“You are mistaken again. I propose to explain everything, and then we shall understand each other perfectly. You are a scout, and so am I. You are obtaining information; so am I. You are a true Union man; so am I.”
“I don’t believe you.”
“Here is my pass; that will convince you.”
“I can’t see to read it.”
“I will light a match. It will not be seen in this hole.”
The major handed him a paper, and struck a match against the inside of his cap.
“Now read quick.”
Somers read: “The bearer, Major Riggleston, of the —nd Maryland Home Brigade, is a true and loyal man, and as such entitled to receive protection and assistance from all officers and soldiers of the United States.” The document was duly signed and countersigned by high and proper authority, and the date was within the current month and year. The captain was astonished beyond measure, for he had no doubt of the correctness of this safe-conduct. It knocked his little theory all to pieces, and he was forced, for the first time, to believe that he had misjudged the major.
“Where are you bound now?” asked he.
“Just where you are.”