber after de gal, O Lord!" "What became of the lady, George?" "Oh! golly! massa adjutump, she's safe wid de rebels!" "What do you mean?" "Why, ye see, massa adjutump, when dis chile see de cap'n fall down dead, he was so skeered he tumble rite off his horse. So I creep into de bushes, and just as de gal she got to de riber, a big black debil he cotch hold on her an say, 'Ha! ha! now I got hold on you, my booty,' and den he tuck her off an dis chile didn't see her no more." "She is again in the hands of the rebels, and we must again rescue her, even if it costs a thousand lives. Oh! wretch—wretch that I am—I have murdered my captain, and have not saved her!" "Please don't, massa adjutump!" "Don't what?" "Why, don't take dis chile wid you any more. He get killed, shuah." "Don't be alarmed. I don't want you." "Me go see—me follow," said the Indian. "Go where?" "After pale-face!" "How can you ascertain which way they have taken her?" The Indian made the motion of creeping on the ground. Then he stamped it with his foot, and pointed to the mark. Johnson said: "He means he will go to the river where Alibamo was seized, take the measure of the horse's shoe, from its impression in the sand, and follow the trail. We will go with him—that is myself and Alibamo's brother." " I must go. But stay. Nettleton has not yet returned, I have great confidence in that fellow. He may bring us intelligence." "You had better remain here in the event of his return," said Margrave. "We will follow the trail, and when we have gained the information we require, we will let you know, and you may be able to assist us." "We are to march to-morrow for Springfield. Price moves to-day for Cassville, and if Alibamo is again in the hands of that wretch, Branch, she will probably be removed to that place. But go, and success attend you." The two friends, together with Fall-leaf, left the camp, and proceeded in the direction of the place where the skirmish occurred. In the course of two hours they reached the spot. Several of the dead still were upon the field, unburied, but no sign of any human being was visible, excepting these. The Indian sought for traces upon the river's bank, and discovering a spot where an evident struggle had taken place—where two horses had been turned around, and had proceeded on their way from the river at a much slower pace than toward it, judging from the length of the steps. These tracks were closely followed, and it was observed that they soon merged into others, and could no longer be distinguished. The course of the entire squadron of cavalry was toward the camp of Price, and it was decided, that the reason the first discovered marks of the horse's shoe could no longer be seen was, that they were in the lead, and those which followed obliterated the impression. And it was reasonable to suppose that Branch and Alibamo would ride at the head of the column. The friends followed the trail until it turned to the left, and took its direction across the mountain. Upon the other side it was lost to view in the main road, among the thousand tracks which appeared in the mud. But they had seen sufficient to satisfy them that not only this squad, but the entire army under Price were on their retreat. They determined to follow on, and, if possible, to rescue Alibamo, and if this could not be done, to get exact information as to where she was kept, and then to return for assistance. CHAPTER VIII. The Prisoners—Brutality—The Attendant—The Letter—Discovery. What bloody man is that? He can report As seemeth by his plight, of the revolt The newest state.— Shakespeare. As Branch saw the prostrate form of Hayward upon the ground, he cried: "By heavens, it is the very man we want—it is Captain Hayward!" "Ride over his body—trample him into the earth!" shouted one of the infuriated soldiers. "No! no!" shrieked Branch. "If he yet lives he must be reserved for torture! It is our general's command. Let no one dare to disobey it. Ah! the fiends befriend me! There is Alibamo, and her horse has fallen!" This was indeed true. In her haste as she dashed down the steep toward the river, the horse of Alibamo had missed his footing, and fallen, throwing its fair rider violently to the ground. It was but an instant before he was again upon his feet, but before Alibamo could regain her seat, her persecutor had seized her. "Ah! my fair beauty," he cried, "I have you once more in my grasp. And now revenge will be a thousand times sweeter. Look there!" he cried, as he dragged the helpless girl forward. "Look upon your would-be rescuer! It is a glorious spectacle, is it not?" "Dead! dead!" sobbed the maiden. "Ah! you weep for him, do you? No doubt you love him very dearly! But he is not dead, and I would not have him dead for millions! It was a game well played, and worthy of your lover, the gallant Captain Hayward. But he did not win the game. I held the trump card, and I will show him how I won, and why I won, when he recovers!" "What would you do?" "What would I do? You shall see. First I will let him return to consciousness, and then I'll tear him limb from limb—hack him to pieces—tear out that heart you love so much, and give it to you still beating with life, and dripping with his blood. You shall wear it ever before you, and it will be a reminder of my generosity!" "Oh! fiend! fiend!" groaned Alibamo. "Oh! yes! You have called me fiend a hundred times, and now you shall learn that I am one, indeed. Shout, boys! shout! We are victorious! Dance—dance—hold your revels over that form! But do not harm it more now. I would have him all to myself. And I'll pray that he may have a thousand lives!" The rebels readily obeyed the command of Branch, and commenced their howlings. "Hark to that music, Alibamo. It is our notes of victory. Do you not love those sounds?" "They become only such as you. The most barbarous savage would scorn to exult thus over a single fallen foe!" said Alibamo, her eyes flashing with indignation. "Oh! taunt! I love to hear it. It makes my hatred for your captain deeper. And for every word of insult you have spoken, or do speak to me, I'll revenge myself on him. And you shall see it all. See, he moves—he opens his eyes! Let him gaze around." "Harry! Harry!" called Hayward in a faint voice. "Oh! my beauty, he does not speak your name first! But perhaps he hopes for assistance. He shall have it soon!" "Mamie—Mamie—sister—closer to my heart. I'm cold—co——" The sound died upon his lips. "And hark, yours is not the second name he speaks. He has a sister whom he loves. And I will have her too! She shall be in my power—oh! I will wring his heart. Oh! I cannot speak my exultant joy. My very heart is burning within me as I see before me this glorious prospect for revenge." "You are foiled in that, villain that you are. His sister is far beyond your reach, in the bosom of her Northern home." "But I'll find her—I'll have her in my power merely to torture him if it costs ma millions. Don't let him die. Tear open his vest—see where he is wounded, and wash it with liquor—it will prolong his life." Some of the soldiers did as they were bid. "There is a letter. Give it me. Ah! by the Eternal! 'tis signed, ' your loving sister, Mamie! ' And here is the name of her home. Now, Alibamo, what say you? Is she not in my power? And not only she, but all his family shall suffer. I hate the tribe. You said I could not find her. I'll write to-night and tell her that her brother is wounded and wishes her presence at once. She will come, and she shall see me torture him!" "What benefit or gratification will that afford you, Branch?" asked Alibamo. "Why, this is a tender epistle. This Hayward loves his sister, and if she is gazing upon his pangs, it will be doubly keen to him, knowing she sees it. He will feel all her sufferings and his own. Ah! Hayward speaks again!" "Alibamo! Alibamo!" "Stop his mouth—tear his tongue out. He shall not speak your name." Branch struck the fallen man across his face with his heavy iron scabbard. The blood spirted from his mouth and nostrils, but he moved not. As the soldiers applied the fluid to his wounds, Hayward showed evidence of pain, but did not speak. "The ball has passed directly under the right arm, and must have entered the lungs. He will not live," said one of the soldiers. "He shall live!" cried Branch. "He must live. Tie him on one of the horses and let us be off." This order was obeyed promptly. It seemed as if the fiend which urged on the actions of that bad man, had, from very shame, left his breast, and he silently took the lead, and with Alibamo by his side, the squadron set off at a rapid rate. For many miles they kept on their course toward the camp of the rebels. At length they turned their direction across the mountain. As they ascended to the summit, Alibamo asked: "Whither are you going, Branch?" "Look yonder. Don't you see the army moving. It is our army. We are going to Springfield." "You are retreating like cowards as you are!" replied Alibamo, with a sneer. The only reply from Branch was a blow upon the head of the senseless captain. "Thus will I revenge every word of insult you speak to me!" "You will revenge but little more, for he is nearly gone. But you are mistaken if you deem him my lover. I never saw him until to-day." "I do not believe you," replied Branch. "Did you not hear him speak the name of Harry Hinton?" "I did." "Harry is the one I love. Captain Hayward spoke that name that I might recognize him as a friend. Harry was with the captain, and has escaped, and wo to you, Branch, when he returns!" "Bah! Think you that I can be frightened from my purpose? No! Besides, I do not believe one word you have said. Has Hayward spoken recently?" asked Branch. "Yes, several times. But he is evidently suffering great pain from riding in this manner, and he faints in an instant after the return of his reason," replied one of the soldiers. "O Branch! in mercy do not torture this poor man in this manner," said Alibamo, imploringly. "We will overtake an ambulance in an hour, and then I will transfer him to one of them." "May I be permitted to attend upon him?" asked Alibamo. "Would it be a great gratification to you?" "Oh! yes; very great!" "Then you shan't. Now speak of him no more." In a short time an ambulance was overtaken, and Branch said: "Place Hayward in that ambulance. If he is carried on horseback, he will die, and I shall lose my revenge!" "Let me handle the darn skunk !" said one of the party, as he advanced through the crowd. "I'm used to handlin' just such darned skunks as he is!" "Be careful!" said Branch, as this peculiar looking object lifted Hayward from the horse. "Oh! guess there's no occasion to be too careful. Such dam skunks as him ain't so easy killed." Hayward was placed in the ambulance. "Who will volunteer to remain with him?" asked Branch. No one replied. "Will you?" asked Branch, turning to the person who had volunteered to assist Hayward from his horse. "Well, yes—that is if nobody else won't. But I don't like such work very much." "And let six mounted guard march behind. I will go forward and report to the general. Here, Peters, take charge of Alibamo until I return." Matters thus arranged, Branch rode forward. The army proceeded but a few miles farther. In a short time after the halt, Branch returned and riding up to the ambulance, he asked of the attendant: "How is the captain?" "He is asleep, and seems to breathe much easier, the darn skunk!" "Has he spoken at all?" "No; I did not wake him!" "Take him around to the tent of the general," said Branch, addressing the driver. "Ay, ay, sir!" "Shall I go along?" asked the attendant. "Yes, you may attend upon him for the present. Treat him well, as I wish him to recover." "Oh! I'm a kind o' doctor, and I'll do the best I can by him," was the reply. In a short time Hayward was brought to the tent of Price. "Is he conscious?" asked the general. "No!" "Place him in that vacant tent, and let a surgeon attend him. It is highly important that he should live. Have you searched him for papers?" "Not yet!" "Let him be searched, and bring me whatever you find!" said Price. The search was made, but nothing of the character desired by Price was found upon his person. Hayward was removed to the tent indicated by Price. A surgeon was soon in attendance, and after dressing his wounds, announced that with the proper attention, Hayward would recover. "If he becomes thoroughly conscious before morning, and is able to converse, let me know it. I wish to question him," said Price, as he left the wounded captain in charge of the guard. As Price was entering his tent, an orderly presented him with a letter. The general tore it open, and glanced over its contents. He said: "The lady asks the privilege of attending upon the wounded captain. Let her do so, but give instructions that if Hayward returns to consciousness, not one word is to pass between him and the lady, except in presence of the guard. And to prevent any conversation which may be understood by themselves, and not by the guard, let every word spoken by them be noted. Place four sentinels outside the tent, and one will remain within." "Your orders shall be strictly carried out, general." "If he again escape, those guarding him shall answer for it with their lives." "I will answer for his safety with mine," replied the orderly, as he departed. He proceeded at once to the tent of Alibamo, and informed her that she was at liberty to attend upon Hayward for the present, but that every word spoken between them was to be reported. Branch was with her, and when he heard this, he tore his hair from very rage. "This general is too soft-hearted!" muttered Branch to himself. "But come, Alibamo, I will go with you to Hayward's tent!" "I prefer to go without you, sir!" was the reply. "No doubt—and for that very reason I am going with you!" They soon reached the tent, and Alibamo seated herself beside the wounded man. Branch took his seat opposite. "Do you intend to remain here?" asked Alibamo. "I am not welcome, I suppose?" replied Branch with sarcasm. "I would prefer the tent should be filled with serpents?" Branch frowned terribly, and bit his lips, but did not reply. "Why don't you strike this senseless man, and thus revenge that honest, truthful answer?" asked Alibamo. "If you speak thus again, I will do so!" "Not while I am here. Soldier, hand me that knife!" But before she had finished the sentence, she had snatched the knife alluded to, from the belt of the attendant. "You know, Branch, I used a weapon of this sort to some purpose, once, and if you dare approach me, or this helpless officer, I will drive it to your heart." "Recover your knife!" cried Branch, who was now fairly foaming with rage, to the attendant. "Just you hand over that tool, you darn skunk, you!" said the soldier, as he arose, and advanced toward Alibamo. "Stand back, sir. Stand back. I do not wish to harm you, soldier, but if you attempt to take this weapon from me, you will feel its point." "Captain," said the soldier, "there ain't no use in trying to make women mind you. They're darn skunks any way—better let 'em alone." "Hayward is awake!" said Branch. "Speak to him—see if he will reply." "Captain, do you know me?" asked Alibamo. A faint smile overspread the captain's face, but he did not reply. "Can you not speak? Oh! let me hear your voice once more! Say at least, that you forgive me—for I have brought all this upon you!" Alibamo bent over the wounded man, weeping as if her heart would break. Hayward closed his eyes, and did not reply. "What the devil are you blubbering about?" growled Branch addressing himself to the attendant soldier. "Cos I'm a darn skunk," sobbed the attendant, scarcely able to speak. "My good friend, do you sympathize with this noble captain?" "Yes—yes—ma'am," sobbed the soldier. "I don't believe he's half so much of a darn skunk as some other folks!" "There, don't weep," said Alibamo, in a soothing manner, as she laid her hand gently upon his arm. "I am glad to meet one good heart here!" "Don't—don't, Miss Alibamo. There's something inside of me that's swelling up, and if you talk that way, I know it will burst, and I shall bellow like a bull. Oh! I wish I wasn't such a darn skunk! But I ain't no account, no way, so don't call me a good heart, cos nobody ever said that to me afore, only cap—— only you, and I ain't nothing but a cowardly skunk!" "Why have you so much sympathy for your enemy?" asked Branch. "Because I don't think it's fair to strike a man when he's down!" "I'll tell you, Branch," said Alibamo, "why he has so much sympathy for the captain—a feeling you cannot understand. God has given him a noble heart, and he can feel for the unfortunate, even though it be an enemy." "Did you ever see Hayward before!" asked Branch of the soldier, eying him sharply. "I seed him in the fight. Lord didn't he make his sword fly. More than a dozen sojers lay down when he hit 'em. It made my hair stand up, I tell you. By thunder, wasn't he brave! I'll bet if there had been six just like him, he'd licked our crowd. If he is a dam skunk of a federal, he is a trump card it'll do to go a big pile on." "Give me—water!" said Hayward, in a feeble voice, opening his eyes. "Quick, some water," said Alibamo. She placed the cup to his lips, and he drank. "I have been dreaming!" said Hayward. "Oh! it was sweet!" "Of what did you dream?" asked Alibamo. "Of home—Mamie—Mamie!" "He is conscious. His answer was direct," said Branch. "Do you know me, captain?" asked Alibamo. "Yes—where is Harry?" "He is not here!" "I want him—I feel sick! Call him. William Nettleton!" called Hayward, in a low tone. "Here, captain!——Won't—won't I do just as well? I'll do anything I can for you," said the attendant, springing forward. Had the rebel officer been less absorbed in the prisoner's state he must surely have observed the agitation of the attendant. "Do you know where you are?" asked Branch of Hayward. The captain had closed his eyes, but upon hearing the voice of Branch, he opened them, and looked upon the speaker—a look so full of scorn and disgust as to betray the lion heart still beating in his breast. "Why is that man in my tent?" he asked. "Take him away—his presence is hateful to me." "It will be before I am through with you. What is that?" "One of the sentinels in the rear of this tent has discharged his piece!" "Some of your friends are after us, very likely, Alibamo. I will call upon them, perhaps I shall be able to bring you company." Branch left the tent, hurriedly and not without trepidation. A gleam of light lit up the face of the attendant. He became at once uneasy. Then he sprang suddenly to the ground, exclaiming, but not loudly: "There was a hand there. It held a bit of paper!" Alibamo sprang forward, and seized the paper which was lying on the ground. She held it to the light, and then exclaimed aloud, as if unconscious of what she said: "It is my brother's writing—friends are near!" Then, as if suddenly recollecting herself, she turned to the attendant and said: "Oh! do not betray me, I beg—I implore!" "I ain't no such darn skunk. Let me tell you something." The attendant spoke in a whisper. Alibamo started, clasped his hand, kissed it convulsively. "Dear, good fellow!" she said through her tears. "There—oh! don't—O Christopher!—I shall have to blubber, and then all will be up with us!" cried the fellow, as he twisted and hopped around the tent like one suffering pain. CHAPTER IX. The Friends—The Proposal—The Rejection—The Fate. 'Tis sweet to die for one's country!— Old Maxim. The alarm caused by the firing of the gun had entirely subsided, as nothing was discovered. Upon questioning the guard, he stated that he was suddenly seized, and thrown violently to the ground. But, before he could recover his surprise and fire, the form had disappeared among the trees. Some believed that spies were lurking about camp, while others attributed the alarm entirely to the imagination or fear of the guard. The morning dawned, bright and beautiful. Hayward had entirely returned to consciousness; but was unable to converse, and appeared to notice nothing which transpired around him. He did not even speak to, or recognize, his fair attendant, Alibamo. At times his words were of home—his friends were called upon—and then he would remain silent. The army took up its line of march. Hayward was transported as before, and at each night was kindly cared for by Alibamo and the other attendant, who still were permitted to remain with him. At last they reached the grand prairie, west of Springfield, and encamped for the night. "Is Captain Hayward sufficiently recovered to converse?" asked Price of Branch. "Oh! yes; he is rapidly recovering. His wound is not so serious as at first supposed. It is true he is quite weak from loss of blood, but still strong enough to be dangerous. It is my advice that he be removed from the main army, as his friends will spare no trouble to rescue him. We are to have a battle very soon, I suppose, and we may lose him, even if not defeated, as the body-guard will dash to the point where he is held, and attempt his rescue; and you know, general, we might almost as well attempt to meet lightning as that fanatical set of cut-throats. They are, I am told, the choicest men out of a hundred thousand, and fight for the mere love of the fun." "Where can we remove Hayward, that he will be secure until he entirely recovers?" "From this point to Springfield, and thence through Arkansas to Memphis." "But he is a spy, and must hang!" replied Price. "Such ought to be his fate, I confess. But policy dictates otherwise. He is much beloved by the army, and their revenge would be terrible." "Do you fear their revenge, Captain Branch?" "Not for myself, general, but for those of our army who might be taken prisoners. The federals would hang a thousand of our friends in retaliation. Besides, he is worth much more as an exchange than as a corpse." "Your argument is logical, Captain Branch; but Hayward insulted me grossly, at one time, and my heart burns for revenge." "True, but you can scarcely revenge yourself on such a man. Torture him, and his lip curls as if in very scorn of pain. Threaten him with death, and his proud eye flashes as he replies, 'My country will remember me!' Taunt him—spit upon him—and he does not notice it, except by a haughty air which seems to say, 'I despise you, and take nothing as an insult from those I loathe!'" "Is there no way to humble him?" asked Price. "No way! His proud spirit cannot be broken!" "I will see! I shall visit him in a few moments, and if he accedes to my wishes, very well; if not, he shall be thrown into the dungeon, and there left to rot and die. As you say, sudden death would have no terrors to such a soul, but the damp and darkness of a prison cell will curb that proud spirit. Let me finish this dispatch, and then we will visit him." Captain Hayward was sitting in his tent, his head bowed upon his hands, apparently buried in deep thought. "Alibamo," said Hayward, raising his head, "what think you will be my fate?" "I hope for a rescue!" replied the maiden. "You are of a hopeful nature, my sweet girl, and I thank you for your words of encouragement. Thank! That is a poor word, Alibamo, for kindness such as yours. You have watched with me constantly, and, like a bright angel, have ministered to my wants. Your presence has cheered me in my sad hours, when pain and suffering had unmanned me. And I love you, Alibamo, almost as much as I love my own darling sister." "Your sister!" repeated Alibamo, with evident pain. "Yes—I know you love her, for you have often spoken of her in your delirium." "Have you received any word from our friends?" "Not one word since that mysterious hand extended to me those words of hope the first night after your capture." "Nettleton," said Hayward, addressing his attendant, "have you heard me spoken of among the soldiers?" "Yes, captain, the darn skunks talk about you considerable." "'What do they say?" "Why, I heerd some on em say it was a darn shame that a bold feller like you should be——" "Hung up like a dog! Why don't you finish the sentence?" "Well, that's just what they did say. But I heerd one what ain't very far from you now, say, he'd be d——d if Captain Hayward should die any such way, and when he had waited till the last minute, if no help came, he would put a bullet right through your heart, and save you from the darn rope, anyway!" "Brave boy! You have a noble heart," said Hayward, grasping his hand. "No I hain't. Don't say so, captain, cos when you do, I can't keep these dam water-drops out of my eyes, cos I'm a darn skunk anyway, and ain't worth any such words from you." "Nettleton, how have you managed to remain with me so long without being suspected?" "O Lord! I'm such a darn skunk nobody would ever think of suspecting me! They think I don't know any more than a half-grown calf. And I spose I don't!" "How did you get with me at all?" "Why, after the fight was over I stood right still, and nobody noticed me, except one feller who said, 'Git out of my way, greeney.' And so I followed on after the rest of 'em, and managed to keep with you ever since. And if I can only do you some good, I shall think I ain't quite such a darn skunk after all." "Nettleton, I wish you would not use that expression quite so often." "What expression, captain?" "Why, darn skunk!" "Well I won't, captain, only I know that I am a darn skunk, any way." "Captain," said Alibamo, "you spoke of your sister. Is she far from here?" "Not far—merely in Ohio." "If by chance you are rescued and removed to the Union camp, do you not wish her sent for?" "No—not for the world!" "She would come if sent for, would she not?" "Yes, if she lived to get here. But, do not think of such a thing. I shall never see her. But when I am dead, let her know it, but not how I died. To know that I am dead will break her heart." Alibamo sobbed audibly. "Why are you weeping, Alibamo." "I was thinking of your sister?" "I wish I could cease thinking of her, now that death is staring me in the face. I do not fear to die, but I do fear to let her know that she no longer has a brother. O Alibamo! if you could see her once, you would not wonder that I love her! Why, she would hang upon my neck, and listen to each word, as if her life depended on her hearing every sound. And when I parted with her for the wars, it seemed as if her soul left with me. She did not weep, but clung to me, while her little form trembled like the lily torn by the tempest's blast. And her last words were, 'Heaven must return to me my brother!'" "And if earth should not, heaven will !" sobbed Alibamo. "Well, I will talk no more of death. The grave looks cold and cheerless, and I shudder as I approach it in this manner. Nettleton, I shall give you some instructions which I know you will see faithfully carried out!" "You may depend upon it, captain. But you ain't dead yet, and—" "Major-General Sterling Price," was announced by an orderly. Price entered the tent. "Good evening, Captain Hayward. I am glad to see you so far recovered. I trust you will soon be able to receive and wear your sword again!" These words were spoken by Price in a tone of extreme kindness. Hayward looked up surprised, and replied: "I do not comprehend you, general!" "That is because you deem me your enemy!" "And are you not so? If I remember rightly, when we met at your camp on the Osage, you expressed a desire to get Captain Hayward in your power. You have him, now." "I did not know the man then. He was my enemy, but I can scarcely be an enemy to so brave a man. It is true I have much cause. You came to my camp in disguise, you deceived my orderly and obtained possession of important papers, you placed my scouts in the guard-house for your own safety; you visited and conversed with my officers, gaining all the intelligence you desired; you assisted a prisoner to escape, and meeting a party of my scouts you killed six with your own hand before you were shot down yourself. The papers which were on your person could not be found, and therefore they must have been sent by you to your general. All this was done with a boldness that wins my admiration, but still its punishment is death." "Which I expect to receive at your hands," replied Hayward, coldly. "Your life may be spared!" said Price. "Not a great boon," replied Hayward. "Do you not wish to live for your sister's sake?" asked Branch. Hayward started, and a tremor ran through his frame. But in an instant he recovered his self-possession, and said: "I was conversing with General Price—not you, sir." Branch bit his lips, but did not speak. "Well, Captain Hayward, I must speak plainly, and I know you prefer I should do so. It is a pity such a man as you should die, and by the rope. I would much prefer to have met you on the battle-field, but it is too late now. The sentence of your crime is death, and but one thing can save you." "You need not trouble yourself to name that one thing," said Hayward. "I see, you understand me. But, the proposition I was about to make was not intended to insult you. I honestly believe that I am right, while you believe that you are. Both of us have sense and judgment. One of us must be wrong . I believe I have thoroughly examined this matter, and I can but feel that if you would do the same, impartially and without prejudice, you would feel as I do. Understand, our interests at the South are different from yours at the North. We do not wish to interfere with your government or your interests. We only ask a government of our own, and that you should not interfere with our interests. We do not march our armies into your territories, and we feel that you have no right to march into ours . It will not damage the great North to permit the Southern States to form a government of their own, one that will correspond with their interests; and, so long as we could derive great benefit from it, why should you object? The North is prosperous, because its government is in accordance with its interests and institutions. The South is not prosperous, because the North, governing the whole, has forced upon us a government antagonistic to our interests and institutions. Why not give us a chance for ourselves? But you will not; and so we are compelled to strike for our rights." "If you truly feel as you speak, you are an honest enemy, at least. You may tell me what the proposition is which you wish to make." "You are a brave man, and I would like your services and influence in our army and cause. I do not wish you to act against your feelings or principles; but, I heartily wish you could view our cause as I view it, and come with us. You shall have command of a regiment—perhaps of a brigade!" "General Price," replied Hayward in a mild tone, "I thank you for the delicate manner in which you have made this proposition. I cannot deem it an insult, as your manner is that of a man who makes an offer, sincerely and in good faith, not as a bribe. But I cannot view this matter as you do, and consequently cannot accept your offer or entertain it for a moment. My country, my whole country, right or wrong, is my motto. There is but one flag, and that is the Stars and Stripes, for me." "I regret it, as I really do not wish to see so brave a man die so young!" "A truce to compliments, General Price. I have done that which I deemed my duty. If you have a duty to perform, and the performance of it calls for my blood, don't let 'my bravery' influence you!" "Will you give your parole of honor never to take up arms against us again, if I release you?" asked Price. "No, sir!" was the firm but mild reply. "You are proud, Captain Hayward!" "That is not to the purpose, General Price. I shall do nothing, excepting to escape if I can. I ask but one favor of you." "What is that favor?" "That you will tell me what is to be my fate!" "I will do so. To-morrow you start for Springfield under a strong guard. The next day you will be sent forward on your way to Memphis, through Arkansas. At Memphis you will be imprisoned, and detained for the present. There will be little hope of exchange, however, as you are a spy, and must eventually suffer death." "Why am I not at once executed?" "Because the federal forces hold some of our prisoners, on whom they would retaliate." "Will I be permitted to communicate with my friends or send them word where I have been taken?" "That cannot be permitted," answered Price. "Under whose charge am I to be sent?" asked Hayward. "Under that of Captain Branch as far as Springfield. From there it is left to the captain to make further arrangements." Hayward had started to his feet, and his eyes met those of Branch. There was lightning in that gaze, but it was met with equal sternness. "Do you object to Captain Branch?" asked Price. "Yes. I object to anyone who is so great a coward as to strike a wounded, senseless man, merely to revenge himself upon a woman!" "What do you mean?" asked Price. "I will tell you. This woman prisoner hates Branch, and I do not wonder. She taunts him, and what woman of spirit would not? He would strike her, if he dare, and because he dare not, he took the noble method of revenge, by striking me in the face with his sword-scabbard, when I was senseless and tied on my horse. He thought she would suffer, because I did—the base, cowardly cur." "Of this I knew nothing. Is it true, Captain Branch?" asked Price. "It is not true, but false as hell, and Hayward knows it is false?" replied Branch, in a rage. "Well, with this I have nothing to do. Good night, Captain Hayward. If you should make up your mind to accept my terms, let me hear from you." Price left the tent with Branch. "Let us sleep, friends, and prepare for to-morrow. God knows what it will bring for us. But still, let us hope. I am glad we go to Springfield." CHAPTER X. The Departure—The Meeting—The Sister—The Breaking Hearts. This is the heaviest blow of all.— Bulwer. The morning dawned, and still Captain Hayward slept. Alibamo was seated by his side, gazing intently upon him. Nettleton was standing in the entrance of the tent. The reveille was beating, and all without gave evidence of preparation to continue the march. As the maiden gazed upon Hayward, she said in saddened tones: "Would to God I knew the fate hanging over this poor man, or that, whatever it is, I might be permitted to share it with him. But, I fear we shall be separated to-day. That villain Branch will show no mercy when he is under no restraint. Nettleton!" "Here, Miss Alibamo." "Have you discovered nothing—no signs of friends?" "Nothing, but I will not give up yet. We may expect aid at Springfield." "I fear all is lost. Branch will not permit the captain to remain long in Springfield, as I am told the Union army is advancing. He will be hurried off South, and I suppose we shall be separated to-day. Very likely neither of us will be permitted to go with him." "You will, miss." "How do you know this?" "I'll tell you. Last night I crept close to the tent of Branch and listened. I heard him giving directions to some one he was about to send forward. I heard him say you were to go with him, and that your room would be in the hotel at Springfield which is now used as the rebel hospital. And the captain is to be imprisoned in the cellar of the same building." "Are you to go with us?" "I shall go, but as soon as I find out what is to be done, I shall go somewhere else." "You don't intend to leave the captain?" "Yes, I do!" "What! Forsake him now!" "Who the devil said anything about forsaking him? There's a good deal of difference between leaving and forsaking, I take it." "I know you will act for the best, my good fellow!" "Strike tents!" echoed through the camp from without. "Had we not better wake the captain, Miss Alibamo? It may be the only chance he will get to say anything." "He is moving—he wakes!" Captain Hayward opened his eyes, and gazed around. His face while sleeping had worn a smile, but it had faded. "Good morning, dear friends," said Hayward. "You have been watching with me all night, I fear." "We have slept, however—that is, I have slept," answered Alibamo. "I fear but little. You must not do this, Alibamo; you will sink under the fatigues you impose upon yourself. You will require all your strength. And have you slept, Nettleton?" "Do you think I'd be such a darn skunk as to sleep when I might be doing something? No, I ain't quite so mean as that." "What have you been doing?" "Making up my mind—that's all." "And I have been dreaming, Alibamo. Oh! It was a heavenly vision!" "What were you dreaming, captain?" "I was standing upon the margin of the lake near my own dear home. Far out on the waters I heard a sound, low and musical as angels' whisperings. I could not catch the words; still its melody enchanted me, and filled my soul with rapture. Nearer and nearer it approached, and louder and louder became those strains, until the mingling of ten thousand angel voices seemed to make the very waters dance with rapturous delight. My brain grew dizzy, and I sank upon the ground. I raised my eyes, and gazing through the mist, tinted with rainbow hues reflected from the rays of the golden sunset, I saw a thousand fairy forms gliding from point to point, and trilling forth their lays. And on the brow of each I saw emblazoned forth the magic word of Liberty ! The sight revived me, and springing up, I cried: 'Who are those lovely beings who come forth with my country's jewel glittering on their brow?' A voice replied: 'They are Columbia's daughters—their fetters have been broken—they are free again!' 'Let me embrace them—they are my sisters!' I cried, but at that moment I was seized by an iron hand, and borne from the spot. So rapidly was I whirled along that my senses fled. When I returned to consciousness, I found myself enveloped in a dismal cloud, while at my feet a thousand hissing serpents, which resembled lightning, coiled around, but could not harm me. I heard the dreadful thunders, as they burst over me, but still I feared not. I raised my eyes, and as a cloud rolled by it revealed to my astonished gaze the form of a man standing upon the very edge of a dark cloud, while below him was a precipice, millions of feet. My blood was chilled within me lest he should fall. I heard his cursings, and I saw him reaching forward. I looked farther, and upon another cloud I saw my sister standing. She was clothed in white, and on her brow a golden wreath was shining. The clouds were rolling fast together, and he, that fiend-like form upon the other side, was reaching forward, and exulting in the thought how soon he would have her in his grasp, and hurl her down that awful chasm. My brain was reeling, and my heart bursting within me as I gazed upon this scene. I tried to speak, but terror held me dumb. She was almost in his grasp, when my sister raised a dagger, I heard a voice exclaim, 'Hold fast that steel!' I looked, and emblazoned on its polished blade, read the word virtue ! The villain saw it, and sprang back with a cry of terror. I saw the cloud on which he stood turning to blood, while that upon the other side was tinged with glorious beauty. The thunder rent the dismal pall, and breaking it in pieces, I saw the villain hurled into the depths below, while hideous fiends held their orgies around him. And then commenced the strains I heard upon the lake. My sister joined the chorus, and gazing on me, smiled. Columbia's daughters came and bore that loved one to my heart, and as I clasped her close, I woke, suffocating with excessive joy!" "O captain! that dream should make you happy—very happy. It fills my heart with joy!" "Why so, Alibamo?" "Because your troubles will end in the same manner. I feel sure they will." "It cannot be!" "And why not?" "Because my sister was prominent in my vision, she can be in no manner connected with me here!" "She may hear of your misfortune and visit you here." "God forbid. No! she has no means of hearing from me. And, if she had, I would rather die a thousand deaths than have that angel sister gaze upon my sufferings. It would add to them a thousand fold, and that would drive me mad." "Are you ready to depart?" asked Branch, who entered the tent at that moment. "Quite ready. Am I to walk?" asked Hayward. "No, you are to ride. Do you prefer a horse or a carriage?" "It matters very little, as the distance is not far," answered Hayward. "Then I will send a horse around to your tent. I intend also to grant you a great favor!" "I shall decline any favors at your hands!" replied Hayward. "You did not hear what that favor is to be!" "Well, sir!" "I intend to permit Alibamo to accompany you as far as Springfield. But to-morrow you are to take your last farewell of her. I have my plans for both you and her arranged." Branch left the tent. In a few moments horses were brought, and Hayward, with some difficulty gained the saddle. Nettleton helped Alibamo into her seat. By this time Branch came up in company with some twenty horsemen, who were to act as the guard, and the party prepared to depart. "Is not this young man to accompany us? He has attended to the captain's wounds, and appears familiar with the business. He is a poor, foolish fellow, and will be of little service as a soldier!" said Alibamo, pointing to Nettleton. "Yes, he can go, if he will walk!" replied Branch. "Will you go?" asked Alibamo. "Well, I don't care much about it one way or t'other. But if you want me to go with you very much, I will, Miss Alibamo," replied Nettleton. The party set off, and Nettleton trudged along after them, with his usual rickety and unsteady motion, whistling as he proceeded. They had proceeded about two miles from camp upon the Springfield road, when Branch ordered a halt.

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