Our
spies look into the very heart of your camp. You think that we are
fifty miles away, but a cannon shot from the center of our camp would
reach the center of yours. Why, while we are here, ready to spring,
this Grant, of whom you think so much, is on his way tonight to the
little village of Savannah to confer with Buell. In the dawn when we
strike and roll his brigades back he will not be here. And that's your
great general!"
Dick knew that his uncle was excited. But he had full cause to be.
There was everything in the situation to inflame an officer's pride and
anticipation. It was not too dark for Dick to see a spark leap from his
eyes, and a sudden flush of red appear in either tanned cheek. But for
Dick the chill came again, and once more his hair prickled at the roots.
The ambush was even more complete than he had supposed, and General
Grant would not be there when it was sprung.
"Dick," said Colonel Kenton, "I have talked to you as I would not have
talked to anyone else, but even so, I would not have talked to you as I
have, were not your escape an impossibility. You are unharmed, but to
leave this camp you would have to fly."
"I admit it, sir."
"Come with me. There are men higher in rank than I who would wish to
see a prisoner taken as you were."
Dick followed him willingly and without a word. Aware that he was not
in the slightest physical danger he was full of curiosity concerning
what he was about to see.
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