“Yes, but oh, Joyce—”
She made a swift gesture and pointed to the door of the nurse’s room.
“Here is some money,” she continued, in the same low whisper. “Now, don’t refuse it; you will need it.”
“I had plenty of money in a belt around me when I was wounded,” whispered Calhoun.
“The belt, oh, I forgot! The Doctor gave it to [pg 284]me for safe keeping.” Noiselessly she moved to the bureau, opened a drawer, and returned with the belt.
“Joyce, I shall not need your money now, but I thank you for the offer.”
“It was nothing. Be sure and be ready,” and she glided from the room.
The minutes were like hours to Calhoun. At one time he had made up his mind not to accept his proffered liberty, as it might bring serious trouble on Joyce; but he concluded that he must accept.
As for Joyce, she went to her room and threw herself down on a lounge. Her heart was beating tumultuously; every little noise startled her like the report of a gun. She waited in fear and apprehension. At length the clock struck eleven. “They must be all asleep by this time,” she thought. She arose and softly went downstairs, carrying blankets and pillows. She stopped and listened as she stepped out of doors. There was no moon, it was slightly cloudy, and darkness was over everything. Without hesitating she made her way through the back yard and the barn lot to the grove, where she had told Abe to be in waiting. She found that the faithful fellow had everything in readiness.
“Abe, I want you to come with me now and get the sick soldier. Drive through the lane until you reach the road; then drive straight to your house. The road is not much frequented, and you will not be apt to meet any one at this time of night. [pg 285]If you do, say nothing. Leave the soldier when you get home, drive straight back the way you came. Turn the horses into the pasture, put the harness and carriage where you found them. Be careful and make no noise. When you have done this go home again and be sure you get there before daylight. It’s a hard night’s work I have put on you, Abe, but I will pay you well for it. Now, take off your boots and come with me.”