"
He wrung the hand of the boy, for whom his affection was genuine and deep,
and Dick sprang into the saddle.
"Good-bye, colonel," he said, "I thank you for this trust, and I won't
fail."
It was not a boast. It was courage speaking from the heart of youth and,
as Dick rode out of the camp on his good horse, he considered himself
equal to any task. He felt an enormous pride because he was chosen for
such an important and perilous mission, and he summoned every faculty to
meet its hardships and dangers.
He had the password, and the sentinels wished him good luck. So did the
men who were gathering firewood. One, a small, weazened fellow, gave him
an envious look.
"Wish I was going riding with you," he said. "It's fine in the woods
now."
Dick laughed through sheer exuberance of spirits.
"Maybe it is and maybe it isn't," he said. "Perhaps the forest is filled
with rebel sharpshooters."
"If you ride toward Jackson you're likely to strike Confederate bands."
"I didn't say where I'm going, but you may be certain I'll keep a watch
for those bands wherever I may be.
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