"Remember," he said, "that on an errand like yours, presence of mind
counts for at least fifty per cent. Have a quick tongue. Always be
ready with a tale that looks true."
"An' remember, too," said Sergeant Whitley, "that however tight a place
you get into you can get into one tighter. Think of that and it will
encourage you to pull right out of the hole."
The two wrung his hand and Major Hertford also gave him his warmest
wishes. The horse chosen for him was a bay of tremendous power, and
Dick knew that he would serve him well. He carried double blankets
strapped to the saddle, pistols in holsters with another in his belt,
an abundance of ammunition, and food for several days in his saddle
bags. Then he returned to General Thomas, who handed him a thin strip
of tissue paper.
"It is written in indelible ink," he said, "and it contains a statement
of our forces and their positions here in the eastern part of the state.
It also tells General Buell what reinforcements he can expect. If you
are in imminent danger of capture destroy the paper, but to provide for
such a chance, in case you escape afterward, I will read the dispatches
to you."
He read them over several times and then questioned Dick. But the boy's
memory was good. In fact, every word of the dispatches was burnt into
his brain, and nothing could make him forget them.
"And now, my lad," said General Thomas, giving him his hand, "you may
help us greatly.
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