Not in vain had the South boasted that Johnston was a great general.
He had not been daunted by Donelson. While his foe rested on his
victory and took his ease, he was here with a new army, ready to strike
the unwary. Dick shivered suddenly, and, with a violent impulse,
clutched the waist of the man in front of him. It may have been some
sort of physical telepathy, but Robertson understood. He turned his
head and said in a whisper:
"You're right. The whole Southern army is here in the woods, an' we'd
rather lose a brigade tonight than let you escape."
Dick felt a thrill of the most acute agony. If he could only escape!
There must be some way! If he could but find one! His single word
would save the lives of thousands and prevent irreparable defeat!
Again he clutched the waist of the man in front of him and again the
man divined.
"It ain't no use," he said, although his tone was gentle, and in a way
sympathetic. "After all, it's your own fault. You blundered right in
our way, an' we had to take you for fear you'd see us, an' give the
alarm. It was your unlucky chance. You'd give a million dollars if
you had it to slip out of our hands and tell Ulysses Grant that Albert
Sidney Johnston with his whole army is layin' in the woods right
alongside of him, ready to jump on his back at dawn, an' he not knowin'
it."
"I would," said Dick fervently.
"An' so would I if I was in your place. Just think, Mr.
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