It was very warm in the room and he was still drowsy. The boy began in a mechanical voice as of one who reads:
"General Lee surrendered to General Grant to-day——"
"What's that?" exclaimed Prescott, springing to his feet. But the boy went on:
"General Lee surrendered to General Grant to-day at Appomattox Court House. The Army of Northern Virginia has laid down its arms and the war is over."
Prescott stood for a moment like one dazed, then staggered and fell back in his chair.
"I guess you're one of that army, mister," said the boy, hastily bringing a cup of water.
"I was," replied Prescott as he recovered himself.
He stayed all night in the hut—there was nothing now to hurry for—and the next morning the lank youth, with the same taciturn generosity, shared with him his breakfast.
Prescott turned back toward Richmond, his heart swelling with the desire for home. The sun came out bright and strong, the rain dried up, and the world was again young and beautiful; but the country remained lone and desolate, and not till nearly noon did he come in contact with human life. Then he saw a half-dozen horsemen approaching—whether Northern or Southern he did not care—it did not matter now, and he went on straight toward them.
But the foremost rider leaped down with a cry of joy and wrung his hand.