Old Ben continued on his way, and Jack and the others walked toward the Ruthven plantation. Then our hero ran ahead, to tell Mrs. Ruthven of the visitors.
"A fine, manly young fellow, Powell," remarked Colonel Stanton, when he and the young surgeon were left alone.
"Yes, he has turned out a first-rate lad, colonel."
"I presume, were he older, he would be at the head of a regular Confederate command, instead of being at the head of this boyish Home Guard."
"Undoubtedly, sir. But I am glad he is not in the regular ranks."
"Why?"
"I should hate to fight against him, sir."
"I see. Well, this war has brought brother against brother, and worse. To tell the truth, I heartily wish it was over, myself."
In a few minutes more Mrs. Ruthven appeared, her face full of sorrow. As she approached Harry Powell, the tears stood in her eyes.
"My dear aunt, how glad I am to see you, after this long separation!" cried the young man impulsively.