"No, I'll carry you, b-bless your heart!"
The boy did not know that the big dragoon was looking down at the light hair resting on his arm, and that while he trod the Virginia wood-path, in fancy he was home in Delaware; or that the pressure the boy felt from his strong arms, was a caress given for the sake of another boy far away on the Brandywine. A little while before they came in sight Frank asked to be put down.
The soldier gently set him on his feet, and before he let him go kissed him.
"I've got a curly-headed fellow at home, just the size of you," he said softly.
Frank saw that his eyes were moist. "I hope you'll get safe back to him," he said.
"God grant it!" said the soldier.
When they reached the squad at the gate, they found Willy still in much distress on Frank's account; but he wiped his eyes when his brother reappeared, and listened with pride to the soldiers' praise of Frank's "grit," as they called it. When they let the boys go, the little corporal wished Frank to accept a five-dollar gold piece; but he politely declined it.
CHAPTER XVII.
The story of Frank's adventure and courage was the talk of all the Oakland plantation. His mother and Cousin Belle both kissed him, and called him their little hero. Willy also received a full share of praise for his courage.