"No," said the captain; "you will not be taken so suddenly. I promise that you may return in an hour."
XVI
BETWEEN THE LINES
"Here stand, my lords; and send discoverers forth,
To know the number of our enemies."
--SHAKESPEARE.
In General Morell's tent were two officers, afterward known to me as Generals Morell and Butterfield. It was not yet quite dark.
The officer who had conducted me, presented me to General Morell. In the conversation which followed, General Butterfield seemed greatly interested, but took no part at all.
General Morell spoke kindly to me. "I have sent for you," he said, "because I am told that you are faithful, and that you are prudent as well as accurate. We need information, and I hope you will get it for us."
"I am willing to do my best, General," said I, "provided that my absence is explained to General Grover's satisfaction."
"It is General Grover himself who recommends you," said he; "he is willing to let us profit by your services while his brigade is likely to remain inactive. I will show you his note."