"'Sam, you're number nine,' I hurriedly whispered.
"'Number nine; and all's well!' shouted Sam at the top of his lungs. 'So far, so good,' he continued, in a low voice. 'Now I guess we're all right. Halt!' he shouted, hearing the sound of horses' hoofs rapidly advancing. The horseman at once drew rein, and at Sam's challenge, answered:
"'Colonel Peckham.'
"'Dismount, Colonel Peckham, and give the countersign.'
"'Look here, my man, just let me pass, will you? Don't detain me, for I am on important business, and am in a great hurry.'
"'Halt,' shouted Sam again; 'dismount.'
"'I tell you I am Colonel Peckham, commanding——'
"'I don't care what you command. Just climb down off that horse instantly, or I'll fire on you. You shouldn't go by me if you were President Davis himself.'
"The colonel, seeing that entreaty was in vain, reluctantly dismounted and gave the countersign, 'Virginia.'
"'The countersign is correct. Pass, Colonel Peckham,' said Sam, bringing his musket promptly to a shoulder arms.