"Then why would you run from the enemy?"
"Why, I must follow my captain of course!"
"Good, Nettleton, good," shouted the listeners. "You are matched this time, captain." And all joined in the laugh.
"Well, William, I expect I shall go to-night, where there is some danger. Will you go with me?"
"Yes, captain."
"Think again, William. We may both be killed?"
"Oh! well, if we are only both killed, I can serve you still?"
"Serve me! In what way?"
"By bringing coal for your fire, instead of wood!"
"Come—come, William, no more of this levity. If you will go, or wish to go, you can do so. Saddle White Surry for yourself. Give my brown horse to Swasey's nigger! prepare my horse, and be ready in half an hour. Come, gentlemen, it is time to report to the general."