"Well, I am in no particular hurry," replied Hayward. "I come from McIntosh with messages for the general, and I will await his return here."

"Then you are a stranger in our camp?"

"Yes, I have just arrived!"

"Well, sit down. Take a cigar—and here is some excellent brandy. Help yourself."

"You appear to be well provided for," said Hayward, lighting a cigar.

"Better with drink than anything else. But I can offer you something to eat, such as it is."

"Thank you, orderly; but I was well supplied at a farm-house this morning. However, I will drink with you. Fill, and we will drink to the general, and success to our cause!"

"I will drink that in a pint bumper," said the orderly, as he drained his glass.

"That is excellent," said Hayward.

"Take another."