(Enter Col. and New.; Gibbs salutes Col.; New. looks at Gibbs, and starts.)
Col. What's the matter, Newcomb? Not nervous, are you?
New. It's nothing. Thought I saw a shadow. Do you have any of those black devils hanging about here?
Col. Yes, occasionally one; but they never give us any trouble. One little fellow crossed the line to-day, and he was so bright and clever,—wanted to stay here with me; so I have set him to work, and I expect he will take excellent care of me. I admire the devotion of that race; treat them kindly, and you are always sure of plenty of friends.
New. I prefer a higher type of humanity for associates.
Col. What a pity, Newcomb, that two such warm friends as we should not have heart for the same cause! However, some day you will be of my opinion, I hope.
(Col. sits at table inside tent; New. on stool at opening.)
New. Hardly that, yet. Whatever the end may be, I trust we shall still be good comrades.
Col. That sentiment I echo with my whole heart. But tell me, Newcomb, do you ever hear anything of Roger Carruth?