"We are all ready to leave, and have only one more favor to ask. Let us have a moment's conversation with the orderly sergeant, who will have the immediate care of the prisoners."
"There he stands," the captain replied, pointing to a six-footer, who was ironing the men, and who was waiting to handcuff Fred.
The captain smiled to see the eagerness with which I rushed towards the man, and then very wisely turned his back upon us. He suspected what I intended to do.
"You have the immediate charge of the prisoners?" I asked.
"Yes, sir," he replied, with some show of respect, for we wore the overcoats of officers.
"Will you see that my friend there has every comfort that it is possible to obtain on the route?" I asked.
"They must all share alike, sir," he answered.
"But will you promise not to iron him, and accept his word of honor that he will not attempt to run away?" I asked.
"Couldn't think of such a thing, sir. I'm responsible for every man."
"But he is a gentleman, and will keep his word, let what will happen," I pleaded.