MY LADY OF THE SOUTH
the Confederates coöperate with him in these raids, furnishing details of men, and the situation is becoming simply intolerable. Take two or three scouts with you, and discover, if possible, where he hides out, and where he obtains assistance and news as to our movements. Don't report until you obtain what you are after; but if you need help, draw on any troops required. I must have Big Donald, dead or alive. When can you start?"
"Within thirty minutes, sir."
"Better take Daniels along."
"I intend to."
"Good; if you succeed, it will mean a Captaincy for you, as this fellow has been a thorn in my side ever since we first invaded this region. You better wait on the picket line until after dark. Good-bye, lad, and luck to you."
I left his presence nervously elated. It was my first deliberate venture between the lines, and the nature of the service appealed to me. I felt no sympathy whatever for these banditti of the hills, having myself experienced their sting on more than one occasion. As a soldier, I despised their method of warfare, and would rejoice at being instrumental in driving them from the country. But there was more than mere duty in this commission—it would take me again into the vicinity of Fairview; possibly bring me once more into the very presence of Jean Denslow.
The recurring thought of her quickened my pulse and stimulated my imagination. I passed down the steps, glancing back at where we had stood together when the
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