"Why, darn skunk!"
"Well I won't, captain, only I know that I am a darn skunk, any way."
"Captain," said Alibamo, "you spoke of your sister. Is she far from here?"
"Not far—merely in Ohio."
"If by chance you are rescued and removed to the Union camp, do you not wish her sent for?"
"No—not for the world!"
"She would come if sent for, would she not?"
"Yes, if she lived to get here. But, do not think of such a thing. I shall never see her. But when I am dead, let her know it, but not how I died. To know that I am dead will break her heart."
Alibamo sobbed audibly.
"Why are you weeping, Alibamo."