IT was dark long before Margaret and Stoneman reached Piedmont. A mile out of town a horse neighed in the woods, and, tired as she was, Queen threw her head high and answered the call.
The old man did not notice it, but Margaret knew a squadron of white-and-scarlet horsemen stood in those woods, and her heart gave a bound of Joy.
As they passed the Presbyterian church, she saw through the open window her father standing at his Elder's seat leading in prayer. They were holding a watch service, asking God for victory in the eventful struggle of the day.
Margaret attempted to drive straight to the jail, and a sentinel stopped them.
"I am Stoneman, sir—the real commander of these troops," said the old man, with authority.
"Orders is orders, and I don't take 'em from you," was the answer.
"Then tell your commander that Mr. Stoneman has just arrived from Spartanburg and asks to see him at the hotel immediately."
He hobbled into the parlour and waited in agony while
