None of them cared a rap that Daniel Webster was opposing the war in the House of Representatives at Washington, and declaring that on land it was a failure.
A subaltern came to the mess room door, touching his cap and asking to speak with Major Croghan.
"The men working outside at the trenches saw a boy come up from the ravine, sir, and fall every few steps, so they've brought him in."
"Does he carry a dispatch?"
"No, sir. He isn't more than nine or ten years old. I think he was a prisoner."
"Is he a white boy?"
"Yes, sir, but he's dressed like an Indian."
"I think it unlikely the British would allow the Shawanoes to burden their march with any prisoners."
"Somebody had him, and I'm afraid he's been shot either during the action or in the retreat. He was hid in the ravine."
"Bring him here," said Croghan.