"Yes, but try and compose yourself. I have much to say to you!"
"Yes, I will be calm—I will listen, for I feel that a terrible fate hangs over you, my brother. Oh! I am glad that I am here. I'll weep no more, but I will comfort you. There, do not look so pale, your little sister is with you, and will share your fate, whatever it may be."
Hayward bowed his head, while a convulsive tremor shook his frame.
"Come, I'll weep no more—I'll comfort you. Think, brother, it can only be death, and your spirit will scarcely have taken its flight to that better world, ere mine will meet you there. Oh! we shall not long be separated."
"Mamie, we will talk no more of death. I do not believe such will be my fate. I have already been informed that friends are at work. I shall be rescued from this place, and if I am not, my sentence is not immediate death. So weep no more, but listen. How came you here, Mamie?"
"I received a letter telling me that my brother had been wounded in battle, and that you wished me to come direct to Springfield. I saw by the papers that the Union army were marching for this place, and I supposed you were with them, and that I should arrive here about the same time you did. I did not hesitate a moment, but came forward according to my directions to Rolla. I was there met by two men who brought me to this place."
"Ah! I see it all now. That villain Branch must have taken your letter from my pocket while I was insensible, and thus learning your address, sent for you!"
"But to what end, brother? He is not your friend or you would not call him villain!"
"I cannot tell, dear sister. But let me enjoin on you to be firm whatever may occur. Even though you see me march upon the scaffold, be firm, and hope. Remember what you said; it will only be death! If my enemies wish to torture me, the more keenly feel, the more they will exult. Hark! Some one approaches. We shall not long remain in ignorance. Remember, darling, let not a word or even a tear betray more than ordinary emotion."
The door was thrown open, and Branch entered. Hayward seated himself upon a rude box and Mamie knelt by his side.