"Webster you have sent for me; what is it that you desire?"
"General Winder," replied Webster, "I have sent for you to make an appeal to your manhood; my fate is sealed. I know that too well—I am to die, and I wish to die like a man. I know there is no hope for mercy, but, sir, I beseech you to permit me to be shot, not be hanged like a common felon,—anything but that."
"I am afraid that cannot be done," said Winder, coldly.
"It is not much to ask," pleaded Webster; "I am to die, and am prepared, but, sir, for God's sake let me not die like this; change but the manner of my death, and no murmur shall escape my lips."
"I cannot alter the sentence that has been ordered."
Mrs. Lawton, who was present, and unable further to restrain herself, exclaimed:
"General, as a woman I appeal to you—you have the power, and can exercise it. Do not, I pray you, condemn this brave man to the odium of a felon's death. Think of his family, and his suffering. Let the manliness of your own heart plead for him. It is not much that he asks. He does not sue for pardon. He seeks not to escape your judgment, harsh and cruel as it is. He only prays to be allowed to die like a brave man in the service of his country. You certainly can lose nothing by granting this request, therefore, in the name of justice and humanity, let him be shot instead of the dreadful death you have ordained for him."
While she was speaking, the hard lines about the rebel's mouth grew still more harsh and rigid. He did not attempt to interrupt her, but when she had finished, he turned coolly upon his heel, and, as he reached the door he said:
"His request and yours must be denied. He hangs to-morrow."
"Then," ejaculated the undaunted woman, "he will die like a man, and his death will be upon your head,—a living curse until your own dark hour shall come!"