CHAPTER XXX.
MAJOR SOMERS AND FRIENDS.
SOMERS and De Banyan proceeded from Port Royal to Washington, by the way of Fortress Monroe. “Fighting Joe” was no longer in the field of active operations, and our officers resigned their positions on the staff. The doughty general had won the admiration of the nation; the present generation will gratefully remember his efficient services, and posterity will enroll his name among the ablest and bravest defenders of the Union.
The term of service of the major’s regiment had expired, and it had been sent home, and mustered out. Consequently he was out of employment. Somers was determined that he should not remain so long. There was a certain Senator Guilford in Washington, who considered himself under strong obligations to the young officer, and Somers immediately paid his respects to the distinguished man. He was warmly greeted, and when he had told his story, he was bold enough to ask a great favor for his friend.
“I will do what I can for him, Captain Somers, you may be sure. I remember him well, and I have always heard excellent accounts of him from your friend the general.”
“There is not a better man in the service, sir; and he is worthy of any place which the government can give him,” replied Somers, warmly.
“I know he is. By the way, captain, a certain general called upon me in relation to your affairs more than a year ago.”
“Indeed, sir?” And Somers understood that he was indebted to the senator for his position in the regular army. “I am very grateful to you, Mr. Guilford.”
“Don’t mention it; my daughter, whose life you saved, thinks I have not half paid the debt yet.”