American Tales. PRIG J 15 CENTS. No.. 2, Complete. The ^American News Company, New- York, Publishers' Agents. THE BORDER SPY; OB, m BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVi OF THE REBEL CAMP. A STORY OF THE WAR. •"Z- ILiIETJT. OOL. ia:.A.ZEIjTI3Sr E, FOBSCERLT CAPT. COMPANY A, FBEMOXt's BODY GDABD. ■a I «>> iBii NEW-YORK: SINCLAIR TOUSEY, PUBLISHERS' AGENT, No. 121 Nassau Street. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the Year 1863, by Sinclair Toxjset, Publisher's Agent, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern District of New York, THE BORDER SPY; BEAUTIFUL CAPTIYE OF THE REBEL CAMP. CHAPTER L The Rebel General Price — Determination to Fight — The Sleeping Indian — Price Suspects him — J3e is Bound — Surprise — Escape. Let those who fear the spray the torrent flings Retrace their stepa — I'll cross the stream, howe'er Its brawlings may dbturb me. — Mrs. Hale. "By my soul, it shall be done ! Yes, safety, honor, fame, fortune, all require it ! " It was a wild spot. The towering rocks reached to the height of several hundred feet above the valley below, where rolled the rapid waters of the Osage. Upon one of these jut- ting turrets, stood the speaker. His large form rose above the mountain oaks, standing as he was upon its most elevated point. But a close observer could not fail to notice that he was ill at ease. His eyes were restless, and as they wandered from mountain crag to the valley below, and thence to the far-reaching prairie in the distance, his frame trembled, and his fingers convulsively clutched his long iron- gray locks, as they were streaming in the morn- ing wind. There was nothing remarkable in his dress, except that at such a time and place he should havef worn an elegant sword, which could be seen beneath a large, dark cloak, thrown care- lessly over his shoulders. In other respects he was without uniform, or any mark indica- ting the military chieftain. After gazing for some time upon the sur- rounding country, he again spoke: " Yes, by heavens, it is a land worth fight- ing for, and I will — " The speaker paused, and turning, beheld the approach of the person who had interrupt- ed his soliloquy. A frown covered his face as he asked : " What do you want, Johnson ?" The answer came, rough and fiercely. "Want? revenge!" ' On whom ?" asked the first speaker, as he grasped the hilt of his sword. "Not on you. General Price; so don't fear." "Fear!" echoed Price, ' I fear no man — nothing. " " Then why do you clutch your sword as I approach ?" "Because I believe you are treacherous," replied Price. " Treacherous ! ha ! ha ! ha ! Can I be else, and serve you ?" "But are you faithful to me and my cause?" "Your cause!" echoed Johnson. "Whyi thought it was your country's cause ! " "My coTintry's cause is mine," replied Price. "Again I ask you, are you faithful to me?" "Yes!" "What assurance have I that you will be faithful?" Johnson bowed his head, and did not reply. "Answer me," said Price, stemly and sus- piciously. "General Price," replied Johnson, as he raised his head, and fixed his piercing eyes upon his questioner, "General Pripe, I am poor. If I were or had been a servant in heaven, and the commander-in-chief of the in- fernal regions had ofi'ered me a position on his staff, to escape servitude, and for promotion's sake, not knowing lihn or his service, I might have accepted. In doing so, I should have lost heaven, and in no case could have return- ed. Thus, as I would have no choice, I prob- ably should serve faithfully in my new capa- city, for policy's sake, even if I was deceived by the devil's promises. In much this way do I stand toward you. General Price ! " " I have not deceived you !" "You have ! You have lied to me !" "Johnson!" yelled Price, as his sword flash- ed in the morning light, ' ' no man shall address me thus, and live ! " " Hold, General Price," said Johnson, as he levelled his rifle at his breast, "you had bet- ter spare those who must serve you, as few are willing!" "Curse him !" muttered Price. "But for policy's sake I must restrain myself. He shall act the spy this once — it is necessary— or I would dasn him from this rock into the depths below." "Johnson," he added, speaking aloud, "you must not speak thus. Itig true I have as yet been imable to fulfil my promi- ses ; but consider. We are here facing a powerful army — an army of fanatics — of devo- tees — who will fight to the death, while many of my soldiers are discontented, and if they fight at all, I fear will do it unsuccessfully. I THE BOEDER SPY ; OR THE have no confidence in many of my men, "Why Ib this, Johnson ?" " I can ansAver, but for one.' " Then answer for yourself!" "I will, I have no confidence in you." " You will serve me, nevertheless?" " Yes — I am forced to do so !" "How forced — by whom forced?" "Not by you, General Price, but by myself." "Don't you see much to fight for? Look around you. Graze upon the face of this beau- tiful country. Our enemies come to rob us of it. Shall we, like dogs, submit ? No ! by the Eternal, I will not ! " cried Price, his powerful frame quivering with emotion. "I see but little beauty here. Where is it?" " All around — on every side !" "I see but one bright spot, and that is — " Johnson gazed into the valley below. His look was earnest. As he gazed, the tear-drops started to his eyes, and he bent his head upon his hands, while his breast heaved convulsive- ly. He was deeply moved. "Johnson, why are you weeping?" asked Price, as he regarded bim with a look of surprise. ' ' Am I weeping ?" returned Johnson, raising his head. "Yes; some sad recollection of the past oppresses you ! " ' ' Of the past ? Yes, of the past, as well as the present, and of the future ! But tell me what you see here, that you should love this country so much. It is not from associations ?" "No, only its beauty ! " "Its beau tj'? I cannot see it ! "Where is it?" " Shall I describe what I see ?" "Yes, sir ; I am interested to know what you ean call beautiful. " "I will. I am standing here, upon a lofty mountain turret. Below is the Osage. Gaze upon it. Is it not majestical ? Y^'onder it rolls, along the mountain's base, now leaping, i-ush- ing onward, Uke a giant army charging a deadly foe, lashing its banks as if it longed to break from its restraint, and charge the world. And there it strikes the mountain's side, and for a moment falters. It will ti:m aside de- feated! "W^illit? No! It is no coward, and the mountain yields — the mountain falls — the Osage breaks the barrier, and rushes on. And now, all conscious of iis victoiy, it pauses for awhile, or gliding gently onward murmurs its own song of gloiy. And listen to the strain. How it rises on the aii% and is borne from crag to crag, along the lofty summits to tell that grand array of its own defeat. Look at that mountain column formed in battle line. It appears impregnable. But its ranks are bro- ken, and its power defied. That gap is w^here the charge was made — that gap teUs the sto- ry — its line was broken, and defeat foUowed. The river was victorious ! " " Good!" echoed Johnson. ""What more do you see ?" "Moimtains and hills where we can defy the world. And yonder is my own camp. " "Yes, your camp, containing seventy thou- sand true and tried soldiers. Those who have shared your victories vrith. you. Seventy thou- sand soldiers ! ha! ha! ha!" "Johnson, I do not like your sarcasm. Bet- ter the enemy should over-estimate our num- bers. It will intimidate them. " ' ' Intimidate ! Whom ?" "Why, not only the soldiers of the army, but their generals ! " ' ' Asboth ?" "Yes!" "Sturgis?" "Yes!" "Hunter?" "Yes!" "Sigel and Fremont?" "Yes ; even Sigel and Fremont can be in- timidated." "Perhaps — ^by an earthquake, but not by you. General Price. Asboth is a soldier, and does not know the meaning of the word fear. Sturgis — you have met him once — do you wish to meet him again ? Hunter — there Ls light- ning in his eyes ; if he does not fight, it will be for want of a foe. Sigel — do you remem- ber Wilson's Creek?" "But of Fremont^^what of him?" " He will meet you here, if you dare remain ; and his soldiers will come with him." " WcU, it may be so. Their army is now at Warsaw. They must be detained for some days yet They are constructing a bridge at that point across the Osage, and you will have sufficient time to visit their camps, and return before they advance. If it should be advisa- ble to move, vou can apprize us in time." " "When shall I start V" " Now." "Well, j'our instructions." "Johnson, I confess I fear to meet that man Fremont. And yet I hate him with a bit- terness which poisons all my joys. Tell him we nmnber seventy-five thousand fighting men, well armed and disciplined. That we are strongly fortified, and for them to ad- vance would be certain death. Tell him it ia a mistake that my soldiers are discontented, but -n-iU all fight to the last Will you teU him this?" "I will." ' ' Your safety may depend upon it, for I tciS fight if I am compelled to-face him vdUi a sin- gle regiment. Last night I held a council with my officers, and we resolved to make a stand here. To retreat farther will be to bring shame upon us, and to stamp us as cowards. And I beheve there is not a dozen men in my army who would not die before they would be branded as cowardly. I rely upon tiieir pride, rather than their loyalty. " "That must be your appeal Shall I go now ?" "Yes! Stay, Johnson ; return by to-mor- row night and tell me Fremont is dead, and j'ou shall be richly rewarded. Tell me Sigel is olso dead, and you shall have command of the second regiment " " Sigel and Fremont shall die !" " You swear it?" " Yes, I swear they shall die, when — " The remaining portion of the sentence was inaudible. "Ugh!" Startled, Price turned to behold, at the base of the rock upon which he was standing, an Indian, who was, apparently, fast asleej^ OBI ' \ BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE EEBEL CAJMP. "Do you know tliat red devil?" asked Price, turning to Johnson. " Let ma see." Johnson bent over the edge of the rock, and for some time remained silent. At last he said : " 'Tis Red-wing, as he is called by the peo- ple hereabouts ; one of the Osage tribe, I be- lieve. But you will find little good in him, al- though he might be made serviceable, if you could keep whiskey from him. " " Eed-\ring," shouted Price. "Ugh!" », " You red devil, get up and show your col- ors, or I will send a bullet through your head ! " exclaimed Johnson. There was no reply. Johnson raised his rifle, but the Lidian had risen, and fixing a glance of hatred upon Johnson, he said : " Give Indian whiskey — me fight for you — me kill for you — give Indian whiskey. " Price leaped from the rock, and motioned them to follow. In a few moments he reached camp, closely followed by Johnson and the Indian. The appearance of the- rebel camp was some- what singular. Around the camp-fires were crowds of list- less men and boys, who watched the approach of their commander with calm indifference. He passed on in silence, occasionally return- ing the salute of his officers, but did not pause until he reached a tent located upon a high bluff, and almost concealed from view by a thick growth of oaks. Ai'ound this tent were others, less grand in appearance, which were occupied by the leaders of his army. Stretch- ing for some distance below, was an open field, over which were scattered rude tents, of a great vaiiety in fonn and appearance. Bed blankets, worn and various in their colors, were stretch- ed across poles, at either eoid of which was jilaced a supporting stake, cut from the sur- rounding branches. All looked comfortless. Mingled ^vith these were seen rows of small canvas tents, giving the encampment more of a warlike aspect. The arms were also va- ried in their patterns. Some of them bore the appearance of the regular United States army rifle, while others were the ordinary hunting rifle or shot gun. Occasionally were to be seen soldiers in uniform, but in most instances the rough blue home-spun was worn. As the Indian passed through the camp, his eyes wandered carelessly over the scene. "\Mien Price reached his tent, an orderly arose to re- ceive him, and the general said : " Send a corporal and ten men to my tent." Then tm-ning to Johnson, he added : ' ' You are kno-wn, and will require no escort beyond our lines. I shall question this Indian closely, and perhaps use him. Go ! " "Yes, general," replied Johnson, and turn- ing he departed. By this time a large number of officers had g:ithered near the tent of Price, and silently awaited the examination of the Indian, who they c'S'idently supposed to be a spy from the Union army. Unconscious of theu* presence, or at least appearing to be so, the Indian stood with folded arms before the tent of the rebel gcneraL In a few moments Price appeared, pausing diiectly before the Indian. Theii- eyes met, and for some time they regarded each other in silence. At length Price asked : "What is yom* name ?" " Me Indian — brave !" " You are an Indian chief!" " Me no chief!" ." Do you know me ? I am chief here. Look around you — behold my waniors. They are all brave. They will conquer the enemy. If you will bring your warriors and fight with me, yom- hiuiting grounds will be safe, and your fathers' graves sacred. K these invading robbers should conquer us, you \viU lose your grounds ; the graves of your sires will be pol- luted by their unholy touch, and you and your people made slaves ! Will you fight ■nith us?" "Ugh!" "What do you mean by that ?" asked Price. "Me ask chief." " ^Vhat is your name ?" "Red-wing." " To what tribe do you belong ?" " Osage." " Red-wing, don't attempt to deceive me. I can read your very thoughts ! " ' ' Co wwewunk ! " "Yes, I know you. You are a spy, and direct from the federal camp. You pretended sleep as you were lying at the foot of yonder rock, that you might hear all my conversation and report it. You have heard too much. Are there any here who have seen this fellow be- fore ?" asked Price, turning to his soldiers. "I have seen him, and know him," replied one of the men, stepping forwai'd. "He is called Fall-leaf, and is chief of the Delaware tribe. The Indian sprang forward, and in an in- stant had broken through the crowd which en- circled him, and with the speed of a deer, dashed toward th« distant cliffs. "Fire upon him ! " shrieked Price. A hundred rifles were raised, but the Indi- an was darting among the tents in such a manner, that no opportunity for accurate aim could be had. "Curses on it, he will escape!" yeUed Price. "Here Barclay, Rains, all of you, mount and follow. I must have that red devil, dead or aUve. If he escapes, he will bear important information to Fremont. " Price sprang into his saddle and dashed for- ward in pui-suit. He was soon followed by a score of others. "By heavens, they have seized him!" cried Price, as he approached the outer lines of the camp, where stood the guard tent. So it was. Just as Fall-leaf reached a nar- row defile vrhich led along the mountain's side and do-wTi to the river below, the detail ordered by Price as a jDretended escort, were starting for headquarters. They met the Indian face to face, and comprehending the state of affau's, the corporal ordered, "Seize him!" A large knife flashed in the sunlight, which the Indian suddenly drew from concealment, and, as two of the guard sprang forward, it fell with crushing weight u])on the brain of 6 THE BOEDER SPY : OR THE eaclu A third and a fourth shared the same fate. But, at this instant one of the guard levelled a terrible blow at the head of the Indian, with the but of his musket Fall-leaf, staggering back, fell to the earth. Half a dozen bayonets were instantly pointed at his heart, but, as Price approached tiie spot at this moment, he cried : "Alive ! aUve ! tike him alive ! I will ques- tion him first — then torture him ! In an instant the Indian was bound and helpless. Price, as he rode up, foUowed by his aids, ordered Fall-leaf to arise. The Indian was only partially stunned by the blow, and obey- ing the summons, he stood erect. "Now, dog!" said Price, "you shall con- fess. " "Me no confess !" answered Fall-leat Price stamped his foot from very rage. Turning to the guard he said : "Throw that hell-hoimd upon the fire be- tween those burning logs ! " The Indian glanced at the burning mass, and then upon the objects by which he was. surrounded. The guard were about to seize him, when, turning to Price, he said : "MeteUnll!" "You will tell me all you know of the fed- eral army, and of your own plane?" asked Price. "Yes! Me hate you. Me fight you. You steal pale-face — Alibamo — " Price started, turning pale as death, as he shrieked : " Pitch him into the fire this instant !" The guard seized the Indian, and were about to put the order into execution, when a man bearing the appearance of a rough mountain- eer, sprang forward. "Hold on a bit, general!" were his delib- erately uttered words. Then, with the most perfect coolness, he drew his knife and severed the cords which bound the wrists of Fall-leaf. "And who are you?" asked Price in sur- prise. "Your best friend, of course, general," vr&a the laconic reply. "I doubt it!" "Then you believe I lie, do you?" "Yes!" ""Well, I will not lie then. I am your en- emy. The reason I called myself your friend was, because I intended to give you good ad- vice!" " Indeed! And what is this good advice ?" "WTiy, general, that you are too far from the main body of your troops with so small an escort. Yon had better return !" ' ' What do you mean ?" asked Price, alarmed. "I'll show you," was the reply. "Here, boys ; come on, qviick, " he shouted, turning toward the dense thicket from which he had emerged. "We are surprised ! Fallback!" shrieked Price, as he wheeled his horse. The guard had not waited for this command, but were already rapidly retreating toward the main camp, followed by the aids of Price. The Indian and his rescuer had already mounted a cliff ■vvhich overlooked the entira ground, and turning he cried : "Look how the cowards run! Ha! hal ha!" Price heard the words, and the laugh of de- rision. He commanded a halt and exclaimed : "It was but a ruse! No troops excepting our own are near us. Follow me — we can yet overtike them. There is but one path load- ing down the mountiin, and one along the ridge. Take the lower one. Rains, with forty men. I wiU tike the upper path, and thus we will cut them ofi". " The orcfer was at once executed, and the different detachments galloped along each moimtiin road. ' ' There they are ! " cried Price, as he reach- ed the highest mountain point, about four miles from his camp. "There is a path to the right of that ledge, which leads to the val- ley. Quick— intercept them. They are ma- king for that spot " The whole pai-ty dashed forward, but were just in time to see the rescuer of Full-leaf spring from the rock and commence his rapid descent down the rugged pathway. A volley was fired after him, but -w-ithout effect " But where is that red-skin?" asked Price. ' ' He is not with that fellow, and I saw him standing upon that rock but a moment since. " " He may be concealed in some of the crev- ices in the ledge," replied one of the party. Search was instantly made. In a few mo- ments one of the aids cried : " He is here ! surround the rock — he cannot escape ! " Near the summit of the cliff there was a large oak tree, which at one time had been standing erect, but from lack of soil to secure its roots, had gradually settled down until its tops were some thirty or forty feet bdow its roots. It hung over a frightful precipice of over one hundred feet. Directly below grew a large tree, whose tops reached within fifteen or twenty feet of the declined oak's branches. The Indian finding himself thus surrounded, did not hesitate an instant. On one side was the precipice — on all other sides, the infuiia- ted soldiery, thirsting for his blood. Quick -as thought he sprang for the oak. Down its body and branches he ran, like a squirrel skipping from twig to twig. ' ' Fire ! " shouted Price. " Our pieces have all been discharged at tha other spy. We must load. " ' ' Well, quick — quick, or he will escape. By heavens, look ! " The Indian had reached the extreme branches of the declining oak. He paused an instant, and then sprang for the tree below. It was a fearful leap. But he succeeded in grasping one of the topmost branches. His weight bent the frail Umb, and before he could grasp another, it had broken, and his form went whirling tlirough the air. But his form was checked by striking one of tho main limbs, and with an effort he secured a firmer hold. In an instant he had reached the body of the tree, and was safe. As he reached the base of the ledge, ha turned and cried : "Price — me meet you again!" BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE EEBEL CAMP. CHAPTER n. The Meeting — The tale of Wrorig and Mood — The Avenger — The Oath — The Mountain Maid — The Lover. Oh, I eould play the woman with mine eyes, and braggart with my toupue. But gentle heaven, cutshort all intermission, Front to front bring thou this fiend of Scotland and my- self, Tfithin my sword's length set him ; if ha 'scape. Heaven forgire him too. — Shakespeare. "When Fall-leaf reached the ground he start- ed for the river, pursuing his way cautiously, but rapidly. Ever and anon he would pause and listen. It was evident he was pursued by tha party from whom he had just escaped, but, as he passed along, their shouts were received only by a scornful curl of his bronze lip. But he soon found more difficult objects with which to contend. As he emerged into an open space, he came suddenly upon the party under the command of Rains. He was not at once discovered. Bending to the earth, he crept cautiously along, concealing himseK as best he could, by the under brush and taU grass. But he was not long to remain undiscovered. One of the rebel party, having espied the object of their pursuit, raised his rifle, and as its report rang through the forest, it was answered by a sharp cry of the Indian, who sprang into the air, and fell backward. In an instant he was surrounded. Upon ex- amination it was found that the bullet had penetrated his breast, rendering a dangerous, if not fatal wound, from which the blood was flowing profusely. He was quite conscious, but unable to move or speak. " Shall I send a bullet through his brain ?" asked one of the rebel band. "It is unnecessary. That ugly wound in the breast will soon end him. But stay. His tribe must not know of his death. Throw him into that hole by yonder rock, then fill it up with stone and dirt." The form of Fall-leaf was taken from the ground, and cast with violence into a cavern, or "sink-hole," about twenty feet in depth, large enough at its bottom to contain the bod- ies of a dozen men, but, unlike the majority of such old water-escapes to caverns in the bowels of the earth, the mouth of this hole was so small that it was quite difficult for the passage of a single form. As soon as this was done, the party proceeded to fill the entrance with rock and rubbish. " It is done. He wiU trouble us no more !" said Rains. " He is buried ahve !" "Yes, but no matter. "Let ns return to camp!" The rescuer of Fall-leaf, after his escape, pushed rapidly forward to the river bank. Here he paused for a moment and listened. No soimd was heard. He placed his ear to the ground- " They are no longer in pursuit, but are re- turning to camp," he muttered, after a pause. Then he drew a small whistle from hiAocket, and Bounded a shrill note. There was no re- ply, and he repeated the caU. Still there was no answer. f " Has he been seized by those ruffians? If so, I must return to his rescue. But, stay. I heard the report of a rifle, and then a sharp cry. He may have met some of the soldiers, and suffered at their hands. At all events, it will be useless now for me to go again to camp, as the guard will be doubly vigilant. I will return to the cabin, and if Fall-leaf does not appear by nightfall, I wiU then go in search of him. Perhaps Johnson will accom- pany me. " He plunged into the river, and soon reached the other side. Onward he went, up the moun- tain, not pausing for a moment, sho'ning him- self perfectly familiar with the locality. At length he emerged into an open space, near the summit of the ridge he had been travers- ing, at the opposite side of which appeared a rude log cabin. He sprang forward with a smile as his eyes fell upon the dwelling, but as he came nearer the smile faded, and a look of wonder, or painful anxiety, became fixed upon his face. At length he paused and ex- claimed : "What means aU this? How I tremble! WTiat forebodings flash across my brain ! If harm has cpme to them, I shall go mad, mad ! Oh ! my father— my dear sister, why are you not upon the threshold to welcome my return? No answer ! All is silent there — and all is des- olation, too. The creeping vines are torn away — the flowers choked with weeds — the beauty of the place departed — she is not there, else it worJd not be so ! And I am doomed to — I must be satisfied first. Ahbamo ! Sis- ter! Alibamo!" His voice rang out with startUng clearness. ' ' Who calls ! WiUiam I Brother ! " " Johnson — my best friend — oh ! ycm are yet li-ving ! " cried William, as he sprang into the arms of Johnson, who had appeared in the cabin door. " Yes, friend, you are living ; but where is my fa oh ! I fear to ask — I am a coward, Johnson!" "You observe a change here, I suppose?" asked Johnson. "Yes ! But tell me why this change ? I can bear it now ! " "First let me hear of yourself, WiUiam, and then I will answer you. Where have vou been detained so long ?" " I cannot answer until you have told me of my father and my sister. Are they alive ?" "I hope so!" "You hope so ! Oh ! Johnson, my heart will burst with this suspense. Think for a mo- ment. I have been a prisoner now nearly three months. At th§ battle of Wilson's Creek I was taken by the enemy,' having been left wounded upon the field. I suffered — oh ! how terribly ! I suffered from bodily pain — from hunger — my heart wrung by the taunts and insults heaped upon me by the WTetches who held me in their power. I often felt death would be a great relief, but hx)pe — the bright star of hope rose high above the dark cloud which surrounded me, and I lived on. Wbat was that hope, Johnson ? It was of home ! Father ! Sister ! I dreamed of Liberty, even in my dungeon's depths — and on the grimmy walls I traced the flowers and vines my sister •PHE BOKDIDJ SPY ; OR TEE reared. The night -winds ■wMstied through my casements, and I heard my sister's voice — her song so sweet and thrilling. K dreaming thns, I -woke to sadness, my father's voice would speak to me, bidding me be firm and hope. At last the news reached me, even in my cell at Springfield, that Fremont was coming. My wounds were healed, and I re- solved to escape. Oh ! how I longed for free- dom. And why? Fii-st, that I might once more clasp my father and my sister in my arms, and then join Fremont. I watched for opportunity, and soon it came. I escaped at night, by the assistance of Fall-leaf, an In- dian chief. I started at once for home. I was crossing the moimtain this morning, when suddenly I came upon the outposts of Price. I saw my deliverer a prisoner, and bound. I did not hesitate, and by a stratagem, released him. The trick was discovered and we were fm-sued. I became separated from Fall-leaf, should have returned in search of him, but I could not. In the distance I could see my home, never before so loved- I felt that dear ones wete waiting my approach, and I hastened onward. And now, -with burning brain and bursting heart I ask, are they j-et living, and you reply you ' hope so ! ' " " Come in, WUliam, I will tell you all," an- swered Johnson. " AH ! Oh ! that word has a terrible sound. I cannot go in if thpy are not here ! Each fa- miliar article would only be a dart piercing my heart. Here I will Listen where there is air to breathe." He seated himself upon a log before the door, and dropping his face in his hands, he said : " Go on!" "William, it will require aU your foiiitude to listen to the narrative, for it is a tale of blood!" "Go on ! " replied "WUliam, without raising his head. "I win. After the fall and defeat of the brave General Lyon, at Wilson's Creek, and tho consequent retreat of the Union army, our position here was by no means an enviable one. It was well known that we were origi- nally from the East. We were called ' aboli- tionists,' and this was enough. Ot^er families were equally persecuted, and we resolved to leave the country. A party of Unionists, con- sisting of all our immediate neighbors, assem- bled here to make an-angements for leaving on a stated day. We were seated around this very spot, unconscious of danger, conversing upon our present trials and future hopes. We num- bered twenty souls, thii'teen of whom were wo- men and children. On a sudden a party of rebel ruffians dashed upon us from the sur- rounding woods. Escape was impossible, and but one of our party was armed. We sat qui- etly awaiting their approach, thinking this the best course to pm-sue, as we could not be- lieve unarmed men would be murdered in cold blood, even by those -UTetches. But vre were wofully in error. Their captain, one Robert Branch, rode to the side of Walter Leeman, and clove his skulL I sprang to my feet — so did our comrades. But the conflict was of short duration- Seven unarmed men could not cope long with forty monnted <^«^gag. most concealed from view among the trees, was the encampment of the sharpshooters and the Benton cadets. The reader will follow me along the main road, and passing headquarters some twenty rods, will see, on a parallel with the street, a line of tents, which were the staff officers' of the cadets. Just before reaching these we will turn a little to the left, and proceed for a short distance down a narrow lane. At the extreme right of the cadets' camp, stands a tent, of precisely the same appearance as those sur- roundii^ it, the entire regiment occupjdng the kind known as the Fremont tent. Let us enter. It is occupied at this time by four men, who, by their uniforms, are at once recognized as officers. Two of these officers display the rank of captain, by their shoulder-straps, the other two that of first lieutenant. The dark blue and bullion of one of these lieutenants indicate a staff officer. He is the regimental adjutant. " William Nettleton !" called one of the officers. "Here, captain," was the ready response. "Bring more coffee !" "Yes, captain." And away started the person addressed as Nettleton. It will be necessary to give a brief descrip- tion of this personage, as he is to play a con- spicuous part in the following events. He was in height, about six feet. His neck was very long, his hair nearly white — not from age, but naturally so ; his brows and eyelashes of the same color. Ids eyes were of a light green, his mouth large and gaping, his teeth extending like a battering ram, his fonn very lank and lean, his legs immensely long and thin, and very knock-kneed, and his feet — oh ! ye gods, — such feet. They were about the shape of his own knapsack, and almost as large, and his legs seemed to join the feet exactly in the middle, extending as far to the rear as front And when he walked, one would almost fancy that at every step he would fall to pieces. In fact, he looked unlike man or animal, and at first sight he might have been taken for a de- formed idiot. IBut whoever supposed him aa such, on a very short acquaintance would dis- cover their mistake. He had been detached from his company as the captain's servant, was veiy much attached to him, and delighted in being called the "captain's body guard." In a moment his voice was heard exclaiming : "Here, ye dam lazy skunks, you; what for did you let this fire go out? Captain wants some more coffee, and now it's all cold, dam ye." A burst of laughter followed this, as the adjutant remarked : " Captain, you have a jewel in that fellow." "Yes, but a rough one." "A decided character, I wish you would transfer him to me. " " Not for his weight in gold. I have adopt- ed him," replied the captain. "I will wager my commission, he will fight!" " I intend to try him!" "In what way ?" " I 'nill tell you presently. But, let us talk of other matters now. You heard what the colonel said ?" " Ye dam lazy skunks you !" " W^illiam's voice again!" replied the adju- tant, laughing, which was joined in by the four officers present. "Perhaps William's address to his squad might apply to us, for we have done very little lately. But, the colonel teUs me that Fremont wants some one to — " " Go to the devil !" again shouted WiUiam- He was, of course, addressing himself to the cook and boys who surrounded him, and who were always teazing the fellow, and of course took all he said or did in good part. " William is apt in answers, if replying to us, captain. At all events, that reply was more apropos than the first," said the adjutant. "To go on some important service. I ex- pect," continued the captain, " it is to visit the camp of Price as a spy. There has nothing been said about the men going with us, or wdth the officer who may volunteer to go, and of course the general would not expect an officer of the cadets to take men from other regi- ments, and ours are all engaged in building the bridge." " Have you received any definite order?" " Yes, and I at once sent for you all. The order includes our names, and we are to re- port to the general at four o'clock. It is now two." " Anything to relieve this present monoto- ny. I for one am tired of it. I came to Mis- souri to fight, and not to run. True, we are running after Price, but that does not satisfy me. I confess that I am ambitious, and I want to do something that will bring my name prom- inently before the world ; and I want — " "Coffee, sii-," said William, entering the tent. ' ' Go on, adjutant. William, place the cof- fee upon the table. You were saying that you want — " "Whiskey, sir," again repeated William, aa he handed a bottle toward his captain, which he had taken from the mess-chest. 12 THE BOEDEB SPY ; OR THE "V.'illiam, be quiet; don't speak again," said the captain. "I won't, captain, bnt I heard the adjutant Bay he wanted something, and I thought of course it was the black bottle. " "Silence, Nettleton." " I will, captain. Shall I make it hot?" " Nettleton, will you shut your mouth V" "I can't, captain, my teeth are too long." " Go after some wood for my fii'e, 'Wiiliam. Take your squad with you." "Yes, captain." In a moment Nettleton was heard calling : ' ' Here, ye darn lazy skunks you, captain wants some wood. Come, be quick, or I will have you all in the guard-house. " "Now, adjutant, what were you going to Bay?" "Merely, that I want my parents, my rela- tives, tj feci that I have done something that they may be proud of me ! " "Adjutant, that is a natural impulse of the human heart. But this is not your only mo- tive ?" The captain fixed a piercing look upon him. He bent his head for a moment and was silent. At that instant the band struck up the Star-Spangled Banner. " No ! " cried the adjutant, springing to his feet. ' ' That is not my only motive. I thought you knew me better. It is true I love my fa- ther and my mother, my brothers and sisters, and it would gratify my pride if I could retoi-n home after this war is over, an acknowledged hero ; but, I love my country, and while I enjoy the self-satisfaction derived from great deeds, I desire my countiy should derive all the benefits. It may be passion with me — this love of countiy — but I trust it is piinciple. My fathers fought, and I should hate myself if I had so far degenerated as to fight from selfish motives, or fear to fight. From youth I have dreamed of battle-fields, and gloiy for myseK, never thinking it would be in this, our o^vn America, that my first battle would be fought. But it is so, and my manhood views difler somewhat from those of childhood. Now I long for the battle-field, and my country's glory!" "I have no doubt of your loyalty, Harry," replied the captain. "Neither do I doubt youi" love for your friends and your countiy. But you have just returned from the camp of Price, and, if I mistakiB not, you love that camp. " Harry did not reply. The two other officers gazed upon the adjutant with a look of sur- prise, and then turning to the captain, one of them said : " Love for the camp of Price !" "Oh don't be alai-med, gentlemen. You know the good book tells us that where the treasure is, there the heart will be." ' ' These are strange words ; however, ex- plain. " " ^^Tiy, can you not cmess ?" "Ptclatives there!" ' ' No ! that is, not at present. How soon a relative may he there is quite another thing." , "Come — come, captain, explain." ""V^Tiy, look at Harrj-'s face ; you can find the explanation there. WTiat but love, and love for the softer sex, ever made a man like Harry grow pale and melancholy. You have not heard hirn sing * Noble EepubUc * recently, have you? You know the free bird never sings when its mate has been caught and caged." " Caught and caged ! Why then if Hany re- ally does love, it is not a rebel beauty ?" "I wUl answer that," cried Harry. "No, she is not a rebel beauty, but is, and ever has been a tnie Union girl. I call her giil, for she is so innocent, so artless, so beautiful, and yet she possesses firmness and resolution I never could have expected in one so young. J met her yeai's ago in New York. She was then a httle child, but I loved her even then. "SV'hen I visited the camp of the rebels last week, what was my surprise to meet her. I learned her histojy, and I found she was detained as a prisoner. But it is growing late. In ten min- utes we must meet the general. I will ex- plain all this at some future time." "Ah! here comes Nettleton. I want him," said the captain. Nettleton entered the tent. ' ' AYilliam, tell me which you prefer : to tcrve •u the ranks, or to act as my body-guard? " ' ' "V\Tiy, captain, I want to remain just as I am. Why ? You don't want to have me su- perceded, do you ?" " Oh ! no ; but why do you object to being in the ranks ?" ' ' I can't turn round quick enough ! " ""\^Tiy?" " My feet are too big?" ' ' I am afraid, William, that you are a cow- ard!" "I don't think I am, captain !" • "If you were to meet the enemy in battle, would you run ?" ' ' "WTiich way ?" ""Why, /rom the enemy." "I suspect I should, captain!" "^Tiy, William, you said you were not a coward ! " " WeU, I say so again!" ' ' Then why would you run /rom the enemy ?" "Why, I must f Alow my captain of course !" "Good, Nettleton, good," shouted the list- eners. "You are matched this time, cajitain." And aU joined in the laugh. "WeU, William, I exiKctl shall go to-night, v>-here there is some danger. WiU you go with me?" "Yes, captain." "Think again, Yrilliam. We may both be IHIIpd?" " Oh ! well, if we are only hoth killed, I can serve you still?" " Serve me ! In vrhat way?" "By bringing coal for your fire, instead of wood!" "Come — come, William, no more of this levity. H you -wtU go, or wish to go, you can do go. Saddle "WTiite Surry for yourself. Give my bro\s-n horse to Swasey's nigger ! prepare my horse, and be ready in half an hour. Come, gentlemen, it is time to report to the general." The four ofiicers left the tent, and proceed- ed to the headquartei-s of the commanding officer. They were duly announced by tho guard. Then entered the tent The general was BEAUTIFUL CAPXnTE OF THE EEBEL C.iMP. IJ seated at a small table, busy with his papers. But ho rose instantly, and iu a cordial manner, in^'ited them to a scat." "We report for orders, general," said the captain. " Then you have resolved to undertake this task ?" answered the general in an inquiring manner. "Yes, although ignorant of its nature, we have resolved to attempt anything that may benefit our army and our cause. You have only to give your commands, to have them faithfully executed, if it is possible to do so !" " I have no commands to give. That which I ask is a mere request, which you are at liberty to decline if you wish. Here are the directions. You, Captain Hayward, wiU act as you think best, so far as details are con- cerned, and will take command. If, however, after reading the directions contained in that envelope, you wish to decline the service, let ma hear of it soon as convenient." " You have our answer now. Good evening, general." " Good evening, gentlemen." The officers at once left the tent, and pro- ceeded to that of the captaia. "Be seated," said Captain HayAvard, as he opened the envelope. He glanced over its contents, and turning to his companions he said: ' ' "We must disguise ourselves. It is as I sus- pected — we are to go to the camp of Price. I have in my possession one of the secesh uni- forms, which formerly belonged to an officer. I shall wear it. You will dress in the plain homespun worn by the rebel soldiers." "Where are we to procure them?" "They will be sent to my tent in a few mo- ments. The general has provided them. WU- liam Nettleton ! " "I'es, captain." "Are our horses ready?" "Yes, captain." "TeU my cook to prepare rations for three days for six men. Take care that they are properly placed in our haversacks— then bring the horses around to my tent-door. Stay, here is a suit of clothing I wish you to put on, and wherever wo go, understand you belong in Springfield, and have just left the hospital there. After we pass our lines, you know you are a rebel, so lay aside that rifle, and take the shot gun I gave you. ' Swasey's nigger ' will not be armed at all. Go." In a few moments the officers had changed their uniforms for the rougher dress. Their horses were brought up, and they at once took their leave of camp, followed by the negro and William Nettleton. CHAPTER IV. The Jowney — The Cowardly Negro — Nettleton' s Method — Meeting the Rebels — Re will fighi — — Powder discovered — The Arrival. The devil damn thee black, thou cream-faced loon I Where got'=t ttiou that goose look 1 — Shakespeare. Thb party rode rapidly to the river, and were soon upon the opposite shore. Tumiug to the east, they passed along a narrow road which wound its course along the river's bank. For fifteen or twenty miles the horsemen did not pause, and not a word was spoken. At last Captain Ha3rward ordered a halt, and tha party dismounted. The horses were secured to the surrounding trees, and Nettleton and the negro left to guard them. " Come with me, comrades," said Hay- ward, as he took his course toward the river's bank. In a moment they were seated by the side of the rapid Osage, entirely concealed by tha thick gi'owth of underbrush by which they were sun'ounded. "It is better that our servants should not hear our conversation," remarked Hayward- " And now, gentlemen, we must lay our plans. I wish every one to speak freely. You know our object, of course." "I know its nature ; but perhaps you can give us details we are not acquaiated with," answered Lieut Elsler. "They are merely the instructions previ- ously given, with a trifling difference. We are to reach the camp of Price by noon to-moiTow, or to-day, as I see it is after twelve o'clock," replied Hayward. "When we arrive within a mile of the outer pickets, we must conceal our horses, and leave the darkey to watch them. I shall walk boldly into the camp, and report myself to Price as an officer and messenger just arrived from Mcintosh's command. Our colonel was in the same regiment with him, the 10th regulars, before this war broke out, and has given me an exact description of his person and peculiarities. To throw Price off his guard, and to prevent his questioning me too closely, I shall repeat some of the peculiar expressions of Mac, which, of coui'se, Price will at once recognise, and that, together vnth. my secesh uniform, will settle matters. I am to tell some story which will induce him to make a stand here, or to advance upon us at War- saw ; or, at least, to give us battle at Spring- field. I shall tell Price that it is the advice of Mcintosh to meet Fremont on the Osage, if possible, and say that the reason of this advice is, that Mac is in communication with one Mar- shall, an officer high in ranlt in the federal army, and that Marshall teUs him the exact position of our forces. Of course our numbers are to be greatly underrated. The federals, I shall say, profess to have thirty-five th lusand men, all anxious to fight, when in reality they have not more than twenty thousand, poorly anned, and mostly arrant cowards, who will run at the first discharge of the confederate guns. I shall teU Price that Mac has perfect confidence in the information received through his friend, and sent me forward at once to cordmunicate with him. You must all remain concealed until I come to you. I shaU rematq in his camp vmtU evening, get such informa- tion as I can with regard to his actual strength, and what he intends doing, and when the countersign for the night is given out, I shall manage to procure it, and then return to you. Our fm-ther plans we can then arrange." "But, if there should already be some of the officers from Mcintosh's department, pres- ent, and should declare you did not b- l^n'^,' there .' " 14 THE BOEDER SPY ; OR THE " It is not at all probable. Mac has not ro- eeived any information at all." " But you know Price has sent spies into onr camp, and if any of them should be pres- ent and recognise you ?" " I must take the chances. If I do not re- turn to you by eleven o'clock, you will know that I have been arrested." "If ye are arrested we ■«-ill go in and lick the nasty chaw-tobacker skunks, and get you out," said Nettleton, who had approached just in time to hear the last sentence. "William, I told you to remain with the horses, did I not ?" "I know you did, captain, but you see I liad to come and report myself under arrest." " What have you been doing, William ?" ••I've killed the nigger!" •' Not Swasey's nigger ?" "Yes, I have!" " Why did you do that ?" "Why, captain, ye see the black sneak got akeered and turned almost white, and shivered like a poodle when he's going to ketch a lick- ing. And sez I to him, you dog or rascal, what are you skeered about ? And when he tried to speak his teeth rattled so that I thought it was a wagon coming over the mountain. Then he jumped on one of the horses and sez •I'm g'wan back!' So I just tapped him on the head with the but of my gun, and I'll be blasted if the critter didn't get right off the horse and lay down without my telling him to do it. But, I didn't want to kill the black skin ; I didn't think his pate was so soft. Nig- gers generally ain't. " " "\Vhat was the feUow frightened about ?" " I don't know, captain, except it was the dark!" The officers exchanged glances, and Hay- ward said in an under tone : " It was just as I should have expected Net- tleton to act ! " Then turning to WUliam he said : " Go back to the horses, and don't kill any ' one else to-night!" "I won't, captain, unless they are enemies or Cbwards, replied William, as he turned to depart "I would trust that fellow with my life," said Hayward, gazing after Nettleton. " But you were saying, captain, if you did not return by eleven o'clock, we should know you were arrested. "WTiat shall we do in that case ?" " Y'ou can do nothing. Eetum to camp and leave me to my fate. However, I apprehend no such danger. But, Harry, you spoke of a beauty whom you love, and who is a prisoner. Have j'ou anything to request? Perhaps we can serve you in this matter." "Yes, Harry, we will try," replied Elsler ; • ' but will you not give us the remaining portion of your adventure ?" " Have I time?" asked the adjutant, turning to the captain. " Oh ! yes, true love affairs are usually short but sweet I presume it ^^■LLl not take you very long to .speak of bright eyes, ruby lips, flowing tresses, and soft whispers — sighs, and all that kind of nonsense. Go on- " " Captain, I know you think lightly of love, but wait until you have seen Alibamo. You will love her, too. She is a being to lo\ beautiful as morning — gentle as a summer eve- ning's breeze." "Exactly, and so on indefinitely. Young ladies are always all this, and more, in young lovers' estimation. But give us facts, Harry, She is a prisoner, and that interests me. Per- haps I can see her to-day, and give her some message from you, which will give her hopes of liberty. " " I have very little to say, but much to do. While I was with the scouting party some days since, I went to the camp of the rebels. I did not seek admittance within their lines, but from a commanding point I saw their v>hole armj', although I could not form any correct estimate of their strength. As I was return- ing I met Alibamo, in company with a squad of soldiers who are acting as her guard. She recognized me at once, and was about to spring forward, when I raised my finger to my lips, in token of silence. She understood me. She knew I was not a rebel but the soldiers sujDposing me, from my rough, homespun clothing, to be one of their own friends, did not notice me, or observe the sign of recogni- tion and silence which passed between myself and the lady. I spoke to the soldiers : ' Hold on a moment,' I said, 'if I am not greatly mis- taken, I have met this beauty before in New Orleans. ' As I spoke these words, I fixed my eyes upon her. I tried to look hatred. She understood me, and replied that she had met me before. ' And I loved you, ' I said, ' but that love was of no avail. You left me. I deter- mined to follow you, for revenge, but I did not know where you were. And now I meet you near my own camp. And you are a prisoner ! Am I not revenged ?' ' The soldiers heard every word I had spo- ken, and imderstood me just as I spoke. She then rejilied to me thus : " ' It is true we have met before, and you told me of your love. I turned from you, I scarce- ly knew why, but you were mistaken if you thought I did not love you. That I left the place where we first met was unavoidable. And because I left thus, you wish to revenge me ! Well, you have your revenge. My fa- ther and my brother, most likely, have been murdered by rebels such as jou. I am in the hands of a ruffian. I cannot escape — I meet you, and you taunt me ! WeU, you are re- venged ! ' "Thus she briefly told me her story. I asked her if she could love me yet, and she re- plied she could. I pointed to a certain rock, and told her that, as soon as my duties would permit, I would meet her there. Of course I could not jjermit her to escape, and imless she would promise to remain, and become one of us, I couli do nothing for her. One of the guard said she could not meet me there alone, as Branch would not allow it, but she might ba permitted to tcalk if she chose to do so, in th« evening, accompanied by the present guard. I thanked them, said I would let Alibamo know when I could come, and if they would keep the matter a secret, I would pay them well for it. I could afford to do that, as my father was rich. Believing me a rebel, they readily consented. BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OP THE REBEL CAMP. 15 " Of course, you know my plana now, cap- tain. Arrange all your affairs, and then com- municate w4th Alibamo for me. Tell her to meet me at eleven o'clock at the place appoint- ed. There will be a guard of twelve, captain. What say you ?" " We will rescue her !" "Can we do it?" «• Nettleton alone cpuld do it ! Why do you ask, can ice .'*" " It is an individual hazard !" "Your cause is ours, Harry. But come, it is time to continue our journey. It will be daylight before we reach our destination. " As they approached the spot where the horses were tied, they saw the negro standing erect, and Nettleton giving him advice which was as follows : "Now look a here, ' Swasey's nigger,' you are a mean feller any how, and ain't much ac- count no way. But, don't go and make a sneak of yourseK by being such a milksop of a coward. Cos why ? You see, I hit you on the head, and I thought you was killed. I didn't care much, no way, kase you're such a mean soldier, any way. But just behave yourself, and don't be a sneak any more, and I'll let ye live ; but if you show the white feather, as captain calls it, you will find out that the cap- tain's body-guard don't have any tum-taUs about him ; no, sir, Mr. Darkey ! " " I won't be coward no more, Massa Nettle- ton. GroUy, don't I ^^•ish dis chile was brabe like you. But, ye see, Massa Nettleton, when dis chile gets in de woods, and de rebels are aroun', it makes his har stan' on end. " " Well, don't you do it no more, or I make you stand on end !" " William Nettleton," called the captain. " Yes, sir ! want the horses ?" "Yes, William." As the party mounted, and prepared to de- part. Captain Hayward said : ' ' Why, William, you informed me that you had killed that gentleman of color. I see he is alive, and apparently unhurt. " " Why ye see, captain, his skull is so thick, it ain't so easily cracked. But, if you'll only just examine his skull, you'll find a lump there big enough for a breastwork." ' ' Do you think it has improved his condi- tion ?" " I guess it knocked some of the fear out of his woolly top-piece, and if I have occasion to hit him again, I bet it will knock it all out. " " George, what are you afraid of?" asked Hayvvard, speaking to the negro. "I'se most afeerd of Cap'n Nettleton, mas- sa, " replied the negro, as he opened his mouth and grinned. " Did he hurt you very much ?" "Considerable much, massa cap'n. Golly, I thought the gun crack de skuU, sure. " " But you are not afraid of the rebels, are you, George?" " Not when I'se good way off!" "Captain," said the adjutant, "we shall have trouble with this fellow. Had we not better send him back ?" " Perhaps it would be the best course." •' Oh ! massa cap'n, don't send dis chile back alone. De rebels catch him, sure. And den, O Lord golly, dey whip me to strings, sure .'" "So they would. The best thing you can do is to keep quiet. We shall conceal out horses when we arrive wittin a few miles of the camp, and you must remlSn with them. If you do 60, you will be safe, but if you attempt to return alone, you will be caught and whipped to death." "Oh! golly! massa, dis chile will do just what massa cap'n tell him. But is ye gwan to lebe dis ohile all stark, staring, breving alone ?" "AU alone, George, and your only safety will be in keeping perfectly quiet so that you will not be discovered. " " Can't Massa Nettleton stay ?" ' ' WiUiam, " said Hayward, ' ' give that fellow a lecture." " Yes, captain. Look a here, you disgrace of your country, " said Nettleton, as he rode up to the side of the negro, ' ' look a here ; if I hear you open your mouth again, I'll cram the muzzle of my gun down your throat, and then shoot it off. Lord wouldn't there be a splut- terin of nigger ! " " I'se dumb, Cap'n Nettleton." "WeU, talk no more. Come, comrades, double quick." Captain Hayward struck his horse and dashed forward, followed by the entire party. It was about two o'clock in the morning, as they were riding rapidly along, when Nettleton rode up to the side of Captain Hayward and said : "Captain, don't you see them sneaks ahead?" The captain looked toward the spot indica- ted and replied : " Stumps, you mean, William." "No, golly massa, dem's no stumps ; dem's hooman beins. Dar, don't you hear dat horse whinner ?" "Halt!" saM Hayward. " Look to your pis- tols — have your swords ready — there are about twenty of them. They see us, and are await- ing our approach. It is too late to conceal ourselves. Forward ! " The party moved onward at a slackened pace. When they had arrived within forty yards of the horsemen. Captain Hayward said : ' ' Halt here a moment. I will ride forward. " In an instant he had reached them. He rode up carelessly and fearlessly. "Halt!" cried the leader, addressing Hay- ward. "To what purpose, sir?" demanded Hay- ward. ' ' For examination ! " was the response. "The moon is shining brightly. You can easily examiae my face and uniform. But perhaps you prefer to examine these?" said Hayward, drawing his revolver with one hand and his sword with the other. "Precisely!" was the reply, "unless you pass examination first." " Well, sir, as I don't intend to submit my- self to any such process, we vnU. commence with these at once. Forward, boys ! " shouted Hayward, turning to his own party, " here are a set of d — d home guards !" Hayward was weU satisfied that the party was no other than a portion of Price's army, and his rough allusion to the " home guards " 16 THE BOEDEB SPY ; OE THE was intended to impress them ^vith the fact that he and his party were also of the rebel ar- my. The ruse succeeded. As the remainder of Haj'ward's party were approaching, with drawn swords, the officer in command of the other squad, said : "Don't trouble them. I think we are all cut from the same piece of cloth. " ' ' Then you are not what I suppose ?" asked Hayward. " We are of the confederate army, and have just come from camp." "Indeed! then you need not fear us ! " said Hayiv-ard, laughing. ' ' That is, if you will give a good account of yourselves. Halt, boys, don't annihilate them. " The leader of the twenty joined in the laugh, he saw the remaining five approach. "Oh! Lord! massa," said the negro as he approached, " don't— don't — if dem's home guards we will be — " Somehow in turning, just at that instant the gun which Nettleton carried, came in violent contact with the darkey's nose, which checked his further utterance. "Yes, ye dam skunk, you maybe mighty glad them ain't home guards. If they was, you'd catch Jerusalem, I teU ye what, ye black rascal ! " The darkey did not appear to comprehend, but dared not speak. ' ' Whither bound, boys ?" asked Hayward. ' ' Well, " replied the leader, ' ' we are going to scout around the federal camp a Little, to find out what we can. I suppose we can get in, as ■we shaU go separately, and if surprised, we shall pass as home guards. I fancy no diffi- cnlty, as you mistook us for such. " "Still, you must be very careful. These Yankees are very sharp, I am informed," re- plied Hayward. "Well, if we are attacked we must do our best, of course. But we may not go as far as Warsaw. Our principal object is, to get some kegs of powder, which are buried on the Osage, jujst above — let me see." The officer took a card from his pocket and read aloud : "Just above Rapid creek, on the icest bank, near a large oak tree, which is marked G. S. A. " "Powder! good! We are in need of it," answered Hayward. " By the by, I am out of powder — so are our entire party. Have you any to spare ?" " Oh ! yes, here is a flask." Hayward reached for his second pistol, and then looking up with surprise, he said : ' ' Whj', I lost one of my weapons. Ah ! I remember where we stopped, about two miles back, in the brush, by the river's side. Elsler, you have not ridden as far to-day as I have ; won't you i-ide back and get it for me. You probably will find it on the ground where I was sitting. We -will ride slow, so that you can easily overtake us." ' ' With pleasure, captain, " replied Elsler, as he turned his horse, and rode rapidly away. "I would go with you, captain," said Hay- ward, " were it not that I have important in- formation to impart to General Price. By the by, captain, is my friend Branch with you now ?" "Yes — but you must have been absent some time not to be aware of his presence. " ",0h! I hi'.vc not been with the general since the Lexingcou afiair. I just came up from Mclutu.h's command. But why woidd I be particularly aware of his presence. Has Branch got himself into trouble ?" " Yes — he's caught a tartar !" "WUl a duel be the result?" asked Hay- ward, with apparent soli«fitude. " Oh ! he's already shot ! " "Injured badly?" " ! no, that is, not mortally. He was on- ly shot, as Mercutio says, ' with a white wench's black eye. ' That's alL" "I don't exactly xmderstand you," replied Hayward, feigning ignorance. " \Vhy, you see. Branch took a young gal prisoner, and has kept her in camp some time. At first he was hai'sh and done just about as he pleased — that is, he said about what he pleased. But he never couldn't come near the gaL She struck him once with a dagger when he tided to kiss her, and nearly kiUed him. Du- ring the time he was sick he fell in love in re- al earnest with the gal, and now ehe does any- thing she pleases, except leave. That she can't do, as Branch has detailed a guard to watch her, and although they are just as much in love with her as Branch is, they dare not let her escape." "Indeed! She must be a fascinating crea- ture. Is she in camp now ?" " Oh, yes ; she has a tent to herself." " What is her name ?" "I believe they call her Alibamo." "She is a Spanish beauty, then?" ' ' That is her Christian name. But I believa she is of Spanish origin. "I must see this beauty," said Hayvrard, laughing. " You had better look out for your heart" "Oh! no danger. I am not susceptible. Here is a yoxmg gentleman who is, however. How is it, HaiTy, do you think you will love this — this — what is her name ?" "Alibamo." ' ' Alibamo ! Yes — soft — musical — poeticaL Will you love Alibamo, Harry ?" ' ' Very likely, captain, " replied the adjutant. "Weil, we must proceed. Good-by, cap- tain. I hope you ^\•iIl secure the powder!" The parties now separated. Captain Hay- ward and his friends riding leisurely forward, until the others were no longer to be seen. ' ' I guess he'll git that powder over the left, " said Nettleton, giinning a smile that reminded one of a large hole in the mountain. ' ' Search for your revolver, captain. Perhaps you have not lost it at alL" "I brought but one, and that is here. But never mind." In the course of a few hours, the captain rode iuto a thick cluster of oaks, followed by his friends. The horses were secured in a position where they were entii-ely concealed from ^•iew. The negro was instmcted to watch them, and the others were to remain quiet imtil the retui-n of Captain Hay\\^ard, provided he should return by twelve o'clock the following night. If not, they were to act as they thought best BEAUTIPUL C-U:*Tr\'3 OP THE EEBEL CAMP. IT CHAPTER V Wttpjoard in Camp — The Spies— The Maiden Alibaino — The Intervicu) with Price — The Per- ilous Situation. Columbia's pona I the heavens above ua Sent ftiigels of glory, who brought doim our stars 1 With p:irt of henvon's blue Whioh they gjive Washington, An'i through him to you, Wheu firit you begun To form our proud standard. Then Ifickinp; the bars, Columbi:i"9 daughters cxcl'.imed, " Those who love u.i Must add to tluitpirticn with etreams of their blood, Bindiug it to the blue and thJ stars, though a flood Bs rijquired." • • • • • Colonel Weeks. It was about ten o'clock in the morning irhen Captain Hayward left his friends, and proceeded toward the camp of General Price, •which was about font nules from the spot where the horses had been secured and the party concealed. Several of the picket guard were passed, who came at once to the shoulder arms and salute, aS Hayward approached. He soon reached the guard-house. Here the in- spection was a trifle more critical, although the captain passed within the lines without the elightest difficulty. He walked along as one famUiar -with the place, his eyes surveying each surrounding object at a single glance, and Beeking, among the better class of tents, one which, by the rebel flag, he could recognize as headquarters. But he could not readily find the general's tent, concealed, as it was, among the trees. Soon, however, he met one of the rebels, wearing the shoulder-straps of captain, and his sash worn in the manner indicating an "officer of the day." Hayward saluted, and asked : ' ' Will you take me to the general's tent ?" "You are a stranger here?" asked the offi- cer. "Yes." "You come from below?" "From below Springfield — from Mcintosh." "Anything important?" " Yes, but it is for the general's ear first. If he chooses to communicate with you, verj' •ffcU ; but I shall not!" "Oh! your pardon, sir. You will firrd the general's tent to the right, on the hiU yonder, just in the bdge of the woods. Ee is now ex- amining a spy — an Indian ! " Hiiy^^'ard saluted the officer, and passed on toward the spot indicated. He had proceeded but a short distance, when he saw an Indian dart froju among the trees, and run as if for life. Several shots were instantly fired after him, but without effect. It was but an instant before several horsemen appeared, and dashed after him at a fm-ious speed. They passed Hayward, and were soon out of sight. Hayward passed on, and soon reached ihe general's tent. He was informed by an or- derly in attendance that Price had just left in piu-suit of the Indian spy who had just escaped, and might be absent some time. " These red devils are slippery as eels," said fhe orderly, "and I doubt if they can overtake him." "Well, I am in no particular hurry," replied Hayward. "I come from Mcintosh with mes- sages for the general, and I wiU await his re- turn here." " Then you are a stranger in our camp?" "Yes, I have jiist arrived!" "Well, sit do■s\^l. Take a cigar — and here is some excellent brandy. Help yourself." "You appear to be well provided for," said Hayward, lighting a cigar. "Better vdih diink than anj-thing else._ But I can off'er you something to eat, such as it is.* "Thank you, orderly ; but I was well sup- plied at a farm-house this morning. However, I wiU di-ink with you. FiU, and we will drink the general, and success to our cause!" 'I -wiU drink that in a pint bumper." said _e orderly, as he drained his glass. " That is excellent," said Hayward. "Take another." "I don't care if I do !" "Still another!" "I don't care if I do!" replied Hayward again, in a singular tone. " Oh ! you have been Avith Mcintosh, sure," said the Orderly, who made himself very famil- iar with his new acquaintance. He had evi- dently been already veiy familiar with tha brandy, and was getting very drunk. "I should know you had drank with Mac many a time. That is always his reply, and we use it aU over the camp — Don't care if I do," and the orderly drained his glass again. Hayward pretended to drink. " "UTiat news do you bring from Mac ?'^ asked the orderly. "I expect it is advice to retreat!" "Oh! he need not have sent us that ad- vice!" "Why, I thought General Price had deter- mined to make a stand here !" " So did I. But he won't now. Mum's the word, you know, if I tell you !" "Oh! yes, mum!" answered Hayward in a confidential tone. "Well, you see, the general sent out spies several days ago, and he thought they were» taken, or had played him false, because they didn't come back. But they did come thia morning while the general was absent, and brought these papers. The general was so busy examining the Indian, that he did not see them, and I forgot to tell him they wer» here." "What do the papers contain?" "A plan of the federal camp — the names and description of aU the principal officers, even General Fremont, and their entire forca in round numbers — their guns — kind of rifle which the infantry use, and, in fact, all the particulars, even to where they post their pickets." "Orderly, do you think we can successfully contend with their army ?" ' ' I knoio we cannot ! They have more- fight- ing men than we, and are much better armed." ' ' What shall you do, orderly, if Price does make up his mind to fight ?" "You won't betray me ?" "Not if you tell me in confidence.'* "Well, then, before the fight begicuSi JshaB run like the devil, and get out of the way. Those d d abohtionists don't take me pria» oner, if I can help it!" 18 THE BORDEE SPY ; OR THE "Then you are conTinced Price ■vrould bo •whipped?" "I knoio it!" "I am of your opinion, orderly. But Price has determined to tight. Ho has gi-eat confi- dence in his position here, and thinks that he can whip twice his number. Let me look at those papers ! " The ordcrl}' passed the papers to Hayward. "Now, let me tell you, orderly, J think it is all folly for Price to meet the federal anny, even if he has a strong position. You Icnow they have sixty — some say eighty thousand men, and four hundred big gims — and yet Piice thinks he can successfully meet "WTiat do I see ! Why, this paper states that the federal forces onlj"^ number thirty or thii-ty- five thousand, and that they have less than two hundred guns ! Oh ! this is a mistake. Those men who brought this information, I •will swear, are Union spies, and are decei^ving General Price, merely to get him to fight. Now, I knotn the federals have more men than represented here, and if Price has determined to meet them with their sixty thousand, what viiU. he do if led to believe there are only thirty thousand? ^Yhj, he would advance at once arid lead us all to death. " 'What shall we do?" asked the orderly, evidently alaimed. "Why, Price must not see these papers I" "How can it be prevented?" " Let me keep them !" "But the spies are do^wn at their tent, and &s soon as the general comes, they •will return and tell him all. " "How many are there?" "Onlj'^ two!" ' ' They must not be permitted to deceive the general, and lead us all to cei-tain destruction. Have them arrested at once, and put them in the outer guard-house — stay, and to prevent their communicating this false information to the men — as it would soon reach Price — have them gagged!" *> "Ivi-ill!" replied the orderly.'^ He left the tent, and soon retiimed, saying : "They seemed somewhat surprised when I told them they were found out. But they are properly attended to." "I do not think that our general's position here is as strong as he thinks it to be. Have you a dra-ning of his defences ?" • "Oh! yes," replied the orderly. "Here is one I di'ew for my own gratification." "I wiU examine it at my leisure," remarked Hayward, as he glanced over the paper, and then placed it in his pocket. "But, now be ■very careful and make no mi^nticn of this mat- ter to Price. "What is that ?" "That singing?" "Y'es — that is an extraordinary voice, and is that of a female!" "Oh! yes — that is a captive bird. But, if yo\i -will walk in that direction, I wlU in- troduce you to Captain Branch, and perhajjs iou can get an opportunity to converse with er." Captain Hayward and the orderly left the tent, and proceeded in the direction from which the sound emanated. At last Hayward paused and said : " By heaven, that "will never do ; she is siixg- ing the Star-spangled Banner!" "Oh! she tciU do just what she pleases, in spite of any of us. You had better not say anj-thing to her against that song, or you •«-ill get more of her tongue than •will be agreeable to your feelings. " They paused before the tent, around which, were lounging a number of officei-s. The oi>- derly introduced Hayward to Captain Bnmch, and said : ' ' The gentleman is Bomewhat curious to boo your beauty." ' ' He shall be gratified. Walk in, sir ! " Both Branch and Haj-^vard entered the tent, and many of the officers crowded around to witness the introduction. "Alibamo — darling — allow mo to present you to a friend — an officer in our army." "Present me anywhere, and to anyone, and I ^viU rejoice, if they •will okIv take their pres- ence out of my sight," replied the maiden. Then turning to Hayward she said : "Pardon me, sir. I did not intend to ba rude to you ! " " I have nothing to pardon, sweet lady," re- plied Hayward kindly. "Speak plainly. I admire candor, and never •wish to constrain the speech of any i^ne — more especially a lady, and one so beautiful ! " And beautiful she was, indeed. Her form was almost faii-y-like. Her golden tresses fell upon a neck of spotless purity — her cheeks so clear that you could almost see the soul shino throiagh them, lea'ving its tinge of beatity ; and those eyes looked as if they opened first in heaven, and caught their brightness from & seraph's gaze, as flowers are fairest where the sunbeams falL But, •v\hen she timicd that gaze upon j-ou, one could not fail hi dLscover an expression of determination and finnnesa which coxild scarcely be expected in one so gentle in appearance. "l''ou are inclined to flatter," she answered, •with a smile. "But if you are so -williug others should express their sentiments •^-ithoui restraint, I may hope you were nf>t offended because I was singing a favorite song of mina when you entered my tent. " "Not at all, dear lady. I should bo pleased to listen to it again." ' ' Would yoii ? Then you shaU. be gratified ! " And Alibamo, seizing her guitar, began th« song. As she proceeded, an ahnost deathly silence was maintained by those aromid. What •tt-as the meaning of this silence — this apparent thoughtfulness ? TVTiy did not the rebel hordes compd this female to cease her Bong of treason to them ! Ah ! the good old times, when their fathers and our o-wa. were fighting side hy side, ia freedom's holj' name, and under the Union banner's folds, came freshly to the mind and heart of each, and caus- ed them to long for just such times again, and for the glorious prosperity which was enjoyed by our country, while that "Star-spangled Banner" waved free and glorious. They thought of streams of blood — blood •«hich had, and must still flow, mingled with tears — ^hot, burning mother's tears. Perhaps, too, they were thinking of theil o^wn homes, prosperous and happy, till trai- BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE REBEL CAKP. 19 tors arose, and striking down the standard which waved over them, planted in its place a treacherous emblem, reeking with the pollu- tion of a bad cause. Or, psrhaps they wero meditating a return to the dear old flag, but feared to do so. Fear that they might not, like the prodigal, be re- ceived with open arms, and fear that, in the outset, they would bo overpowered ij-ad dealt with as mutineers. Oh ! come back, deluded, mistaken sons of freedom's soil! Come back, ye whose fathers shed their blood to consecrate our land to liberty, for ever ! Let your base and calcula- ting political leaders deceive y©u no more ! Be no longer tools for their use and to be only used for their aggrandizement ! Como back to the country that loved j^ou and has so long given ycu its protection ! Come, acknowledge your \sTrong — seek protection under our starry flag, and fight for it. You shall receive its protection, and be once more ranked as the sons of Columbia. As she ceased singing, she turned to Hay- ward and said : " Do you not admire the song ?" "laclmii-e the singer, lady, but you must excuse me if I do not speak with regard to the sentiment, before you." "You admiro candor. Why not express your sentiments before me ? You look liko a gentleman, and I love occasionally to meet a gentleman, even in the rebel ranks." "No doubt our view.3 are different, lady. But I trust we wiU not be enemies neverthe- less. " "AVe may not be personal enemies here. But if you ^vill change that uniform you wear, for that of a Union officer, I will promise that we -wiU be friends." . ' ' I could not consis^tently do so at present, lady!" "Why not?" "AVhen my country is in danger, do I not share it ? Thus to take this off, would be to endanger myself and my country's cause. " Ahbamo gazed at Hayward a moment, but it was met with a look of indifference. "Yes, you are in danger. Y"ou belong to the so-called Southern confederacy, and you, with it, are in danger of destruction. Why not come back to the Union — the glorious old con- federacy. "Why not come back and fight for the cause your fathers died to \vin. Why not fight under the glorious stars and stripes. See /wear them as an apron, even here in this rebel camp. And I tore up a confederate flag to make this. The glorious stars and stripes — oh! how I love them. Our fathers gave them to us ptire and spotless, their stars glit- tering brightly, and their stripes waving free. If they must be stained, it wUl bo by the blood of our fathers' sons who are fighting to replace them on every spot where they have waved, but by traitorous hands been stricken down. And they will be placed there. They ^^tU yet wave over yoivc home and mine ! " "Lady, you will pardon me, but I cannot longer listen to you. K I do not act as I think is right, it will be something new for Uarry Hinton." Alibamo started. She trembled violently, but recovering her self-posaession, she said : "Mr. Harry Ulnfon, I could not accuse you of dishonor. Forgive mo if I have wounded your feelings by being rude. And to show you my esteem for you — that is so far as I can feel esteem for ray country's enemy — you may kiss my check at parting!" The gallant captain stepped forward, and taking tho lady by the hand, the kiss echoed throughout the tent. But a very close observer would have noticed that Hayward kissed the lady on, or very near, the ear ! "Adieu! I tnist to sec you again!" said Alibamo, as Hayward left tha tent. "You are fortunate," remarked tho orderly, as he proceeded toward the tent of Price. ' ' In what particular ?" asked Hay ward- "In winning that lady's heart." "Do you think I have ?" " It is very evident she is smitten with you. Ah! here is the general. " Hayward entered the tent of Price. The general merely looked up, but did not speak. ' ' I come to you from Mcintosh, with infor- mation," said Hayward, as he saluted tha general. "Then you are welcome. Be seated, wiH 3'ou drink ?" "I don't care if I do ?" answered Hayward, laughing. "That sounds natural," said Price. "But how is my friend Mac ?" " WeU, but very impatient." "Why is this?" " I would speak with you alone," said Ha^ ward, glancing toward the orderly, who, with- out waiting further notice, left the tent. "We are alone," said the general. "The message sent is merely a verbal one, and perhaps of no very great importance, as you may have heard it from your own scouts. But, it is this. Mcintosh is in constant com- munication with an officer of the federal army. He is informed through him, that their strength is greatly over estimated by our forces ; that their available forces, if compelled to give battle at once, will be less than twenty thousand, and his advice is to meet the ene- my at once." "I cannot meet even twenty thousand!" said Price, despondingly. " Not in this sfeonghold ?" " Not even here, as I must count the chances of defeat. Should the enemy advance upon us, they vnR attack us from the rear, thus cut- ting off communication, and in case of defeat, our situation would not be a pleasant one." " Of course you will not meet them, unless certain of success. Mac knows the position and strength of the enemy, but was not so fuUy informed with regard to your situation. He says, if you thiok retreat advisable, he wili meet you at Springfield. " " Are you to return ?" asked Price, " That is as you may direct, general " " You will return to-morrow, and tell Mac to join me at Cassville. 1 am not able to get re- liable information from AVarsaw, and my camp haawoeen filled with the federal spies for the past three days. Two have just escaped this morning. I know that the bridge at Warsaw is nearly completed, and that the enemy will move in a few days. I shall march to-morrow, " .0 THE BOEDES SPY : OR THE ' ' It will taks fire or six days to reach Cass- ville. Shall I tell ilac to meet you immediately on your arrival ?*' " Tell him to camp near Wilson's creek, and a'wait orders. If the army of the federals ad- vance as they have done, that is, only one di- vision several days' march ahead, I shall attack them at Springfield. I was a fool that I did not meet them at Warsaw, when they were thus situated. " "Fremont vnH be in the advance, I sup- pose ?" " Yes, with his fiamous body-guard, and the division imder Sigel, in all about eight thou- sand. I long to meet Sigel again, and that famous body-guard. " ' ' I believe the friend of Mac is an officer in a battalion also acting as the body-guard of Fremont. " ' • What battalion is that ?" asked Price. ' ' I believe they are called the Benton cadets. " "Ah! yes. I am expecting a messenger here every mcjment, with the description of all the officers Jittached to Fremont, and among them is a captain belonging to the cadets, whom I am anxious to meet." " "What is his name ?" asked Hayward. " His name is Harry Hayward ! senior cap- tain of the battalion. " " Why do you vdsh to meet Inm more than any other officer ?"' "Because I met him once face to face, and he taunted me!" " Did he know you, general ?" "No, he did not dream who I was." " "Where did you meet him '?" "It v>-as at a farm-house, beyond Warsaw. I was there in disguise. This captain rode up and asked for a cup of water, and as I was standing at the weU, I gave it to him. I asked the sti'ength of the ai-my, and he replied that they were much stronger than there was any occasion for. I asked him if he thought Price would not fight, and he replied that the rebel army might possibly be induced to meet us if they had a decent general, but with such a d — d cowardly old fool as Price for their lead- er, we should never catch them. " " Wo'old yoi know him again if you should meet him ?" asked Hayward, with apparent in- difference. " I do not think that I should. He had been riding during the whole of that day, and was so completely covered TOth dust that his fea- tures were not visible. But when one of my men returns, he will have his exact descrip- tion. I instmcted biTn to be particular about this officer." " How did yoTi asceiiain who he was, at the time you met him ?" " "^liile I was conversing with him, the ad- jutant rode up and handed hirn a letter. He opened it and threw the envelope on the ground. I picked it up, and thus learned who he was." The remaining portion of the time, until nine o'clock in the evening, was passed in or- dinary conversation. Hayward did not care to show himself about camp. He well knew that the guard-house held two prisoners, boiuid and , gauged by his order, and accused of being i spies from tho federals, who were in reality ' rebel spies, and true to their cause. He knew they had both, or at least one of them, seen him, and would recognize him at once. He had his own description in his pocket, v, ritten by one of them, which had by the merest chance been prevented from falling into the hands of Price. However, time passed on, and nothing like 6u.spicion was manifested, that Hayward was not just what he represented himself. Kine o'clock came. Thd counter- sign was out, which the general readily gave to Hayward- Tattoo had scaicely ceased sounding, v.hen a sergeant appeared at the tent-entrance and said : "General, one of the prisoners accused of being a spy, wi^es to see you. He says hia information is of vast importance." "I know of no person charged with being a spy whom we have as prisoner ! But it is pos- sible some of the morning prowlers have been caught" " He says he came direct from Warsaw where you had sent him. " "Sti-ange!" said Price, musing. " TeU him I will be at tho guard-house in an hour. Stay. Bring him to my tent at ten o'clock." The sergeant departed. ^ ' ' Will you excuse me a moment ?" s^d Price, turning to Hayward. "I have letters to write." "Certainly!" said Haj^ward as he left the tent Hayward walked leisurely along, until he reached the outer guard-house. He was here challenged, and giving the countersign, passed out. He proceeded rapidly to the place where his friends awaited him, and found them all ready for orders, and for action. CHAPTER TI. Tlie Escape — The Pursuit — The Capture. Charge — charge, Iioj"e, for " God anil for liberty !"' See! Their traitorous banner ij hurled to the ground, And up go our colors, the " Flag of the Free,"' WhUc our bands atrike " Columbia," oh ! glorious sound. Col. yf'ccti. "DxRy my buttons if the captain ain't got back all safe ! " shouted Nettieton, as he faiiiy danced with delight. "Y'es, aU safe," replied Hayward- "But how have you passed the day, Adjutant Hin- ton?" "Not at all pleasantiy!" replied the adju- tant "We have had serious anxiety on your account, and I suppose we came very near being discovered !" ' ' Lideed ! WTiy so ?" "You had been absent just long enough to reach camp, when we heard the firing of guns. In a short time a party of horsemen rode past at a furious rate, cm-sing and speaking of a spy. We feared you had been discovered, were making your escape, and that they were in pursuit. " ' • What did you do ?" " Of course I advised oui- friends to remain quiet. I thought if we were to appear and fight you would reach us in some way, or give us some signal. But it was veiy difficult to re- strain Nettieton. He detennined to rush upon the pursuers, and once had his gun raised to BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE EEi^fcL CAMP. 21 fire npon ticm, but I prevented him from doing so." "I am veiy mxich obliged to yoii for your good feeling, and admire j'our courage. But, you must not be rash. If you had fired a gun, it would have brought certain destruction upon U3 all." "Well, captain, you see I ■wouldn't have done it, but I was feared that black rascal there ■would expose us all. The cui"se began to cry just as soon as he heerdthe guns shootin', and ■when the}', let off that volley up at that rock there, the darned sneak's bones rattled so, I was sui'e they v.-orJd hear them. " "But, how have you succeeded, captain?" asked the adjutant. " Oh ! admii-ably. That party you saw was led by Price himself. E3 was in pursuit of an Indian. He left camp just as I arrived at his tent, and this gave me just the opportmiity I desired. There was no person at the general's tent but an orderly, who became veiy famihar and communicative. He gave me the exact plan of their encampment, but it will be of little use, as Price taJies up his Line of march for Cass'ville to-mon-ow. But the most impor- tant document I possess is the plan of our o^vn camp, containing not only my own description, but I suppose that of yours, and of all the gen- erals, and other principal officers in our army." "How did you get xjossessiou of this docu- ment ?" " It was brought to the tent of Price by his spies while he was absent. I learned from the orderly that the general did not know the ex- istence of the paper, or that his spies had re- turned. So I worked upon the fears of the orderly, got j)ossesaiou of the paper, and his promise not to let Price know anji;hing about it, and then ordered the men who brought it to be put in the guard-house and gagged. Of course I accused them of playing false to Price, and of being in reality Union spies." " Of course the trick will be discovered!" " Oh ! certainly — and I suppose it is by this time, as one of the prisoners sent for Price, and he was to meet him at ten o'clock. For a short time they will ba puzzled. The question ■will be asked the orderly, what he did ■with the papers, and he ■will answer that he gave them to me. But, when Price learns that it was me who ordered his spies under arrest, and gagged so that they could not speak, that I have the papers, that my story to him and the orderly did not agree, and that I am nowhere to be fovmd, he ■will sea at once that he has been terribly sold, and know that I was a spy. If he describes my person, I %vill be at once rec- ognized by one of the men whom I had i^laced xmder arrest, as the very man Price longed to get in his grasp ! " , "Whj'-, what does Price know of you?" asked the adjutant. "Do you remember our second day's march from Tipton, that about four o'clock in the afternoon, I was stopping at a log-house, near a wellj at the right of the road, and that while the person who appeared to be master of the house was helping me to a cup of water, you rode up and gave me a letter ?" "Yes, I remember it perfectly well, and that you remarked the letter was from Liamie." "Exactly. And do you recollect the words I used about Price, to the man who gave me the water ?" "I remember they were not very compli- mentary." ' ' Well, the man who handed me that cup of water was Price himself!" " The de^vil ! And did he not recognize you to-day ?" ' ' No, for he spoke of Captain Hayward, and remarked that he had an account to settle with him, and had sent for his description, which he expected every moment. I had it in my pocket at the time, and those v.'ho took it were under arrest by my order. They would have recognized me in an instant if they had seen me. The reason that Price did not recogniza me was, that when he saw me at the well, I was almost black ■with dust, and I took pains to-day to change the tone of my voice as miich as possible. " ' ' It was a terrible risk ! " "By gracious, captain, if you.ain't a trump," said Nettleton, as he opened •wide his green eyes. "But they have discovered all by this time, and we have not a moment to lose. It is eleven o'clock now, and you are expected at yonder rock ! " " You have seen Alibamo ?" •' Yes, and kissed her!" " She knew you, then ?" "No — she didn't — I told her before a larga crowd that I was Harrj' Hinton. She imder- stood me, and said I might kiss her. I did so — on the ear!" "And whispered at the same time. Thank you, my best friend. " »■, "Well, don't stop for thanks now. That rock is outside the picket guard, but she ■will be attended by ten or twelve soldiers. Go to her at once. I ■will see our horses placed in a position where we can easily mount. The negro shall ride behind Nettleton, and Ali- bamo shall have White Surry." "We must fight, of course." "I think it ■will not be necessary — thatia, only you and I!" ' ' What do you mean, captain ?" "Why, her guard have all seen you, and by your owTQ story, they think you a lover, al- though not altogether a favored one. I hava met the beauty to-day — they have aU seen me. They saw me kiss her, and think, that for a short acquaintance, I am a remarkably favored lover. You are a private, and I am an officer, and in that particular, of course, have the ad- vantage. I will come upon you, after you have conversed a few moments, and take the lady under my protection. Her guard wiU. be much more likely to permit me to walk with the lady alone than you, as I am an officer in favor ^vith the general. Once near oiu: horses, we have nothing to fear, and none of her guard are moimted. Now p'^ Harry. If we must fight, all right." As Adjutant Hinton started for the rock. Captain Hayward directed that the horses be brought into the main pathway. It was done, and aU was in readiness. As Harry reached the rock, Alibamo sprang forward to receive him. 32 THE BOEDER SPY ; OP. THE "Let your action be constrained — do not embrace me — and speak lev.-, d>-ar Alibamo. The reason for this, you \^'ill discover pres- ently. " "I know you have good cause for this re- quest, my o^^•n Harry, but I must tell you how I love you!" replied Alibamo, as she bowed her head upon the breast of her lover. "But I have been here an houi- — and I sang, in the hope you would hear my voice. " Some words of tenderness passed between the lovers, when Alibamo cried : "What is that?" It was at this moment that the brother of Alibamo, as narrated in the second chapter, creeping near the rock, had overheard her words, and had cried, " Then you are not my sister ! " " It is my brother! my own brother's voice. He has been near — has heard all!" shrieked Alibamo. Then checking herself, she said, in a low tone : " He thinks you a rebel, Harry ! He forswears me! How can I undeceive him?" "The guard has fiired upon him. The camp ia aroused — they are beating the long-roll. It is a desperate hazard now 1" "But my brother ?" " Quick — give me your apron — I will wave it — he may see its colors— and sing — sing, Ali- bamo — sing the Star-spangled Banner!" Harry seized the apron, and commenced waving it, and Alibamo began to sing. "Silence!" cried HayT\'ard, who came up at that moment. "Silence that traitorous Bong. And give me that ensign of abolition- ism. For shame, young man. Love has made you blind. Don't you see that the lady's apron which you are waving is a federal flag ? It inay be very romantic to meet j'oung ladies at midnight on a moonlit-rock, and whisper love-tales ; but you, sir, must not wave such things as this, merely to conciliate angrj' broth- ers. Now, go to camp, sir, and if I catch you at such tricks again, I shall order your arrest. I will take charge of the lady. " " Here are her guard, sir," said Harry, in a subdued tone. "Ah! yes. Are you mounted, boys ?" "No, captain." "Then get within the lines as soon as possible. The federal army are advancing, and are within a few miles of us, and their scouts are but a short distance from this point. I have a horse, and will make my servant dismount and criyp the lady his horse ! " " All right, captain," replied the sergeant in command of the squad. He had seen Hay- ward that day several times, and had no doubt he was just what he appeared. Hayn-ard had brought his own horse and that rode by Nettleton, within a few feet of the spot where he was then standing. The ad- jutant had already disappeared, as the captain handed the lady into the saddle and mounted Ms own horse. As he turned into the main road, a mounted orderly from the camp rode up to the squad and asked : "Have you seen that fellow who was around camp to-day and pretended to be from lilcln- tosh — the one that kissed iiUibamo ? ' "Yes, there he is, just — why he is going from the camp instead of toward it ! " "It is Captain Harrj- Haj'wtu'd, of the fed- eral army, and a spy. Fire upon him ! " A discharge of musketry rang through the woods, but the captain and his charge were I too well covered by the trees and the dark- ness to be injured by it. Captain Haj'ward heard the question, and I striking his horse with the spur, he dashed i forward at a rapid rate, followed by the whole party. " The story I told the guard of the advan- cing army," said Hayward, " will prevent an immediate pursuit. 13ut Price ■will know it ia not true, and in an hour we shall be hotly fol- lowed. We must make the best of our time !" The company did not pause for more than five hours, as it was daylight when the first halt was made. They had scarcely dismount- ed when the echoes of horses' feet were heard in the distance. "We are pursued, but we must press for- ward. Those sounds cannot be more than a mile in the rear. They must have ridden very rapidly. But wo ■will escape them without difficulty. We cannot be more than ten miles from our outposts, and they ■will not dare pur- sue us much farther. " They had scarcely pre- pared to set off again, when Nettleton said : "There come the skunks that went after the powder ! " It was true. In the opposite direction came the party of twenty. liehind, they were fol- lowed by they knew not how large a force, and before, twenty rebels were apjiroaching. ^Vhether they could be so easily misled tlua time, was a matter of considerable doubt. ' ' Quick — ride for the wood. Miss Alibamo. You may save yourself — we must fight. Stay ! They see you. It ■wiU be too late ; besides, we met this party once before, and they may not intemipt us at aU. That which I fear most is, that they "will detain us so long in convei-sation that the rear party 'will overtake us. But we must venture. " ' ' They "will know me, captain, " said Alibamo. "K a fight is ine'vitable, Alibamo, do you start for the river. "VSTiite Surry can sv.im — he is accustomed to it. Plunge in — give him a loose rein, and ho ■will bear you safely to the opposite shore. Then ride rapidly for camp. They are upon us. " "Well, captain, the army is mo^ving, is it not ?" asked Haj-ward. " A^Tiat army V" was the sullen question. "Why, our army moves to-day — or at least the general so informed me ; but I speak of the federal army. The general received infor- mation last night that Fremont would cross the river to-day at four o'clock. And I was sent to ascertain if this was so ! " "Indeed ! And do you usually take women ■with you when you act as spies ?" " Not usually. But I thought my icife could gain admittance to the camp much more easily than a man ! " ' ' Your vdte. Bah ! Very likely the general would let her go, when he knows she passes half her time singing the Star-sijangled Ban- ner, and weara the federal flag as an apron 1 She would betray us all, and never return." BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE KEBEL CAMP. 23 "Look yon, sir!" said Hayward sternly, "I don't intend to hold any argument with you, and I will not listen to any insults or insinua- tions. I married Alibamo last evening. She was an old friend, and \vill hereafter adhere strictly to my cause and adopt my principles. You see, she no longer weai'S the flag as an apron ! " "I see it!" "And when approaching the federal camp, do you suppose she would take it off, unless it was of her o^\^l accord '?" "I don't know. But I dj want to know about that powder. When we got there, we found the powder gone, and a squad ready to receive us. We had to s-nim the river to get awaj', and, as it was, two of our own party were killed. Hello ! There comes another party, headed by Branch. It may be all right, but d n me if I dm't hold you till they come up, because I believe you are nothing more nor less than abolition spies, and that the man you sent back after yoiir revolver, went direct to Fremont and infonned about the pow- der!" Ha had scarcely finished these words, when Nettleton's gun came crashing on his head, and the brains flew in eveiy direction. He fell from his horse, dead. The attack now com- menced in earnest, but it had been so sudden on the part of the att:\cking party, that eleven of the rebels bit the dust before the party had sufficiently recovered from surprise to make any effective defence. "Quick, Alibamo ; to the river — save your- self — they are upon us!" shouted Hayward. The first attacking party had been entirely scattered by the lightning blows dealt by the little Union band, bat, as they saw the ap- proach of at lea;jt fifty other horsemen, they rallied for another charge. The horses of Hay- ward and his party were worn and jaded — so were those of his pursuers, while those of the fellen foe were fresh. "Spring into the saddles of those fresh horses — ride for your lives — quick ! " It was accomplished in an instant. The ap- proaching party were now only a few yards from the devoted band, when a shot was fired, and with a groan Captain Hayward fell to the the ground. In an instant, Adjutant Hinton was by his side. "Captain — O God! — captain — speak!" he he cried. "Are you hurt?" "Here — these papers — take them — go— go — save yourself ! " " Never— never ! " he cried. "Come on, ye fiends — -I -win. sell my Hfe dearly — I will die with my captain!" "No — no! Alibamo — save her — those pa- pers — go, I command — I am mortally hurt — save yourselves — you cannot benefit me !" "You may live!" "Then go, and return to rescue me — oh!" And Hayward spoke no more. " Or to avenge your death ! " cried Hinton, as he sprang into his saddle and darted from the spot, amid a shower of buUets, bearing the papers u-ith him. In an instant Hayward was surrounded, but they could not overtake the fljdng party, who had the advantage of fresh horses. CHAPTER YIL The Brother — The War Scimt — The Union Ca-rvp — The Trail. Find them — bring them back — then ask for niUliona. 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 M'here were his friends Johnson and Fall-leaf, but not until he had seen Ahbamo mount her horse, and, with her friend, da.sh forward from the camp. He saw the soldiers as they fii'ed after the retreating form of his sister and her friend, and also saw that they were uiihurt. "It is a rescue ; stUl, I cannot understand it — I cannot conceive how she came to meet friends from the Union army, or how they be- came aware of her presence in the rebel camp. " He pui-sued his course to the river, and crossing, soon reached the cabin. As he en- red, Johnson rose to receive him. "Your return is sudden. What has h?.p- pened?" he asked. "AU for the best!" 'Explain," ' ' It teas 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 rap- idly 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 5^ou 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 waa 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 FaU-leaf^ as he arose and strode across tiie room. "Then we must go at once to the federaJ 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. " S4 THE BORDER SPY : OR THE The party -walkea aown 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 reach- ed the Uni(3n camp. The first thing Margrave did upon his arrival was to acquaint the gen- eral with all the particulars, and requested to be shown tho.io officers or soldiers who had that day returned from the rebcl'camp, in the hope of finding his sister. He was directed to Adjutant Hinton, and with a beating heart he sought his presence. He foimd the adjutant in deep grief, but he arose to receive him. " \\Tiy, you are the officer whom I saw stand- ing upon the rock with my sister," said Mar- grave. " Then you are the brother of Alibamo ?" "I am." "Do you know where she is?" "Where she is?" echoed Margrave, with sui-prise. "Why, I came here to learn where she is!" "Ah! yes. Well, my fiiend, I am deeply distressed with regard to your sister. She should havo 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 badlj' •wotmded, and our party scattered. I saw Ali- bamo riding for the river, intending to swim her horse across it. Tho captain fell, and I turned to rescue him. Ho was nearly gone, but told me to savo 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 ret^u•ned 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 — Gror a mighty, massa adju- tump — 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 arc safe now. Xothing can harm you here." "Sartin shuah ob dat, massa adjutump?" "Sui-e, Gejrge. But now tell me what you know of our friends. " ' ' Oh ! golly massa adjutump, dis chile neber \n3 6o skeered. Dar was fifty. " •'TVTaere is Captain Haj'T;\-ard ! " • ' ' Killed — dead — shuah pop — oh ! golly ! "' "Where is .aptain 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 sup- posed them aU killed but myself." ' ' George, where is Nettleton ?" "I dun know. De las time dis chile see Cap'n Nettletnm hs jump Ms hos in the riber after do gal, Lord ! " ' '"^Tiat became of the lady, George ?* " Oh ! golly I massa adjutiimp, she's safe wid do rebels ! " " What do you mean ?" " Why, ye see, massa adjutump, when dis chile Bee de caji'n fall down deac^ 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 hir 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 agiun in the hands of the rebels, and we must again rescue her, even if it costs a thousand lives. Oh! WTctch — %^Tetch 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 \\id you any more. He get killed, shuah." " Don't be alarmed. I don't want you." "Me go see — me follow," said the Indiaru " 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 \dth. his foot, and pointed to the mark. Johnson said : "Ho 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 XNill go vith him — that is myself and Alibamo's brother. " "/must go. But staj'. Nettlet-'n ha.s not yet returned, I have great confidence in thai fellow. He may bring us intelligence." "You had biitter remain here in the event of liis return," said Margi'ave. "We v.ill fol- low the ti'aU, and when we have gained the information we require, we v.ill let you know, and you may be aide to assist us. " "We are to march to-mon-ow f ir Spiingfieli Price moves to-day for CassviUc, imd if Ali- bamo is again in the hands of that Tretph, Branch, she wiU probably be removed to feat place. But go, and success attend you." The two friends, t-n into the dun- geon, and there left to rut and die. As yon say, sudden death would have no terrors to such a soul, but the damp and darkness of a prison cell v\"ill curb that proud spirit. Let me finish this dispatch, and then we will visit him." Captain Hay^^vard was sitting in his tent, his head bowed upon his hands, apparently buried in deep thought. " AUbamo," said Haj-\vard, raising his head, "what think you will be my fate ?" " I hope for a rescue !" replied the maiden. "You are of a hopeful natiire, my sweet gul, and I thank you for your words of en- coiuragement. Thank ! That is a poor word, Ahbamo, for kindness such as yours. You have watched with me constantiy, and, like a bright angel, have ministered to my wants. Your presence has cheered me in my sad hours, when pain and suftering had unmanned me. And I love you, Ahbamo, almost as much as I love my own darhng sister." "Your sister!" repeated Ahbamo, with evi- dent pain. "Yes — I know you love her, for you have often sjDoken of her in your delir- ium." "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 captiure." "Nettleton," said Hayward, addressing his attendant, "have you heard me spoken of among the soldiers ?" " Yes, captain, the dam skunk^talk about you considerable." ""VMiat do they say?" BEAUTIFUL CAPTITE OF THE EEBEL CAMP, 2§ ""WTiy, I lieerd some on em say it -was a ' dam shame that a bold feller like you should be " " Hung up like a dog ! Why don't you fin- ish the sentence ?" V , "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 Haj^vard should die any such way, and when he had waited till the last minute, 'if no help came, he would put a biillet right through your heart, and save you firom the dam rope, any%Yay!" "Brave boy! You have a noble heart," said Eayi;\'iird, 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 dam skunk anyway, and ain't worth any such words from you." "Nettleton, how have you managed to re- main with me so long without being sus- pected ?" "0 Lord! I'm such a dam 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 ?" ""^"hy, after the fight was over I stood right still, and nobody noticed me, except one feller who said, ' Git out out of my way, greeney.' And so I followed on after the rest of 'em, and managed to keep ■^"ith j^ou ever since. And if I can only do you some good, I shall think I ain't quite such a dam skunk after all. " "Nettleton, I wish you would not use that expression quite so often." " What expression, captain?" ' ' Why, dam skunk ! " " WeU I won't, captain, only I know that I a»a a dam skunk, any waj"." "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 vrish her sent for?" " No— not for the world ! " ' ' She icoukl come if sent for, would she not ?" "Yes, if she lived to get here. But, do not thiak of such ,'\ 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. "^Vhy are you weeping, Alibamo." "I was thinking of youi' sister?" "I wish I could cease thinking of her, now that death is staling me in the face. I do not fear to die, but I do fear to let her know that she no longer has a brpther. O Alibamo! if you could see her once, you would not won- der 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 vihsn I parted vdth her for the wars, it seemed as if her soul left with me. She did not weep, but cbing to me, while her little foi-m trembled like the lily toi-n by the tempest's blast. And | her last words were, ' Heaven must return to me i my brother ! ' " i "And if earth should not, heaven wUl.'"\ sobbed Alibamo. "Well, I will talli no more of death. The grave looks cold and cheerless, and I shuddet as I approach it in this manner. Nettleton, I shall give you some instructions which I know you win see faithfully can-ied out ! " "You may depend upon it, captain. But you ain't dead yet, and — " " Major-General Sterhng Price," was an- nounced by an orderly. Price entered the tent. "Good evening, Captain Hajrward. I am glad to see you so far recovered. I trust you win. soon be able to receive and wear your sword again!" These words were spoken by Price in a tone of extreme kindness. HayM'ard looked up suqjrised, and rephed : "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. Y'ou have htm, 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 tme I have much cause. You came to my camp in disguise, you deceived my orderly and obtained possession of impor- tant papers, you placed my scouts in the guard- house for your own safety ; you visited and conversed with my officers, gaining aU the in- teUigence you desu-ed ; 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 youi'self. The papers which were on your person could not be found, and therefore they must have been sent by you tQ your general. AH this was done with a bold- ness that wins my admiration, but stiU its punishment is death. " "Which I expect to receive at yoTir hands," repUed Hayward, coldly. " Y^'our life may be spared!" said Price. "Not a great boon," replied Hayward. "Do you not M-ish to live for your sister's sake ?" asked Branch. Hayward started, and a tremor ran through his frame. But in an instant he recovered Ma self-possession, and said : "I was conversing with General Price — not you, sii-." Branch bit his hps, 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 yotn* ciime is death, and but one thing can save you." ' ' I'ou need not trouble yom-self to name that one thing, " said Hayward. ** I see, you understand me. But, the prop- osition 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 beheve I have thoroughly ex- amined this matter, and I can but feel that if you would do the same, impartially and with- out prejudice, you would feel as I do. Under- stand, our interests at the South are different from youi-s at the North. Y>'e do 'iwi vdsh to interfere with your government or your inter- 30 THE BORDER. SPY ; OR THE ests. We only ask ft govemment of our own, and that you should not interfere \dtli our in- terests. We do not march our armies into your territories, and M-e feel that you have no right to march into oura. It -niU 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 pros- perous, because its government is in accord- ance 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 M-ish 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 regi- ment — perhaps of a brigade!" " General Pi-ice," replied Hay>vard in a mild tone, "I thank you for the delicate manner in which you have made this proposition. I can- not deem it an insult, as your manner is that of a man who mikes an offer, sincerely and in gopd Mth, not as a bribe. But I cannot view this matter as you do, and consequently can- not accept your offer or entertain it for a mo- ment. Sly 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 perform- ance of it caUs for my blood, don't let ' my bravery' influence you ! " "WiU 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 pui-pose. 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 wiU tell me what is to be mv fate!" "I will 'do so. To-morrow you start for Springfield under a strong guard. The next d:iy you wiU be sent forward on vour way to Memphis, through Arkansas. At Memphis you win be imprisoned, and :»-tained for the present. There vn31 be little hope of exchange, however, as you are a spy, and must eventually suffer death. " ""^Tiy 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 commimicate with my friends or send them word where I have been taken ?" " That cannot be permitted, " answered Price. "Under whose charge am I to bo sant?" asked Hayward. ' ' Under that of Captain Branch as fir a8 Springfield. From thereit is left t) the cap- tain to make further arrangements." Hay\\-ard had .started to his feet, and his eyes met those of Branch. There wag light- ning in that gaze, but it was met with equal sternness. " Do you object to Captain Branch ?" asked Price. " Yes. I object to any one who is so great a coward as to strike a wounded, senseless man, merely to revenge himself upon a woman!" ""WTiat do you mean?" a.sked Price. "I will teU 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. Ho 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 rjo< true, but folse as heU, and Hay- ward knows it is false ?" repUed Branch, in a rage. "Well, with this I have nothing to do. Good night, Captaia 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 ■«t11 bring for us. But still, let us hope. I am glad we go to Springfield." CHAPTER X. Ihe Departure — The Meeting — Thi Sister — The Breaking Hearts. Thia is the heaviett b'.ow of all. — Bulvocr. The morning dawned, and still Captain Hay- ward 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 aU without g.^ve 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-d;^y. That villain Branch ■^ill show no mercy when he ia 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 aU is lost. Branch wiU not permit the captain to remain long in Springfield, ns I am told the Union army is advancing. Ho will be hurried off South, and I suppose we BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE REBEL CAIMP. 31 shall be separated to-day. Very likely neither of us will be permitted to go with him." "You \vill, miss." "How do you know this?" "I'll tell you. Last night I crept close to the tent of Branch and Ustened. I heard him gi-i-ing directions to some one he was about to send forward. I heard him say you were to go with hun, and that your room would be in the hotel at Springfield which is now used as the lebel hospital. And the captain is to be im- prisoned 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 de\'il said anything about for- saking him ? There's a good deal of difierence between leaving and forsaking, I take it. " "I know you will act for the best, my good follow!" "Strike tents!" echoed through the camp from without. ' ' Had we not better wake the captain, Sliss Alibamo ? It may be the only chance he will get to say anji:hing. " " 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 Hay- ward. "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 dam 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." " An'^1 have been dreaming, AUbamo. 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 an- gels' whisperings. I could not catch the words; still its melody enchanted me, and filled my soul with rapture. Nearer and nearer it ap- proached, 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, an^ 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 tril- ling forth their lays. And on the brov,' of each I saw emblazoned forth the magic word of Lib- erty ! The sight revived me, and springing up, I cried : ' Who are thoijg lovely beings who coiSe forth with my country s jewel ghttering on their brow ?' A voice rephed : ' They are Colmn- bia's daughters— their fetters have been bro- ken — they are free again!' 'Let mo embrace them — they are my sisters!' I cried, bu^ at that moment I was seized by an iron hattfl, and borne from the spot. So rapidily M'as I whii-led along that my senses fled. "SHien I returned to consciousness, I found mysc4f en- veLiped in a dismal cloud, while at my feet a thousand hissing sei-pents, which resembled Hghtning, coiled around, but could not harm me. I heard the di-eadful thundcT-s, 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 ha 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 for- ward, and exulting in the thought how soon he would have her in his grasp, and hurl her down that awful chasm. My brain was reel- ing, 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 pohshed 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 paU, and breaking it in pieces, I saw the vil- lain hiirled ^nto the depths below, while hide- ous 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 A\ith ex- cessive joy'" "O captain! tnat di-eam should make you happy — vei-y happy. It fills my heart with joy!"" ' ' "WTiy so, Ahbamo ?" "Because your troubles will end in th« 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 misfoi-tune 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 Hay- ward. " No, you are to ride. Do yon prefer a horse or a carriage ?" "It matters very little, as the distance is not fer," answered Hayward. 32 THE BOEDEB SPY ; OE THE "Then I wiJl send a horse around to yonx tent. I intend also to grant you a great (a,- vor!" ' ' I shall decline any favors at your hands ! " replied Hay~\vard. ' ' You did not hear what that favor is to be ! " "WeU, 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, -^-ith some difficulty gained the saddle. Nettleton helped Alibamo iato her seat. By this time Branch came up in company with some twenty horse- men, who were to act as the guard, and the pai'ty prepared to depart. " Is not this young man to accompany us? He has attended to the cajitain's wounds, and appears familiar vdth the business. He is a poor, foolish fcUow, and will bo of little ser- vice as a soldier!" said Alibamo, pointing to Ncttlcton. "Yes, he can go, if he will walk!" replied Branch. " Will you go ?" asked Alibamo. " "Well, I dou't cai-e much aboiit it one way or t'other. But if ?/ou want mc to go \Tith you very much, I will, Miss Alibamo," replied Nettleton. The party set off, and Xettleton trudged along after them, with his usixal rickety and un- steady motion, whistling as he proceeded. They had proceeded about two miles from camp upon the Springfield road, when Branch ordered.a halt. "Where a.re those hand-cuffs ?" he asked. "Here, sir!" replied one of the soldiers, " Place them on his hands. No ! not that way. Chain his hands behind him! But wait. I vnR reserve them for future use. Leave his hands free." Hayward spoke not. In the course of three or four hours they reached Springfield, and halted in front of the hotel building which had been iised as a rebel hospital since the battle at Wilson's creek. "Dismoimt!" said Branch, in a voice of excitement, mingled with hatred. Hayward obej'ed. " Is Davis here ?" asked Branch. "Here, sir!" replied a soldier, stepping for- ward. " Has the person I wrote for arrived?" "Yes, she is in a room above!" was the reply. " my God !" groaned Alibamo. "Take that woman away," said Branch, pointing toward Alibamo. Then he added, as she was being led away, ' ' You shall see your captain to-morrow. And I will show you an amusing sight. You know it is Friday, hangman's daj'." Then turning to Hayward, he added : " Now will I bend your proud heart. I wiU show you a pretty sight, presently, and to-mor- row, at three o'clock, ?re icill hnve a grand review in the fair ground! Come, foUow me." Hayward turned to speak with Nettleton, who had been standing beside him but a mo- ment before, but he had disappeared. " Why do yon delay ?" asked Branch. "Because it pleases me to do so," replied Hayward. ' ' Bring a set of chains. Put them on hia ankles ! " The order was obeyed. ' ' Drag biiT) along ! " "I will follow you, sir," replied Hayward. He soon reached the main hall of the build- ing, and, as Hayward f lUowcd his captor, the chiins clanked heavily upon the floor, nnd echoed dimly throughout the building. "You shall behold a friend now, and yon will think better of my generosity!" snid Branch, as ho threw open a side-door. Ihiy- ward cutered- A wild scream rang through the room, and a lovely female sprang forward, into the arms of Hayward- " My brother ! my brother !" were the only words spoken, and she became unconscious. " llamie — Mamie — Great God ! why are you here ? Mamie — sister, look up — speak to m« — speak, or I shall die — Mamie — O God ! she is dead — dead!" And HajT\-ard sank to the floor, still holding his sister to his heart, and burst into tears. "Ah! ha! ha! ha! Humbled at last!" cried Branch, as he left the room. CH.\PTER XL The War Scjiii — The Discovery. Softly — Boftly as the creeping panther — Dc Sola. We left Fall-leaf, Margrave, and Johnson, as they were following the party who had re- captured Haj-ward and Alibamo. As they de- scended the mountain, the rear of the rebel army were in sight. At night-faU it halted, and upon the broad prairie, near an oak grove, the camp was soon formed. "Can you distinguish the rebel general's headquarters?" asked Margrave. "I was trying to do so," replied JOjJLSon, and his eyes wandered from point to point. " Do you remember the style of his tent?" "Perfectly. It is of the pattern kno-«"n as the tcall-tent, but of large size. And near it should be about a dozen others of the same description. There it is ! " " Those in the centre — near the grove ?" "Yes — don't you see the rebel ensign wav- ing over it ?" "Very distinctly now. But I do not believe Alibamo, or the captain, will be placed near headquarters. They are the prisoners of that fellow. Branch." % " What shall we do, Johnson ?" ^ed Mar- grave. "We must enter their Hnes to-night, and ascertain where our finends are, and listen to the conversation of the officers, and, if possi- ble, learn what is to be their fate," replied Johnson. ' ' And we must rememb^ that Captain Hay- ward is not to be forgotte* He is not dead, or he would have been left on the other side of the mountain, and the ilrops of blood which we frequently saw along the hne of march, is BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE EEBEL CAJIP. 33 evidence that some woiinded person or persons are ■vdtli the rebels. This brave captain risked his life for my sister, and I shall risk my life a thousand times for him." "We must fii-st creep near the sentinels, and when the nine o'clock relief is marched out, we can listen, and gain possession of the countersign. This ■^•ill be of some assistance to us in case of challenge." ' ' Xo — no ! White brother sta}' here ! Indian go — creep — softly ! " said Fall-leaf. "No, my brother, you are suifering too se- verely ■with 5'our wounds. We cannot permit you to do this, while we remain inactive." "Look out for the pickets. There is one of their fires," said Margrave, as they approached the oak grove. The party verged their course, and, in a few moments, were \\ithin a hun- dred yards of the camp, concealed almost en- tirely by the thick wood through which they were passing. Here they paused. "The darkness favors us!" remarked Mar- grave. ' ' The moon which was shining so brightly last night, is now entirelj' obscured by thick clouds. We must wait until after tat- too, and then enter the camp in different di- rections." ' ' lio — m : alone ! " repLe :1 Fall-leaf. ' ' You— yoTj — me, go — all get kill— no help Alibamo ! Me go now ! I get kill — you go. You get kill, you go. I no get kill, come back. I no come back, you go ! " "The Indian means to express himself to the effect, that it is more safe for one to go alone, and if he should get killed or taken, another could go the next night, and another the next? or, that, if two of us should be killed, the thu'd could retimi and procure more assistance for Ahbamo, when he had learned their filial destination. We will let the Indian go first. I will wi-ite a few words upon a bit of pajDer, and he may get an opportunity to give it to my sister." The drums had beat the tattoo, and the re- lief had passed its rounds. The party listened attentively, but failed to get the cotmtersign, which was given in a whisj)er. The camp be- came, qmet, and the lights were mostly extin- guished. "Me go now! softly — softly," said the In- dian. "Fall-leaf, give this paper to mj' sister if you can get an opportunity. If j^ou are dis- covered, and compelled to fly, we will aU meet at yonder rock. The Indian, without repljdng, took the bit of paper, and started for the camp. Softly as the creeping panther he worked his way along. He passed the outer row of tents unperceived, and was now faiiiy within the rebel camp. With cat-Hke stealth he crept along from tent to tent, listening at each, but net a s.jund was heard save the deep breathing of the sleepers within. At length the Indian reached a vn.de avenue, which ran along before a better class of tents than those he had pre\-ioiisly passed, and from which were sti-eaming Lights. He listened, and could plainly distinguish voices within, but there appeared here a difficulty. Directly in front of the one he wished to reach, a fsentinel was stationed, and, if he attempted to cross the broad avenue at that point, it 3 could not fail to attract the watchful guardian's attention. Just at that moment two forms emerged from the tent, and came directly toward Mm. It was but the work of an instant- for the In- dian to conceal himself in the long prairia grass, which fortunately had not been entirely trodden down at this point. He was passed unobseiwed, and he distinctly heard the name of " Hayward" spoken. He watched, and saw them enter a tent, some twentj' rods from that from which they had emerged. The Indian crejjt cautiously along. About half-way between the two tents to which hi i attention had been thus especially drawn, ho found the hghts extinguished, and he succeed- ed in crossing the avenue unobserved. He was now in the rear of what he supposed to be the general commanding and his staff officers' quarters. He soon came near the tent into which he had seen the two persons enter, and Tsending his ear to the ground, he distinctly heard the voices of those within, but could not distinguish the words spoken. He drew near- er, but saw that a guard was stationed on eve- ry side, and that it would be impossible to ap- proach nearer without being discovered. Ha could now hear the voices plainly, and was not long in discovering that both Alibamo and the captain were confined there. Some sti-atagem must be resorted to, in order to attract the at- tention of the guard in another direction. The Indian had aheady torn up the long prahie- grass, and wrapped it around him in such a. manner that he would not easily be seen, so nearly did he resemble the earth around him. He remained perfectly quiet for a moment, as if deeply thinking. At length he comujenced a search upon the ground around him. He raised a stone about the size of a large apple, and hurled it toward the woods, in the rear of the last row of tents. It struck against the tree-tops and then fell to the ground, making considerable noise. The guard instantly turned his attention in that direction. He listened, but hearing nothing more, he started with cau- tious steps toward the wood, his gun at a ready. The Indian at once took advantage of his ab- sence from his post, and darted unseen, close behind the tent. He prostrated himself upon the groimd, and dra'wing the grass around Mm, and the tent-flap partially over Ms form, he was safe from detection so long as he did not move. The guard discovering nothing, re- turned to his post, but the Indian remained quiet, listening to all the conversation within. He became convinced that Nettleton was a friend, and finally attracted his attention, ho being seated back of the couch upon which Hayward was lying, and very near FaU-leaf. The Indian waved the paper in Ms hand, and then let it fall upon the ground. In an Mstant he sprang to his feet, and dashing the guard to the ground, darted for the woods. He leaped the fence just as the sentmel fired upon Mm, but the ball whistled by -without harmmg FaU-leaf. He made all haste to join his friends whom he found awaiting him. It was decided to make no further attempts to enter camp, but they determined to follow on, hoping the pris- oners might be left at some pomt imder a small guard, wMch could be attacked and oyercoma. 34 THE BOEDER SPY : OR THE On tlw morning the squad tmder the com- mand ot Branch left the main army, our friends were v.ell satisfied that their destina- . tion was Springfield, and Johnson determined to hasten hack to the Union army, and try to procure assistance. Margrave and Fall-leaf followed on, and saw his sister Alibamo and Captain Hayward, enter the rebel hospital. As both were well known in Springfield, Mar- grave having escaped from that place but a short time previous, assisted by the Indian, their sitiiation was by no means an enviable one. But they mingled with the loungers, and soon learned that a hanging was to como off the next day at three o'clock. The great event was to take place in the Fair-Ground. CHAPTER Xn. Eangbvj Day— The Friends— ne Plotr—The Attack. There 13 no pang in thy pharp wedge of etcel, After that parting. — Pijthias. For some hours, Hayward and his sister were permitted to remain alone. Night was fast ap- proaching. Nothing was heard without, but the coarse laugh and jests of the soldiers. As Hayward held his sister in his arms, he mur- mured : "Would to God she could ever remain un- conscious, or die to-night. I feel that a fate far worse than death awaits her, when I am gone, and to-morrow will surely be the fatal day. Oh, may God in his mercy protect this darling one!" "Have I been dreaming?" she sobbed, as she returned to consciousness, and opened her eyes. "I saw my brother in chains, and I heard their di-eadl'ul clankings upon the floor." Her eyes met those of her Isrother, and with a shudder, she bui-ied her face in his breast, as if she would shut out some terrible vision. "Mamie — darling sister, don't you know me ?" asked Haj'^vard. "Oh! yes," she cried, starting up, "It is my brother. He is with me, and I am safe and happy. brother, I met such rude men here, I cannot remain. Let us go at once." She started toward the door. "Come back, sister, I ■uish to talk "with you, and I -wish you to listen calmly." "Calmly! What do you mean by that word? Ah! those chains! I have not been dreaming ! It is a terrible reality. What means this, brother?" "Come "here, Mamie, come close to my heart, and let me talk ydth. you." She obeyed, but as Haj-^vard placed his arms around her, she said : "Oh! that iron is so cold — it chills my 'heart. Let me remove those chains, brother." "No, sister. Let them alone, and listen to me!" "First answer me! Are these men your friends ?" Hayward could not reply. His feelings al- most overcame him, and he did not wish his sister to discover any emotion on his part. "You are silent. These men are not your j friends, and you are a prisoner! Oh! my heart will break!" and she sobbed convul- sively. I ' ' Don't weep so, dear sister. Don't weep. " ' "I cannot help it. Oh! let mo weep — let me rest upon your heart, brother, and weep my life away ! It will be sweet to die here 1" "You must Tf'd die, Mamie, but hvo for me. I hope to-morrow I shall bo free. I have friends who will not forsake me ! " ' ' And you are a prisoner ! " she sobbed. "Yes, but try and compose yourself. I have much to say to you !" "Yes, I will be calm — I will listen, for I feel that a tenible fate hangs over you, my brother. Oh ! I am glad that I am here. I'll weep no more, but I will comfort you. There, do not look so pale, your little sister is with you, and will share your fate, whatever it may be." Hayward bowed his head, while a convulsive tremor shook his frame. " Come, I'll weep no more — 111 comfort you. Think, brother, it can only be death, and j'our spirit will scarcely have taken its flight to ihat better world, ere mine will meet you there. Oh ! we shall not long be separated. " "Mamie, we -will talk no more of death. I do not believe such will be my fate. I have already been infoiTued that friends are at work. I shall be rescued from this place, and if I am not, my sentence is not immediate death. So weep no more, but Listen. How came you here, Mamie?" "I received a letter tolling me that my brother had been wounded in battle, and that you -vsished me to come direct to Springfield. I saw by the papers that the Union army were marching for this place, and I supposed you were with them, and that I should arrive here about the same time you did. I did not hesi- tate a moment, but came forward according to my directions to Eolla. I was there met by two men who brought me to this place." ' ' Ah ! I see it all now. That villain Braneh must have taken your letter from my pocket while I was insensible, and thus learning your address, sent for you ! " "But to what end, brother ? He is not your friend or you would not call him ^"illain ! " " I cannot teU, dear sister. But let me en- join on yon to be firm whatever may occtrr. Even though you see me march upon the scaffold, be firm, and hope. Remember what you said ; it ^^■ill only be death ! K my ene- mies Mish to torture me, the more keenly feel, the more they will exult. Hark ! Some one approaches. We shall not long remain in ignorance. Remember, darling, let not a word or even a tear betray more than ordinary emotion. " The door was thrown open, and Branch entered. Hayward seated himself upon a rude box and Mamie knelt by his side. " How is your wound, captain ?" asked Branch. "It troubles me very little, sir!" was tho reply. "I do not believe you. You say that to spare your sister pain. You are suffering, and j'ou know it !" growled Branch. Hayward frowned, but did not speak. Ha sister crept close to his breast. BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE REBEL CAMP. S3 "Doyoii know the federnl army are with- in two days m.a-ch uf tliis place ?" continued Branch. " I did not know it !" answered Hay ward. "Don't you wish they would come upon us to-night ? "We have oiily twenty-two hiuidred men here, and they with forty thousand might difeat us, and rescue you and your lovely sister." Hayward made no reply. "Oh! I ^viIl open your mouth presently. You saw the Fair-Ground as we passed ? You won't speak? Well, I ■n"ill. If you could only look inside the high board enclosure, you might discover a platform, surrounding a large tree. From one of the limbs a rope is hanging. It is for your neck. You are to die to-morrow at three o'clock." Hayward did not move a muscle, but Mamie, ■\"?j[th a groan of agony, half suppressed, threw her arms around her brother's neck, and clung the closei'. "It will be interesting to die thus, noble captain, kno\\'ing that your friends are but a few miles distant. And those lovely arms which now encircle you, will not Avish to clasp your neck when you are cold in death. They shall be removed to mine !" JIamie had started to her feet, and stagger- ing forward, she knelt before the wretch, and sobbed : " Oh ! spare my brother ! " ' ' Mamie ! " shrieked Haj^ward. ' ' Up ! " The maiden started, and sprang into her brother's arms again. "Forgive a moment of weakness, my broth- er ! " she said, as she caressed him. "Miss Hayward," said Branch, "Your brother's life may be sa;ved. General Price offered him a pardon, if he would accept a commission in our army. Persuade him to accept it. " , Miss Hayward glanced at her brother, and then turning to Branch, she repKed : "And become companion with such as yo" " Is not that preferable to death ?" " I'U answer you no more!" said Mamie, turning to her brother. " WeU, I will leave you to pleasant reflec- tions. To-morrow at one o'clock you will leave this place, and have the pleasiire of a cart ride as far as the gallows. Your sister may remain with you to-night, and enjoy the ride with you to-morrow. After that I shall take charge of her. " Branch left the room. " It is all over now, brother ! " Miss Hayward could no longer restrain her feelings, but sinking do\vn, groaned in agony of soul. The tears burst forth, and long and bitterly she wept. She could not be consoled. Her brother assui-ed her that he felt confident he would be rescued, if his friends were at that time so short a distance from him. And they might be much nearer. But she could not be comforted. At times her sobs became almost shrieks, and then they would cease, as if from very exhaustion. It seemed as if her very heart was made of tears. Nature could beat but little more. At last she sank into a fitful slumber, resting upon her brother's bosom. Ever and anon she would start, a ■wild cry would break from her lips, and she woiild cling with nil the power of madness about his neck, and beg him not to leave her. Her starts, her sobs, her groans, her screams, were terrible, and tins the night wore slowly on mid dark and gloom. Hayward slept not. Occasionally ho pressed his lips to hi.s sister's forehead, which no.v was icy cold, now burn- ing with a feverish heat. Sometimes her breath would appear cntu-ely to have stopped, and then her brother, in a voice of agony, would call tipon her name, but a sob or groan would tell him she yet lived. Toward morn- ing she grew more quiet, and her repose seemed sweet, and undisturbed by frighful dreams. At length she started up and cried ' ' They are coming ! See, brother ! " "Who are coming, dear sister?" asked Hayward. "Oh! I have been dreaming, but it was sweet. Are you here, brother ? It is so dark I cannot see j-ou ! " * ' Yes, Mamie, I am here. But, what have you been dreaming ?" " Where are we, brother? Oh! I remember that bad man. I saw him in my di-eam. He was hurled to destruction from a terrible pre- cipice. He was standing upon a cloud, dark and massive, but the thunders broke it, and he feU!" "Go on!" cried Hayward. ' I saw you, brother. You were standing on a golden cloud, just by his side. The light- nings flashed around your head, but did not harm you. And when I called you, ten thou- sand fairy forms appeared, and bore you to my arms. And then I saw all yoiir friends ad- vancing, and they smiled upon you." "And that dream has given you hope, has it not?" "Yes, it has, dear brother ! " " It is very strange !" said Hayward. "That I should dream thus, brother?" " No, but that last night I had the very same dream!" ' ' brother, God is good ! " Hayward told her the particulars of his own dream. "I shall hope to the last!" replied Miss Hayward, evidently cheered by the vision. The morning dawned. Hayward looked pale and haggard. The chains had galled him, and he was faint and weak. This he endeav- vored to hide from his sister, but she obseiwed it, and tried to cheer him with consoling words. At length some coarse food was brought, and placed just ■within the door. But it remained untouched. As the day advanced, Haj'Avard said : "Mamie, what will you do in case of the worst?" "If you die, do you mean, brother?" "Yes, darling!" ' ' Don't trouble yom-self as to what I ■will do affei' you are dead, for if this must be so, I shall go -svitli you. " The door was thro^wn open and Branch entered. "It is twelve o'clock," he said. "Miiia ready!" ' ' We are ready, sir ! " answered Hayward. "It is a pity you should die, Hayward. I 36 THE BORDER SPY ; OR THE tell yon what I ■will do. Let me marry that lovely sister of yours, and I wdll set you free !" "Dog! "echoed Hayward. "What do you say, Miss Hayward?' "I repeat my brother's word most heartily !" replied Mamie. "Oh! you scornful little devil, you are a copy of your brother. But you will both repent your words. What ho ! guards !" Four of the guard entered the room. "Take them along," said Branch. "We will walk,'' replied Hayward. Ashe led his sister from the room he said • "Think of our dreams!" Hayward walked erect, almost carrying, rather than leading his sister. When he reached the street he said : "Branch, my sister will not bo able to en- dture this scene. Let her remain here!" '•No, no," begged Mamie, "let me go with you, brother — I will be very calm — see I ca-i walk alone. " But that pale face and trembling form seemed little calculated to undergo the terrible scenes which must follow. Alibamo was already seated in a rough cart which stood before the door. Hayward as- sisted his sister into it, and then entered him- self, but stood erect, while the females were provided with seats. As they were driven onward, Branch rode by their side upon his horse. A crowcl were following after them, and taunts and jeers wero heard on every side. ' ' Oh ! that I had a sword within my grasp, and was free from these shackles for a moment, I would teach those curs ci\Tlity," cried Haj- ward. "Oh! it won't matter to you long," said Branch. The procession had proceeded about a mile from Springfield on the road nmniug west. They were ascending the hOl, upon the summit of which was a thick wood, when Hayward said: "Do you see those lines of infantry jiist within that grove. They are rebel soldiers ; it is the guard necessary at the execution of one man ! Branch, don't you fear that these two half-fainting women will rescue me ?" "They might do it — they ai'e the only ones who can ! " replied Branch. The cart had passed the wood through a line of soldiers formed on either side, and reaching the Fair-Ground, it was driven ■n-ithin the enclosure, and halted near the scaffold. Mis Hay^vard had been hopeful until this mo- ment, but her feelings gave way, and throwing her arms around her brother, she cried : "Oh! is there no way in which you can escape this terrible fate ?" " Yes," said Branch. Accept my terms." "Dog, still !" replied Haj^ward, his eyes flashing \s-ith indignation. "Hayward, I will save you, if possible," said Alibamo. "Branch, you say you love me. Release Captain Hayward, and I will become your wife. " "Alibamo!" shrieked Hayward, "unsay those words or I ■^•ill give you my djing curse ! Would you kill your brother ? He loves you as dearly as I love my sister. If I thought, Alibamo, that you would marry that vile wretch, with these chains I would dash your brains out I " "Drag him upon the scaffold!" shouted Branch. " Farewell, ilamie — farewell !" Hajnivard clasped his sister, but was torn from her, and dragged upon the scaffold, where his chains were removed. " She has fainted — thank God!" said Hay- ward, as they placed the fatal noose about his neck. ' ' The Body-guar<^. ! The Body-guard >" " What shouts are those ?" yelled Branch. At that moment a horseman dashed up, and cried : , , " The Body-guard are upon us !" "Quick!" yelled Branch. "String bin> up!" I "No, I be d d if you do, you dam skunks ! " cried Nettleton, as he sprang from among the thick branches of the tree, after having severed the rope. "Spring, cajitain, for your life," cried Net- tleton. Hayward sprang from the scaffolding. At that moment there was an explosion just be- neath it, which threw the masses in every di- rection, and caused such a dense smoke, that the soldiers surrounding the scaffold could not distinguish the rescuer, and consequently could not fire. ' ' Alibamo's brother and the Indian were un- der the scaffold and laid that plot, captain," said Nettleton. But here comes Adjutant Harry Hinton!" The adjutant dashed forward, and seeing the captain alive, he fairly yelled with delight He embraced his friend, and then remounting, •cried : ' ' But come, boys, we have work to do, " and off he dashed at a rapid rate. "Come, Nettleton, I must seek my sister," said Hay^va^d, as he started to the point where he had last seen her. He met the brother of Alibamo, and having been informed by Nettle- ton who he was, Haj-ward inquii-ed : "Where are our sisters?" "I cannot tell. Captain Hayward. The ground became deserted in a moment after it was known the guard were coming. I suppose Fall-leaf, one of our friends, has removed them to a place of safety, away from the fight They Mall be found when the fate of the battla is decided- CHAPTER Xin. Charge of the Body-guard. Advance your Et.indards, draw your willing swords. For me, the ran.«ora of my bold attempt Shall be this cold corpse on the earth"? cold face ; But if I thrive, the gain of my atttii-.pt The least of you shall share hU part thereof. Sound dmms and trumpet?, boldly and cheerfully ; God and St. George, Richmond and victory. — Sluikespectr^ The Union army, having completed the bridge at Warsaw, had commenced their march toward Springfield. They had arrived at a point fifty miles from that place, when they were informed that a bodj' of rebels still occu- pied that town. The Body-guard, under the command of the gallant Major Charles Z»- gonji, were at once sent forward to dispers* BEAUTIFUL CAPTn^E OP THE REBEL CAJVEP. 37 the rebel band. It was rexjorted that their number did not exceed four or five hundred. That of the Body-guard was one hundred and sixty. On Thursday evenin!^ this enthusiastic squadron of Union troops started upon their march of fil'ty miles. Onward they rode, all the long night. The morning dawned, and they paused a few moments to refresh them- selves and their weaned horses, which had nobly borne their riders forward toward that scene of deadly strife. WhUe they were re- posing, a horseman rode up and asked for Ad- jutant Hinton. The adjiitant sprang forward at once, as he recognized in Johnson, one of the partj' who had \'isited him at Warsaw and then left in search of Alibamo and Captain HaJ'^vard. "Have you any tidings of our friends?" asked Hinton, in an excited manner. "Yes ; they are now at Springfield. Captain Ha5T\-ard is recovering, and Ahbamo is with him. F:ill-leaf and the brother of Alibamo are lurking near them, and wiU render aU the assistance in then- power. But I hope you' -will not delay long, as a moment may make a world of difference." Hinton spoke a few words in a low tone to the major, who instantly sprang into his sad- dle, and commanded an advance. Onward they dashed. They were just turn- ing a sharp bend in the road, when they came suddenly uiDon a small party of mounted reb- els, who were robbing the house of a Unionist. One of their number discovered the approach- ing guard, and shouted : " Here come the d -d Dutch ! The rebels sprang into their saddles, and an exciting chase begun. But the horses of the Body-guard, worn and jaded, could not over- take those of the rebels, which were fresh. The prirsuit was kept up, however, for the next ten miles when Springfield was reached. Here Zagom-i commanded a halt. He was informed that the rebels were in line, and that their numbers were eighteen h.oulred iufantiy, and fo \ir hundred cavaiiy. They held their position on the hill, just ■within the edge of a thick wood, about one mile west of the city, and near the Fair-Ground. ' • Is Adjutant Hinton hero ?" asked this in- formant. "Here," replied Hinton. "I have a word for you, from William Net- tleton !" He whispered a few words to the ad- jutant, who started, looked at his watch, and replied : "It is half past two. For God's sake, ma- jor, let us on." "Friends, soldiers!" said the major, ad- dressing those around him, " we are here, in front of the enemy. Their numbers are suffi- ciently great to overwhelm us — sihaost fourteen to one. But we, soldiers, have been taunted -^■ith the name oi' 'gold-laced body-guard,' ' feather-bed soldiers, ' ' kid-gloved gentry, ' and such like degrading epithets. I will not com- mand you to face such terrible odds, but i'%vish to go, and if you will go ■with me, I •will lead you. If any are sick, let them remain behind ; if any one fears, let him also remain. Who will go -^rith me ?" " J shall go, if I do so alone !" cried the ad- jutant. The words were scarcely uttered, when the shout went up : " We all vn\l go — none of us are sick or worn out!" " Then forward !" cried Zagonyi, as he drove his spurs into his horse. They rode rapidly along to the west of the city, and came dashing down the road which passed the Fair-Ground. It was the party who had been pursued by the guard, who had rid- den up and given the alarm just at the fatal moment, and had thus saved the life of Hay- ward, by striking terror to the hearts of hi8 murderous enemies. The Body-guard came thundering on. They were compelled to charge through a narrow lane or road, on each side of which there was a dense oak wood. It was an excellent posi- tion for the formation of infantry lines, as it would be impossible for cavalry to advance among the trees. And besides this a rail fence flanked this road on either side, just at the edge of the grove. The rebel Iraes of infantry were formed on each side of this lane, about ten feet back from the fence. The trees af- forded them protection, and as the guard charged through, a murderous fire was poured upon them. But, nothing daunted, they dashed onward. Their purpose was to gain the open field, which decKned gradually toward the city, and was situated east of the road. In this field their principal lines of infantry and cavalrj' were formed. They had scarcely passed the wood when another obstacle to their rapid advance presented itself. A large wagon was placed directly across their path. The horses shied suddenly in passing this obstruction, and some of their riders were ■violently thi'own ; but ■with an Extraordinary effort, they succeed- ed in regaining their seats. Finally a halt was made, and several of the daring spirits sprang from their horses, and commenced the work of tearing do^wn the fence in order that the squad- ron might ride into the open field, and there form for a charge upon the rebel ranks. Diu-ing the whole of this time, the rebels were pox^iring forth a deadly fire upon the Little band, and many of our gaUant guard had bit the dust, while the wounded were to be seen on every side. But, riding into the open field, the guard were formed into line at the base of the hiU, near the small stream which is the head of Wilson's creek. On the right of the guard, and about one himdred yards distant, just at the edge of a large corn-field, were stationed four himdred of the rebel cavalry. At the brow of the hill, directly in front, and near the edge of the wood, was the line of rebel infantry, numbering eighteen hundred, all their availa- ble force ha-ving been brought to that point. The eyes of Zagonyi glanced rapidly over this scene. Some thirty of his bold guard had ah-eady been stricken do-wn, either kiUed or woiinded. It was enough to appal the stout- est heart. But the major did not flinch — his followers were firm and confident. "We can spare thirty men to charge their cavalry," said Zagonyi ; "lieutenant, ■will you lead them?" S8 THE BORDER SPY ; OR THE The officer addressed roplird . "Give m'^ the men — thirti/ is suffickrd !" The men \. -re soon detailed, merely chang- ing front by breaking from the right of the line. " Forward— trot — gallop!" The lieutenant had placed himself at the head of his bttle band, and Anth drawn sabres, antl a wild shout, they rushed upon the foe. The rebel ranks were broken in an instant ; the blows from the ' terrible weapons of the guard fell not in rain. "No further help will be required in that quarter," shouted Zagonyi. "Now comes our work. Draw sabres — forward — gallop — charge!" A shout rang out upon the air : " For Fre- mont and the Union .'" And on they went thun- dering up the hill. As they approached with- in a few yards of the rebel line, a terrible fire was poured upon them, but they faltered not. Some of the horses leaped wildly into the air, and then fell to earth dead, but their riders pressed forward. The rebel ranks could not resist the thunder of this charge. In less than five minutes their lines were completely broken, and the terrified rebels were flying in every direction. Some took refuge in the woods, and fired from be- hind the trees, while now and then a squad would for a moment make a stand, but it would be quickly dispersed. In half an hour, all firing upon the battle-field had ceased. The rebels were entirely scattered, and were flying for their Lives. Some had taken refuge in the city, and concealed themselves in the sur- rounding buildings. Now commenced the charge tlirough Spring- field. Up and down the streets rode the guard, charging upon all squads of armedrebels, or pursuing them to the threshold of their own | doors. Terror seized upon them all, and soon i the Body-guard were masters, noi? only of the J field, but of the city itself. ! Then commenced the task of gathering to- gether the Union dead and wounded. Seven- ' teen bodies were found lifeless, and removed \ to the lower room of the new court-house, \ then used as the Union hospital, while some fifty were foimd seriously or slightly wounded, ■ or annovmced as missing. Thus ended one of the most brilliant charges history has ever re- | corded- CHAPTER XIV. The Conclusion I have no words — my voice is in my sword. Thou bloodier villain th&n terms can give thee out. Shakespeare. After finding themselves so thoroughly van- quished at every hand, the panic-stricken rebels fled in every direction, with the utmost precipitation. Their infantry fled into the thick adjoining woods, and thus made their way to the wide spreading prairie beyond, while their cavalry, taking advantage of a mo- ment when the Body-guard were most busily engaged ■with the infantry lines, sped across an adjoining field, and were soon beyond the reach of danger. It was in consequence of the general confu- .si( :i which ensued, that many of the mOB* giiilty and cowardly were enabled to efi'ect thtir escape. This was especially the case Mith Branch. At the moment of the explosion under the gallows, he determined not to fight, but to efi'ect his escape with his \'ictims. He urged forward the frightened cattle attached to the cart which contained Ahbamo and the in- animate form of Miss Hay ward. He procetd- ed to the western side , of the enclosure, ui d teanng away the high board fence, emerged into the street. Here he beheld the battle raging in the distance, but was too far from the scene to anticipate any particular dan- ger. He opened the fence opposite the place from that which he had left the Fair- Ground, and, driving into a thick wood beyond, soon struck a narrow path, just large enough to admit the passage of the cart. Now for tie first time he turned to Alibamo, and said : "What think you now, my fair one? Is Captain Branch foiled so easily ?" Alibamo did not replj'. She held the insen- sible form of Jliss Hayward in her arms, and was striving in every possible way to restore her to consciousness. At length she said : "Branch, will yon not pass me some water from that stream ?" ' ' Will you have it in my cap ? It is the only thing in which I can convey it to you ! " replied Branch. " No !" answered Alibamo. "Let us pause for a moment, and you can assist me in re- moving this dying maiden to the side of the stream. 'Perhaps the water, dripping cool and fresh upon her forehead will bring her back to consciousness." "I shall not pause," replied Branch, as he reached the maiden his cap, which he had filled vrith. water. ' ' You are a vile coward ! " replied Alibamo, At this moment her eyes caught the glimpse of something moving among the thick brush near her. Alibamo gazed eagerly forward, as if endeavoring to satisfy herself, and then raising her voice so as to be distinctly heard by any person who might happen to be -nithi^ several rods of her, she said : " It is true that you are alme, Branch. Here are onlj' two women to oppose you, and one of them is entirely helpless ! And yet you fear ! " These words were scarcely spoken, when there was a rustling among the brush, and a dark form appeared. "No, I am nol alone," replied Branch. "Look!" At that instant six of th« frightened horse- men, who were riding for the'r Jives, came dashing up, and, reaching the cart, they halted. The dark form which had so suddenly appeared, had as suddenly vanished. It had been dis- tinctly seen by Alibamo, although not by Branch. As the party rode up, one of them said : ""\Miy, Branch, what are you doing with these beauties ? And one of them unconscioiis, too." ' ' Taking them to a place of safety, " was the crusty reply. "You had better take them back to Spring- field, The federals will not harm females. " BEAUTIFUL CAPTIVE OF THE KEBEL CAMP. "No — no! that is not my purpose. They are relatives of Union officers, and I intend to keep them as hostages for the safety of our friends. " "Where do you /purpose taking them!" " To the dwelliiig of Captain Rogers, on the edge of the prairie, just west of the Wilson's creek battle-ground. Another slight noise was heard among the underbrush, and Alibamo made a significant motion to some person, or to some imaginary object, and then all was silent. Miss Hayvvard had partially recovered under the cooling effects of the water with which Alibamo had been bathing her brow. She opened her eyes, and then, with a shudder, closed them again. At length she said in a feeble tone : " O brother! press me closer to your heajt ; I am cold — verj' cold ! " " Miss Hay ward, your brother yet lives, and will be with you soon!" whispered Ahbamo, as she beuj; over the fast recovering maiden. "Oh! yes, my brother must live — he does live ! " cried Mamie, starting up. ""\ATio is your brother?" asked one of the party. Siiss Hayward gazed upon the questioner, but turning away, she hid her face in the bo- som of Alibamo and wept. "I will answer for her!" replied Alibamo. "He is an officer in the Union army. He was taken prisoner while endeavoring to rescue me, who also have been kept as a hostage by that villain. Branch. It was the intention of Gen. Price to release or exchange this young lady's uxutntix, bui, ne, ^L gradfj' nio own nenci-uke propensities, was about to disobey the express orders of the general, and hang young Hay- ward. " A groan broke from Miss Hayward, but Ali- bamo quickly replied : ' ' Don't fear, darhng, the Body-guard came just in time to rescue him, and he will soon be with us !" "Are you sure of that?" asked one of the party. ' ' I know it will be so. There will be large parties sent in every direction, and you will be siu-ely overtaken ! " answered Alibamo. "Let us forward, then," repUed one of the rebels, his cheeks blenching with fear. "Stay one moment," answered another. "Branch," he continued, "you have the repu- tation of a bad man. I shaU not permit you to keep these ladies, if I can prevent it. Let me accompany them back to Springfield, and restore them to the arms of their friends ! " "Indeed!" repHed Branch with bitterness. "You are very kind, and I have no doubt the ladies will thank j'ou. But I do not under- stand exactly how you are going to prevent me from doing as I please. Pray be good enough to explain." " I win ! Men, you are enemies to the fed- eral soldiers only, not innocent women. Seize that cowardly captain, and I will return with the ladies, and restore them to their friends. It will benefit all those of our friends who — " A ball, fired from the pistol of Branch, went crashing through the brain of the speaker, and he rolled from his horse a corpse. ' ' You see how far his interference has bene- fited him," said Branch, pointing to the dead body. ' ' Are there any more who wish to shara his fate ?" The party were silent. They were now ascending the sharp hiU, or range of hills, which skirts the creek upon the north. Turn- ing to the right, he proceeded onward, but observing he was not followed, he asked : " Why do you halt ?" "Because we go in another direction." "I command you to follow me," yelled Branch. "We do not recognize your authority." " You shall see it here," replied the infuria- ted captain, as he drew forth his revolver. In an instant the five horsemen had leveled their rifles at his breast, and one of them said : " Go your way, sir, and we will not molest you. Be careful how you interfere with us. " "Do as you please, cowards," rephed Branch. He started on his way, whUe the horse- men proceeded down the hiU at a rapid rate. Alibamo bent forward, and whispered words to l\Iamie, which seemed to be those of hope, as the countenance of the latter brightened very much. Then, starting to her feet, while her frame quivered with excitement, she cried : " I knew it would be so ! Look there, Miss Hayward ! Look there ! " "What do you mean ?" yeUed Branch. ' ' That you are foiled at last, fiend of dark- ness, that you are." Let us return to Springfield. The excitement endured by Hajrward, to- getner witn inc pam ne suliered irom tne con- stant irritation of his wounds, and his loss of blood, were more than he could bear, and he sank to the earth, although he stiU retained his consciousness. Nettleton remained by his side, although Hayward ui-ged him to join hia brothers in the unequal contest. ' ' There ain't no occasion to do that ! " said the brave feUow. "Them Body-guard will whip them darn skunks in less than three minutes, and besides some on 'em might come around you, and I calculate if they do, to make them smell brimstone." The fight was over. Nettleton and WiUiam Margrave assisted Captain Hayward to the city, and seciu'ed a room for him in. one of the houses occupied by a Union family. In a short time both Johnson and Adjutant Hinton joiued him. The Indian was absent. "Have you received any intelligence of my sister ?" asked Hayward, in a trembUng voice. "Not yet, but Fall-leaf is absent, and I feel satisfied that he is with or near both your sister and mine, " replied Margrave. ' ' He will return with them very soon, I believe. " " Did you see or hear anything of Branch?" asked Hayward. "After the smoke from the explosion had cleared away, I went in search of the ladies, but they had disappeared. The cart had been removed, and my opinion is that Branch has driven off with our sisters. He cannot advance very rapidly with his ox-team, and, if Fall- leaf is on hi? track, he will return and inform us as soon a ; he has ascertained the directioa they have taken." iO THE BOEDER SPY. " Have the horses saddled, and at the door. If possible get fresh ones, " said Haywai-d. ' ' I shall follow my sister. " " You cannot do it, captain, you are too iU!" "Who talks of being ill, at such a time as this ? My sister is in the hands of that rufl&an Branch, and yours too, ^largrave ! / should go forward if I was dying ! " " At this moment Fall-leaf rushed into the room, and cried : ' ' Follow — come ! " "Come — no questions," cried Hayward. In an instant Hayward, Hinton, Johnson, Nettleton, Margrave, and the Indian, were in their saddles, and darted off at theii* utmost speed, on the road toward the famous Wilson's creek battle-ground. The Indian took the lead. They ascended the shari^ hill which borders Wilson's creek, and when on its siunmit, could plainly see all the surrounding objects in the valley below. After a moment's inspection they turned to the right, and struck off through | a naiTow path which ran along the mountain j ridge. They had proceeded about two miles, j when the Indian paused and said : [ '•Hark!" j The i^arty listened attentively, and distinctly heard tne soimd of the rumbling cart. [ "Quick! Forward !" cried Hayward, as he , dashed onward. In a few moments they came , in sight of the cart, and there, sure enough, | were seated the sister of Haj'ward and the maiden, Alibamo. A ci-y of joy broke from the lips of Mar- gi'ave. It was heard by Branch. The villain for a moment was confused, but it was no time for delay. He seized Miss Hayward in his aims, and, springing from the cart, ran along \rith her as easily as if she had been an infant. Alibamo sprang into her brother's arms, with a cry of rapture, but he only paused a moment. Branch ran dii'ectly toward a nar- row pathway, which was the only passage to the Vivlley below, and which wound down the steep by the side of a shai-p, rocky ledge. Beneath this ledge was a frightful chasm, at the bottom of which were a hundred sharp rocks, which had been broken off the height, and fallen into the depths below. "Ah ! I \\-iU triumph j-et ! " cried Branch, as he reached the ledge, and was about to spring down the uaiTow pathway. But, FaU-leaf con- fronted him, and Branch sjjrang back. "Ah! the rock — the precipice!" he cried, and dai-ting for the ledge he stood upon its very verge. As Haj-ward and his friends approached, Branch raised the helpless maiden high over his head, and leaning forward he cried : ' ' K you advance another step, Hayward, or permit any of your party to do so, I -will hvul your sister into the dej)ths below, and thus dash her to pieces !" Haj^vard was ■within a few feet of Branch, but he stopped instantly. "What is to be done?" asked Hinton, as he shuddered at the scene before him. "I win tell you what is to be done, Hay- ward," cried Branch. "I hold you in my power, and I shall dictate my o^-n teims. " "■Wiiat are they?" asked Haywai-d. "Let the entire party, excepting yourseli^ \rithdraw some distimce to the rear, and then swear by your honor that I shall not be mulesttd, and .shall be permitted to go as I please, and I will restore your sister. If you do not, she shall perish, even if I go with her ! ' The villain, who supposed his proposition would be readily accepted, had bein partially thrown off his guard. With a cry c f "Brother!" Mamie .sprang suddenly to the ground. In doing so, she had collected all her strength, and, as she sprang, the concus- sion had thrown Branch backward, and he was falling over the ledge. He caught a small sapling in his fall, and there the ■vilL\in hung, suspended over this di-eadful gulf, only by the frail twig. He tinned upward an imidoiing glance, but did not speak, lie gazed below, and a thiill of terror shook his frame. "Your hour has come!" cried Hayward, as he approached the edge of the cliff. " No ! no ! me — me ! " cried the Indian, step- ping forward. "Oh! save me!" groaned Branch. "Pray," said Hayward, as he saw the toma- hawk of the Indian raised high iii the air. ' ' Save me — save — " Branch spoke no more. The tomahawk had descended and severed the frail ivd^, to which Branch was chnging. A }"ell of teiTor rose upon the air, as Branch went whii-Ung down, and then a duU, heavy thump was heard and all was still. Hayward pressed his lips upon his sister's forehead, and murmured, ' ' The di'eam, darling — the dream ! " "0 brother," she sobbed, " I cannot speak — I am so happy ! " Margrave had not been idle. He had taken a fvill share of embraces, and had handed Ali- bamo over to Adjutant Hinton, who appeared rather to relish that luxury, himseK. Johnson vras a silent spectator, but Nettleton was dan- cing with pert'ect ecstacy, as he exclaimed : "Well, I'm about the happiest dam skunk that ever did live ! " ' ' Fall-leaf, have you nothing to say ?" asked Hayward. "Me kill — ugh!" he pointed toward the rocks below, and seemed perfectly satisfied. ■Bad man — much bad!" and he strode away up the path. Night was fast approaching, and the happily united friends set out for Springfield, which they reached in safety. Captain Hayv»-ard recovered from his v/otmds, and is still engaged in fighting his country's battles, while his lovely sister is happy in her home upon the lake. Adjutant Hinton is in the same regiment ■R-ith Haywai'd, v.hile Alibamo — not Alibamo :Mai-grave, but Alibamo Ubiion, is adorning her husband's elegant home in New York, where she is its light and joy. She only awaits the return of Harry to render her perfectly happy. Nettleton thinks he is becoming less of a "skunk" everj' day, but stiU insists on remain- ing with Haywood, as his " bodi'-guard, " Fall-leaf stiU serves the army. AU KETOBR, AMERICAN TALES. ^^ Large Suo., double columns, lUnminated cover, each issue complete f A series of original and choice Romancks of the War axd of the Border, prepared by the best antliors and supplied at the very low price of FIFTF;EN CENTS K.Vf 'H. ?^o. 9, REA13Y JXJI^Y ISth. THE PRISONER OF THE MILL ; CAPTAIN HAYWARD'S "BODY GUARD." By the Author of 'The Border Spy." Tlie antlior has hero given us a story of tlie Gasconade country, full of all tliat Is novel In war, exciting in adventure and stirring in love. It revives several of the best characters first introduced In his " Border Spy.' Tlie work is very pleasing and'thoroughly good as a transcript of the field in the West. No. 1.— ON THE PLAINS: or, The Race for Life. A story of adventure among the Black Hills. This romance reads like a transcrijit from life. It is exciting in its incidents of hunters' ami trappers" experience, of Indian life and M'arfare, and of love, for there is a woman in the case, around whom centers a novel interest. It is one of the best border stories recently prwluced. No. 2.— THE BORDER SPY; or, the Beautiful Captive of the Rebel Camp. A story of the War. By Lieutenant-Colonel Hazeltine, formerly ( aptain Co. A., Kremonts CJuard. The title of this book implies its character. It is a stirring story of the war in the Osage country, in which the author has introduced the rebel General Price, and other celebrated characters, as well a.s a Delaware In- dian, who plays a leading part. No. 3.-THE HERMIT OF THE COLORADO HILLS : A Romance of the Pampas. By Wm. TI. Bush- nell. A peculiar but striking story of the Texan Pampas, introducing the wild life of the Plains, the great cattle droves of the herdsmen, the savage Comanche Indians, and the strange being, the Hermit of the Hills— a character not altogether fictitious. There is also in the story, as a leading feature, the element of female interest. Theromanceis oneofits popular author's best productions. No. 4.-FREE TRAPPERS' PASS; or, the Gold-Seeker's Daughter, ^y Wm. R. Eyster. An ex- citing romance, full of the interest of western adventure, and so forcibly written that the reader's Interest can not flag a moment through all the incidents of capture, flight, pursuit and peril. No. 5,-BOB BRANT, PATRIOT AND SPY : A Tale of the War in the West. By Edward Willett, This exciting tale of scouting life in the West is full of .action, presenting scenes which will be recognized by many who have served in the glorious army of General Grant; some of the char- acters, also, are well known in connection with the secret service of the aruiy of the Cumberland. The dangers and escapes of Bob Brant, during the exciting period previous to the fall of Forts Henry and Donelson, are thrilling, but natural and life-like. No. 6.-THE GUERRILLAS OF THE OSAGE ; or the Price of Loyalty on the Border. By Stephen Holmes, Jr. The terrors of life on the border during the first year of the Great Rebelli