But Wing was firm, and respectfully represented that his very youth would be his protection, as it would render him an object of less suspicion to the enemy; and he begged that he might be permitted to render the required service to his country.
So the major had consented, and the young orderly, disguised in a suit of confederate gray, had left H. some seven days before, and since that he had not been seen or heard from.
And now Colonel Rosenthal’s soul was pierced by remorse for having suffered the boy to go upon such a fatal errand, and by grief for his probable fate; for scarcely a doubt remained upon the colonel’s mind that his spy had been discovered, and had fallen a victim to the vengeance of the terrible Free Sword.
With a spirit burdened and darkened by these thoughts and feelings, Colonel Rosenthal rode on his way.
So few travellers passed this old, deserted turnpike road, that the sound of horse’s feet, galloping rapidly towards him, startled Justin and caused him to look up; when, to his unspeakable joy, he recognized Wing.
Smiling, the boy saluted his officer and sprang from his horse.
“Oh, Wing, my child! I am so rejoiced to see you safe back again! What news?” eagerly exclaimed Colonel Rosenthal.
“Great news, Major,” said Wing, who knew nothing of his officer’s new rise in rank—“great news, sir! I have met with a complete success. I have unearthed Corsoni and delivered him and his band over to our forces.”
“That is glorious! Wing, you shall have a lieutenant’s commission for that!”
“Thanks, Major; if the new commission is not to remove me from your side,” said the orderly.