"Very good. I will see him now. That is all, major."
The chief of staff withdrew. Captain Colston of the 2d approached from the shadows beyond the big pine and saluted. "You are from this region, captain?"
"Yes, sir. The Honeywood Colstons."
"This stone mill is upon your land?"
"Yes, sir. My mother owns it."
"You have been about the dam as a boy?"
"Yes, sir. In the water above it and in the water below it. I know every log, I reckon. It works the mill."
"If we break it, it will work the mill no longer. In addition, if the enemy cross, they will probably destroy the property."
"Yes, sir. My mother and I would not let that weigh with us. As I know the construction I should esteem it an honour, sir, if I might lead the party. I think I may say that I know where the cribs could be most easily cut."
"Very good then, sir. You will report for duty at nine to-night. Captain Holliday of the 33d and Captain Robinson of the 27th, with a number of their men, have volunteered for this service. It is not without danger, as you know. That is all."