"Who are ye, and what do ye want," demanded a sharp-visaged, ill-natured looking woman, coming out on the porch as the soldiers entered the yard.
"We are Union soldiers, and we want our breakfast," said Corporal Grimm, as the Sergeant was busy giving orders to the men.
"You low, nigger-lovin', aberlition thieves, I wouldn't give ye a bite if ye were starvin'," said the woman.
"Mother, don't talk that way to them," said a pretty, red cheeked girl of about fifteen, standing by her side.
"We want breakfast for twelve," said Sergeant Swords, now coming forward.
"Well, sir, ye won't git it here. Go to some nigger shanty and let them cook for ye."
"Oh, no, my good woman, we want you to get our breakfast. You are a good lookin' woman, and I know you can get up a good meal."
"If I was to cook for ye scamps, I'd pizen the last one o' ye," she fairly shrieked.
"We shall have you eat with us, my good lady, and we can eat anything you do," said Sergeant Swords, good-humoredly. The young girl was all the while persuading her mother to be more calm.
"Come now, I'll help you. I'll kindle the fire and carry the wood and draw the water," said the corporal.