"
The three rode forward, saluted politely and the fence-menders, stopping
their work, saluted in the same polite fashion. Then they stood
expectant.
"We belong to a detachment which is marching southward to join the Union
army under General Thomas," said Dick. "Perhaps you could tell us the
best road."
"I might an' ag'in I mightn't, stranger. If you don't talk much you
never have much to take back. If I knew where that army is it would
be easy for me to tell you, but if I didn't know I couldn't. Now, the
question is, do I know or don't I know? Do you think you can decide it
for me stranger?"
It was impossible for Dick or the sergeant to take offense. The man's
gaze was perfectly frank and open and his eyes twinkled as he spoke.
The boy with him smiled widely, showing both rows of his powerful white
teeth.
"We can't decide it until we know you better," said Dick in a light tone.
"I'm willin' to tell you who I am. My name is Sam Jarvis, an' this
lunkhead here is my nephew, Ike Simmons, the son of my sister, who keeps
my house. Now I want to tell you, young stranger, that since this war
began and the Yankees and the Johnnies have taken a notion to shoot up
one another, people who would never have thought of doin' it before,
have come wanderin' into these mountains. But you can get a hint about
'em sometimes. Young man, do you want me to tell you your name?"
"Tell me my name!" responded Dick in astonishment.
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