now of making every thing out of these d—d rebels, who have gone into the swamps, leaving large estates for confiscation? What better business?"
"None: I fully agree with you."
"And you will join my troop?"
"No!"
The man looked astonished. The coolness and composure with which the denial was made surprised him not less than the denial itself. With a look of doubt and wonderment, he went on—
"Well, you know best; but, of course, as a good citizen, you will soon be in arms: twenty days, you know, are all that's allowed you."
"I do not need so many: as a good citizen, I shall be in arms in less time."
"In whose troop?—where?"
"Ah, now we come to the point," was the sudden reply; "and you will now see why I have been able to withstand the tempting offers you have made. I am thinking to form a troop of my own, and should I do so, I certainly should not wish so much success to yours as to fall into your ranks."
"Indeed! Well, I'm glad, anyhow, that his majesty is likely to be so well served with officers. Have you yet applied for a commission to the commandant?"
"No; nor shall I, till my recruits are strong enough to make my appearance respectable."
"That's right! I know that by experience. They never like you half so well as when you bring your men with you: they don't want officers so much as men; and some of the commands, if they can chouse you out of your recruits, will not stop to do so; and then you may whistle for your commission. I suppose your friend, here, is already secured for your squad?"
The tory referred to Davis, who did not leave his companion to reply; but, without scruple, avowed himself as having already been partially secured for the opposition troop.
"Well, good luck to you. But I say, comrade, you have commanded before—of course, you are prepared to lead?"
"I have the heart for it," was the reply; and as the stranger
