"Yes," replied Nelson, with a twinkle in his eye, "I now command on land; so, young man, be careful how you try to ride over me."
Fred laughed as he thought of his first meeting with Nelson, and replied: "I shall never so forget myself again, General."
"Now," continued Nelson, "give me the news. You said you had something important to communicate."
"So I have if you are not already informed. You are expecting arms for your men, are you not?"
"I am, and I am all out of patience because I do not receive them. They should have been here days ago. But what do you know about this?"
"I know that you will never receive them, if the friends of the South can prevent it; and that they are taking active measures to do."
"Tell me all about it," said Nelson, manifesting the greatest interest.
Fred then related all that he had heard at the meeting which took place at his father's house. Nelson's face grew very grave. Then he asked, "Where did you learn of all this?"
"Please do not ask me," replied Fred, in a low voice. "I can only say the information is absolutely correct."
"Never mind," said Nelson, kindly. "I think I understand. Your news is, indeed, important. The enemy must have spies watching every movement. You have again rendered me important service, Fred. How I wish you could take up with that offer I made you."