Beverly Weems, Capt. C.S.A.
"Are you satisfied?" inquired Arthur, after the marshal had silently concluded his examination of the document.
"Perfectly satisfied," replied the other, placing the letter in his pocket. "Mr. Wayne, it is my duty to arrest you."
"Arrest me!"
"In the name of the United States."
"For what offence?"
"Treason."
Arthur remained for a while silent with astonishment. At last, as the marshal arose and took his hat, he said:
"I cannot conceive what act or word of mine can be construed as treasonable. There is some mistake, surely; I am a quiet man, a stranger in the city, and have conversed with but one or two persons since my arrival. Explain to me, if you please, the particular nature of the charge against me."
"It is not my province, at this moment, to do so, Mr. Wayne. It is sufficient that, upon information lodged with me last evening, and forwarded to Washington by telegraph, I received from the Secretary of War orders for your immediate arrest, should I find the information true. I have found it true, and I arrest you."