"Oh! yes—that is a captive bird. But, if you will walk in that direction, I will introduce you to Captain Branch, and perhaps you can get an opportunity to converse with her."
Captain Hayward and the orderly left the tent, and proceeded in the direction from which the sound emanated. At last Hayward paused and said:
"By heaven, that will never do; she is singing the Star-spangled Banner!"
"Oh! she will do just what she pleases, in spite of any of us. You had better not say anything to her against that song, or you will get more of her tongue than will be agreeable to your feelings."
They paused before the tent, around which were lounging a number of officers. The orderly introduced Hayward to Captain Branch, and said:
"The gentleman is somewhat curious to see your beauty."
"He shall be gratified. Walk in, sir!"
Both Branch and Hayward entered the tent, and many of the officers crowded around to witness the introduction.
"Alibamo—darling—allow me to present you to a friend—an officer in our army."
"Present me anywhere, and to any one, and I will rejoice, if they will only take their presence out of my sight," replied the maiden. Then turning to Hayward she said: