"To go where?" inquired Webster, starting up in surprise.
"To the fair grounds," was the laconic reply.
"Surely not at this hour," pleaded the condemned man; "the earliest moment named in my death-warrant is six o'clock, and you certainly will not require me to go before that."
"It is the order of General Winder, and I must obey," answered Alexander. "You must prepare yourself at once."
Without another word Webster arose from his bed, and began his preparations. Not a tremor was apparent, and his hand was as steady and firm as iron. When he had fully arranged his toilet, he turned to Mrs. Lawton, and taking both her hands in his he murmured:
"Good-bye, dear friend; we shall never meet again on earth. God bless you, and your kindness to me. I will be brave, and die like a man. Farewell, forever!" then turning to Captain Alexander, who stood unmoved near the door, he said:
"I am ready!"
As they went out through the door, a piercing shriek rent the air, and Mrs. Lawton fell prostrate to the floor.
Arriving at the entrance to the prison, they found a company of cavalry drawn up before them, and a carriage, procured by Mrs. Lawton, awaiting their appearance. Webster crossed the pavement with unfaltering step and entered the vehicle, the order to march was given, and the procession started for the scene of execution.
At Camp Lee, the scene was one of bustle and excitement. Soldiers were moving about in companies, and in small detachments. Eager spectators were there, curious to watch the proceedings, and the streets leading to the grounds were lined with people whose prevailing emotion seemed to be that of idle curiosity.