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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Spy of the Rebellion, by Allan Pinkerton
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Spy of the Rebellion
+       Being a True History of the Spy System of the United States
+       Army during the Late Rebellion,
+
+Author: Allan Pinkerton
+
+Release Date: January 15, 2011 [EBook #34973]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE SPY OF THE REBELLION ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell, Josephine Paolucci and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE SPY OF THE REBELLION
+
+[Illustration: _Frontispiece._ P. 158.
+
+_Allan Pinkerton and General McClellan in Private Consultation._]
+
+
+
+
+THE
+
+SPY OF THE REBELLION;
+
+BEING
+
+A TRUE HISTORY
+
+OF THE
+
+SPY SYSTEM OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+ARMY
+
+DURING THE LATE REBELLION.
+
+REVEALING MANY SECRETS OF THE WAR HITHERTO NOT MADE PUBLIC.
+
+_COMPILED FROM OFFICIAL REPORTS_
+
+PREPARED FOR
+
+PRESIDENT LINCOLN, GENERAL McCLELLAN AND THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL.
+
+BY
+
+ALLAN PINKERTON,
+
+WHO
+
+(UNDER THE NOM-DE-PLUME OF MAJOR E. J. ALLEN)
+
+WAS
+
+CHIEF OF THE UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE.
+
+_WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS._
+
+Introduction by Patrick Bass
+
+University of Nebraska Press
+Lincoln and London
+
+Introduction copyright © 1989 by the University of Nebraska Press
+
+All rights reserved
+
+Manufactured in the United States of America
+
+First Bison Book printing: 1989
+
+Most recent printing indicated by the last digit below:
+
+10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
+
+Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
+Pinkerton, Allan, 1819-1884.
+
+The spy of the rebellion: being a true history of the spy system of
+the United States Army during the late rebellion, revealing many
+secrets of the war hitherto not made public / by Allan Pinkerton:
+introduction by Patrick Bass.
+
+p. cm.
+
+"Compiled from official reports prepared for President Lincoln,
+General McClellan, and the provost-marshal-general."
+
+Reprint. Originally published: Hartford, Conn.: M. A. Winter &
+Hatch, 1883.
+
+ISBN 0-8032-3686-7 (alk. paper) ISBN 0-8032-8722-4 (pbk.)
+
+1. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Secret service.
+2. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Personal narratives.
+3. Pinkerton, Allan, 1819-1884. I. Title.
+E608.P65 1989
+
+973.7'86--dc20 89-33081 CIP
+
+Reprinted from the 1883 edition published by M. A. Winter & Hatch,
+Hartford, Connecticut. An appendix, "Rebel Forces before Richmond,"
+has been omitted from this Bison Book edition.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+_Introduction_                                                        17
+
+_Preface_                                                             23
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+                                                                    PAGE
+
+_An Unwritten Page of History.--A Political Resumé.--Abraham
+Lincoln is Elected President._                                        33
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+_Opposition to Mr. Lincoln's Inauguration.--A Plot to
+Assassinate him.--The Journey from Springfield,
+Illinois._                                                            45
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+_The Conspirators at Work.--Detectives on their Trail.--Webster
+as a Soldier._                                                        58
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+_The Conspirators in Council.--My Operative Joins the
+Conspiracy._                                                          74
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+_The Presidential Party Arrives in Philadelphia.--Independence
+Hall.--The Departure from Harrisburg.--Telegraph
+Wires Cut.--Through the Lines of Treason.--Safe
+Arrival at Washington._                                               81
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+_My Connection with the Rebellion.--Timothy Webster
+Accepts a Mission._                                                  104
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+_Webster on his Way to the Capital.--Wrecked Trains
+and Broken Bridges.--An Adventure with a Cavalryman.--A
+Rebel Emissary.--President Lincoln
+and Timothy Webster_.                                                114
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Washington.--The Return to Philadelphia.--I
+go to the Capital.--An Important Letter_.                            131
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+_An Adventure in Pittsburg.--A Mob at Bay.--An Explanation.--Good
+Feeling Restored._                                                   142
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+_General McClellan in Command of Ohio.--I am Engaged
+for the War.--The Secret Service.--A Consultation.--Webster
+Starts for Rebeldom._                                                151
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+_Webster Fraternizes with the Rebel Officers.--A Secession
+Hat.--A Visit to a Rebel Camp.--"The Committee
+of Safety."--A Friendly Stranger.--A
+Warning.--The Escape._                                               168
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+_I Take a Trip to the South.--Danger in Memphis.--A
+Timely Warning.--A Persistent Barber.--An Unfortunate
+Memory.--Return to Cincinnati._                                      182
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+_East and West Virginia.--Seceding from Secession.--My
+Scouts in Virginia.--A Rebel Captain Entertains
+"My Lord."--An Old Justice dines with
+Royalty.--A Lucky Adventure.--A Runaway Horse.--A
+Rescue._                                                             203
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+_The Rebels Attempt to Occupy West Virginia.--General
+McClellan Ordered to Drive Them Out.--Early
+Battles.--The Federals Victorious.--West Virginia
+Freed from Rebel Soldiers._                                          227
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+_General McClellan is Called to Washington, and Placed
+in Command of the Armies after the Battle of Bull
+Run.--The Secret Service Department.--Its Duties
+and Responsibilities._                                               237
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+_A Female Traitor.--Suspicious Correspondence.--A Close
+Watch under Difficulties.--I am Arrested.--Exposure
+of the Treason of a Trusted Officer.--A Disgraced
+Captain._                                                            250
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Baltimore.--An Encounter with a
+Fire-eater.--Webster Defends Himself.--Treason
+Rampant in the Monumental City._                                     271
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+_Webster Makes a Journey to the South.--A Secret Organization.--The
+"Knights of Liberty."--Webster Becomes
+a Member.--A Sudden Intrusion of the Military.--The
+Conspiracy Broken Up._                                               283
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+_Suspicions in Washington.--"Uncle Gallus."--Property
+Searched.--A Rebel Family sent South.--Webster
+Starts for Richmond._                                                301
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+_The Spy at Richmond.--Earthworks Around the Rebel
+Capital.--An Unexpected Meeting.--Pistols for Two.--A
+Reconciliation.--Safe Return to Washington._                         314
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+_Again in Baltimore.--A Warning.--The Spy is Arrested.--And
+Escapes._                                                            326
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+_Webster and Scobell.--A Negro as a Spy.--A Traitor
+Deserts from the Army.--He Carries Dispatches to
+the Rebels.--Which Fail of Their Destination.--An
+Attack in the Woods.--"The Loyal League."--Slaves
+as Patriots._                                                        343
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+_A Negro Spy.--Passage on a Steam-Packet.--Lyrical
+Melodies.--Scobell Deserts the Ship.--His Tramps
+Through Rebeldom._                                                   358
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+_A Perilous Ride.--A Suspicious Peddler.--Uncle Gallus
+Again.--Scobell Investigating.--Doubts and Suspicions._              367
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+_The Journey Resumed.--A Midnight Pursuit.--A Brave
+Woman.--A Deadly Encounter.--Scobell Defends
+Himself.--Death of a Rebel Spy._                                     381
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+_A Woman's Discoveries.--An Infernal Machine.--The
+Shipping in Danger.--Discovery and Destruction of
+the Submarine Battery._                                              394
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+_"Stuttering Dave."--His Tramp Through the Rebel
+Lines.--An Ammunition Train.--"Dave's" Plan
+Succeeds in its Destruction.--A Man who Stuttered
+and "Had Fits."_                                                     404
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+_Another Trip to Richmond.--A Rebel General Taken In.--Curtis
+Makes Valuable Acquaintances.--"The
+Subterranean Headquarters."_                                         414
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+_A Virginia Home.--Unwelcome Visitors.--Mr. Harcourt
+Arrested and Released.--Dan McCowan makes Forcible
+Love to Mary Harcourt.--The Girl in Peril.--A
+Timely Rescue.--The Villain Punished._                               429
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+_Curtis Again on His Travels.--A Loving Episode.--Dan
+McCowan Again Turns up.--The Capture of Curtis.--A
+Fight for Life.--And Escape.--A Bit of Matrimony._                   445
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+_McClellan and his Enemies.--The Peninsula Campaign.--The
+Rebel Forces Before Richmond.--The Union
+Forces Outnumbered by the Enemy, and their Commander
+Hampered by Superiors.--An Honest Opinion._                          457
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+_Webster's Expedition.--His Gallantry.--A Stormy Passage.--A
+Mysterious Package.--Treason Discovered and Punished._               468
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+_Activity in Washington.--Webster's Journey Through the
+South.--His Return to the Capital._                                  481
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+_Webster's Last Mission.--Anxiety at his Long Absence.--No
+Tidings of the Faithful Scout.--Operatives Sent
+in Search of Him.--Webster Ill in Richmond._                         485
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+_McClellan and the Government.--Lewis and Scully Arrested
+as Spies.--An Attempted Escape.--Trial and
+Conviction.--Condemned to Die.--Before the Gallows
+their Mouths are Opened._                                            498
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+_Webster Arrested as a Spy.--A Woman's Devotion, and
+a Patriot's Heroism.--Webster is Convicted.--The
+Execution.--A Martyr's Grave._                                       530
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+_The Defeat of General Pope at the Second Battle of
+Manassas.--McClellan Again Called to the Command.--The
+Battle of Antietam.--A Union Victory.--A Few
+Thoughts About the Union Commander.--McClellan's
+Removal from Command, and His Farewell
+Address._                                                            561
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+_General Burnside in Command.--My Connection with the
+Secret Service Severed.--Reflections upon Important
+Events.--Conclusion._                                                579
+
+_APPENDIX._                                                        587
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+PAGE
+
+ALLAN PINKERTON AND GENERAL MCCLELLAN
+IN PRIVATE CONSULTATION.                  _Frontispiece_
+
+THE OATH TO ASSASSINATE THE PRESIDENT.                 65
+
+SWEARING IN OF HOWARD.                                 76
+
+LINCOLN RAISING THE OLD FLAG.                          87
+
+THE DEPARTURE FOR WASHINGTON.                          94
+
+SAFE ARRIVAL.                                          98
+
+ATTEMPT TO CAPTURE WEBSTER.                           146
+
+A VISIT TO A REBEL CAMP.                              171
+
+TIMELY WARNING.                                       195
+
+THE BARBER'S RECOGNITION.                             201
+
+AN ENGLISH LORD AND A REBEL CAPTAIN.                  215
+
+CAPTURED BY THE GUARDS.                               260
+
+AN ENCOUNTER WITH A FIRE-EATER.                       277
+
+A SUDDEN INTRUSION OF THE MILITARY.                   299
+
+THE SPY IS ARRESTED.                                  334
+
+ESCAPE OF THE SPY.                                    339
+
+SCOBELL ENGAGED AS DECK-HAND ON A STEAMBOAT.          364
+
+DEATH OF A REBEL SPY.                                 389
+
+TIMELY INTERRUPTION TO A LOVE SCENE.                  441
+
+WEBSTER'S GALLANT BRAVERY.                            474
+
+WEBSTER DISCOVERS A MYSTERIOUS PACKAGE.               475
+
+THE PRISONERS RECAPTURED.                             522
+
+WEBSTER'S DEATH WARRANT.                              542
+
+A NARROW ESCAPE.                                      569
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+Nearly a score of years have passed since the occurrence of the events
+related in the following pages. The "Rebellion," with its bloody scenes,
+has ended, and the country is at peace. The grass is waving green and
+beautiful over many Southern fields that once ran with human blood, as
+the contending forces met in the deadly encounter. The birds are
+carolling sweetly in the air, which then was laden with the clarion
+notes of the trumpet; the fierce, wild yell of assaulting soldiery; the
+booming of cannon, and the groans of the wounded and dying. The
+merchant, the mechanic, and the husbandman have returned to the pursuits
+which they followed before the dark clouds of war had overshadowed this
+fair land, and they shouldered their muskets in defense of the Union.
+From the desolation and the ravages of war, the country has emerged into
+the sunshine of abiding peace, and now, in the evening twilight, the
+gray-haired veterans gather around their family hearthstones to repeat
+the stories of bravery and devotion associated with those trying hours
+of their country's history.
+
+In the twilight of my days I have been tempted to the recitals which
+follow, and in relating my experiences as the Chief of the Secret
+Service of the Government during the Rebellion, I have been governed by
+a desire to acquaint the public with the movements of those brave men
+who rendered invaluable service to their country, although they never
+wore a uniform or carried a musket. Working quietly, and frequently
+under disguises, their assistance to the Union commanders was of
+incalculable advantage, and many acts of courage and daring were
+performed by these men which, until now, have never been revealed.
+Indeed, as to my own _nom-de-plume_, "E. J. Allen," many of the officers
+of the army and officials of the Government, with whom I was in constant
+communication, never knew me by any other name, and the majority of them
+are to this day in ignorance of the fact that E. J. Allen, late Chief of
+the Secret Service, and Allan Pinkerton are one and the same person.
+
+During the progress of the struggle, and the years which have since
+elapsed, many of my old acquaintances, who held important positions in
+the army and in governmental departments, have passed away from earth.
+Some of them falling in the heat of battle, in the courageous discharge
+of duty, while others, passing through the fiery ordeal, have died amid
+the comforts and the charms of home.
+
+President Lincoln, Edwin M. Stanton, William H. Seward and Salmon P.
+Chase, all giants in their day, have departed from the sphere of their
+usefulness, and have gone to their long home. Soldiers and civilians,
+generals and privates, with whom I was connected, and their name is
+legion, have taken up their journey to "that bourne from whence no
+traveler e'er returns."
+
+In detailing the various events which follow, I have been careful to
+offer nothing but that which actually transpired. I have avoided giving
+expression to any thoughts or feelings of antagonism to the South,
+because the time for such utterances has passed. Indeed, except for the
+existence of slavery, I always cherished a warm affection for the
+Southern people. But this institution of human bondage always received
+my most earnest opposition. Believing it to be a curse to the American
+nation, and an evidence of barbarism, no efforts of mine were ever
+spared in behalf of the slave, and to-day I have not a single regret for
+the course I then pursued.
+
+Many times before the war, when I was associated with those
+philanthrophic spirits who controlled the so-called "Underground
+Railroad," I have assisted in securing safety and freedom for the
+fugitive slave, no matter at what hour, under what circumstances, or at
+what cost, the act was to be performed. John Brown, the white-haired
+abolitionist of Kansas fame, was my bosom friend; and more than one dark
+night has found us working earnestly together in behalf of the fleeing
+bondman, who was striving for his liberty. After his gallant effort at
+Harper's Ferry, and while he was confined in a Virginia prison, my
+efforts in his behalf were unceasing; and had it not been for the
+excessive watchfulness of those having him in charge, the pages of
+American history would never have been stained with a record of his
+execution. As it is, though his fate may have been in accordance with
+the decrees of the laws then existing, I can recall with all the old
+enthusiasm that I then experienced, the thundering effect of thousands
+of our brave "boys in blue," joining in that electric war cry, the
+refrain of which was:
+
+    "John Brown's body lies mouldering in the grave,
+    But his soul goes marching along,"
+
+while they hurried in solid phalanx to meet the enemy upon the field of
+battle.
+
+In the preliminary chapters, I have detailed with accuracy the facts
+connected with the conspiracy to assassinate Abraham Lincoln, when he
+was first elected to the Presidency. The part I took in discovering the
+existence of that plot and the efforts of my men in ferreting out the
+prime movers of that murderous compact, are told for the first time in
+these pages, and the correctness of their relation is undoubted; though
+in the dark days that followed, the bullet of the assassin removed the
+martyred President, while engaged in the fulfillment of his mission. I
+cannot repress a sense of pride in the fact, that at the commencement of
+his glorious career I had averted the blow that was aimed at his honest,
+manly heart.
+
+In the events which transpired during the years 1861 and 1862, I took an
+active part. From the early days of April until after the battle of
+Antietam had been fought and won, I was connected with the military
+operations of the government. In Washington I acted under the directions
+of the Secretaries of War, and Colonel Andrew Porter, the
+provost-marshal; and in the field, I was under the immediate direction
+of General George B. McClellan.
+
+My relations with the various departments were always of the most
+cordial and confidential character. To particularize in this matter is
+almost impossible; but I cannot refrain from mentioning, in the highest
+terms of respect and friendship, Colonel Thomas A. Scott of
+Pennsylvania. In the early days of the nation's peril, he occupied the
+position of Assistant Secretary of War. In him I always found a warm
+friend and advocate, and in many emergencies his prompt and intelligent
+action was most potent in accomplishing good results in that era of
+confusion, of doubt and hesitation.
+
+Of my service with the military department while in active duty, little
+needs to be said here. From the time of his commission by Governor
+Dennison of Ohio, to the day when he was relieved, after his splendid
+victory at Antietam, I followed the fortunes of General McClellan. Never
+doubting his ability or his loyalty--always possessing his confidence
+and esteem, I am at this time proud and honored in ranking him foremost
+among my invaluable friends. When secret enemies were endeavoring to
+prejudice the mind of the President against his chosen commander; when
+wily politicians were seeking to belittle him in the estimation of the
+people, and when jealous minded officers were ignorantly criticising his
+plans of campaign, General McClellan pursued his course with
+unflinching courage and with a devotion to his country unsurpassed by
+any who have succeeded him, and upon whose brows are entwined the
+laurels of the conqueror.
+
+His marvelous reorganization of the army, the enthusiasm with which his
+presence invariably inspired the soldiers under his command, and the
+grand battles which he fought against enemies in front and in rear, have
+all passed into history--and to-day the intelligent and unprejudiced
+reader finds in a calm and dispassionate review of his career, an ample
+and overwhelming justification of his course as a loyal and capable
+commander-in-chief.
+
+Self-constituted critics, whose avenues of information were limited and
+unreliable, have attempted to prove that the force opposed to General
+McClellan was much less than was really the case; and upon this
+hypothesis have been led into unjust and undeserved censure of the
+commanding general. From my own experience, I _know_ to the contrary. My
+system of obtaining knowledge upon this point was so thorough and
+complete, my sources of information were so varied, that there could be
+no serious mistake in the estimates which I then made and reported to
+General McClellan. From every available field the facts were gleaned.
+From prisoners of war, contrabands, loyal Southerners, deserters,
+blockade-runners and from actual observations by trustworthy scouts, my
+estimates were made, and to-day I affirm as strongly as I then did, that
+the force opposed to General McClellan before Richmond approximated
+nearer to 200,000 men, than they did to the numerous estimates of
+irresponsible historians who have placed the strength of the rebel
+forces at that time below 100,000 men. In this connection I must refer
+also to the valuable assistance rendered both General McClellan and
+myself by that indefatigable Aid-de-camp Colonel Key. Though he no
+longer mingles with the things of earth, the memory of his devotion and
+his intelligent services to the cause of the Union is imperishable. No
+truer, braver man ever drew a sword than did this noble and efficient
+staff officer, now deceased.
+
+Of Timothy Webster, who so ably assisted me in my various and delicate
+duties, and whose life was sacrificed for the cause he held so dear, I
+have only words of warmest commendation. Brave, honest and intelligent,
+he entered into the contest to perform his whole duty, and right nobly
+did he fulfill his pledge. No danger was too great, no trust too
+responsible, no mission too delicate for him to attempt, and though
+executed as a spy in a Richmond prison, his name shall ever be
+cherished with honor and friendship by those who knew his worth, and who
+appreciated the unswerving devotion of a loyal heart. No dishonor can
+ever attach to the memory of a patriot who died in the service of his
+country.
+
+The events narrated have all occurred. The record is a truthful one.
+Although not so complete as I could wish, they must serve the purpose
+for which they are intended. In the disastrous fire which swept over
+Chicago in 1871, my records were mainly destroyed, and to this fact must
+be attributed the failure to more elaborately detail the multitudinous
+operations of my men. With the able assistance of Mr. George H. Bangs,
+my efficient General Superintendent, "we did what we could," and the
+approbation of our commanding officers attest the efficiency of our
+efforts.
+
+After leaving the service, the conduct of the war passed into other
+hands. Other men were chosen to the command of the armies, and other
+sources of information were resorted to. Succeeding battles have been
+fought, defeats have been sustained, victories have been achieved, and
+the war is happily ended. The slave is free, and in the enjoyment of the
+rights of citizenship. The country is at peace, her prosperity is
+assured, and now that passion and prejudice have died away, and honest
+judgments are given of the events that have transpired, I leave to the
+impartial reader, and historian, the question whether the course I
+pursued, and the General whom I loved and faithfully served, are
+deserving of censure, or are entitled to the praises of a free and
+enlightened people.
+
+                              ALLAN PINKERTON.
+
+
+
+
+THE SPY
+
+OF
+
+THE REBELLION.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+"_An Unwritten Page of History."--A Political Resumé.--Mr. Lincoln is
+Elected President._
+
+
+Many years have elapsed since the occurrence of the events which I am
+about to relate. Years that have been full of mighty import to the
+nation. A bitter, prolonged and bloody war has laid its desolating hands
+upon a once united country. For years the roar of cannon and the clash
+of steel reverberated through the bright valleys and the towering hills
+of the fruitful South. In those years when brother arose against his
+brother, when ties of kindred and association were broken asunder like
+frail reeds, glorious deeds were wrought and grand results have been
+accomplished. America has taught the world a lesson of bravery and
+endurance; the shackles have been stricken from the slave; an error of
+a century has been crushed, and freedom is now no longer an empty name,
+but a beautiful and enduring realism.
+
+To-day peace spreads her broad, sheltering arms over a reunited and
+enlightened nation. The roll of the drum and the tramp of armed men are
+now no longer heard. North and South have again clasped hands in a
+renewal of friendship and in a perpetuity of union.
+
+But a short time ago a Republican President elected by but a slight
+majority of the voters of this great community, left his peaceful home
+in the West and journeyed to the capital of the nation, to take the oath
+of office and to assume the high duties of a chief magistrate. As he
+passed through the towns and cities upon his route a general plaudit of
+welcome was his greeting, even noted political foes joining in the
+demonstrations. His road was arched with banners and his path was strewn
+with flowers. Everywhere he found an enthusiasm of welcome, a universal
+prayer for success, and the triumphal train entered the capital amid the
+ovations of the populace, which reached almost a climax of patriotic and
+effervescing joy.
+
+Twenty years ago witnessed a different condition of affairs. The
+political horizon was dark and obscured. The low mutterings of the storm
+that was soon to sweep over our country, and to deluge our fair land
+with fratricidal blood, were distinctly heard. Sectional differences
+were developing into widespread dissensions. Cherished institutions were
+threatened with dissolution, and political antagonism had aroused a
+contented people into a frenzy of hate.
+
+On the twenty-second of May, 1856, an American Senator was assaulted in
+the Senate-house by a political opponent for daring to give utterance to
+opinions that were hostile to the slave-holding interests of the South.
+Later in the same year a Republican candidate, with professed
+anti-slavery views, was nominated for the presidency, and although
+defeated, gave evidence of such political strength that Southern leaders
+became alarmed.
+
+At this time the Hon. Stephen A. Douglas was a prominent leader of the
+Democratic party, but through his opposition to what was known as the
+Lecompton Bill, he incurred the displeasure of his political friends of
+the South, who vainly endeavored to enact such legislation as would
+practically lead to his retirement from the party.
+
+In 1858 the famous contest between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A.
+Douglas for the United States Senatorship from Illinois took place, and
+during its progress absorbed public attention throughout the country.
+The two candidates indulged in open discussions of questions of public
+policy, which were remarkable for their brilliancy and for the force and
+vigor with which their different views were uttered. It was during this
+canvass that Mr. Lincoln made the forcible and revolutionizing
+declaration that: "_The Union cannot permanently endure half slave and
+half free._" Mr. Lincoln was defeated, however, and Mr. Douglas was
+returned to the Senate, much against the wishes of those Democrats who
+desired the unlimited extension of the institution of Slavery.
+
+In the following year occurred the slave insurrection in Virginia, under
+the leadership of that bold abolitionist, John Brown. The movement was
+frustrated, however, and John Brown, after a judicial trial for his
+offense, was sentenced to be hung. Up to the day of his execution he
+remained firm in the belief that he had but performed his duty toward
+enslaved humanity, and he died avowing the justice of his cause and the
+hope of its ultimate success.
+
+All of these occurrences tended to engender a spirit of fierce
+opposition in the minds of the Southern leaders. The growing sentiment
+of abolitionism throughout the North, and the manifest disposition to
+prevent its increase or extension, aroused the advocates of Slavery to a
+degree of alarm, which led to the commission of many actions, both
+absurd and unjustifiable.
+
+The year of 1860 opened upon a scene of political agitation which
+threatened to disrupt long united associations, and to erect sectional
+barriers which appeared almost impossible to overcome.
+
+In April, 1860, the Democratic National Convention assembled in
+Charleston, South Carolina, for the purpose of nominating a candidate
+for the presidency. During its session loud and angry debates occurred,
+in which the Southern element endeavored to obtain a strong indorsement
+of the institution of Slavery, and of the right to carry slaves into the
+Territories of the United States. They were met by the more conservative
+portion of the party, who desired to leave the question to be decided by
+the States themselves. After a prolonged discussion the majority of the
+Southern States withdrew their delegates from the convention, and the
+remainder proceeded to ballot for a candidate of their choice.
+
+After a protracted sitting, during which several ballots were taken and
+no decided result obtained, the convention adjourned, to meet in the
+city of Baltimore on the eighteenth day of June succeeding. Stephen A.
+Douglas, of Illinois, received a large percentage of the votes that were
+cast, but failed to obtain a sufficient number to secure his nomination.
+
+The withdrawing delegates organized a rival convention, but, without
+transacting any business of a decisive character, also adjourned, to
+meet in Baltimore at a date nearly coincident with that of the regular
+body.
+
+On the nineteenth day of May, the Constitutional Union (being the old
+American) party held their convention in the city of Baltimore, and
+nominated John Bell, of Tennessee, for President, and Edward Everett,
+of Massachusetts, for the Vice-Presidency.
+
+The Republican Convention was held on the sixteenth day of May, in the
+city of Chicago, and upon the third ballot nominated Abraham Lincoln, of
+Illinois, for the office of President, and Hannibal Hamlin, of Maine,
+for the second office.
+
+This convention also adopted a platform very pronounced upon the subject
+of Slavery, and which was calculated to give but little encouragement to
+the extension or perpetuity of the slave-holding power.
+
+On the eighteenth day of June the regular Democratic Convention
+assembled, pursuant to adjournment, in the city of Baltimore, and named
+Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois, and Herschel V. Johnson, of Georgia, as
+their standard-bearers in the political conflict that was to ensue.
+
+On the twenty-eighth day of the same month the seceding delegates met in
+the same city, and after pronouncing their ultra views upon the question
+of Slavery, nominated John C. Breckinridge, of Kentucky (then the
+Vice-President of the country), and General Joseph Lane, of Oregon, as
+the candidates of their choice.
+
+The lines of battle were now drawn, and from that time until the
+election, in November, a fierce contest was waged between the opposing
+parties. Never before in the history of parties was a canvass conducted
+with more bitterness or with a greater amount of vituperation. The
+whole country was engrossed with the gigantic struggle. Business
+interests, questions of finance and of international import were all
+made subservient to the absorbing consideration of the election of a
+national President.
+
+The Southern "Fire-eaters," as they were called, fully realized their
+inability to elect the candidates they had named, but strove with all
+their power to prevent the success of the regular Democratic nominees,
+and when at last the day of election came, and the votes were counted,
+it was found that the Republican party had been victorious and that
+Abraham Lincoln had been elected.
+
+In many portions of the South this result was hailed with joyful
+enthusiasm. The anti-slavery proclivities of the successful party was
+instantly made a plausible pretext for secession and the withdrawal of
+the slave-holding States from the Union was boldly advocated.
+
+The same power that threatened in 1856, in the words of Governor Wise of
+Virginia: "That if Fremont had been elected, he would have marched at
+the head of twenty thousand men to Washington, and taken possession of
+the capital, preventing by force Fremont's inauguration at that
+place"--was again aroused, and an open opposition to the Republican
+inauguration was for a time considered.
+
+The absorbing and exciting question in the South was: "Would the South
+submit to a Black Republican President and a Black Republican
+Congress?" and the answer to the question was a loud and decisive
+negative.
+
+Among the bolder advocates of secession the election of Mr. Lincoln was
+regarded with pleasure, and meetings were held in Charleston, rejoicing
+in the triumph of the Republican party. Secession and disunion were
+loudly advocated, and the slave oligarchy of South Carolina regarded
+this event as the opportunity to achieve her long-cherished purpose of
+breaking up the Union, and forming a new confederacy, founded upon the
+peculiar ideas of the South.
+
+Says Horace Greeley: "Men thronged the streets, talking, laughing,
+cheering, like mariners long becalmed upon a hateful, treacherous sea,
+when a sudden breeze had swiftly wafted them within sight of their
+looked for haven, or like a seedy prodigal, just raised to affluence by
+the death of some far-off, unknown relative, and whose sense of decency
+is not strong enough to repress his exultation."
+
+Open threats were made to withdraw at once from the Union, and these
+demonstrations seemed to find sympathy among other nations than our own,
+and soon foreign intrigue was hand and glove with domestic treason, in
+the attempt to sap the foundations of our government, and seeking
+peculiar advantages from its overthrow.
+
+It is unnecessary to detail the various phases of this great agitation,
+which, firing the Southern heart with the frenzy of disunion, finally
+led to the secession of the Southern States. Various compromises were
+attempted, but all failed of beneficial result. The "masterly
+inactivity" of the administration contributed in no small degree to the
+accomplishment of this object, and in the end the Southern Confederacy
+was organized and Jefferson Davis was elected as its President.
+
+The Palmetto waved over the custom-house and post-office at Charleston;
+government forts and arsenals were seized by the volunteers to the
+Southern cause, and on February 1, 1861, the Federal mint and
+custom-house at New Orleans were taken possession of by the
+secessionists.
+
+The removal of Major Anderson from Fort Moultrie to the more secure
+stronghold of Fort Sumter, in Charleston harbor, had been accomplished,
+and as yet no measures had been taken by the government to prevent
+further demonstrations of a warlike character on the part of the
+Southern Confederacy. The administration remained passive and inert,
+while every effort was being made to calm the public fears of
+hostilities, and the organization of an open revolt.
+
+The city of Baltimore was, at this time, a slave-holding city, and the
+spirit of Slavery was nowhere else more rampant and ferocious. The
+mercantile and social aristocracy of that city had been sedulously and
+persistently plied, by the conspirators for disunion, with artful and
+tempting suggestions of her future greatness and advancement as the
+chief city of the new government.
+
+If a Confederacy composed of the fifteen slave-holding States was
+organized, Baltimore, it was urged, would naturally be the chief city of
+the new Republic. In time it would become the rival of New York, and
+occupy to the Confederacy the same relations which New York does to the
+Union, and would be the great ship-building, shipping, importing and
+commercial emporium.
+
+These glittering prophecies had not been uttered without effect. The
+ambition of the aristocracy was aroused. Already they saw the ocean
+whitened with her sails, and the broad domain of Maryland adorned with
+the palaces reared from her ample and ever-expanding profits. Under
+these hallucinations, their minds were corrupted, and they seemed eager
+to rush into treason.
+
+Being a border State, Maryland occupied a position of particular
+importance. Emissaries were sent to her from South Carolina and
+elsewhere, and no effort was spared to secure her co-operation in these
+revolutionary movements. It is to be regretted that they were too
+successful, and the result was that the majority of the wealthier
+classes and those in office were soon in sympathy with the rebellion,
+and the spirit of domestic treason, for a time, swept like a tornado
+over the State.
+
+Added to the wealthier classes was the mob element of the city of
+Baltimore--reckless and unscrupulous, as mobs generally are--and this
+portion of her community were avowedly in full accord with the
+prospective movement, and ready to do the bidding of the slave power.
+Between these, however, there existed a great middle class, who were
+loyally and peacefully inclined. But this class, large as it was, had
+hitherto been divided in their political opinions, and had as yet
+arrived at no common and definite understanding with regard to the novel
+circumstances of the country and the events which seemed to be visibly
+impending.
+
+The government of the city of Baltimore was under the control of that
+branch of the Democracy who supported Breckinridge, and who had attained
+power under a popular cry for reform, and it was soon learned that these
+leaders were deep in the counsels of the secessionists.
+
+The newspaper press was no small factor of this excitement--their
+utterances had much to do in leading public opinion, and though their
+efforts "to fire the Southern heart," many were led to sanction the
+deeds of violence and outrage which were contemplated.
+
+Especial efforts had been made to render Mr. Lincoln personally odious
+and contemptible, and his election formed the pretexts of these reckless
+conspirators, who had long been plotting the overthrow of the Union. No
+falsehood was too gross, no statement too exaggerated, to be used for
+that purpose, and so zealously did these misguided men labor in the
+cause of disunion, and so systematically concerted was their action,
+that the mass of the people of the slave States were made to believe
+that this pure, patient, humane, Christian statesman was a monster whose
+vices and passions made him odious, and whose political beliefs made him
+an object of just abhorrence.
+
+This was the condition of affairs at the dawning of the year 1861.
+
+[Illustration: A COUNCIL OF WAR.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+_Opposition to Mr. Lincoln's Inauguration.--A Plot to Assassinate
+him.--The Journey from Springfield._
+
+
+With the opening of the new year, the political condition evinced
+alarming symptoms. As the day of the inauguration of the new President
+drew near, the excitement became intense. Loud threats were made that
+Mr. Lincoln should never be permitted to take the oath of office, and
+the hostility of the South manifested itself in such a manner as to
+excite the fears of those who desired the peaceful solution of the
+important question of continued union.
+
+The events about to be related have been for a long time shrouded in a
+veil of mystery. While many are aware that a plot existed at this time
+to assassinate the President-elect upon his contemplated journey to the
+capital, but few have any knowledge of the mode by which the conspiracy
+was detected, or the means employed to prevent the accomplishment of
+that murderous design.
+
+Considerations which affected the personal safety of those who actively
+participated in this detection, precluded a disclosure at the time, but
+that such a conspiracy existed no doubt can be entertained. Now,
+however, that the dark clouds have passed away, and the bright sunshine
+of an enduring peace is throwing its beneficent rays over a united
+country, the truth may be disclosed, and a desire to peruse a hidden
+page of history may now be gratified.
+
+Early in the year 1861 I was at my headquarters in the city of Chicago,
+attending to the manifold duties of my profession. I had, of course,
+perused the daily journals which contained the reports of doings of the
+malcontents of the South, but in common with others, I entertained no
+serious fears of an open rebellion, and was disposed to regard the whole
+matter as of trivial importance. The same tones had been listened to
+before, and although the disunionists had hitherto never taken such
+aggressive steps, I was inclined to believe that with the incoming of
+the new administration, determined or conciliatory measures would be
+adopted, and that secession and rebellion would be either averted or
+summarily crushed.
+
+At this time I received a letter from Mr. Samuel H. Felton, the
+president of "The Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad,"
+requesting my presence in Philadelphia upon a matter of great
+importance. From his communication it appeared that rumors were afloat
+as to the intention of the roughs and secessionists of Maryland to
+injure the road of which he was the President. From what had already
+been learned, it was feared that their designs were to prevent travel
+upon the road either by destroying the ferry-boats which then carried
+the trains across the Susquehanna river at Havre de Grace or by
+demolishing the railroad bridges over the Gunpowder river and other
+streams. This road was the great connecting link between the metropolis
+of the country and the capital of the nation, and it was of the utmost
+importance that no interruption should be permitted to the free
+communication between Washington and the great cities of the North and
+West.
+
+This letter at once aroused me to a realization of the danger that
+threatened the country, and I determined to render whatever assistance
+was in my power towards preventing the successful operation of these
+ill-advised and dangerous men.
+
+I lost no time, therefore, in making my arrangements, and soon after
+receiving Mr. Felton's communication, in company with four members of my
+force was upon the train speeding towards Philadelphia. Upon arriving in
+that city, I went directly to the office of Mr. Felton and obtained from
+him all the information he possessed of the movements and designs of the
+Maryland secessionists. I also had a consultation with Mr. H. F. Kenney,
+the superintendent of the road, with reference to a plan of operation
+which I proposed, and which was considered would result in obtaining the
+information so much to be desired.
+
+I resolved to locate my men at the various towns along the road,
+selecting such places where, it was believed, disaffection existed.
+With a view, therefore, of acquiring the facts necessary for an
+intelligent prosecution of the inquiry, I took passage on one of the
+trains of the road, intending to see for myself how affairs stood, and
+to distribute my men in such a manner as to me seemed best.
+
+At the city of Wilmington, in Delaware, I found evidences of a great
+political excitement, but nothing that indicated a hostile disposition
+or which led me to believe that any danger was to be apprehended at this
+place. Nothing that savored of organization was apparent, and I was
+therefore compelled to look further for the existence of any antagonism
+to the railroad or any desire to prevent the running of their trains.
+
+At Perryville I found the same excitable condition of affairs, but
+nothing of a more aggressive character than at Wilmington. Men indulged
+in fierce arguments, in which both sides were forcibly represented, but
+aside from this I discovered no cause for apprehension, and no occasion
+for active detective work as yet.
+
+At Havre de Grace, however, the lines were more clearly drawn and the
+popular feeling much more bitter. It was at this point that the boats
+which carried the trains crossed the Susquehanna river, and where
+serious damage might be done to the company, should the ferries be
+destroyed. I therefore left one man at this place, with instructions to
+become acquainted with such men as he might, on observation, consider
+suspicious, and to endeavor to obtain from them, by association, a
+knowledge of their intentions.
+
+At Perrymansville, in Maryland, the feeling was considerably more
+intense. Under the influence of bad men the secession movement had
+gained many supporters and sympathizers. Loud threats were uttered
+against the railroad company, and it was boastfully asserted that "no
+d--d abolitionist should be allowed to pass through the town alive."
+
+I have always found it a truism that "a barking dog never bites," and
+although I had but little fear that these blatant talkers would perform
+any dangerous deeds, I considered it best to be fully posted as to their
+movements, in order to prevent a catastrophe, if possible.
+
+I accordingly directed Timothy Webster, a daring and discreet man upon
+my force, to locate himself at this point, and to carefully note
+everything that transpired which had any relation to attempted violence
+or a disposition to resort to aggressive measures.
+
+As I neared the city of Baltimore the opposition to the government and
+the sympathy with secession was manifestly more intense. At Magnolia,
+particularly, I observed a very dangerous feeling, and among men of all
+classes the general sentiment was in favor of resistance and force.
+Another operative, John Seaford, was accordingly left at this place,
+with instructions similar to those which had been given to the others.
+
+I then proceeded on to Baltimore, and there I found the greatest amount
+of excitement that I had yet experienced. I took quarters at the Howard
+House, and proceeded to inquire closely and carefully into the political
+situation. I soon found that the fears of the railroad officials were
+not wholly without foundation. The opposition to Mr. Lincoln's
+inauguration was most violent and bitter, and a few days' sojourn in
+this city convinced me that great danger was to be apprehended, and that
+the sentiment of disunion was far more widespread and deeply rooted than
+I had before imagined.
+
+The police force of the city was under the control of Marshal George P.
+Kane, and was almost entirely composed of men with disunion
+proclivities. Their leader was pronouncedly in favor of secession, and
+by his orders the broadest license was given to disorderly persons and
+to the dissemination of insurrectionary information. This individual was
+subsequently arrested, and, after a brief sojourn in Fort McHenry, fled
+in 1863 to the more congenial associations of Richmond.
+
+From the knowledge I gained of the situation in Baltimore, I resolved to
+establish my headquarters in that city. I accordingly engaged a building
+situated on South street, and in a position where I could receive prompt
+reports from all quarters of the metropolis. I also sent for an
+additional force of men, whom I distributed among the people of all
+grades and conditions of life. The building I had selected was admirably
+adapted for my purpose, and was so constructed that entrance could be
+gained to it from all four sides, through alleyways that led in from
+neighboring streets.
+
+Day by day, the reports of my men contained many important revelations
+of the designs of the opposition, and as a matter of additional
+precaution, I advised Mr. Felton to employ a small number of men to
+guard the various bridges and ferries, who could be warned in time to
+resist attack should such be made.
+
+The chief opposition seemed to be to the inauguration of President
+Lincoln, and the plan of the conspirators was to excite and exasperate
+the popular feeling against the President-elect to the utmost, and so
+successfully had this been done that a majority of the wealthier
+classes, with few exceptions--those in office--and the mob element in
+general were in full accord in their desire to prevent the inauguration
+from taking place.
+
+On the eleventh day of February, Mr. Lincoln, with a few of his personal
+friends, left his quiet home in Springfield to enter upon that
+tempestuous political career which eventually carried him to a martyr's
+grave. Among the party who accompanied the President were Norman B.
+Judd, Esq., Col. Ward H. Lamon, Judge Davis, Col. Sumner, a brave and
+impetuous officer, Major Hunter, Capt. John Pope, Col. Ellsworth, whose
+heroic death took place shortly afterwards, and John G. Nicolay, the
+President's private secretary.
+
+As the President was about leaving his home, the people turned out en
+masse to bid him farewell, and to them Mr. Lincoln addressed the
+following pathetic words of parting:
+
+     "My Friends: No one who has never been placed in a like
+     position can understand my feelings at this hour, nor the
+     oppressive sadness I feel at this parting. For more than a
+     quarter of a century I have lived among you, and during all
+     that time I have received nothing but kindness at your
+     hands. Here I have lived from youth until now I am an old
+     man; here the most sacred ties of earth were assumed; here
+     all my children were born, and here one of them lies buried.
+     To you, dear friends, I owe all that I have, and all that I
+     am. All the strange checkered past seems now to crowd upon
+     my mind. To-day I leave you. I go to assume a task more
+     difficult than that which devolved upon Washington. Unless
+     the great God who assisted him shall be with me and aid me,
+     I must fail; but if the same Omniscient Mind and Almighty
+     Arm that directed and protected him shall guide and support
+     me, I shall not fail--I shall succeed. Let us all pray that
+     the God of our fathers may not forsake us now. To Him I
+     commend you all. Permit me to ask that with equal sincerity
+     and faith you will invoke His wisdom and guidance for me.
+     With these few words I must leave you, for how long I know
+     not. Friends, one and all, I must bid you an affectionate
+     farewell."
+
+How touchingly simple and earnest seem these words. A strange and almost
+weird presentiment of grief and suffering give his utterances a pathos
+that becomes profoundly impressive when linked with subsequent events.
+How prophetic too--full of tears and fraught with the prescience of a
+future terrible and bloody war--they bear yet an echo like that of the
+voice that sounded in the ear of Halleck's dying hero--for surely in
+their tones are heard the thanks of millions yet to be. How more than
+prophetic they seemed when, four years later, "a funeral train, covered
+with the emblems of splendid mourning, rolled into the same city,
+bearing a corpse whose obsequies were being celebrated in every part of
+the civilized world."
+
+From Springfield the passage was a perfect continuous ovation. Cities
+and towns, villages and hamlets, vied with each other in testifying
+their devotion to Union and their determination to uphold the chief
+magistrate in the great trial before him. Immense crowds surrounded the
+stations at which the special train halted, and in the cities of
+Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, Pittsburg, Cleveland, Erie, Buffalo,
+Albany, New York, Trenton, Newark, Philadelphia and Harrisburg, public
+demonstrations of an imposing character were given in his honor, and
+vast concourses of people assembled to greet him. Everywhere he was
+received and honored as the chief of a free people, and in reply to
+complimentary addresses which he day by day received, the President
+endeavored to utter cheering words, and indicated a disbelief in any
+bloody issue of our domestic complications.
+
+On the day prior to the departure of Mr. Lincoln from his home, I
+received a letter from the master mechanic of the railroad, of which the
+following is an extract:
+
+     "I am informed that a son of a distinguished citizen of
+     Maryland said that he had taken an oath with others to
+     assassinate Mr. Lincoln before he gets to Washington, and
+     they may attempt to do it while he is passing over our road.
+     I think you had better look after this man, if possible.
+     This information is perfectly reliable. I have nothing more
+     to say at this time, but will try to see you in a few days."
+
+This communication was confirmatory of reports of an indefinite
+character which had reached me prior to this, and the information was
+far too important to be disregarded. I determined, therefore, to probe
+the matter to the bottom, and obtaining the authority of Mr. Felton for
+such action, I immediately set about the discovery of the existence of
+the conspiracy and the intention of its organization, and then, if
+coolness, courage and skill could save the life of Mr. Lincoln, and
+prevent the revolution which would inevitably follow his violent death,
+I felt sure of accomplishing it.
+
+My plans were soon perfected, and they were to have several of my men,
+together with myself, announced as residents of Charleston and New
+Orleans, and by assuming to be secessionists of the most ultra type, to
+secure entrance into their secret societies and military organizations,
+and thus become possessed of their secret designs. In looking over the
+qualifications of the members of my corps I found two men admirably
+adapted to the object I had in view. They were both young and both fully
+able to assume and successfully carry out the character of a
+hot-blooded, fiery secessionist.
+
+One of these men, whom I shall call Joseph Howard, was a young man of
+fine personal appearance, and of insinuating manners. He was of French
+descent, and in his youth had been carefully educated for a Jesuit
+priest, but finding the vocation distasteful to him, he had abandoned
+it. Added to his collegiate studies, he possessed the advantage of
+extensive foreign travel, and the ability to speak, with great facility,
+several foreign languages. He had a thorough knowledge of the South, its
+localities, prejudices, customs and leading men, which had been derived
+from several years residence in New Orleans and other Southern cities,
+and was gifted with the power of adaptation to persons whom they wish to
+influence, so popularly attributed to the Jesuits.
+
+Howard was instructed to assume the character of an extreme
+secessionist, to obtain quarters at one of the first-class hotels, and
+register his name, with residence at New Orleans. This was done because
+he was well acquainted with the city, having resided there for a long
+time, and was consequently enabled to talk familiarly of prominent
+individuals of that city whom he had met.
+
+The other man whom I selected for this important work was Timothy
+Webster. He was a man of great physical strength and endurance, skilled
+in all athletic sports, and a good shot. Possessed of a strong will and
+a courage that knew no fear, he was the very man to operate upon the
+middle and lower classes who composed the disunion element.
+
+His subsequent career as a Union spy--one of the most perilous and
+thankless positions--and his ignominious death at Richmond, at the hands
+of the rebels, have passed into history, but no historian will ever
+relate the thousand perils through which he passed in the service of his
+country; of his boldness and ingenuity in acquiring information that was
+of incalculable value to the Union officers, nor of his wonderful
+fertility of invention, which frequently enabled him to escape from
+dangers which would have appalled a less brave or less devoted man.
+Arrested at last, he was condemned as a spy, and on the thirtieth day of
+April, 1862, he was executed in the City of Richmond, by order of
+Jefferson Davis. Even then he would have succeeded in effecting a
+well-devised plan of escape, had he not been rendered incapable of
+movement by reason of a prostrating sickness. His name is unknown to
+fame, but fewer hearts beat truer to the Union, and fewer arms performed
+more devoted service in its cause, and a record of his daring and
+romantic adventures as a Union spy, would certainly equal, if not
+surpass, those of the Harvey Birch of Cooper.
+
+It was not long before I received undoubted evidence of the existence of
+a systematized organization whose avowed object was to assist the
+rebellious States, but which was in reality formed to compass the death
+of the President, and thus accomplish the separation of the States. I
+learned also that a branch of this conspiracy existed at Perrymansville,
+under the guise of a company of cavalry, who met frequently and drilled
+regularly. Leaving Harwood to operate in Baltimore with the others, I
+dispatched Timothy Webster back to Perrymansville, and in twenty-four
+hours thereafter he had enrolled himself as a member of the company, and
+was recognized as a hail fellow among his rebel associates.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+_The Conspirators at Work.--Detectives on Their Trail.--Webster as a
+Soldier._
+
+
+Every day reports would be brought to me from the numerous men I had
+detailed along the line of the railroad, and regularly on alternate days
+I would make the journey from Baltimore to Philadelphia for consultation
+with the officers of the company.
+
+At every visit which I made to the suspected localities, I could not
+fail to notice an increase in the excitement and the indications of a
+disposition to open revolt became more evident. Everywhere the ruling
+principle seemed to be opposition to the new administration and a
+decided inclination to aid the Confederacy. As the daily papers, which
+chronicled the events which occurred upon the journey of Mr. Lincoln
+towards Washington, or the desperate movements of the Southern
+ringleaders, were perused by the people, or were read aloud in tavern or
+store, they would be greeted by alternate expressions of hate and
+malignity for the abolitionist and wild cheers for the rebellion.
+
+This feeling, too, was largely increased by the visits which prominent
+villagers would make to Baltimore, and who, upon their return, would
+relate marvelous stories of what they had seen and heard of the courage,
+the unity and the determination of the Southern people. Everything
+calculated to inflame the popular mind was seized upon, and the
+wonderful spirit of invention which these men evinced was simply
+astonishing. As a consequence, the ignorant residents of these villages
+and towns, having no authoritative information of their own, relied
+implicitly upon the exaggerated statements and untruthful reports of
+their leaders, and were kept in a condition of excitement that made them
+ready tools of their unscrupulous and better-informed managers. As far
+as could be learned, however, no definite plan of action had been
+arranged, and no public outbreak had as yet occurred.
+
+Barnum's Hotel, in Baltimore, appeared to be the favorite resort of the
+Southern element. The visitors from all portions of the South located at
+this house, and in the evenings the corridors and parlors would be
+thronged by the tall, lank forms of the long-haired gentlemen who
+represented the aristocracy of the slave-holding interests. Their
+conversations were loud and unrestrained, and any one bold enough or
+sufficiently indiscreet to venture an opinion contrary to the
+righteousness of their cause, would soon find himself in an unenviable
+position and frequently the subject of violence.
+
+As this hotel was so largely patronized by the so-called "Fire-eaters,"
+I instructed Howard to go there in order to secure quarters and to
+ingratiate himself with these extremists. It was not long after this,
+that, joining a company of gentlemen who were loudly declaiming against
+the ruling powers of the country, he entered into their discussion, and
+by blatant expressions of the most rebellious nature, he was warmly
+welcomed by the coterie and instantly made one of their number.
+
+Hailing as he did from New Orleans, his residence was a ready passport
+to their favor and confidence, and his fine personal appearance,
+gentlemanly address and the fervor of his utterances soon won the favor
+of those with whom he associated. To a general inquiry he stated that
+private affairs of a financial nature required his presence in
+Baltimore, but as his acquaintance with the trustworthy emissaries of
+rebeldom increased, he quietly insinuated that affairs of a national
+character were far more dear to him than individual interests or private
+concerns.
+
+By continued intercourse with these men, he greatly increased the circle
+of his acquaintances, and soon became a welcome guest at the residences
+of many of the first families of that refined and aristocratic city.
+Here his accomplishments appeared to the best advantage. His romantic
+disposition and the ease of his manner captivated many of the
+susceptible hearts of the beautiful Baltimore belles, whose eyes grew
+brighter in his presence, and who listened enraptured to the poetic
+utterances which were whispered into their ears under the witching spell
+of music and moonlit nature.
+
+He gradually neared the circle of which Marshal George P. Kane appeared
+to be the leader, and in a short time he had succeeded in entirely
+winning his confidence, and from this gentleman Howard acquired many
+important items of information. The entire police force of the
+city--officers and men--were in full sympathy with the rebellion, and it
+became apparent to him that a strict watch was kept over every man who
+expressed Northern opinions, or who was not identified with the cause
+which they had espoused.
+
+To all of these arrangements Howard signified his hearty indorsement,
+and by every means in his power he sought to convince the leaders of his
+full sympathy with their efforts and his resolve to take a leading part
+in the struggle that seemed to be impending.
+
+Accepting the invitation of Mr. Kane, he one evening accompanied that
+gentleman to a meeting of one of the secret societies that then existed,
+the first one he had succeeded in gaining entrance to. Arriving at the
+place of assembly, he was surprised at the many familiar faces which
+greeted him. Men whose aristocratic doors had opened to his entrance and
+whose social positions were unquestioned; young men who traced their
+lineage through several generations, and whose wealth and intelligence
+gave them a social status of no ordinary character, were found in full
+accord and upon perfect equality with tradesmen, artificers, and even
+with those whose vocation was decidedly doubtful, and some of whom had
+heard the key of a prison lock turned upon them for offenses committed
+in days gone by.
+
+The leader and President of this society was a Captain Fernandina, who
+was known as one of the most active of the conspirators. This individual
+at one time occupied the exalted position of a barber at Barnum's Hotel,
+but treason and conspiracy had elevated him to the station of a military
+captain whose orders were to be obeyed, and a leader whose mandates
+compelled respect. He was an Italian or of Italian descent, and having
+lived in the South for a number of years he was thoroughly impressed
+with the idea of Southern wrongs, and that the election of Mr. Lincoln
+was an outrage which must not be tamely submitted to by the high-toned
+and chivalrous people of the South.
+
+He was an enthusiast and fanatic, a dangerous man in any crisis, and
+particularly so in the one now impending, which threatened a civil war
+and all its direful consequences. Educated with Italian ideas and
+possessed of the temperament of his people, he openly justified the use
+of the stiletto, and fiercely advocated assassination as the means of
+preventing the President-elect from taking his seat in the executive
+chair. He was also the captain of a military company which drilled
+regularly and whose members were believed to fully indorse the views of
+their chief.
+
+At this meeting Fernandina delivered an address which, for its
+treasonable nature and its violent opposition to all laws, human or
+divine, has scarcely a parallel. He boldly advocated the doctrine of
+State rights; he fiercely denounced the party who had succeeded in
+obtaining power; he inveighed in violent language against the policy of
+the so-called abolitionists, and his arraignment of Mr. Lincoln was most
+vile and repulsive. As these words fell from his lips the excitement
+became intense. Faces were eagerly turned towards him, eyes glistened
+with the fires of hate, and hands were clenched as though each one
+present was imbued with the same feelings which animated their
+sanguinary leader.
+
+As he proceeded, overcome by the violence of his emotions, he drew from
+his breast a long, glittering knife, and waving it aloft, exclaimed:
+
+"This hireling Lincoln shall never, never be President. My life is of no
+consequence in a cause like this, and I am willing to give it for his.
+As Orsini gave his life for Italy, I am ready to die for the rights of
+the South and to crush out the abolitionist."
+
+As he stood before them, his black eyes flashing with excitement, his
+sallow face pale and colorless and his long hair brushed fiercely back
+from his low forehead, he seemed a fitting representative of so
+desperate a cause, and his influence over the assemblage was wonderful
+to behold. Loud cheers and wild clapping of hands greeted his
+utterances, and all seemed in perfect accord with his declared
+intentions.
+
+There could be no mistaking the fact, that the object of these men was
+dangerous, and that they had fully determined to oppose and prevent the
+inauguration of Mr. Lincoln, but the exact plan of operation had not as
+yet been agreed upon.
+
+Upon these facts being conveyed to me by Howard on the following
+morning, I resolved to interview this desperate leader of the conspiracy
+myself, and endeavor to learn from him further particulars of their
+movements and designs.
+
+In the immediate vicinity of Barnum's Hotel at that time there was a
+famous restaurant, popularly known as "Guy's," and this place was much
+frequented by the secessionists who were in the city. Fernandina spent
+much of his time there, either in drinking or in consultation with his
+numerous political friends, who all seemed to regard him as an important
+personage, and one who was eventually to perform giant service in the
+cause.
+
+[Illustration: "_He must die, and if necessary we will die together!_"
+P. 65]
+
+Howard having effecting an introduction to Fernandina, and convinced him
+of his devotion to the interests of the South, I experienced no
+difficulty in obtaining the desired interview. About three o'clock on
+the following afternoon Howard and myself carelessly entered the saloon,
+and were gratified to perceive that Fernandina was also there,
+accompanied by several members of the military company which he
+commanded. Walking directly up to these gentlemen, Howard introduced me
+as a resident of Georgia, who was an earnest worker in the cause of
+secession, and whose sympathy and discretion could be implicitly relied
+upon.
+
+Fernandina cordially grasped my hand, and we all retired to a private
+saloon, where, after ordering the necessary drinks and cigars, the
+conversation became general, and to me, absorbingly interesting.
+
+The question of assassinating the President was freely discussed, and
+Captain Fernandina expressed himself vehemently in its favor.
+
+Some one in the party remarked:
+
+"Are there no other means of saving the South except by assassination?"
+
+"No," replied Fernandina; "as well might you attempt to move the
+Washington Monument yonder with your breath, as to change our purpose.
+He must die--and die he shall. And," he continued, turning to Captain
+Trichot, a fellow-conspirator who stood near, "if necessary, we will die
+together."
+
+"There seems to be no other way," interposed Howard, "and while
+bloodshed is to be regretted, it will be done in a noble cause."
+
+Fernandina gazed approvingly at Howard, and then added:
+
+"Yes, the cause is a noble one, and on that day every captain will prove
+himself a hero. With the first shot the chief traitor, Lincoln, will
+die, then all Maryland will be with us, and the South will be forever
+free."
+
+"But," said I, "have all the plans been matured, and are there no fears
+of failure? A misstep in so important a direction would be fatal to the
+South and ought to be well considered."
+
+"Our plans are fully arranged," answered the Captain, "and they cannot
+fail; and," he added, with a wicked gleam in his eyes--"if I alone must
+strike the blow, I shall not hesitate or shrink from the task. Lincoln
+shall certainly not depart from this city alive."
+
+"Yes," added Captain Trichot, "it is determined that this G--d d--d
+Lincoln shall never pass through here alive, and no d--d abolitionist
+shall ever set foot upon Southern soil except to find a grave."
+
+"But about the authorities"--I asked--"is there no danger to be
+apprehended from them?"
+
+"Oh, no," said the Captain, assuringly, "they are all with us. I have
+seen Col. Kane, the Chief Marshal of Police, and he is all right. In a
+week from to-day the North shall want another President, for Lincoln
+will be a corpse."
+
+All the company gave approving responses to these threats, with but one
+exception, and he remained silent, with a doubtful, troubled expression
+upon his face. This young man was one of the fast "bloods" of the city,
+who proudly wore upon his breast a gold Palmetto badge, and who was a
+Lieutenant in the Palmetto Guards, a secret military organization of
+Baltimore, and I determined to select this man for the purpose of
+obtaining the information I so much desired; and as the company shortly
+afterwards broke up, Howard and myself accompanied Lieutenant Hill from
+the saloon.
+
+Hill soon proved a pliant tool in our hands. Being of a weak nature and
+having been reared in the lap of luxury, he had entered into this
+movement more from a temporary burst of enthusiasm and because it was
+fashionable, than from any other cause. Now that matters began to assume
+such a warlike attitude, he was inclined to hesitate before the affair
+had gone too far, but still he seemed to be enamored with the glory of
+the undertaking.
+
+By my directions Howard, the ardent secessionist from Louisiana, and
+Hill, of the Palmetto Guards, became bosom friends and inseparable
+companions. They drank together, and visited theaters and places of
+amusement in each other's company.
+
+By reason of his high social position Hill was enabled to introduce his
+friend to the leading families and into the most aristocratic clubs and
+societies of which the city boasted, and Howard made many valuable
+acquaintances through the influence of this rebellious scion of
+Baltimore aristocracy.
+
+Finally the young man was induced to open to his companion the secrets
+of the plot to assassinate the President. It was evident, however, that
+Hill was playing his part in the conspiracy with great reluctance, and
+one day he said to Howard:
+
+"What a pity it is that this glorious Union must be destroyed all on
+account of that monster Lincoln." From Hill it was learned that the
+plans of the conspirators were first to excite and exasperate the
+popular feeling against Mr. Lincoln to the utmost, and thus far this had
+been successfully accompanied. From the published programme Mr. Lincoln
+was to reach Baltimore from Harrisburg by the Northern Central Railroad
+on the twenty-third day of February, now but a few days distant. He
+would, therefore, reach the city about the middle of the day. A vast
+crowd would meet him at the Calvert street depot, at which point it was
+expected that he would enter an open carriage and ride nearly half a
+mile to the Washington depot. Here it was arranged that but a small
+force of policemen should be stationed, and as the President arrived a
+disturbance would be created which would attract the attention of these
+guardians of the peace, and this accomplished, it would be an easy task
+for a determined man to shoot the President, and, aided by his
+companions, succeed in making his escape.
+
+Agents of the conspirators had been dispatched to all the principal
+Northern cities, to watch the movements of the presidential party, and
+ready to telegraph to Baltimore any change of route or delay in arrival.
+A cipher had been agreed upon between them, so that the conspirators
+could communicate with each other without the possibility of detection,
+and everything seemed to be satisfactorily arranged except to depute one
+of their number to commit the fatal deed. This was to be determined by
+ballot, and as yet no one knew upon whom might devolve the bloody task.
+
+Meanwhile, the idea of assassination was preying heavily upon the mind
+of the Lieutenant of the Palmetto Guards; he grew sad and melancholy,
+and plunged still deeper into dissipation. Howard had now become a
+necessity to him and they were scarcely ever separated. Under the
+influence of the master spirit, the disposition of Hill underwent
+wonderful changes. At times, he would be thoughtful and morose, and then
+would suddenly break out into enthusiastic rhapsodies. His sleep became
+tormented with dreams in which he saw himself the martyr to a glorious
+cause and the savior of his country.
+
+At such times he would address himself to Howard, in the most
+extravagant language.
+
+"I am destined to die," said he one day, "shrouded with glory. I shall
+immortalize myself by plunging a knife into Lincoln's heart."
+
+Howard endeavored to calm his transports, but without avail. Raising
+himself to his full height, he exclaimed: "Rome had her Brutus, why
+should not we? I swear to you, Howard, if it falls to me I will kill
+Lincoln before he reaches the Washington depot, not that I love Lincoln
+less, but my country more."
+
+As the day drew nearer for the arrival of the President, he became more
+nervous and excited, and would more frequently indulge in extravagant
+expressions, which would have been regarded as absurd, but for the fact
+that he was but one of a large number of fanatics, who seriously
+entertained the same ideas of murder, and his expressions but the reflex
+of others, more determined.
+
+Timothy Webster was still at Perrymansville, and by this time had fully
+identified himself with the rebel cause, and the company of cavalry of
+which he was a member. On several occasions he had given undoubted
+indications of his loyalty and devotion to the South, and was generally
+looked upon as a man who could be trusted. He became quite intimate with
+the officers of the company, and succeeded in gaining their entire
+confidence. As yet, however, he had learned but little of the important
+movement which we believed was in contemplation, as all conversations
+upon that subject appeared to be between the officers of the company, at
+their secret meetings, to which he had not been able as yet to gain an
+entrance.
+
+At length one morning, after the usual daily drill, and when the
+company had been dismissed, the Captain addressed Webster and requested
+him to be present at his house that evening, as he desired to consult
+with him upon important affairs, at the same time cautioning him to say
+nothing to any one concerning the matter.
+
+Promptly at the time appointed Webster presented himself at the
+residence of the Captain, and was ushered into a room upon the upper
+floor, where there were several men already assembled. The curtains had
+been drawn close, and heavy quilts had been hung over the windows, which
+effectually prevented any one from the outside from discovering a light
+in the room. On his entrance he was introduced to the gentlemen present,
+three of whom were unknown to him, who were members of the secret league
+from Baltimore, and who were evidently impressed with the solemnity and
+importance of their undertaking. They greeted Webster cordially,
+however, and made room for him at the table around which they were
+sitting.
+
+A few minutes satisfied Webster as to the nature of the meeting, and
+that it was a conclave of the conspirators, who had met to discuss a
+plan of action. Intensely eager as he was to acquire all possible
+information, he was obliged to restrain his impetuosity and to listen
+calmly to the developments that were made. From what transpired that
+evening there could be no doubt of the desperation of the men engaged
+in the conspiracy, or of the widespread interest which was taken in
+their movements.
+
+The plans for the assassination of the President had been fully matured,
+and only needed the selection of the person to perform the deed, in
+order to carry them into effect. In the meantime, however, other
+important measures required attention and consideration. If the affair
+stopped simply with the assassination of the President, but little, if
+any, good would be accomplished. The North would rise as one man to
+avenge the death of their leader, and they would only hasten a disaster
+they were anxious to avoid. It was necessary, therefore, that the work
+should be thoroughly done, and the plan suggested was as follows:
+
+As soon as the deed had been accomplished in Baltimore, the news was to
+be telegraphed along the line of the road, and immediately upon the
+reception of this intelligence the telegraph wires were to be cut, the
+railroad bridges destroyed and the tracks torn up, in order to prevent
+for some time any information being conveyed to the cities of the North,
+or the passage of any Northern men towards the capital.
+
+Wild as the scheme was, it found instant favor with the reckless men
+assembled together, and all signified their hearty assent to the
+propositions and offered their aid in successfully carrying them out.
+Among the most earnest in their protestations was Timothy Webster, and
+as he announced his intention to perform his duty in the affair he was
+warmly congratulated.
+
+Matters were evidently getting warm, and but little time was left for
+action.
+
+[Illustration: "WARMING UP."]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+_The Conspirators in Council.--My Operative Joins the Conspiracy._
+
+
+I had already written to Mr. Norman B. Judd as the party reached
+Cincinnati, informing him that I had reason to believe that there was a
+plot on foot to murder the President on his passage through Baltimore,
+and promising to advise him further as the party progressed eastward.
+
+This information Mr. Judd did not divulge to any one, fearing to
+occasion undue anxiety or unnecessary alarm, and knowing that I was upon
+the ground and could be depended upon to act at the proper time.
+
+When the party reached Buffalo another note from me awaited Mr. Judd,
+informing him of the accumulation of evidence, but conveying no
+particulars. The party were now journeying towards New York city, and I
+determined to learn all that there was to learn before many hours.
+
+Previous to this, in addition to the men engaged in Baltimore, I had
+sent for Mrs. Kate Warne, the lady superintendent of my agency. This
+lady had arrived several days before, and had already made remarkable
+progress in cultivating the acquaintance of the wives and daughters of
+the conspirators.
+
+Mrs. Warne was eminently fitted for this task. Of rather a commanding
+person, with clear-cut, expressive features, and with an ease of manner
+that was quite captivating at times, she was calculated to make a
+favorable impression at once. She was of Northern birth, but in order to
+vouch for her Southern opinions, she represented herself as from
+Montgomery, Alabama, a locality with which she was perfectly familiar,
+from her connection with the detection of the robbery of the Adams
+Express Company, at that place. Her experience in that case, which is
+fully detailed in "The Expressman and the Detective," fully qualified
+her for the task of representing herself as a resident of the South.
+
+She was a brilliant conversationalist when so disposed, and could be
+quite vivacious, but she also understood that rarer quality in
+womankind, the art of being silent.
+
+The information she received was invaluable, but as yet the meetings of
+the chief conspirators had not been entered. Mrs. Warne displayed upon
+her breast, as did many of the ladies of Baltimore, the black and white
+cockade, which had been temporarily adopted as the emblem of secession,
+and many hints were dropped in her presence which found their way to my
+ears, and were of great benefit to me.
+
+As I have said, the Presidential party were in Buffalo, and I had
+resolved upon prompt and decisive measures to discover the inward
+workings of the conspirators. Accordingly I obtained an interview with
+Howard, and gave him such instructions as I deemed necessary under the
+circumstances. He was to insist upon Hill taking him to the meeting at
+which the ballots were to be drawn, and where he, too, would have an
+opportunity to immortalize himself, and then, that being accomplished,
+the rest would be easy and all further danger would be over.
+
+Accordingly, that day Howard broached the matter to Hill in a manner
+which convinced him of his earnestness, and the young Lieutenant
+promised his utmost efforts to secure his admission. At five o'clock in
+the afternoon they again met, and Hill joyfully informed his companion
+that his request had been granted, and that, upon his vouching for the
+fidelity of his friend, he had succeeded in obtaining permission for him
+to enter their society.
+
+That evening Howard accompanied his friend Hill to the rendezvous of the
+league, and as they entered the darkened chamber, they found many of the
+conspirators already assembled. The members were strangely silent, and
+an ominous awe seemed to pervade the entire assembly. About twenty men
+comprised the number, but many entered afterward. After a few
+preliminary movements, Howard was conducted to the station of the
+President of the assembly and duly sworn, the members gathering around
+him in a circle as this was being done.
+
+[Illustration: "_Howard was conducted to the station of the President,
+and duly sworn._" P. 76.]
+
+Having passed through the required formula, Howard was warmly taken by
+the hand by his associates, many of whom he had met in the polite
+circles of society. After quiet had been restored, the President, who
+was none other than Captain Fernandina, arose, and in a dramatic manner
+detailed the particulars of the plot.
+
+It had been fully determined that the assassination should take place at
+the Calvert street depot. A vast crowd of secessionists were to assemble
+at that place to await the arrival of the train with Mr. Lincoln. They
+would appear early and fill the narrow streets and passages immediately
+surrounding it. No attempt at secrecy was made of the fact that the
+Marshal of Police was conversant with their plans, and that he would
+detail but a small force of policemen to attend the arrival, and
+nominally clear and protect a passage for Mr. Lincoln and his suite. Nor
+was the fact disguised that these policemen were in active sympathy with
+the movement. George P. Kane's animus was fully shown when he was
+subsequently arrested by General Banks, and afterwards became an officer
+in the rebel army.
+
+When the train entered the depot, and Mr. Lincoln attempted to pass
+through the narrow passage leading to the streets, a party already
+delegated were to engage in a conflict on the outside, and then the
+policemen were to rush away to quell the disturbance. At this
+moment--the police being entirely withdrawn--Mr. Lincoln would find
+himself surrounded by a dense, excited and hostile crowd, all hustling
+and jamming against him, and then the fatal blow was to be struck.
+
+A swift steamer was to be stationed in Chesapeake Bay, with a boat
+awaiting upon the shore, ready to take the assassin on board as soon as
+the deed was done, and convey him to a Southern port, where he would be
+received with acclamations of joy and honored as a hero.
+
+The question to be decided this evening was: "Who should do the deed?"
+"Who should assume the task of liberating the nation of the foul
+presence of the abolitionist leader?" For this purpose the meeting had
+been called to-night, and to-night the important decision was to be
+reached.
+
+It was finally determined that ballots should be prepared and placed in
+a box arranged for that purpose, and that the person who drew a _red_
+ballot should perform the duty of assassination.
+
+In order that none should know who drew the fatal ballot, except he who
+did so, the room was rendered still darker, and every one was pledged to
+secrecy as to the color of the ballot he drew. The leaders, however, had
+determined that their plans should not fail, and doubting the courage of
+some of their number, instead of placing but _one red ballot_ in the
+box, they placed _eight_ of the designated color, and these eight
+ballots were drawn--each man who drew them believing that upon him, his
+courage, strength and devotion, depended the cause of the South--each
+supposing that he alone was charged with the execution of the deed.
+
+After the ballots had been drawn the President again addressed the
+assembly. He violently assailed the enemies of the South, and in glowing
+words pointed out the glory that awaited the man who would prove himself
+the hero upon this great occasion, and finally, amid much restrained
+enthusiasm, the meeting adjourned, and their duties had thus far been
+accomplished.
+
+My time for action had now arrived; my plans had been perfected and I
+resolved to act at once. Taking Mrs. Warne with me I reached New York
+city on the same day that the presidential party arrived there, and
+leaving Mrs. Warne to perfect arrangements, I proceeded at once to
+Philadelphia. That evening Mrs. Warne repaired to the Astor House and
+requested an interview with Mr. Judd. Her request being granted, Mrs.
+Warne informed that gentleman, that, fearing to trust the mail in so
+important a matter, she had been delegated by me to arrange for a
+personal interview, at which all the proofs relating to the conspiracy
+could be submitted to him. It was suggested that immediately after the
+arrival of the party in Philadelphia, I should inform Mr. Judd of my
+plans for an interview, and that he would be governed accordingly.
+
+While they were conversing, Col. E. S. Sandford, President of the
+American Telegraph Company, called, and was introduced by Mrs. Warne to
+Mr. Judd. This gentleman had been made fully acquainted with what I had
+learned, and had promised all the assistance within his power, and he
+accordingly tendered to Mr. Judd his own personal service and the
+unlimited use of the telegraph lines under his control, for any
+communications he might desire to make.
+
+On arriving at Philadelphia, I proceeded directly to the office of Mr.
+Felton, and acquainted him with all the information I had received, of
+the designs of the conspirators with regard to Mr. Lincoln, and of their
+intention to destroy the railroad should their plot be successful. The
+situation was truly alarming, and cautious measures were absolutely
+necessary. It was therefore resolved to obtain an interview with Mr.
+Lincoln, submit the facts to him, and be governed by his suggestions,
+whatever they might be.
+
+This interview took place on the 20th day of February, and Mr. Lincoln
+was expected to arrive on the following day. Great preparations had been
+made for his reception, and the military, of which Philadelphia was
+justly proud, were to escort the President-elect from the depot to the
+Continental Hotel, where quarters had been engaged for him, and where he
+would receive the congratulations of the people.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+_The Presidential Party arrives in Philadelphia.--Independence
+Hall.--The Departure from Harrisburg.--Telegraph wires Cut.--Through the
+Lines of Treason and Safe Arrival at Washington._
+
+
+The twenty-first dawned bright and sunny, and the streets were alive
+with the eager populace, all anxious to do honor to the new President,
+and to witness the scenes attendant upon his reception. In due time the
+train containing the party arrived, and after an informal welcome they
+took carriages, and, escorted by the troops, the procession took up the
+line of march for the hotel. Vast crowds lined the sidewalks and the
+enthusiasm of the people was unbounded. The President graciously
+acknowledged their courtesies as he passed along. On each side of the
+carriage in which Mr. Lincoln was seated, accompanied by Mr. Judd, was a
+file of policemen, whose duty it was to prevent the mass of people from
+pressing too closely to the vehicle. As the procession reached the
+corner of Broad and Chestnut streets, a young man approached the file of
+policemen and endeavored to attract the attention of the occupants of
+the carriage. Finding this impossible, he boldly plunged through the
+ranks of the officers, and coming to the side of the carriage, he handed
+to Mr. Judd a slip of paper, on which was written:
+
+    "_St. Louis Hotel, ask for J. H. Hutchinson._"
+
+This young man was Mr. George H. Burns, an attaché of the American
+Telegraph Company and confidential agent of E. S. Sandford, Esq., who
+acted as my messenger, and who afterwards distinguished himself for his
+courage and daring in the rebellion. It is needless to add that J. H.
+Hutchinson was the name I had assumed in registering at the hotel, in
+order to avoid any suspicion or curiosity in case any emissary of the
+conspirators should ascertain my real name and thus be warned of the
+discovery of their scheme.
+
+Shortly after the arrival of Mr. Lincoln at the Continental, Mr. Judd
+was announced at the St. Louis Hotel as desiring to see me. Mr. Felton
+was with me at the time, and in a few minutes Mr. Judd made his
+appearance. More than an hour was occupied in going over the proofs
+which I produced of the existence of the conspiracy, at the end of which
+time Mr. Judd expressed himself fully convinced that the plot was a
+reality, and that prompt measures were required to secure the safety of
+the President.
+
+"My advice is," said I, after I had succeeded in convincing Mr. Judd
+that my information was reliable, "that Mr. Lincoln shall proceed to
+Washington this evening by the eleven o'clock train, and then once safe
+at the capital, General Scott and his soldiery will afford him ample
+protection."
+
+"I fear very much that Mr. Lincoln will not accede to this," replied Mr.
+Judd; "but as the President is an old acquaintance and friend of yours
+and has had occasion before this to test your reliability and prudence,
+suppose you accompany me to the Continental Hotel, and we can then lay
+this information before him in person and abide by his decision."
+
+This idea was at once adopted and we proceeded to the hotel. Here we
+found the entrances blocked up by a surging multitude which effectually
+prevented our admission, and we were obliged to enter by the rear of the
+building through a door used by the servants.
+
+On reaching the room occupied by Mr. Judd that gentleman summoned Mr.
+Nicolay, the President's private secretary, and dispatched him with a
+note requesting the presence of Mr. Lincoln upon a matter of urgent
+importance.
+
+The President at that time was in one of the large parlors surrounded by
+a number of ladies and gentlemen, all eager to extend to him the
+hospitalities of the city and to express their good wishes for the
+success of his administration. Upon receiving the message, however, he
+at once excused himself, and forcing his way through the crowd came
+directly to us.
+
+Up to this time Mr. Lincoln had been kept in entire ignorance of any
+threatened danger, and as he listened to the facts that were now
+presented to him, a shade of sadness fell upon his face. He seemed loth
+to credit the statement, and could scarce believe it possible that such
+a conspiracy could exist. Slowly he went over the points presented,
+questioning me minutely the while, but at length finding it impossible
+to discredit the truthfulness of what I stated to him, he yielded a
+reluctant credence to the facts.
+
+After he had been fully made acquainted with the startling disclosures,
+Mr. Judd submitted to him the plan proposed by me, that he should leave
+Philadelphia for Washington that evening.
+
+"But," added Mr. Judd, "the proofs that have just been laid before you
+cannot be published, as it will involve the lives of several devoted men
+now on Mr. Pinkerton's force, especially that of Timothy Webster, who is
+now serving in a rebel cavalry company under drill at Perrymansville in
+Maryland."
+
+Mr. Lincoln at once acknowledged the correctness of this view, but
+appeared at a loss as to what course to pursue.
+
+"You will therefore perceive"--continued Mr. Judd--"that if you follow
+the course suggested--that of proceeding to Washington to-night--you
+will necessarily be subjected to the scoffs and sneers of your enemies,
+and the disapproval of your friends who cannot be made to believe in
+the existence of so desperate a plot."
+
+"I fully appreciate these suggestions," replied Mr. Lincoln, "and I can
+stand anything that is necessary, but," he added rising to his feet, "I
+cannot go to-night. I have promised to raise the flag over Independence
+Hall to-morrow morning, and to visit the legislature at Harrisburg in
+the afternoon--beyond that I have no engagements. Any plan that may be
+adopted that will enable me to fulfill these promises I will accede to,
+and you can inform me what is concluded upon to-morrow."
+
+Saying which Mr. Lincoln left the room and joined the people in the
+parlor. During the entire interview, he had not evinced the slightest
+evidence of agitation or fear. Calm and self-possessed, his only
+sentiments appeared to be those of profound regret, that the Southern
+sympathizers could be so far led away by the excitement of the hour, as
+to consider his death a necessity for the furtherance of their cause.
+
+From his manner, it was deemed useless to attempt to induce him to alter
+his mind, and after a few minutes' further conversation, which was
+participated in by Mr. Sandford, who had entered the room, I left for
+the purpose of finding Thomas A. Scott, Esq., the Vice-President of the
+Pennsylvania Central Railroad, in order to make arrangements for the
+carrying out of a plan which had occurred to me, and which would enable
+Mr. Lincoln to fulfill his engagements.
+
+I was unable, however, to find Mr. Scott, but succeeded in reaching Mr.
+G. C. Franciscus, the general manager of the road, and at twelve o'clock
+that night, in company with that gentleman and Mr. Sandford, we called
+again upon Mr. Judd.
+
+At this meeting a full discussion of the entire matter was had between
+us, and after all possible contingencies had been considered, the
+following programme was agreed upon.
+
+After the formal reception at Harrisburg had taken place, a special
+train, consisting of a baggage-car and one passenger-coach, should leave
+there at six o'clock P. M. to carry Mr. Lincoln and one companion back
+to Philadelphia; this train was to be under the immediate control of Mr.
+Franciscus and Mr. Enoch Lewis, the general superintendent. In order to
+avoid the possibility of accident, the track was to be cleared of
+everything between Harrisburg and Philadelphia from half-past five
+o'clock until after the passage of the special train. Mr. Felton was to
+detain the eleven o'clock P. M. Baltimore train until the arrival of the
+special train from Harrisburg, Mrs. Warne in the meantime engaging
+berths in the sleeping-car bound for Baltimore.
+
+[Illustration: "_Mr. Lincoln raising the flag on Independence Hall._" P.
+87]
+
+I was to remain in Philadelphia in order that no accident might occur in
+conveying the President from one depot to another, and Mr. Judd was to
+manage the affair at Harrisburg. Everything that could be suggested in
+relation to this matter was fully considered, and having at length
+perfected our plans, the party separated at half-past four o'clock in
+the morning, fully prepared to carry out the programme agreed upon.
+
+At six o'clock on the morning of the 22d, a vast concourse of people
+assembled in front of Independence Hall on Chestnut street, and at
+precisely the hour appointed, Mr. Lincoln made his appearance. With his
+own hands he drew to the top of the staff surmounting the edifice a
+beautiful new American flag, and as its Stripes and Stars floated out
+gracefully to the breeze, the air was rent with the shouts of the
+multitude and the music of the band.
+
+Mr. Lincoln's speech upon this occasion was the most impressive and
+characteristic of any which he had delivered upon his journey to the
+capital, while a tinge of sadness pervaded his remarks, never noticed
+before, and which were occasioned no doubt by the revelations of the
+preceding night. He gave a most eloquent expression to the emotions and
+associations which were suggested by the day and by the historic old
+hall where he then stood. He declared that all his political sentiments
+were drawn from the inspired utterances of those who had sat within the
+walls of that ancient edifice. He alluded most feelingly to the dangers
+and toils and sufferings of those who had adopted and made good the
+Declaration of Independence--a declaration which gave promise that "in
+due time the weight would be lifted from the shoulders of all men."
+Conscious of the dangers that threatened his country, and feeling also
+that those dangers originated in opposition to the principles enunciated
+in the Declaration of Independence, knowing that his own life was even
+then threatened because of his devotion to liberty, and that his way to
+the national capital was beset by assassins, he did not hesitate to
+declare boldly and fearlessly "that he would rather be assassinated on
+the spot than surrender those principles" so dear to him.
+
+After these proceedings, Mr. Lincoln was driven back to the Continental
+Hotel, and sending for Mr. Judd, he introduced him to Mr. Frederick H.
+Seward, a son of the late William H. Seward, who was in the room with
+the President. Mr. Lincoln then informed Mr. Judd that Mr. Seward had
+been sent from Washington by his father and General Scott to warn him of
+the danger of passing through Baltimore, and to urge him to come direct
+to Washington.
+
+From whom this information was originally obtained did not appear, but
+the facts were deemed of sufficient moment to be brought to the ears of
+the President, and hence Mr. Seward's visit to Philadelphia. Mr. Lincoln
+evinced no further hesitancy in the matter, and signified his readiness
+to do whatever was required of him. Mr. Judd then directed Mr. Seward to
+inform his father that all had been arranged, and that, so far as human
+foresight could predict, Mr. Lincoln would be in Washington before the
+evening of the following day, and cautioned him to preserve the utmost
+secrecy in regard to the matter. No particulars were given and none were
+asked.
+
+At the time appointed Mr. Lincoln started for Harrisburg, and I busied
+myself with the preparations that were necessary to successfully carry
+our plans into operation. From reports which I received from Baltimore,
+the excitement in that city had grown more intense, and the arrival of
+the President was awaited with the most feverish impatience. The common
+and accepted belief was that Mr. Lincoln would journey from Harrisburg
+to Baltimore over the Northern Central Railroad, and the plans of the
+conspirators were arranged accordingly.
+
+It became a matter of the utmost importance, therefore, that no
+intimation of our movements should reach that city. I had no doubt but
+that trusty agents of the conspirators were following the presidential
+party, and after the absence of Mr. Lincoln had been discovered, the
+telegraph would be put into active operation to apprise the movers of
+this scheme of the change that had been made. To effectually prevent
+this I determined that the telegraph wires which connected Harrisburg
+with her neighboring cities should be so "fixed" as to render
+communication impossible.
+
+To arrange this matter Capt. Burns was sent to the office of the
+American Telegraph Company, and obtaining from Mr. H. E. Thayer, the
+manager of the company, a competent and trustworthy man for the purpose,
+departed for Harrisburg, in order to carry out the proposed measures.
+Mr. Thayer, in the meantime, was to remain in the office during the
+night, in order to intercept any dispatches that might be sent over the
+wires from any point between Harrisburg and Baltimore, and to
+immediately deliver any messages that might be sent to me.
+
+Mr. W. P. Westervelt, the superintendent, and Mr. Andrew Wynne, the
+line-man of the telegraph company, were delegated to Harrisburg to "fix"
+the wires leading from that place in such a manner as to prevent any
+communication from passing over them, and to report to Capt. Burns upon
+their arrival.
+
+After the train containing Mr. Lincoln and his party had left
+Philadelphia, Mr. Judd sought the first favorable opportunity of
+conversing with Mr. Lincoln alone, and fully detailed to him the plan
+that had been agreed upon, all of which met with the hearty approval of
+the President, who signified a cheerful willingness to adapt himself to
+the novel circumstances.
+
+It was evident, from the manner of several of the gentlemen of the
+party, that they suspected something was transpiring of which they had
+not been advised, but they all very judiciously refrained from asking
+any questions. Mr. Judd, however, who felt the responsibility of his
+position, finally suggested to Mr. Lincoln the propriety and
+advisability of informing them of what had taken place, and of
+consulting with them upon the proper carrying out of the contemplated
+journey. To this Mr. Lincoln yielded a ready assent, adding, with an
+amused smile:
+
+"I suppose they will laugh at us, Judd, but I think you had better get
+them together."
+
+It was therefore arranged that after the reception at the State House
+had taken place, and before they sat down to dinner, the matter should
+be fully laid before the following gentlemen of the party: Judge David
+Davis, Col. Sumner, Major David Hunter, Capt. John Pope and Ward H.
+Lamon, Esq.
+
+Mr. Lincoln arrived at Harrisburg at noon, and was introduced to the
+people from the balcony of the Jones House, where an address was
+delivered by Gov. Andrew G. Curtin, whose fame became widespread during
+the dark days of the rebellion that followed, as the "War Governor of
+Pennsylvania." From the hotel the party proceeded to the House of
+Representatives, where he was welcomed by the Speaker, to which he
+replied in a few well-chosen words.
+
+After a short time spent in congratulations and hand-shaking they
+returned to the hotel, and the gentlemen who have been previously named
+were invited (in company with the Governor) to confer with the
+President in the parlor. At this meeting the information of the
+discovery of the plot to assassinate the President was laid before them,
+and also the details of the proposed journey to Washington. After the
+matter had been fully explained, a great diversity of opinion manifested
+itself among the gentlemen present, and some warm discussion was
+indulged in. Finally, Judge Davis, who had expressed no opinion upon the
+subject as yet, addressed the President, saying:
+
+"Well, Mr. Lincoln, what is your own judgment upon this matter?"
+
+"I have thought over this matter considerably since I went over the
+ground with Mr. Pinkerton last night," answered Mr. Lincoln, "and the
+appearance of Mr. Frederick Seward, with warning from another source,
+confirms my belief in Mr. Pinkerton's statement; therefore, unless there
+are some other reasons than a fear of ridicule, I am disposed to carry
+out Mr. Judd's plan."
+
+Judge Davis turned to the others, and said:
+
+"That settles the matter, gentlemen."
+
+"So be it," exclaimed Col. Sumner. "It is against my judgment, but I
+have undertaken to go to Washington with Mr. Lincoln, and I shall do
+it."
+
+Mr. Judd endeavored in vain to convince the gallant old soldier that
+every additional person only added to the risk, but the fiery spirit of
+the veteran was aroused and debate was useless.
+
+Having arranged the matter thus satisfactorily the party, at about four
+o'clock in the afternoon, repaired to the dining-room for dinner.
+
+All the preliminaries had now been successfully arranged. The special
+train, ostensibly to take the officers of the railroad company back to
+Philadelphia, was waiting upon a side track just outside of the town.
+The telegraph operators had performed their work admirably. Walking out
+of the city nearly two miles, Mr. Wynne climbed the poles and placing
+fine copper ground wires upon the regular lines, the city was soon
+entirely isolated from her neighbors. No message could possibly be sent
+from Harrisburg, and the capital of Pennsylvania was cut off temporarily
+from the rest of the world.
+
+The preparations in Philadelphia had also been fully made. Mrs. Warne
+had succeeded in engaging the rear half of a sleeping-car for the
+accommodation of her invalid brother, and that portion of the car was to
+be entirely separated from the rest by a curtain, so arranged that no
+one in the forward part of the car would be aware of the occupants of
+the same coach.
+
+In order to detain the Baltimore train until the arrival of Mr. Lincoln,
+the conductor was directed not to start his train until he received
+personal instructions to that effect from Mr. H. F. Kinney, the
+superintendent, who would hand him an important parcel, which President
+Felton desired should be delivered early on the following morning to Mr.
+E. J. Allen at Willard's Hotel, in Washington. (E. J. Allen was the
+nom-de-plume I generally used when on detective operations.)
+
+At a quarter to six o'clock everything was in readiness. A carriage was
+in waiting at the side entrance of the hotel, and the entire party were
+still at the table. A message was delivered to the President by Mr.
+Nicolay, and upon receiving it, he immediately arose, and, accompanied
+by Mr. Curtin, Mr. Lamon and Mr. Judd, he left the dining-room. Mr.
+Lincoln exchanged his dinner dress for a traveling suit, and soon
+returned with a shawl upon his arm and a soft felt hat protruding from
+his coat pocket.
+
+The halls, stairways and pavement were filled with a mass of people,
+who, seeing the President in company with the Governor, at once imagined
+that they were going to the executive mansion, where a reception was to
+be held in the evening.
+
+Mr. Judd whispered to Mr. Lamon to proceed in advance, adding:
+
+"As soon as Mr. Lincoln is in the carriage, drive off."
+
+As the party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin, and Mr. Lamon,
+entered the carriage, Col. Sumner attempted to follow them, but Mr. Judd
+gently put his hand upon the old gentleman's shoulder, and as he turned
+quickly around to inquire what was wanted, the carriage was driven
+rapidly away.
+
+[Illustration: "_The party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin
+and Mr. Lamon, entered the carriage._" P. 94.]
+
+Thus far everything had passed off admirably, and in a short time Mr.
+Lincoln was upon the special train, accompanied only by Mr. Lamon and
+the railroad officials, and speeding along toward Philadelphia.
+
+Without accident the party arrived at the Quaker City shortly after ten
+o'clock, where I was waiting with a carriage, in company with Mr.
+Kinney. Without a word Mr. Lincoln, Mr. Lamon and myself entered the
+vehicle, while Mr. Kinney seated himself alongside of the driver, and we
+proceeded directly to the depot of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and
+Baltimore Railroad.
+
+Driving up to the sidewalk on Carpenter street, and in the shadow of a
+tall fence, the carriage was stopped and the party alighted. As we
+approached the train, Mrs. Warne came forward, and, familiarly greeting
+the President as her brother, we entered the sleeping-car by the rear
+door without unnecessary delay, and without any one being aware of the
+distinguished passenger who had arrived.
+
+A carefully inclosed package, which resembled a formidable official
+document, but which contained only some neatly folded daily papers, was
+placed in the hands of the unsuspecting conductor--the whistle sounded,
+and soon the train was in motion, whirling on towards the capital of the
+nation.
+
+So carefully had all our movements been conducted, that no one in
+Philadelphia saw Mr. Lincoln enter the car, and no one on the train,
+except his own immediate party--not even the conductor, knew of his
+presence, and the President, feeling fatigued from the labors and the
+journeys of the day, at once retired to his berth.
+
+In order to prevent the possibility of accident, I had arranged with my
+men a series of signals along the road. It was barely possible that the
+work of destroying the railroad might be attempted by some reckless
+individuals, or that a suspicion of our movements might be entertained
+by the conspirators, and therefore, the utmost caution must be observed.
+
+As the train approached Havre de Grace, I went to the rear platform of
+the car, and as the train passed on a bright light flashed suddenly upon
+my gaze and was as quickly extinguished, and then I knew that thus far
+all was well.
+
+From this point all the way to Baltimore, at every bridge-crossing these
+lights flashed, and their rays carried the comforting assurance "All's
+Well!"
+
+We reached Baltimore at about half-past three o'clock in the morning,
+and as the train rumbled into the depot an officer of the road entered
+the car and whispered in my ear the welcome words "All's Well!"
+
+The city was in profound repose as we passed through. Darkness and
+silence reigned over all. Perhaps, at this moment, however, the reckless
+conspirators were astir perfecting their plans for a tragedy as infamous
+as any which has ever disgraced a free country--perhaps even now the
+holders of the _red_ ballots were nerving themselves for their part in
+the dreadful work, or were tossing restlessly upon sleepless couches.
+
+Be that as it may, our presence in Baltimore was entirely unsuspected,
+and as the sleeping-car in which we were, was drawn by horses through
+the streets from the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore depot, until
+we reached the Washington station, no sign of life was apparent in the
+great slumbering city. At the depot, however, a number of people were
+gathered, awaiting the arrival and departure of the various trains, and
+here the usual bustle and activity were manifested.
+
+We were compelled to remain here fully two hours, owing to the detention
+of the train from the West, and during that time, Mr. Lincoln remained
+quietly in his berth, joking with rare good humor with those around him.
+
+Ever and anon some snatches of rebel harmony would reach our ears, as
+they were rather discordantly sung by the waiting passengers in and
+around the depot. "My Maryland" and "Dixie" appeared to be the
+favorites, and once, after an intoxicated individual had roared through
+one stanza of the latter song, Mr. Lincoln turned quietly and rather
+sadly to me and said:
+
+"No doubt there will be a great time in Dixie by and by."
+
+How prophetic his words were, the succeeding years too fully proved.
+
+At length the train arrived and we proceeded on our way, arriving in
+Washington about six o'clock in the morning. Mr. Lincoln wrapped his
+traveling shawl about his shoulders, and in company with Mr. Lamon,
+started to leave the car. I followed close behind, and on the platform
+found two of my men awaiting our arrival. A great many people were
+gathered about the depot, but Mr. Lincoln entirely escaped recognition,
+until as we were about leaving the depot, Mr. Washburne, of Illinois,
+came up and cordially shook him by the hand.
+
+The surprise of this gentleman was unbounded, and many of those standing
+around, observing his movements, and the tall form of Mr. Lincoln
+exciting curiosity, I feared that danger might result in case he was
+recognized at this time. I accordingly went up to them hurriedly, and
+pressing between them whispered rather loudly:
+
+"No talking here!"
+
+Mr. Washburne gazed inquiringly at me, and was about to resent my
+interference, when Mr. Lincoln interposed:
+
+"That is Mr. Pinkerton, and everything is all right."
+
+Thus satisfied, Mr. Washburne quickly led the way to a carriage in
+waiting outside, where we met Mr. Seward, who warmly greeted the
+President, and then the party were rapidly driven down Pennsylvania
+Avenue to Willard's Hotel--I following closely behind them with my men,
+in another vehicle.
+
+[Illustration: "_The safe arrival at Washington._" P. 98.]
+
+On his arrival at the hotel Mr. Lincoln was warmly greeted by his
+friends, who were rejoiced at his safe arrival, and leaving him in the
+hands of those whose fealty was undoubted, I withdrew, and engaged
+temporary quarters at another hotel.
+
+During the forenoon I received a note from Mr. Lincoln requesting an
+interview, and received his warm expressions of thankfulness for the
+part I had performed in securing his safety, after which, finding that
+my object had been fully accomplished, I took the train and returned to
+Baltimore.
+
+Here I found the utmost excitement prevailing. The news of the safe
+arrival of Mr. Lincoln had already reached there, and a general
+sentiment of rage and disappointment pervaded the entire circle of
+conspirators and secessionists. I lost no time in securing an interview
+with Howard, and learned from him the particulars attendant upon the
+discovery that Mr. Lincoln had outwitted his enemies and was now safely
+quartered in Washington. Finding that their plans had been discovered,
+and fearing that the vengeance of the government would overtake them,
+the leading conspirators had suddenly disappeared. All their courage and
+bravado was gone, and now, like the miserable cowards that they were,
+they had sought safety in flight.
+
+A curious episode occurred at Harrisburg immediately after the
+departure of Mr. Lincoln from that city. Two newspaper correspondents
+connected with prominent New York journals had accompanied the party
+from Springfield, and had faithfully noted the incidents which had
+occurred upon the journey. As soon as the train which carried Mr.
+Lincoln away from Harrisburg was on its way, a gentlemanly individual,
+_well-known to me_, went to the room occupied by these journalists, and
+found them engaged in preparations to witness the further proceedings of
+the presidential party.
+
+The visitor quickly informed the gentlemen that Mr. Lincoln had left the
+city and was now flying over the road in the direction of Washington,
+which he would no doubt reach in the morning. This was the signal for
+renewed activity, and both gentlemen hastily arose, and, grasping their
+hats, started for the door. Their visitor however, was too quick for
+them, and standing before the door with a revolver in each hand, he
+addressed them: "You cannot leave this room, gentlemen, without my
+permission!"
+
+"What does this mean?" inquired one of the surprised gentlemen, blinking
+through his spectacles.
+
+"It means that you cannot leave this room until the safety of Mr.
+Lincoln justifies it," calmly replied the other.
+
+"I want to telegraph to the _Herald_," said the second
+correspondent--"what is the use of obtaining news if we cannot utilize
+it?"
+
+"You cannot utilize anything at present, gentlemen. The telegraph will
+not be of any service to you, for the wires are all down, and Harrisburg
+will be separated from the rest of the world for some hours yet."
+
+"When do you propose to let us out?" humbly asked one.
+
+"Well, I'll tell you, gentlemen. If you will sit down calmly, and bide
+your time and mine, I will make matters interesting for you, by
+informing you all about this flank movement on the Baltimoreans."
+
+Their indignation and fright subsided at once, and they quietly sat
+down. Refreshments were sent for, and soon the nimble pencils of the
+reporters were rapidly jotting down as much of the information as was
+deemed advisable to be made public at that time. After they had heard
+all, they prepared their dispatches for New York, both correspondents
+writing long and interesting accounts of the affair.
+
+When daylight dawned, and the gladsome tidings had been received that
+Mr. Lincoln was safe, these knights of the quill were liberated, and,
+rushing to the telegraph offices, which were now in running order again,
+the news was transmitted to New York and in less than an hour the types
+were being set which would convey to the public the startling news of
+the discovered conspiracy, and the manner in which the conspirators had
+been outwitted.
+
+As the later train arrived at Baltimore, I went to the depot and found
+the remaining members of the President's party, who also brought Mrs.
+Lincoln with them.
+
+Mr. Judd was jubilant at the success of the adventure, but Col. Sumner
+had not yet recovered his good humor. I have no doubt, however, that Mr.
+Lincoln succeeded in placating his irascible friend, and I know that in
+the bloody scenes which followed Col. Sumner bore an honorable and
+courageous part.
+
+Thus ends the narration of this important episode in one of the most
+interesting epochs of the country's history, and a truthful record has
+been given. Exaggerated stories and unauthorized statements have been
+freely made with regard to this journey of Mr. Lincoln. The caricaturist
+has attempted to throw ridicule upon the great man who now sleeps in a
+martyr's grave. A silly story of his being disguised in a Scotch cap and
+plaid obtained a temporary currency, but the fact remains that Mr.
+Lincoln, as a gentleman, and in the company of gentlemen, successfully
+passed through the camp of the conspirators and reached in safety the
+capital of the country.
+
+Now the war is ended. Peace reigns throughout the borders of the great
+Republic. And when, during the last dying throes of the rebellion, this
+great man was stricken down by the hand of an assassin, North and South
+alike united in lamenting his death, and in execrating the damnable
+deed and its reckless perpetrators.
+
+I had informed Mr. Lincoln in Philadelphia that I would answer with my
+life for his safe arrival in Washington, and I had redeemed my pledge.
+
+[Illustration: A CAMP SONG.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+_My Connection with the Rebellion.--Timothy Webster Accepts a Mission._
+
+
+My connection with the "Great Rebellion" of 1861 began almost from the
+inception of that gigantic struggle. During the days that intervened
+between the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln and the memorable 12th day
+of April, 1861, treason was busy in the South, and secession resolved
+itself into an accomplished fact. Scarcely had the reverberating tones
+of the guns upon the batteries in Charleston Harbor died away upon the
+air, than I was called into the service of the military branch of the
+government. At that time I was engaged in the energetic practice of my
+profession as a detective, which, large as it was, and constantly
+increasing, required a personal supervision, which absorbed my undivided
+attention. When, however, it became evident that a conflict was
+unavoidable, I soon found my services were needed, and putting aside all
+considerations of a private or business nature, I yielded a ready and
+cheerful response to the call, and during my connection with what was
+afterwards known as the secret service of the government, I rendered
+every assistance that lay in my power to further the cause of union, and
+to serve the country of my adoption.
+
+The month of April, 1861, was an important one in the history of the
+country. Whatever fears and apprehensions had filled the minds of the
+Northern people as to the solution of the great political questions then
+pending, a resort to arms had, until that time, been regarded as not
+likely to occur. A people who had been reared amid the blessings of a
+long and undisturbed peace, and whose lives, under this benign
+influence, had been prosperous and happy, they were almost entirely
+unprepared for a serious contest or a warlike struggle. Many times
+before the political horizon had grown dark and threatening, but the
+storm had subsided almost instantly, under that wise yielding of
+obedience to law and to the will of majorities, which it was hoped would
+now exercise its power for the preservation and continuance of amity.
+
+When, therefore, on the 12th of April, the attack upon Fort Sumter in
+Charleston Harbor was made, the Northern people were almost startled by
+surprise. Though entirely unprepared for such an event, it was clearly
+demonstrated to all that war could now no longer be honorably avoided.
+It was now too late to inquire into original causes of the contest; it
+remained only for the loyal heart to resent the insult to a nation's
+flag, and to sustain the government in upholding its constitution and
+in enforcing its laws. This act fired the patriotic heart and solidified
+the patriotic ranks, and, with the crumbling of the walls upon Fort
+Sumter, were shattered all the hopes previously entertained of a
+peaceful solution of the problems which were then before the country. I
+have very little doubt that the assault upon Fort Sumter was ordered by
+the rebel government, under the fallacious hope and groundless belief
+that it would not provoke immediate or widespread civil war. The
+Southern leaders were well aware of the fact that the frontier could not
+be entirely stripped of regulars, and assuming, or pretending to, that
+the existing laws contained no provision authorizing a call of the
+militia, they inferred that it would be difficult for the new
+administration to obtain at once legislation of a coercive character.
+Then, too, they relied, in a great measure, upon a friendly feeling
+toward the South from their late political associates in the North; but
+in this their reckoning was at fault, and the roar of Beauregard's guns
+in Charleston Harbor cleared up the political horizon as if by magic.
+
+There could no longer be any doubt as to the position and intentions of
+the Confederates. Seven disloyal States, with all their machinery of a
+separate government, stood behind those batteries, and the cool
+deliberation of the assault gave evidence of plan, of purpose and of
+confidence. What had been believed to be a mere conspiracy for the
+gaining of certain political ends, now gave way to a revolution, which
+menaced the perpetuity of the government and which required the armed
+force of the government to combat and subdue.
+
+The news of the assault upon Sumter reached Washington on Saturday, the
+13th day of April, and on the following day, Sunday though it was,
+President Lincoln assembled his Cabinet to discuss the duty of the hour,
+and on Monday morning a proclamation was issued, calling forth an army
+of seventy-five thousand men, for objects entirely lawful and
+constitutional.
+
+The effect of this proclamation upon the people of the North was almost
+electrical, and the heart of the whole nation throbbed with its
+patriotic emotions as that of a single individual. The general sentiment
+appeared to be in entire accord with the utterance of Stephen A.
+Douglas, a live-long Democrat, that "every man must be for the United
+States, or against it; there can be no neutrals in this war--only
+patriots and traitors." More than double the number of men that were
+required tendered their services, and before the lapse of forty-eight
+hours armed companies and regiments of volunteers were in motion toward
+the expected border of conflict. Nor was there exhibited that division
+of Northern sentiment that had been so boastfully predicted by the
+Southern leaders, and all men, of every belief, Democrats and
+Republicans, Conservatives and Radicals, natives and foreigners, from
+Maine to Oregon, responded to the call, and came to the defense of the
+constitution, the government and the Union.
+
+At this time the position of Maryland was rather a precarious one. There
+could be no doubt that the Unionists were greatly in the majority, but
+it was also true that there was a large and influential minority of her
+people in favor of secession. Here, as elsewhere, conspiracy had been at
+work for months, and many of the prominent political leaders were in
+full accord with the rebel government. The legislature was believed to
+be unreliable, and treason had obtained so firm a foothold in the
+populous city of Baltimore, that a secret recruiting office was sending
+enlisted men to Charleston. The venomous germ of treason, once planted,
+grew in magnitude and virulence, until it finally culminated in the
+infamous riot of April 19th, when the blood of the citizen soldiery of
+Massachusetts was first shed in defense of the Union. A spirit of
+opposition to the passage of Northern troops through the city, on their
+way to the seat of government, had been engendered among the "rough"
+element of Baltimore, and the excitement reached its climax upon the
+arrival of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment, which was the first to
+answer the call for troops. When their presence became known the
+traitorous element could no longer be restrained, and while the men were
+passing quietly through the city, on their way from one railroad
+station to another, they were murderously attacked by a reckless,
+howling mob, which resulted in bloodshed and carnage, and some of the
+most fiendish outrages were perpetrated that ever blackened a page of
+American history.
+
+The crowning act of disloyalty, and one which threatened the most
+serious consequences to the government, was committed about midnight of
+the same day. A secret order was issued by the mayor and police officers
+to burn the nearest bridges on the railroads leading into Baltimore from
+the free States, and parties, under the command of the police
+authorities were dispatched to execute the order.
+
+Before daylight the following morning, the bridges at Melvale, Relay
+House and Cockeysville, on the Harrisburg road and over the Bush and
+Gunpowder rivers and Harris Creek, were completely destroyed by fire,
+thus effectually severing railroad communication with the North. The
+telegraph wires leading to and from the capital were also cut,
+completely shutting off Washington, and the government from the loyal
+Northern States. These acts, committed by the orders of the very men who
+that morning had risked their lives in defending the soldiers of the
+Union, are sufficient to show the rapid and overmastering influence of
+revolutionary madness.
+
+Of course, the news of these outrages spread far and wide over the
+country, and while they aroused universal indignation, they
+nevertheless were the occasion of grave fears for the safety of the
+capital.
+
+It was on the 21st of April, two days after the occurrence of these
+events that my services were required. Several gentlemen of prominence
+in Chicago, intimate friends of President Lincoln, and men of influence
+and intelligence in the State, desired to communicate with the President
+upon questions connected with the existing condition of affairs, and
+applied to me for the purpose of having letters and dispatches conveyed
+directly to Washington by the hands of a trusty messenger.
+
+I at once accepted the duty, and selected a man for its performance.
+Experience proved that I was not mistaken in my selection, and as the
+messenger chosen for this duty is to bear an important part in the
+event, which I am about to relate, a description of him will at once
+acquaint the reader with his personal appearance.
+
+He was a tall, broad-shouldered, good-looking man of about forty years
+of age. In height he was about five feet ten inches; his brown hair,
+which was brushed carelessly back from a broad, high forehead,
+surmounted a face of a character to at once attract attention.
+
+There was such a decided mixture of sternness and amiability, of innate
+force and gentle feelings, of frankness and resolution stamped upon his
+features, that he instinctively impressed the beholder at a glance.
+
+The deep gray eyes could twinkle and sparkle with good humor, or they
+would grow dark and menacing, and seem to flash under the influence of
+anger. The mouth, almost concealed by the heavy brown mustaches which he
+wore, and the square, firm chin evinced a firmness that was
+unmistakable. His nose, large and well-formed, and the prominent cheek
+bones all seemed in perfect harmony with the bold spirit which leaped
+from the eyes, and the strong will that lurked about the set lips. In
+figure, he was rather stout, but his shoulders were so broad, his feet
+and hands so shapely, and the lithe limbs so well formed, that he did
+not appear of as full habit as he really was. A casual observer on
+meeting this man would almost immediately and insensibly be impressed
+with the conviction that he was a man who could be trusted; that any
+duty devolving upon him would be sacredly kept; and as he stood before
+me on this sunny afternoon in April, I felt that I could implicitly rely
+upon him in any emergency in which he might be placed, and to perform
+any service for which he might be selected.
+
+This man was Timothy Webster, a faithful officer, a true friend, and an
+ardent patriot.
+
+I had known this man for years. He had been in my employ for a long
+time, and had been engaged upon operations of a varied and diverse
+nature, consequently I knew precisely what his capabilities were, and
+how entirely he could be trusted. Though not a man of great
+enlightenment, he was gifted with a large amount of natural shrewdness,
+which enabled him to successfully meet any emergency which might arise.
+From his association with people in the various walks of life, he had
+acquired that habit of easy adaptation which made him appear, and feel,
+perfectly at home in almost any society, whether in the drawing-room or
+the tavern, in the marts of trade, or laboring at the plow.
+
+From my knowledge of Timothy Webster, and my confidence in his wisdom
+and reliability, I had chosen him to be the bearer of the dispatches to
+Mr. Lincoln. I therefore called him into my office and explained to him
+the nature of the duties he was to perform, the possible dangers he
+would encounter, and the importance of the trust that was to be reposed
+in him, and when I had concluded, I asked:
+
+"Timothy, knowing what you do of the task before you, will you undertake
+its performance?"
+
+"I understand all perfectly," he replied, drawing himself up to his full
+height, while his eyes flashed with a patriotic fire, "I know that my
+country demands my services, and that, if it shall cost me my life, I am
+ready to perform my full duty."
+
+The preparations for his departure did not occupy a very long time; the
+services of Miss Kate Warne, my female superintendent, were requested,
+and in a few minutes the important dispatches, some twelve in number,
+were securely sewed between the linings of his coat collar, and in the
+body of his waistcoat, and Timothy Webster was on his way to the capital
+of the country.
+
+[Illustration: A COLORED CONTRABAND]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+_Webster on his Way to the Capital.--Wrecked Trains and Broken
+Bridges.--An Adventure with a Cavalryman.--Rebel Emissary.--President
+Lincoln and Timothy Webster._
+
+
+Everywhere along the route the greatest excitement prevailed, and the
+people were in a state of wildest commotion. A rumor had spread
+throughout the country that the government, indignant at the riotous
+conduct of the Baltimoreans, had ordered the guns of Fort McHenry to
+fire upon the city, that the bombardment was now going on, and that half
+the town was reduced to ashes. This rumor was false, as Webster learned
+on arriving in Philadelphia, although even in the staid old Quaker City
+there was manifest a degree of excitement scarcely to be expected in a
+community so sedate and easy-going as Philadelphians usually are.
+
+Leaving the train at Philadelphia, Webster made his way through the
+crowded streets to the center of the city. He deemed it best to take
+counsel with some of the railroad and express officials, with whom he
+was very well acquainted, by reason of his connection with the discovery
+of the conspiracy to assassinate President Lincoln in Baltimore in the
+month of February immediately preceding.
+
+At that time Webster had been enrolled as a member of a volunteer
+company of cavalry at Perrymansville, in Maryland, and, gaining the
+confidence of his officers, had assisted in discovering the plans of the
+conspirators, and partly through his efforts, I had been successful in
+frustrating their murderous designs. This operation had brought him in
+close association with several gentlemen who were connected with the
+railroad and express companies, whose travel lay between Philadelphia
+and the now riotous and isolated city of Baltimore. As he was walking
+leisurely down Chestnut street he was accosted by Mr. Dunn, a gentleman
+who was connected with a leading express company in the city, and who
+was now upon his return from a visit to the Philadelphia, Wilmington and
+Baltimore depot. After an interchange of salutations, Webster inquired
+of Mr. Dunn the condition of affairs in and around Baltimore.
+
+"Very bad, indeed," replied that gentleman; "the bridges are all down,
+and the tracks have been torn up all along the road from Perrysville to
+Baltimore. The telegraph-wires have been cut, and no communications have
+been received from Baltimore or Washington except through couriers. The
+roads are guarded with soldiery, whose sympathies are with the
+rebellion, and it is almost impossible for any one who cannot identify
+himself as a Southern man to pass the guards who are stationed along
+the highways."
+
+"It does not look very favorable for my reaching Washington to-morrow,
+then?" said Webster, inquiringly.
+
+"No, sir. I am afraid that you will find it difficult, if not dangerous,
+to attempt such a journey, particularly by the way of Baltimore; and
+perhaps you had better delay your departure until it can be more safely
+accomplished," said Mr. Dunn.
+
+"It may be as you say," replied Webster, "but I left Chicago for
+Washington, and my line of travel was laid out through Baltimore. I will
+obey my orders to the letter, and I will arrive in Washington to-morrow
+night, or lose my life in attempting it!"
+
+"I see that you are determined to go," said Mr. Dunn, "and further
+argument would be of no avail; but I assure you, that you cannot travel
+further by rail than Perrysville; you may succeed in getting across the
+river to Havre de Grace, but after that you will have to rely entirely
+upon yourself."
+
+"Never fear for me," replied Webster, with a smile, "I will get through
+all right, I feel confident. I will have but little time now to catch
+the train, Mr. Dunn, and if you will be kind enough to telegraph to Mr.
+Pinkerton according to my directions, I will esteem it a great favor."
+
+"Certainly, Webster; anything I can do for you, or Mr. Pinkerton, will
+be done cheerfully."
+
+Writing out a message, informing me of his arrival in Philadelphia and
+of his intentions, he requested Mr. Dunn to forward the same, and then,
+bidding that gentleman good-bye, he made his way to the Baltimore depot,
+and was soon on the road to that city.
+
+As the train went speeding along upon its journey, Webster had ample
+time for the consideration of his plans. He was pretty well acquainted
+with the country between Havre de Grace and Baltimore, and had no fear
+of losing his way, even if the journey must be made by foot. He was
+impressed, however, with the necessity of using the utmost caution.
+While he did not fear for his own personal safety--for fear was an
+element entirely unknown to him--he realized the importance of his
+mission too well to rashly imperil its success by any useless exposure,
+or unnecessary risk. To reach Washington, however, he was determined,
+and to accomplish that object no danger would be too great, no hardship
+too severe. He nevertheless felt that he must rely solely upon himself,
+that he would have no one to advise him, and his own discretion and
+wisdom would have to be depended upon under all circumstances. Arriving
+at the Perrysville station, he found that the train could go no further,
+and that, to reach Havre de Grace, upon the opposite side of the
+Susquehanna River, the passengers would be required to take small boats
+and be rowed over, after which each man must make his way as best he
+could.
+
+As the boat touched the land Webster sprang ashore, and, going directly
+to the hotel, inquired for the landlord. He found that gentleman engaged
+in earnest conversation with an individual who at once instinctively
+awakened the suspicions of my operative. This gentleman was a tall,
+fine-looking man, with the erect carriage and self-reliant air of the
+soldier, but there was something in the nervousness of his manner, and
+in the furtive glances of his eyes, which convinced Webster that he was
+concealing something and would bear watching.
+
+Approaching the spot where the two men were conversing, Webster at once
+addressed the landlord in a hearty manner. "Landlord, I must get to
+Baltimore to-day. How am I going to do it?"
+
+"I do not know," replied the hotel-keeper, "this gentleman is anxious to
+do the same thing, but I am afraid I cannot help either of you."
+
+The gentleman thus referred to turned to Webster, saying:
+
+"Yes, I am very anxious to get through. I am a bearer of dispatches to
+the British Consul at Washington, and it is of the utmost importance
+that they should be delivered at once."
+
+While he was speaking a man drove up to the front of the hotel with a
+fine, strong team of horses attached to a covered road wagon, and
+throwing the reins across the back of his horses, leaped lightly to the
+ground.
+
+"Here is a man who can help you," said the landlord, as the new-comer
+entered the room; and then he called out:
+
+"Harris, come here!"
+
+The driver of the team came over to where the three men were standing,
+and the landlord at once made known to him the wishes of Webster and the
+messenger of the British Consul.
+
+"Harris, these gentlemen want to get to Baltimore to-day. Do you think
+you can manage it for them?"
+
+The man addressed as Harris gazed at Webster and his companion in a
+scrutinizing manner, and finally, apparently satisfied with his
+investigation, signified his willingness to make the attempt, provided
+the price he demanded, which was fifty dollars, was agreed to.
+
+Both men assented to the payment of the sum named, and after dinner had
+been partaken of, the two men took their seats in the vehicle, the
+driver cracked his whip, and they were upon their way.
+
+"I cannot promise to take you through to Baltimore," remarked the
+driver, after they had started; "I was stopped twice on the road
+yesterday, and I may not be able to pass the guards to-day."
+
+"Do the best you can," said Webster, good-naturedly, "and we will take
+the risk of a safe arrival."
+
+Webster then turned to his companion, who had remained silent and
+watchful ever since they had set out, and endeavored to engage him in
+conversation. The bearer of dispatches, however, was very little
+inclined to be sociable, and Webster had great difficulty in breaking
+through the reserve which he resolved to maintain.
+
+The further they journeyed, the more Webster became convinced that this
+man was not what he assumed to be, but he vailed his suspicions
+carefully, and appeared as frank and cordial in his manner as though
+they were brothers.
+
+Nothing worthy of note transpired upon the route until the party arrived
+at the outskirts of Perrymansville, which had been the scene of
+Webster's first experience in military service, and where, a few months
+before, he had been a member of a company of cavalry. They were trotting
+along quietly, and as the day was balmy and bright the ride was quite an
+enjoyable one, and for a moment the detective forgot the grave duties
+which he had undertaken and the dangers that might surround him, and
+gave himself up to the full enjoyment of the scenes around him. His
+pleasant reflections were short-lived, however, for just as they were
+entering the town they saw a mounted cavalryman approaching, who, as he
+reached the carriage, commanded them to halt.
+
+The driver suddenly pulled up his horses, and then the soldier, in a
+tone of authority: "Who are you, and where are you going?"
+
+"We are residents of Baltimore," answered Webster, not at all dismayed
+by the stern appearance and manner of his soldierly interlocutor, "and
+we are endeavoring to get home."
+
+"You will have to go with me," replied the soldier, decisively, "you
+can't go any further without permission."
+
+Here was a detention as unwelcome as it was unexpected, but Webster had
+recognized the uniform worn by the soldier as that of the very company
+of cavalry he had previously been a member of, and a duplicate of one in
+which he had previously arrayed himself. The man who had accosted him,
+however, was unknown to him, and he could, therefore, do nothing but
+submit quietly to his orders and await a favorable operation of
+circumstances.
+
+As Webster glanced casually at his companion, the British messenger, he
+was surprised at the change which was apparent in the expression of his
+features. Instead of the calm, dignified air of watchful repose which he
+had observed before, his face had grown pale, and there was such an
+unmistakable evidence of fear about the man, that Webster's suspicions
+were confirmed, and come what might he resolved to ascertain the nature
+of his business before they parted company.
+
+They had traveled but a short distance under the escort of their guard
+when they met another man dressed in a similar uniform, and evidently a
+member of the same company, and as Webster gazed at the new-comer he
+experienced a sensation of relief and joy, for in him he recognized an
+old companion in arms.
+
+As this man approached nearer, Webster called out from the carriage, in
+a cheery voice:
+
+"Hello, Taylor! how are you?"
+
+Thus suddenly accosted, the soldier rode up to the vehicle, and after a
+momentary glance at the features of the detective, he reached forth his
+hand and cordially saluted him.
+
+"Why, Webster, how do you do? The boys said you would not come back, now
+that the war had commenced, but I knew better, and I am glad to see
+you."
+
+The face of the reputed Englishman cleared in an instant, as he found
+that his companion was among friends, and this effect was not lost upon
+Webster, who had been furtively observing him. He turned his attention,
+however, to the soldier who had addressed him.
+
+"Oh, yes," he replied, "I have come back; and my friend here and I are
+anxious to get to Baltimore as soon as possible."
+
+"That will be all right," said the soldier; and then, turning to his
+comrade, he said: "These men are all right, you will permit them to
+pass."
+
+After a few minutes spent in a pleasant conversation, the soldier handed
+to Webster a pass which would prevent further interruption to their
+journey, and with a mutual pull at a flask with which Webster had
+provided himself before starting, the parties separated, and they
+proceeded on their way.
+
+This little incident produced a marked change in the demeanor of
+Webster's companion, and on being informed that the soldiers were
+Southerners, and not Federals, he seemed quite relieved.
+
+By the time they were approaching the suburbs of Baltimore the stranger
+had grown exceedingly communicative, and upon Webster hinting to him
+that he also was engaged in the cause of the South, he without
+hesitation informed my operative that he was similarly employed, and
+that he was at present carrying dispatches to prominent Southern
+sympathizers then residing in Washington.
+
+As he communicated this important item of information Webster grasped
+him warmly by the hand, and greeted him as a fellow-patriot, after
+which, with rare good humor, they cemented their acquaintance and
+confidence with a friendly draught from the spirit bottle.
+
+Several times on their journey they were halted by the guards along the
+roads, but the talismanic pass obtained at Perrymansville avoided all
+questioning, and gained for the travelers a safe passage to their
+destination. Arriving safely at the outskirts of Baltimore, the two men
+left the carriage, and walking a short distance, they entered a street
+car, and were driven to a retired hotel, where Webster had frequently
+stopped when in the city on former occasions. Here they engaged quarters
+for the night, and Webster's companion had by this time formed such an
+attachment for his fellow-traveler that communicating rooms were
+engaged, and after partaking of a hearty repast, the two men lighted
+their cigars and strolled out through the city.
+
+There were still many evidences of the riotous affrays which had but
+lately taken place. The people were in a feverish state of excitement,
+the drinking saloons and the corridors of the hotels were filled with
+crowds of excited men, each of whom seemed to vie with the other in
+giving loud expressions of their opinions, and of denouncing the attempt
+of the government to transport armed troops through the streets of a
+peaceful city. Ever mindful of the important duty devolving upon him,
+Webster wisely forebore to engage in any conversation with those whom he
+met, and among the number of the most outspoken of the Southern
+sympathizers were many whom he had previously met, and to whom he was
+known as an adherent of the South. At an early hour he and his newly
+found companion returned to their hotel, and shortly afterward retired
+for the night.
+
+Arising early on the following morning, they found the same difficulty
+was to be encountered that had been successfully overcome at the
+commencement of their journey. The railroads between Baltimore and
+Washington had also been torn up, so as to render the running of the
+trains an impossibility. This fact necessitated the procuring of a team
+that would convey them to the capital; but this time Webster's
+acquaintance with the proprietors of the hotel, and several of the
+permanent guests of the house, enabled them without difficulty or delay
+to secure a pair of horses and a road wagon, with a trusty driver, who
+guaranteed to carry them to Washington for the same amount which had
+been paid upon the other portion of their journey, and at an early hour
+they were upon the road to the seat of government.
+
+Meantime Webster had been seriously considering his course of action
+with regard to his fellow-passenger. That he was an agent of the
+Confederacy he had already admitted, and that he was the bearer of
+dispatches to prominent sympathizers with the South who were now living
+in Washington, was also well known to the detective. How, therefore, to
+arrange his plans, so that these papers would be intercepted and the
+ambassador detained without arousing his suspicion? It must be
+accomplished so that no delay should result to his own journey, as he
+had resolved that his dispatches must be delivered that day. Just before
+starting out an idea occurred to him, and requesting the driver to wait
+a few minutes, as he had forgotten something in his room, he re-entered
+the hotel, and going to the room they had occupied the evening before,
+he hurriedly wrote a note which he folded up and placed in his pocket.
+The note was as follows:
+
+
+    "TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+     "My companion is an emissary of the Confederacy, carrying
+     dispatches to Southern sympathizers in Washington. Apprehend
+     him, but do so discreetly and without compromising me.
+
+                                            T. W."
+
+
+
+He then descended the stairs, and entering the wagon, they were driven
+away towards Washington. The day was exceedingly warm, and the horses,
+unused to long journeys, early began to show signs of weakness, but they
+kept on without incident, save an occasional question from a passer-by
+as to their destination, and about noon arrived at a hotel known as the
+"Twelve-Mile House," so called from its being located at that distance
+from Washington.
+
+Here the party halted for dinner, and while engaged at their repast
+Webster noticed at an opposite table a friend of years ago, who wore the
+uniform of a Lieutenant of infantry. Fortunately, however, the officer
+did not appear to recognize him, and during the progress of the dinner
+Webster kept his face hidden as much as possible from his new-found
+friend. As the Lieutenant ceased eating and arose from the table,
+Webster, who also had about completed the bill of fare, arose, and
+excusing himself to the driver and his companion, passed out into the
+hallway and met the officer face to face. Cordial greetings were
+interchanged, and in a few minutes Webster had detailed to his friend
+the circumstances attending his meeting with the so-called British
+messenger, and his suspicions concerning them. It was not long before a
+plan had been arranged for the carrying out of the project of arresting
+the pseudo Englishman without occasioning the slightest suspicion to
+fall upon Timothy Webster, and shortly afterwards the Lieutenant mounted
+his horse and rode off in the direction of Washington.
+
+After smoking their after-dinner cigars, Webster and his companion again
+resumed their journey. By this time they had become thoroughly
+acquainted, and they enlivened their drive with many a pleasing anecdote
+of experience or of invention, until they came in sight of Washington
+city. Here a difficulty awaited them, apparently unexpected by both
+travelers. A Lieutenant at the head of eight men emerged from a house by
+the wayside, and in a voice of authority directed the driver to stop his
+horses, after which he advanced to the vehicle and saluted the occupants
+with the utmost courtesy, saying:
+
+"Gentlemen, I am sorry to discommode you, but I have orders to intercept
+all persons entering the city, and hold them until they can
+satisfactorily account for themselves. You will be kind enough to
+consider yourselves under arrest and follow me."
+
+Blank astonishment was depicted on the countenances of both Webster and
+his companion, but realizing that to parley would be useless, the two
+men dismounted and followed the lieutenant and his men into the
+building, which proved to be a military guard-house.
+
+Here they were separated and conducted to different apartments, where
+they were securely locked in, Webster's companion standing outside of
+the door of the room in which Webster was placed, and after witnessing
+the operation which confined Webster a prisoner, he was conducted to the
+room assigned to him, and the key was turned upon him.
+
+In a few minutes afterwards Webster was quietly released by the
+Lieutenant who had effected his arrest, and who was none other than the
+friend to whom he had given the information. In less than half an hour
+thereafter my detective was ascending the steps of the White House,
+inquiring for his Excellency, the President of the United States.
+
+Having also been provided with a letter to the President's private
+secretary, Mr. Nicolay, Webster was soon ushered into the presence of
+Mr. Lincoln, to whom he made known the nature of his business, and
+taking off his coat and vest, he removed the dispatches and letters, and
+handed them to the President, who had been silently watching his
+movements with a great deal of amused interest.
+
+"You have brought quite a mail with you, Mr. Webster," said the
+President, "more, perhaps, than it would be quite safe to attempt to
+carry another time."
+
+"Yes, sir," replied Webster. "I don't think I would like to carry so
+much through Baltimore another time."
+
+The President carefully looked over the papers he had just received, and
+finding that they required more consideration than could be given to
+them at that time, he turned to Webster and said:
+
+"Mr. Webster, I have a Cabinet conference this evening, and I will not
+be able to give these matters my attention until to-morrow. Come to me
+at ten o'clock and I will see you at that time."
+
+Again thanking the detective for the service he had so successfully
+rendered, he bade him good evening, and Webster sought his hotel,
+thoroughly exhausted with his journey, and soon after he was sound
+asleep.
+
+The next morning, on repairing to the White House, he was at once
+admitted, and the President greeted him with marked evidences of
+cordiality.
+
+"Mr. Webster, you have rendered the country an invaluable service. The
+bearer of dispatches who was arrested last evening by your efforts,
+proved, as you suspected, to be an emissary of the South, and the
+letters found upon him disclose a state of affairs here in Washington
+quite alarming. Several prominent families here are discovered to be in
+regular communication with the Southern leaders, and are furnishing
+them with every item of information. Until this time we had only a
+suspicion of this, but suspicion has now resolved itself into a
+certainty. You have performed your duty well, and before many days there
+will be an account demanded of some of these people which they are far
+from expecting."
+
+"I am glad to be of any service," replied Webster; "and I have done
+nothing more than my duty. If you have any further commands for me, Mr.
+President, I am ready to obey them."
+
+"Very well," said the President; "take these telegrams, and when you
+have reached a point where communication is possible, send them to
+General McClellan, at Columbus, Ohio; they are important and must be
+sent without delay. Also telegraph to Mr. Pinkerton to come to
+Washington at once; his services are, I think, greatly needed by the
+government at this time."
+
+Rolling up the papers which he received, Webster placed them in the
+center of a hollow cane, which he carried; then, replacing the handle,
+and promising to attend faithfully to the duties assigned him, he left
+the executive mansion.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Washington.--The Return to Philadelphia.--I go to
+the Capital.--An Important Letter._
+
+
+After leaving the White House, Timothy Webster went immediately in quest
+of a conveyance that would enable him to reach Baltimore without
+unnecessary delay. He expected to encounter greater difficulties in
+obtaining what he desired here in Washington than he had met with in
+Baltimore, for the reason that in the capital he was a comparative
+stranger, while in the latter city he had numerous friends, who believed
+him to be in sympathy with the Confederacy, and whose assistance he
+could rely upon on that account. His only hope, therefore, lay in his
+being able to find some friendly Baltimorean, upon whose influence he
+could depend to procure him a mode of conveyance for his return. Having
+arrived late on the preceding evening and being terribly fatigued by the
+journey he had made, Webster had retired almost immediately after he
+reached his hotel, and consequently he was surprised at the busy scenes
+which greeted him now. The capital was swarming with soldiers and
+civilians. Regiments continually arriving and were being assigned to
+quarters and positions around the city, and the streets were filled with
+eager and excited multitudes. The position which Maryland had assumed
+was vehemently discussed everywhere, and the riotous conduct of the
+Baltimoreans was loudly denounced by Northern men, and secretly
+applauded by those whose sympathies were with the cause of the South.
+The prompt action of General Butler, with his regiment of Massachusetts
+soldiers, who followed quickly after the sixth, in going by boat
+directly to Annapolis, in order to reach Washington without hindrance or
+delay, and his patriotic and determined response to those in authority,
+who sought to induce him to change his plans for reaching the capital,
+were everywhere warmly commended. There could be no doubt that the North
+was thoroughly aroused, and were dreadfully in earnest in their
+determination to suppress a rebellion which they believed to be
+causeless, unlawful and threatening the future of a great country.
+
+As Webster walked along Pennsylvania Avenue, carefully scanning the
+faces of every one he met in the hope of discovering some one whom he
+knew and who might be of service to him, he recognized the driver who
+had brought him from Baltimore on the day before, and who started in
+astonishment at finding the man whom he had last seen a prisoner in the
+hands of United States troops now walking the streets free and
+unattended. This man was accompanied by three others, with two of whom
+Webster was slightly acquainted, and he at once advanced toward them and
+greeted them cordially.
+
+"Why, Webster, is that you?" inquired the foremost of the party, a
+well-known "sympathizer" of the name of John Maull. "We heard you had
+been taken prisoner--how did you get out so soon?"
+
+"That is easily accounted for," said Webster, with a laugh; "I was
+simply arrested on suspicion, and when they could find nothing about me
+that was at all suspicious, they were compelled to let me go."
+
+"This country is coming upon strange times," remarked a sallow-faced
+Baltimorean who boasted of having been one of the most prominent of the
+rioters a few days before, "when a man can be arrested in this way and
+have no means of redress."
+
+"That is very true," replied Webster, "but we will have a decided change
+before long, or I am very much mistaken. 'Uncle Jeff' means business,
+and there will be long faces in Washington before many days."
+
+"Give me your hand, old boy," exclaimed Maull heartily, "you are of the
+right stripe; but don't talk so loud; let us go around the corner to a
+quiet little place where we can talk without danger."
+
+The party repaired to a drinking saloon, in a retired neighborhood, and
+on entering it they were greeted warmly by several parties who were
+standing before the bar. Webster was immediately introduced to these
+gentlemen, and it was not long before he had firmly established himself
+in their good opinions as a devoted friend of the South.
+
+The conversation soon became general, and the most extravagant ideas
+were expressed with regard to the wonderful achievements that were
+expected of the Southern soldiers, and no doubt was entertained that the
+Yankees, as they called the Northern men, would be quickly vanquished by
+the chivalrous armies of the "Sunny South."
+
+To all of these suggestions Webster yielded a ready assent, and not one
+among the number was more pronounced in his belief in the needs of the
+Southern cause than was my trusty operative, who, in the cane he
+flourished so conspicuously, carried important dispatches from the
+President of the United States to a General in command of Northern
+soldiers.
+
+All the time, however, he was growing very restive under the enforced
+delay in his journey, and seeking a favorable opportunity during a lull
+in the conversation, he turned to the driver of the wagon and inquired
+of him when he was going to return to Baltimore.
+
+"Not for a day or two, at least," replied the man.
+
+"That is very bad," said Webster. "I must get there this evening; it is
+of the utmost importance that I should do so."
+
+At this one of the party approached Webster and informed him that he
+was going back that day and had engaged a conveyance for that purpose,
+and as there was room enough for two, he would be most happy to have his
+company. Webster at once accepted the invitation, and having thus
+relieved his anxiety upon the point of reaching Baltimore, he joined
+heartily in the conversation that was going on around him. No one, to
+have heard him, would doubt for a moment his loyalty to the South, or
+his firm belief in the eventual triumph of her armies.
+
+After remaining in the saloon for some time, Webster noticed that the
+men were becoming intoxicated, and fearing that they would become noisy
+and probably get into trouble, he suggested to the gentleman with whom
+he was to drive to Baltimore the propriety of leaving the rest to their
+enjoyment while they arranged matters for their departure. His advice
+was at once accepted, and the two men bade their associates farewell and
+repaired to the hotel, where they had their dinner, and about two
+o'clock they were upon their journey. Webster's fears were proven to be
+well-founded, for as they were passing the locality where they had spent
+the morning, they saw their former companions between a file of
+soldiers, and there was little doubt that they had allowed their
+libations to overcome their judgments, and that they would be allowed to
+recover their reason in a guard-house.
+
+The journey was made without event, the carriage and driver being
+apparently very well known along the route, and Webster arrived in
+Baltimore late that evening. He was desirous of pushing on without
+delay, as it was important that the dispatches which he carried should
+be forwarded at once, and he therefore went immediately to the hotel he
+had occupied when he first arrived in the city. Requesting the landlord
+to use his best efforts to procure him a conveyance to Havre de Grace,
+he sat down to his supper, and did ample justice to a plenteous repast.
+When he had finished the landlord entered the room and informed him that
+he had succeeded in providing a team for his service, but that grave
+doubts were entertained whether he would succeed in reaching his
+destination. Expressing his willingness to assume any responsibility of
+that kind, Webster bade his entertainer good-bye, and entering the
+wagon, he started upon his midnight journey to Havre de Grace.
+
+Again fortune favored him, and although repeatedly halted, he was able
+to give such a straightforward account of himself that they were allowed
+to proceed, and he arrived in Havre de Grace in time for breakfast.
+Crossing the river, he went directly to the headquarters of Colonel
+Dare, who was in charge of the Union troops at Perrysville, and
+requested that officer to forward the telegram to General McClellan at
+once. This the Colonel promised to do, and in a few minutes the
+important message was flying over the wires to its destination at
+Columbus, Ohio, and the President's request for my appearance at
+Washington followed soon after, and was received by me in due time.
+
+Recognizing the importance of the call, I lost no time in answering the
+dispatch of Mr. Lincoln, and started at once on my journey to
+Washington, accompanied only by a trusty member of my force. Before
+leaving I left orders that should I fail to meet with Webster upon the
+way he should be directed to await my return in the city of Pittsburg.
+
+On my arrival at Perrysville I found that a mode of communication had
+been hurriedly established with Washington, by means of a boat which
+sailed down the Chesapeake Bay and landed their passengers at Annapolis,
+from which point the railroad travel to Washington was uninterrupted.
+
+Arriving at the capital I found a condition of affairs at once peculiar
+and embarrassing, and the city contained a strange admixture of
+humanity, both patriotic and dangerous. Here were gathered the rulers of
+the nation and those who were seeking its destruction. The streets were
+filled with soldiers, armed and eager for the fray; officers and
+orderlies were seen galloping from place to place; the tramp of armed
+men was heard on every side, and strains of martial music filled the
+air. Here, too, lurked the secret enemy, who was conveying beyond the
+lines the coveted information of every movement made or contemplated.
+Men who formerly occupied places of dignity, power and trust were now
+regarded as objects of suspicion, whose loyalty was impeached and whose
+actions it was necessary to watch. Aristocratic ladies, who had
+previously opened the doors of their luxurious residences to those high
+in office and who had hospitably entertained the dignitaries of the
+land, were now believed to be in sympathy with the attempt to overthrow
+the country, and engaged in clandestine correspondence with Southern
+leaders. The criminal classes poured in from all quarters, and almost
+every avenue of society was penetrated by these lawless and unscrupulous
+hordes. An adequate idea can be formed of the transformation which had
+been effected within a few short weeks in this city of national
+government.
+
+On the day following my arrival I wended my way to the White House and
+sought an interview with the President. Around the executive mansion
+everything was in a state of activity and bustle. Messengers were
+running frantically hither and thither; officers in uniform were
+gathered in clusters, engaged in animated discussions of contemplated
+military operations; department clerks were bustling about, and added to
+these was a crowd of visitors, all anxious, like myself, to obtain an
+interview with the Chief Executive.
+
+I was not required to wait an unusual length of time, and I was soon
+ushered into the presence of Mr. Lincoln, who greeted me cordially and
+introduced me to the several members of the Cabinet who were engaged
+with him. I was at once informed that the object in sending for me was
+that the authorities had for some time entertained the idea of
+organizing a secret-service department of the government, with the view
+of ascertaining the social, political and patriotic status of the
+numerous suspected persons in and around the city. As yet, no definite
+plans had been adopted, and I was requested to detail my views upon the
+subject, in order that the matter might be intelligently considered, and
+such action taken as would lead to definite and satisfactory results. I
+accordingly stated to them the ideas which I entertained upon the
+subject, as fully and concisely as I was able to do at the time, and,
+after I had concluded, I took my departure, with the understanding that
+I would receive further communications from them in a few days.
+
+It was very evident to me, however, that in the confusion and excitement
+which were necessarily incident to the novel and perplexing condition of
+affairs then existing, that anything approaching to a systematized
+organization or operation would be for a time impossible. The necessity
+for war had come so suddenly upon a peaceful community that there had
+been as yet but little time for thorough preparation or system. The
+raising of a large army, with all the various contingencies of
+uniforming, arming and drilling; the furnishing of supplies, and the
+assigning of quarters, were occupying the attention of the rulers of the
+government, and I felt confident that I would be required to wait a
+longer time than I could then conveniently spare from my business, ere I
+would be favored with any definite instructions from those in authority.
+This opinion was fully confirmed, after several unsuccessful attempts to
+obtain satisfying particulars from the heads of several of the
+departments, and leaving my address with the secretary of the President,
+I returned to Philadelphia.
+
+I had directed, prior to leaving Chicago, that all important
+communications addressed to me should be forwarded to that city, and on
+my arrival there I found a number of letters which required immediate
+attention.
+
+Among the number was the following, which had been somewhat delayed in
+its transmission.
+
+
+                                        "COLUMBUS, OHIO,
+                                           April 24, 1861.
+     "ALLAN PINKERTON, Esq.,
+                "Dear Sir:--
+
+     "I wish to see you with the least possible delay, to make
+     arrangements with you of an important nature. I will be
+     either here or in Cincinnati for the next few days--here
+     to-morrow--Cincinnati next day. In this city you will find
+     me at the Capitol, at Cincinnati at my residence.
+
+     "If you telegraph me, better use your first name alone. Let
+     no one know that you come to see me, and keep as quiet as
+     possible.
+
+     "Very truly yours,
+
+            "GEO. B. MCCLELLAN,
+
+      "Maj. Gen'l Comd'g Ohio Vols.
+
+
+
+This letter at once decided me. Anxious as I was to serve the country in
+this, the hour of her need, I sought the first opportunity for active
+duty that presented itself, and I left Philadelphia at once, in order to
+comply with the instructions contained in this message of Gen.
+McClellan.
+
+[Illustration: STORMING A FORT.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+_An Adventure in Pittsburg.--A Mob at Bay.--An
+Explanation.--Good-feeling Restored._
+
+
+Several influences operated in my mind to induce me to respond at once
+to this letter, and some of them of a directly personal nature. I had
+been acquainted with General McClellan for a long time before this, and
+had been intimately associated with him while engaged upon various
+important operations connected with the Illinois Central and the Ohio
+and Mississippi Railroads, of the latter of which he was then president.
+From the friendship and esteem I entertained for him growing out of my
+relations with him in those matters, both as an individual and as an
+executive officer, I felt the more anxious to enter into his service,
+now that he had assumed the command of a military department, and was
+about to take an active part in the impending struggle.
+
+At Philadelphia I ascertained that Timothy Webster had already departed
+for Pittsburg, according to previous instructions, and hastily
+telegraphing to the General that I would instantly respond to his letter
+in person, I took the first train leading westward and was soon upon my
+way.
+
+Timothy Webster, meanwhile, had proceeded on his journey from
+Perrysville, and arrived without accident or adventure in Philadelphia.
+He immediately repaired to the office of Mr. Dunn, who informed him that
+he had just received a dispatch for him from Chicago. Webster hastily
+opened the message and found my directions for him to await my return at
+the city of Pittsburg. Remaining in the Quaker City until the following
+day, he took the western train and in due time arrived at his
+destination. On inquiring at the telegraph office in Pittsburg he
+received another message to the same effect as the first one, and he
+therefore engaged quarters at a hotel, patiently awaiting my coming. On
+the second day after his arrival in the Smoky City, which was Sunday, he
+again went to the telegraph office, where he received information that I
+would probably arrive there in the course of that day.
+
+Returning to the hotel, Webster entered the bar-room, and while he was
+being attended to two men came in, apparently engaged in excited
+conversation. They advanced to the bar and requested drinks. The
+excitement in the city, attendant upon the news from Baltimore, had not
+abated in the least since Webster had passed through several days
+before, and these two men were discussing the action of the government
+in regard to this matter. One of them, an excitable, empty-headed
+fellow, was cursing the President and General Scott, in very loud tones
+and in unmeasured terms, for not burning the city of Baltimore to
+ashes, and thus teaching the rebels a lesson they would be apt to
+remember. The remonstrances of his friend seemed only to excite him
+still more, and Webster, feeling desirous of avoiding any controversy at
+that time, started to leave the saloon, when the angry disputant turned
+to him, and arrogantly demanded his opinion of the matter.
+
+"I think," said Webster, "that the President and General Scott
+understand their duties much better than I can inform them, and I
+suppose they do not wish to destroy the property of many who are true to
+the government."
+
+"That is all nonsense," replied the other, sharply, "there is not a
+single Union man in the whole city."
+
+"I think you are mistaken," said Webster, coolly. "I am sure there are
+thousands of them there."
+
+This answer seemed to infuriate the man, and striding up to Webster, he
+asked, with an air of impertinence:
+
+"Are you a Southern man?"
+
+"No, sir, I was born in New York," was the reply.
+
+"What is your name?" impudently demanded the fellow.
+
+"You will find my name upon the register of the hotel, if you desire it,
+and as I do not wish to have any further controversy with you, I bid you
+good morning," replied Webster, still remaining cool and unruffled.
+
+By this time a crowd of about twenty men had gathered about them, and
+as Webster turned to leave the room, one of them demanded to know the
+contents of the telegram he had just received.
+
+This demand, added to the previous suggestion that Webster was a
+Southern man, was sufficient to excite the entire crowd, who had been
+living upon excitement for more than a week, and they began to press
+around him in a threatening manner, one of them calling out:
+
+"I believe he is a d--d spy; let us see what he has got!"
+
+Webster broke loose from those nearest to him, and retreating backwards
+toward the door, exclaimed, in a determined voice:
+
+"Gentlemen, I am no spy, and if any of you attempt to trouble me
+further, some of you will assuredly get hurt!"
+
+At this the crowd grew boisterous and violent, and several called out,
+"Hang him!" "Hang the spy!" while some of them made a rush toward where
+he stood.
+
+Drawing his revolver, Webster faced his angry assailants, who drew back
+involuntarily when they saw that he was both well armed and undismayed.
+
+"Gentlemen, we have had enough of this nonsense. You can talk about
+hanging me, and perhaps there are enough of you to do it, but, by God,
+the first one that attempts to put his hands upon me is a dead man!"
+
+Matters began to look serious. It seemed evident that these excited
+people were determined to resort to violence, and that there would be
+bloodshed in consequence. Webster, whose relations with the government
+were of so intensely loyal a character, was filled with regret at having
+allowed himself to become a party to a conversation which would lead to
+such serious consequences. He was resolved, however, to maintain his
+position. To show signs of weakness, therefore, would be dangerous, if
+not fatal, to him, and he stood bravely in front of the angry mob, who
+had drawn back at the sight of the revolver which was leveled so
+menacingly at them.
+
+Only for a moment, however, did the crowd stand awed and irresolute--one
+moment of silence, in which every man appeared to be deciding for
+himself his course of action. Then one tall, stalwart man stepped from
+their midst, and waving his hand toward his companions, he cried out:
+
+"Come on, he is only one against twenty, and we will take him dead, or
+alive!"
+
+The crowd took a few steps in advance, and Webster had braced himself to
+receive their attack, when suddenly, close beside him stood a form, and
+a loud voice called out:
+
+"Stop, gentlemen, where you are! This man is no traitor, and I will
+defend him with my life!" and the muzzles of two revolvers ranged
+themselves beside that presented by the suspected, but undismayed
+detective.
+
+[Illustration: "_Stop, Gentlemen, where you are._" P. 146.]
+
+Involuntarily the crowd stood still at this unexpected arrival of
+reinforcements, and Webster, who had recognized the voice, looked up in
+surprise and relief at this unlooked-for, though timely, assistance.
+
+I had arrived just in the nick of time, and I was resolved to defend my
+undaunted operative to the last.
+
+At this moment the proprietor of the hotel entered the saloon, and in a
+calm voice and quiet manner attempted to subdue the angry feelings of
+the bystanders.
+
+"Gentlemen," said he, "there need be no trouble about this matter; Mr.
+Webster can fully explain his position, and I think the best plan would
+be for you all to repair to the office of the mayor, where any
+explanation can be given."
+
+"I am perfectly willing to do that," said I; "I know this man, and will
+answer for him under any circumstances; we will accompany you to the
+office of the mayor at once, and I think I can convince him that he is
+no spy."
+
+This proposition was eagerly accepted by some, and reluctantly by
+others, and finally the entire party marched out of the hotel on their
+way to the office of the chief magistrate of the city; Webster and
+myself walking together.
+
+The crowd increased as we went on, and frequent calls were still made to
+"hang the traitor," but no further attempts were made to molest us, and
+we reached the office without any event of a troublesome nature
+occurring.
+
+The noise of the crowd attracted the attention of the chief of police,
+who, during the temporary absence of the mayor, was in charge of affairs
+of this nature, and he came to the door to ascertain the occasion of the
+tumult.
+
+As the crowd, with Webster and myself in the van, reached the steps
+which led up to the municipal office, I at once recognized the chief of
+police, having been connected with him some time before in the detection
+of some burglars from the city of Pittsburg, and that officer was not
+slow to identify me as the detective, who had frequently enabled him to
+secure the desperate criminals whom the law had at various times
+pursued.
+
+As we reached the platform where the officer was standing, I stretched
+forth my hand, which the chief cordially grasped.
+
+"Why, Mr. Pinkerton, what are you doing here?" inquired the chief, with
+some surprise.
+
+"I have come to defend one of my men, whom these people insist upon
+hanging as a rebel spy, but who is loyal to the core," I answered,
+laughingly.
+
+"I will take care of that," replied the chief, "and your word is
+sufficient for me," at the same time extending his disengaged hand and
+warmly greeting Webster, who stood beside me.
+
+As the crowd noticed the evident acquaintance and good-feeling that
+existed between the reputed spy and their chief of police, they drew
+back instinctively, while some of them looked as if they were not
+insensible to a feeling of shame. The chief realized the state of
+affairs at once, and turning to the now crestfallen and subdued
+gathering, he addressed them:
+
+"Gentlemen, I will be responsible for the loyalty and integrity of these
+gentlemen, and you will instantly disperse."
+
+The leaders of this assault on Webster looked terribly ashamed of
+themselves when they found how ridiculously they had been acting, and as
+the door of the chief's office closed on our retreating figures, they
+slowly and silently retired.
+
+In an hour afterwards, when Webster and I returned to the hotel, we
+found the gentlemen who a short time before were anxious to hang him,
+awaiting our arrival, and we received from them their heartfelt
+apologies for their hasty and inconsiderate conduct, all of which were
+received with a spirit of good nature that won the regards of all
+present, and when the time of our departure arrived, they accompanied us
+to the depot in a body, and cheered us lustily as the train slowly moved
+away.
+
+Thus an adventure, which promised to be very serious in its results,
+terminated in a manner satisfactory to all, and Webster and myself,
+instead of being lynched by a Pittsburg mob, departed in safety on our
+journey, and arrived in Cincinnati upon the following day, prepared to
+receive from General McClellan such instructions as were deemed
+necessary by him for the furtherance of the cause in which he was
+engaged.
+
+[Illustration: BETRAYED BY HIS BOOTS.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+_General McClellan in Command of Ohio.--I am Engaged for the War.--The
+Secret Service.--A Consultation.--Webster starts for Rebeldom._
+
+
+At the outbreak of the rebellion many difficulties were encountered
+which the people and their leaders were ill-prepared to surmount, and
+many expedients were resorted to in order to equip and officer the
+troops as they arrived. The State of Ohio, the militia of which General
+McClellan had been called upon to command by Governor Dennison, was no
+exception to this rule; but that gentleman realized the importance of
+calling some one to the command of the volunteers, upon whose knowledge,
+judgment and experience he could place implicit reliance. He therefore
+turned to Captain McClellan, who was a graduate of West Point, and had
+been a captain in the regular army, but who had for some years past been
+devoting himself to the management of a prominent railroad enterprise in
+the State.
+
+The Governor at once sent a communication to the general government,
+requesting that McClellan should be restored to his old rank in the
+army, and that the duty of organizing the Ohio volunteers should be
+assigned to him. To this request no answer was received, and it was
+afterwards learned that the Governor's letter, owing to the interruption
+of communications with Washington from all points, had not reached its
+destination. Failing, therefore, to receive any reply from the general
+government, and being thus forced to rely upon his own resources,
+Governor Dennison at once summoned McClellan to Columbus, where the
+latter applied himself earnestly to the work of organizing the numerous
+volunteer regiments which offered their services to the country. The
+State laws were changed in such a manner as to allow the Governor to
+select commanding officers for these volunteers outside of the members
+of the State militia, and very soon afterward the Ohio troops were
+commanded by thoroughly competent men, who had made military movements
+the subject of scientific study.
+
+On the third day of May a "Department of the Ohio" was formed,
+consisting of the combined forces of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, and
+this department, by order of General Scott, was placed under the command
+of General McClellan.
+
+The Ohio troops, as they arrived, were mainly located at Camp Dennison,
+which was situated in a valley about sixteen miles northwesterly from
+the city of Cincinnati. This was the largest and the chief camp in the
+State, and here the volunteers received that thorough instruction and
+training so essential in preparing for the rigors of war.
+
+As I have stated, my personal acquaintance with George B. McClellan had,
+from its earliest incipiency, been of the most agreeable and amicable
+nature, and when I called at his house in Ludlow street, as I did
+immediately upon my arrival in Cincinnati, I was received with genuine
+cordiality. After we were closeted together I explained fully to him the
+character of the business that had called me to Washington, and how the
+complication of affairs at the seat of government necessitated so much
+delay that I had found it imperative upon me to leave without arriving
+at any definite understanding with the President.
+
+The General had already been advised of his elevation in rank, and among
+other things desired to consult with me in relation to his affairs at
+the War Department.
+
+I need not stop to give the details of that interview. His object in
+sending for me was to secure my aid and co-operation in the organization
+of a secret service for his department, and finding me more than willing
+to do all in my power to help along the cause of the Union, he
+immediately laid before me all his plans.
+
+Our business was settled. It arranged that I should assume full
+management and control of this new branch of the service, and that I
+should at once enter upon the discharge of the multifarious duties
+attending so responsible a position. The General then informed me that
+he would write to General Scott for permission to organize this
+department under his own personal supervision; and he also agreed to
+submit the project to Governor Dennison, of Ohio, with a request to that
+gentleman to solicit the co-operation of the Governors of Illinois,
+Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, in sustaining the organization.
+
+To this arrangement I gave a ready assent, and we then entered upon the
+discussion of affairs requiring immediate attention. Several measures,
+more or less important, had suggested themselves to my mind while the
+General was talking, and in the course of the conversation which
+followed, I presented them for his consideration. It was a relief to me
+to find that at the outset there was no clash of opinion between us, and
+I felt confident that there was not likely to be any in the future.
+
+For several days my time was principally taken up in private
+consultations with General McClellan, in laying out a line of
+operations, by which I was to assist in making arrangements for bringing
+my own force into active duty at the earliest possible hour. I rented a
+suite of rooms and fitted up an office in Cincinnati, where I called
+about me some of the most capable and trustworthy detectives in my
+employ, and impressed upon them the great importance of the tasks that
+were about to be imposed upon them.
+
+The general informed me that he would like observations made within the
+rebel lines, and I resolved to at once send some scouts into the
+disaffected region lying south of us, for the purpose of obtaining
+information concerning the numbers, equipments, movements and intentions
+of the enemy, as well as to ascertain the general feeling of the
+Southern people in regard to the war. I fully realized the delicacy of
+this business, and the necessity of conducting it with the greatest
+care, caution and secrecy. None but good, true, reliable men could be
+detailed for such service, and knowing this, I made my selections
+accordingly; my thoughts reverting first of all to Timothy Webster.
+
+Within six hours after the commander had expressed his wishes to me,
+Timothy Webster was on his way to Louisville, with instructions to
+proceed southward from that city to Memphis, stopping at Bowling Green
+and Clarkesville on the way.
+
+In Webster's case it was not necessary to devote much time to
+instructions, except as to his line of travel, for he was a man who
+understood the whole meaning of a mission like this, and one who would
+perform his duty with that faithfulness and ability by which he had
+fairly earned the confidence I now reposed in him.
+
+Within a few days I also sent out other scouts, singly and in pairs, on
+the different routes that had been carefully prepared for them, and in a
+short time quite a number of my best operatives were engaged upon more
+or less difficult and dangerous tasks, all tending to the same end.
+
+In organizing and controlling this secret service, I endeavored to
+conceal my own individual identity so far as my friends and the public
+were concerned. The new field of usefulness into which I had ventured
+was designed to be a secret one in every respect, and for obvious
+reasons I was induced to lay aside the name of Allan Pinkerton--a name
+so well known that it had grown to be a sort of synonym for detective. I
+accordingly adopted the less suggestive one of E. J. Allen; a _nom de
+guerre_ which I retained during the entire period of my connection with
+the war. This precautionary measure was first proposed by the General
+himself, and in assenting to it I carried out his views as well as my
+own. This ruse to conceal my identity was a successful one. My true name
+was known only to General McClellan, and those of my force who were in
+my employ before the breaking out of the rebellion, and by them it was
+sacredly kept. Indeed, I doubt if McClellan has ever divulged it to this
+day, if I may judge by the frequent occurrence of such incidents as the
+following:
+
+A short time since, while on a visit to my New York agency, I chanced to
+meet one of my old army friends, General Fitz-John Porter. He recognized
+me, gave me a hearty greeting, and proceeded to address me as Major
+Allen, after the custom of by-gone days. I permitted the conversation
+to go on for some time, and then said:
+
+"Are you not aware, General, that the name of E. J. Allen, which I used
+during the war, was a fictitious one?"
+
+He looked at me, as if to satisfy himself that I was not jesting, and
+then exclaimed:
+
+"Fictitious! You are not in earnest, Major?"
+
+I assured him that I was never more so.
+
+"Why, I never suspected such a thing. What, then, is your true name?"
+
+"Allan Pinkerton," I replied.
+
+"Allan Pinkerton!" he ejaculated.
+
+His astonishment knew no bounds, and he declared it was the first
+intimation he had ever had that Allan Pinkerton and Major Allen were one
+and the same person.
+
+It was on the thirteenth of May that Timothy Webster left Cincinnati on
+his trip southward. He arrived at Louisville, Ky., late in the night,
+and remained there until the following day, when he pursued his course
+into the heart of that self-satisfied State which only desired to be
+"let alone."
+
+It is not my purpose to give in detail all the events of Webster's
+journey, as there was much that would only prove tedious at this late
+day, though at that time regarded as of the utmost importance to the
+country. Shrewd, wide-awake, and keen as a blood-hound on the scent, he
+allowed nothing to escape him, but quietly jotted down every item of
+intelligence that could possibly be of advantage to the Union army, and
+picked up many important points, which would have escaped the notice of
+a man of less detective experience and ability.
+
+He stopped a day or two at Bowling Green, Ky., and then proceeded on to
+Clarkesville, Tenn. He made friends of all he met, and cleverly
+ingratiated himself into the good graces of those whom he believed might
+be of service to him. He was a "Hail, fellow! well met," "A prince of
+good fellows," a genial, jovial, convivial spirit, with an inexhaustible
+fund of anecdote and amusing reminiscences, and a wonderful faculty for
+making everybody like him. He partook of soldiers' fare in the rebel
+camp, shook hands warmly with raw recruits, joked and laughed with petty
+officers, became familiar with colonels and captains, and talked
+profoundly with brigadier-generals. He was apparently an enthusiastic
+and determined rebel, and in a few cunningly-worded sentences he would
+rouse the stagnant blood of his hearers till it fairly boiled with
+virtuous indignation against Yankees in general, and "Abe Linkin" in
+particular.
+
+Webster's talent in sustaining a _role_ of this kind amounted to
+positive genius, and it was this that forced me to admire the man as
+sincerely as I prized his services. Naturally, he was of a quiet,
+reserved disposition, seldom speaking unless spoken to, and never
+betraying emotion or excitement under any pressure of circumstances.
+His face always wore that calm, imperturbable expression denoting a
+well-balanced mind and a thorough self-control, while the immobile
+countenance and close-set lips showed that he was naturally as
+inscrutable as the Sphinx. Many of his associates were of the opinion
+that he was cold and unfeeling, but _I_ knew there could be no greater
+mistake than this; _I_ knew that a manlier, nobler heart never existed
+than that which beat within the broad breast of Timothy Webster; and I
+knew that, reserved and modest as he was, he was never wanting in
+courtesy, never derelict in his duty, never behind his fellows in acts
+of kindness and mercy.
+
+It was when he was detailed for such operations as the one in question
+that his disposition underwent a complete metamorphosis. Then his
+reserve vanished, and he became the chatty, entertaining boon companion,
+the hero of the card-table, the story-teller of the bar-room, or the
+lion of the social gathering, as the exigencies of the case might
+require. He could go into a strange place and in one day surround
+himself with warm friends, who would end by telling him all he desired
+to know. In a life-time of varied detective experience, I have never met
+one who could more readily and agreeably adapt himself to circumstances.
+
+Webster represented himself as a resident of Baltimore, and gave graphic
+accounts of the recent troubles in that city; of the unpleasant position
+in which the "friends of the cause" were placed by the proximity and
+oppression of Northern troops, and of the outraged feelings of the
+populace when the "Lincoln hirelings" marched through the streets of the
+Monumental City. His eyes seemed to flash with indignation during the
+recital, and it would have been difficult indeed to induce his audience
+to believe that he was acting a part, or that his heart was not with the
+South.
+
+On the morning of his departure from Clarkesville quite a number of
+soldiers and citizens, who had become attached to him during his brief
+sojourn with them, accompanied him to the depot, shook him warmly by the
+hand at parting, and earnestly wished him God-speed. He told them all
+that he hoped to see them again soon, and waved them a smiling adieu
+from the platform of the car, as the train whirled him away toward
+Memphis.
+
+As the train stopped on the east bank of the Tennessee river, and the
+passengers swarmed out of the cars, Webster noticed a man take the
+conductor aside and engage in earnest conversation with him for a few
+moments. This man was a dark-complexioned, sharp-visaged, long-haired
+individual, clad in civilian's garb, and wearing a broad-brimmed hat.
+There was an air of mystery about him which attracted more than a
+passing glance from the scout, and caused the latter to keep an eye on
+him thereafter.
+
+The passengers were obliged to cross the river in a ferry-boat. The
+train going south was in waiting on the other side, and its conductor
+stood on the bank alone, making entries in his memorandum-book. As soon
+as the boat touched the land the man with the long hair and
+broad-brimmed hat sprang ashore and approached the conductor, to whom he
+began to talk in the same hurried, nervous manner that he had done to
+the one on the other side. As the time for starting approached, the
+mysterious stranger and the conductor walked toward the train together,
+conversing excitedly as they went.
+
+"There's something up," thought Webster, as he boarded the train.
+"Perhaps that fellow is on the look-out for new-comers like myself; but
+we'll see whether he is sharp enough to catch a weasel asleep."
+
+For the first twenty miles after leaving the Tennessee river, the road
+lay through an uncultivated region of swamps and heavy timber. At every
+station along the route uniformed men, heavy guns, car-loads of muskets
+and ammunition were seen, indicating general and active preparations for
+war, while the secession flag was flying in the breeze, and the music of
+fife and drum was frequently borne to the ear. At Humboldt, where the
+train arrived at four o'clock in the afternoon, they were delayed for
+some time, and Webster improved the opportunity to look around him and
+to procure his dinner. The man with the broad-brimmed hat seated himself
+almost opposite Webster at table, who noticed that his restless,
+inquisitive eyes were kept busy scrutinizing every face that came within
+range of his vision. He did not address himself to any one during the
+progress of the repast, and after hurriedly satisfying his own appetite,
+he walked out upon the platform of the depot, where he stood intently
+watching the other passengers as they returned to the train.
+
+Webster, as he crossed the platform, instinctively felt that those
+searching eyes were riveted upon him as if they would pierce him
+through, but he did not evince the slightest degree of trepidation or
+uneasiness under the ordeal. Assuming an air of quiet unconsciousness,
+he sauntered past the man without seeming to notice him, and entered the
+smoking-car, coolly lighted a cigar, drew a Nashville newspaper from his
+pocket, and settled himself to his reading. He saw no more of the
+mysterious stranger during the remainder of the journey, but on
+alighting from the train at the Memphis depot, the first object that met
+his gaze was the wearer of the broad-brimmed hat.
+
+Arriving in Memphis at nine o'clock in the evening, Webster went
+directly to the Worsham House, where he intended to stay while in the
+city. While registering his name he observed a military officer in full
+uniform standing at his elbow, watching him closely as he wrote. Several
+other new arrivals placed their signatures after Webster, and he then
+noticed that the officer was engaged in making a copy of names and
+addresses on a piece of paper.
+
+While watching this proceeding, his attention was distracted by some one
+hastily entering the hotel office. It was his mysterious
+fellow-traveler, who, stepping into the center of the room, glanced
+quickly around, apparently looking for some particular face. The search
+was evidently successful, for, walking up to one of the men who had just
+arrived on the train from the North, he tapped him on the shoulder and
+beckoned him.
+
+After a few moments' conversation, during which the new-comer appeared
+to be both surprised and frightened, the two left the hotel together and
+walked up the street arm in arm.
+
+Two citizens who were lounging near the door had been interested
+spectators of this incident, and Webster heard one of them inquire:
+
+"What does that mean?"
+
+"It means that the stranger is under arrest," replied his companion.
+
+"Under arrest? And who is the man who arrested him?"
+
+"Oh, he is a member of the safety committee."
+
+"But what crime has the stranger committed, that he should thus be taken
+into custody?"
+
+"Nothing, perhaps; but the fact that he is a stranger from the North, is
+sufficient to mark him as an object of suspicion."
+
+"Isn't that a little severe?"
+
+"Severe? It's a necessity in these times. For my part, I am in for
+hanging every Northern man who comes here, unless he can give the most
+satisfactory proof that he is not a spy."
+
+The rest of the conversation did not reach Webster's ear, and, being
+much fatigued by his day's journey, he soon retired, to seek that much
+needed rest which slumber only could afford.
+
+He rose at an early hour in the morning, feeling much refreshed. On
+entering the dining-room he found it crowded with guests, the majority
+of whom wore the uniform and shoulder-straps of Confederate officers.
+The conversation around the table was upon the all-absorbing theme which
+at that time was uppermost in every mind, and the scout was both amused
+and edified by what he heard. He did not long remain a silent listener,
+but taking his cue at the proper moment he entered easily and naturally
+into the conversation himself, and his pleasing address and intelligent
+observations commanded at once the respectful attention of those around
+him.
+
+After breakfast Webster determined to ascertain whether or not he was
+under the surveillance of the vigilance committee, and he accordingly
+left the hotel, and wended his way toward the post-office.
+
+He had not proceeded far when he noticed a man who appeared to be
+following him on the opposite side of the street. Desiring to satisfy
+himself upon this point he walked on for several blocks, and then
+dropped into a saloon. Remaining there a sufficient length of time for
+the man to pass from view, in case he did not stop in his onward course,
+he emerged from the saloon and retraced his steps toward the hotel. As
+he did so he noticed the stranger on the other side of the street,
+dogging him as before. This left no doubt in his mind that he was being
+shadowed, and he resolved to be guarded in his movements, to refrain
+from writing any reports or making any notes that could possibly betray
+him. He returned to the office and bar-room of the Worsham Hotel, and
+spent an hour or two reading and smoking. While thus occupied, three
+military officers entered and stood near the bar engaged in animated
+conversation. Webster sauntered toward them, and heard one of the
+trio--a man whom the others addressed as "Doctor"--remark emphatically:
+
+"Yes, gentlemen, that is a true principle. It will not do to let a man
+set foot on Kentucky soil until the Northern troops disregard the
+neutrality of that State."
+
+Catching the drift of the conversation, Webster stepped forward and
+said:
+
+"I beg pardon, sir; will you permit me to ask one question?"
+
+The three officers turned toward him, with expressions of mild surprise
+in their faces, and the Doctor replied:
+
+"Certainly, sir; certainly."
+
+"Do you suppose," added Webster, "that Kentucky will allow the Northern
+army to march through the State without showing fight?"
+
+"Not by a jug-full," was the prompt response. "The moment the Northern
+army crosses the Ohio river, Kentucky will rise in arms and take sides
+with the South."
+
+"If she doesn't," said Webster, with much apparent warmth, "she will
+prove herself unworthy of the respect of any true Southern men!"
+
+The Doctor's face brightened up, and he laid his hand approvingly on the
+scout's shoulder.
+
+"May I ask where you are from?"
+
+"I was born in Kentucky and reared in Maryland," was the quiet reply,
+"and I am now direct from Baltimore."
+
+"Baltimore!" ejaculated the whole trio in chorus; and the next moment
+were all shaking hands in the most vigorous fashion.
+
+"Baltimore!" repeated the Doctor, his face red with his recent exertion.
+"My friend, we are always glad to meet a Baltimorean, for we know there
+is many a true man in that city who would help us if he could. May I ask
+your name, sir?"
+
+"Webster--Timothy Webster."
+
+"A devilish good name. Mine is Burton. My friends all call me Doctor
+Burton. Allow me to introduce you to Colonel Dalgetty and to Captain
+Stanley of the Arkansas Rifles."
+
+The introduction was cordially acknowledged on both sides, and Webster
+then said:
+
+"Gentlemen, I was about to call for a drink when I heard you speak of
+Kentucky. I am happy to know that there is still hopes for that State.
+Will you drink her health with me?"
+
+And in the clinking of the glasses, and the quaffing of their favorite
+beverages, the new link of friendship was forged.
+
+[Illustration: RUN DOWN BY CAVALRY.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+_Webster Fraternizes with the Rebel Officers.--A Secession Hat.--A Visit
+to a Rebel Camp.--"The Committee of Safety."--A Friendly Stranger.--A
+Warning.--The Escape._
+
+
+Webster's new friends were men whom he believed he could use to good
+advantage, and he determined to improve the chance that had thrown him
+in contact with them. He found them not only very well informed, but
+disposed to be communicative, and he therefore applied the "pumping"
+process with all the skill at his command. He experienced no difficulty
+in making this mode of operation effectual, for these officers were
+exceedingly willing to air their knowledge for the benefit of their
+Baltimore friend, and enjoyed his frequent expressions of agreeable
+surprise at the extent of the preparations made by the people of the
+South to defend their rights.
+
+Dr. Burton was the most conspicuous one of the group, from his very
+pompousness. He wore a superfluity of gorgeous gold lace on his uniform,
+and assumed the dignity of a major-general. He was a flabby-faced,
+bulbous-eyed individual, with a wonderful stomach for harboring liquor,
+and that unceasing flow of spirits arising from a magnified sense of
+his own importance. It was evident, even upon a short acquaintance, that
+the doctor found his chief entertainment in listening to himself talk, a
+species of recreation in which he indulged with great regularity,
+sharing the pleasure with as many others as would grant him a hearing.
+
+In Webster he found an attentive auditor, which so flattered his vanity
+that he at once formed a strong attachment for my operative, and placed
+himself on familiar and confidential terms with him.
+
+"Webster, we've got to do some hard fighting in these parts, and that
+before we are many days older," said the Doctor, with a wise shake of
+the head.
+
+"I think you are right," conceded the scout. "We must fight it out. From
+what you have told me, however, I am sure the Lincoln troops will find
+you fully prepared to give them a warm reception here."
+
+"That they will, sir; that they will!" was the emphatic rejoinder. "We
+have one full regiment and four or five companies besides, at Camp
+Rector, and General Pillow has thirty-seven hundred men at the camp in
+the rear of Fort Harris, which is a little above us on this side of the
+river. We expect to move with him, and if there is an attack made upon
+us every man in the town will instantly become a soldier."
+
+"Have you arms enough for all of them?"
+
+"Arms? Let the Yankees count on our not having arms, and they will meet
+with a surprise party. In two hours' notice we can have from eight to
+ten thousand men ready to march."
+
+"No doubt of it, Doctor; but how do you expect to get two hours'
+notice?"
+
+"Lord bless you, Webster, we have men watching the movements of the
+Yankees at Cairo, and the minute they make a move we are notified. Then
+our signal gun is fired, and every man is mustered."
+
+"A good arrangement, truly," said the detective quietly.
+
+"You look as if you could do some hard fighting yourself, Mr. Webster,"
+remarked Colonel Dalgetty.
+
+The detective smiled.
+
+"I have been fighting against great odds for the past two months in
+Baltimore. The last battle I fought was to get away from there with my
+life."
+
+"Yes, and we are confounded glad to receive you here," exclaimed the
+enthusiastic Doctor, shaking Webster by the hand for the twentieth time.
+"Come, gentlemen, we must have another drink. Step up and nominate your
+'pizen.'"
+
+The glasses were filled, and some one proposed the toast: "Death to the
+Yankees!" Under his breath, however, the detective muttered, "Confusion
+to the rebels!" and drained his glass. The toast was no sooner drank
+than Lieutenant Stanley, who was evidently beginning to feel the
+influence of the liquor he had drank, took off his uniform hat and put
+it on Webster's head.
+
+[Illustration: "_Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself
+perfectly at home!_" P. 171.]
+
+"Excuse me, Mr. Webster," he said, "I merely wish to see how you look in
+one of our hats." Then stepping back, he added: "By the gods, nothing
+could be more becoming! My dear fellow, you must have one by all means,
+if you stay among us."
+
+Webster endeavored laughingly to object, but they all refused to accept
+"no" for an answer. So, finding it impossible to resist, he went with
+them to a neighboring hat store.
+
+"Fit a hat to Mr. Webster's head--a hat just like mine," said Dr.
+Burton, to the proprietor; then turning to the scout, he added: "We will
+have you a cord and tassel of blue, as that will show that you are true
+to the cause, although you do not belong to the military."
+
+The hatter produced a secession chapeau of the kind and size required,
+and Webster at once put it on, much to the delight of the Doctor, who
+slapped Webster familiarly on the shoulder, with the exclamation:
+
+"Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself at home!"
+
+"Perfectly at home," echoed Colonel Dalgetty.
+
+"Henceforward you are one of us," put in the Lieutenant.
+
+Webster thanked them cordially for their kindness, and promised to wear
+it in preference to any other. As they stepped outside of the store,
+however, all thoughts of the new hat were temporarily driven from his
+mind, for, standing on the sidewalk, within a few yards of the store
+door, and looking directly at him, was the identical individual whom he
+had noticed on the train, who had arrested the Northern stranger the
+night before.
+
+The gaze which this vigilant agent of the safety committee now bent upon
+Webster was full of dark suspicion, but after one swift glance at him
+the detective turned away with an air of perfect composure and
+unconcern, and walked off between his companions. To say that he felt
+some uneasiness at this evidence that he was still being closely
+followed, would be only to tell the truth. His first impulse was to
+speak to his companions about it, but a second thought decided him not
+to mention the matter to any one, nor to betray by word or act that he
+had the slightest hint of a suspicion that he was being watched.
+
+The three officers introduced Webster to a large number of soldiers and
+citizens, and before the day was over he had quite an extended circle of
+acquaintance in Memphis. Dr. Burton, who had conceived a fancy for him,
+as sudden as it was pronounced, assumed a sort of paternal control over
+Webster, hovering about him with an air of protection and solicitude,
+and drawing the scout's arm through his when they walked together.
+
+That afternoon, Webster, desiring to be alone for awhile, hired one of
+the hackmen at the door of the hotel to drive him three or four miles
+into the country. He went down the river road, and as it was a beautiful
+day, he enjoyed himself admiring the picturesque scenery along the way.
+
+Just below the town, on the bank of the river, he found a small
+encampment of soldiers with a battery, who were on the lookout for boats
+coming up the river, and during his ride he saw several encampments of
+the same nature. After spending several hours inspecting the
+fortifications along the river, Webster returned to the hotel, which he
+reached about dark.
+
+The next day Doctor Burton and several of his military friends sought
+out the detective, and urged him to go with them to Camp Rector.
+
+"Gentlemen, I am at your service," said Webster, earnestly. "I think I
+would enjoy a visit to your camp to-day above all things."
+
+They went to the levee, and at ten o'clock were on the boat, steaming up
+the river toward Mound City, where Camp Rector was located.
+
+A distance of some six or seven miles, passing on their way up, various
+objects of interest, among them Fort Harris, which was merely an
+embankment thrown up, to answer the purpose. Arriving at Mound City, the
+party disembarked and walked to the hotel. After dinner the party
+visited the camp-ground, a distance of about one-fourth of a mile from
+the hotel, and here Dr. Burton and the other officers took much pride
+in showing Webster around. They talked volubly about the unexampled
+bravery of the Confederate soldier; had much to say on the subject of
+Southern chivalry as opposed to Northern braggadocio; told how well they
+were prepared to meet the onslaught of the enemy; and found a special
+delight in exhibiting to the visitor a portion of General Bragg's
+artillery, which they had in the camp.
+
+After that they seated themselves around a table in one of the larger
+tents, to rest and enjoy the grateful shade, as it was a warm and sunny
+afternoon. While engaged in the most bombastic utterances of their
+prowess, and of the wonderful exploits that might be expected of the
+Southern army, their conversation was interrupted by a shadow falling
+across the strip of sunlight that streamed in through the opening of the
+tent. Every one around the table glanced up, and there at the entrance
+stood the man with the broad-brimmed hat! The intruder did not tarry a
+moment, but turned and walked away. Evidently he had stopped only to
+look in; but in that single instant he had shot a keen, and apparently
+satisfactory, glance at Timothy Webster, which was fortunately not
+observed by any one save the detective himself.
+
+"That fellow is one of the safety committee," said Dr. Burton, filling
+his glass.
+
+"He appears to be looking for some one," remarked Lieutenant Stanley.
+
+"Reckon he is," answered the Doctor. "He's always looking for some one.
+And, by-the-bye, those chaps are doing a heap of good for the cause just
+now. A Northern man stands no show for his life in these parts if the
+safety committee spots him. They hang 'em on suspicion."
+
+"That's right," said Webster, coolly. "I believe in hanging every
+Northern man that comes prowling around. They don't deserve a trial, for
+they have no right here anyway."
+
+But cool and collected as Webster outwardly appeared, it must be
+admitted that he was inwardly ill at ease. There was now no longer the
+shadow of a doubt in his mind that this long-haired agent of the safety
+committee was following him and watching his every movement, and that
+any attempt on his part to return to the North would betray him and
+cause his arrest.
+
+"The only reason I have not already been arrested," mused the scout, "is
+because they are not sure whether I came from the North or not. They
+merely _suspect_, and are watching me to see if I undertake to return
+northward. Such an act would confirm their suspicions, and I would be
+arrested and probably put to death as a spy. It stands me in hand to
+give them the slip before I take the back track."
+
+After spending a very pleasant day at the camp, he returned to Memphis
+on the latest boat that night, informing Dr. Burton that he was going to
+Chattanooga to look up a brother whom he had not seen in twelve years.
+
+"You'll come back?" said the Doctor, as he wrung his hand.
+
+"Oh, certainly," was the cheerful response. "I'll be with you again
+before long."
+
+Colonel Gaines, of the artillery, who heard this conversation, now
+grasped the scout's hand.
+
+"Webster, you'd make a good soldier," he said, bluntly. "Hang me if I
+wouldn't like to have you on my force."
+
+Webster smiled good-naturedly.
+
+"I have some family business to attend to before I could think of
+entering the army. After that I may remind you of your remark."
+
+"All right," said the Colonel, "any time that you are ready, come; I
+will make room for you."
+
+On his way down the river Webster found, to his relief, that the man
+with the broad-brimmed hat was not aboard the boats. He now had a hope
+of being able to give his shadow the slip by leaving Memphis on early
+train in the morning.
+
+Arriving in sight of their destination, the passengers on the ferry-boat
+were surprised to see that the levee was crowded with people. Shortly
+after, they learned that this unusual gathering was caused by the
+capture of the steamboat "Prince of Wales" by the rebels.
+
+Webster went to the Worsham Hotel, where he spent the night, and at
+five o'clock in the morning, after making a few preparations, and
+dispatching an early breakfast, he repaired to the depot. Arriving there
+he looked carefully about on all sides, but saw no one who seemed to
+take any interest in his movements. "So far, so good," he muttered, as
+he boarded the train; and the next minute he was leaving the scene of
+his most recent exploits with the speed of the wind.
+
+He was himself too shrewd and cunning to feel absolutely sure that he
+was not followed. His own experience in the art of "shadowing" told him
+he had not yet escaped the vigilant eyes of the safety committee, but he
+resolved to elude them if it was possible to do so.
+
+Innumerable troops were being transported at this time, and the train
+was crowded with soldiers. Webster amused himself by making the
+acquaintance of the officers, and skillfully drawing on their fund of
+information, until the train arrived at Grand Junction, where he decided
+to change cars for Jackson, Tennessee.
+
+Accordingly, he abandoned the Chattanooga cars and boarded the
+north-bound train, which was in waiting at the junction, and again he
+was whirled away across the verdure-clad country, this time toward the
+"land of the free." But no sooner was the train well under way than
+something which came under Webster's observation removed from his mind
+all doubt as to whether he would be permitted to pursue his journey
+unmolested. He occupied a seat in the forward part of the car, and on
+turning carelessly away from the window after gazing out upon the
+landscape for awhile, he was somewhat surprised at seeing an individual
+standing on the front platform of the car, looking in through the glass
+door.
+
+It was a person whose face and figure had already become quite familiar
+to him, being no other than the man who had so persistently followed him
+for the past few days.
+
+"He seems determined not to let me get away," thought the scout; but
+neither in his face nor manner did he betray any of the disappointment
+he felt.
+
+He noticed that his pursuer was not alone this time, but was accompanied
+by another person--an ill-looking man of herculean proportions--with
+whom he conversed in an earnest, confidential way.
+
+When the train arrived at Jackson, Webster stepped out upon the platform
+of the depot, and the two agents of the safety committee did the same.
+The conductor stood near by, and Webster spoke to him in a tone which he
+meant his shadows to hear, asking:
+
+"How soon will there be a train for Humboldt?"
+
+"In twenty minutes," replied the conductor.
+
+"Do you know anything about the hotels there?" inquired the scout. "I've
+got to stop two or three days in the town, and it's a strange place to
+me."
+
+The conductor recommended him to a good house convenient to the depot,
+and thanking him for the information, Webster turned away. He had spoken
+in a tone that he knew must have been distinctly heard by his enemies,
+and he hoped this bit of stratagem would have the desired effect.
+
+He boarded the train for Humboldt, and the brace of shadows promptly
+followed him, taking seats in the same car.
+
+While the train was speeding on its way, Webster was aroused from a
+reverie by the voice of a woman saying:
+
+"Pardon me, sir; may I occupy a portion of this seat?"
+
+He looked up; a tall, very respectable looking lady was standing in the
+aisle, and he saw in an instant that she was the person who had
+addressed him.
+
+"Certainly, madam, certainly;" he replied; and quickly made room for
+her.
+
+She sat down beside him, and then, to his great surprise, she began to
+talk to him in a low, earnest tone, without once turning her face toward
+him.
+
+"You are going to Humboldt?" she inquired.
+
+"I am," he answered, surprised at the question.
+
+"You are a Northern man?"
+
+"Madam!" A suspicion flashed, lightning-like, across his mind.
+
+"Believe me, I am not an enemy," the lady went on, "I have been sitting
+in the rear part of this car I heard two men talking, and have reason to
+believe they were speaking about you. They said they would stop at the
+same hotel with you in Humboldt, and keep a close watch over you, and if
+you attempt to go northward they will arrest you, take you back to
+Memphis, and deal with you as they would with any Northern spy. I advise
+you to be very careful, sir, for your life depends upon it."
+
+The train by this time was approaching Humboldt, and the lady arose and
+disappeared before the astonished detective could tender his thanks for
+the warning. She was destined to remain an utter stranger to him for all
+time to come, for he never heard of her afterwards. As they entered the
+depot, Webster passed out at the rear end of the car, and he noticed,
+with a smile of satisfaction, that his attendant shadows were making
+their way out at the front. As he stepped from the car he noticed a pile
+of baggage near him, and quickly stepping behind this, he watched the
+movements of the two men. Apparently fully satisfied that their game
+would be safely bagged at the hotel, they left the depot and walked
+rapidly away in the direction of the public-house. His ruse worked to a
+charm. A violent shower happened to be passing over at this time, and it
+was only natural for the two "safety" men to suppose that Webster had
+stopped to seek shelter in the depot for a few minutes.
+
+The express train from Memphis was soon due, and as it came dashing in
+"on time," Webster jumped aboard, and was on his way toward Louisville,
+smiling in his sleeve as he thought of those two crafty foxes, whose
+cunning had overreached themselves, patiently awaiting his arrival at
+the hotel in Humboldt.
+
+Before crossing the Kentucky line, Webster put his rebel hat out of
+sight, and once more donned the one he had worn from the North.
+
+The remainder of his journey was made without incident, and in due time
+he arrived in Cincinnati, and reported to me.
+
+[Illustration: A HOT LUNCH.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+_I take a Trip to the South.--Danger in Memphis.--A Timely Warning.--A
+Persistent Barber.--An Unfortunate Memory.--Return to Cincinnati._
+
+
+Timothy Webster had scarcely departed upon his trip to Memphis, when I
+was summoned for consultation with General McClellan. Upon repairing to
+his office, which I did immediately on receiving his message, I found
+him awaiting my arrival, and in a few minutes I was informed of his
+wishes. He was desirous of ascertaining, as definitely as possible, the
+general feeling of the people residing South of the Ohio river, in
+Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana, and requested that
+measures be at once taken to carry out his purposes.
+
+It was essentially necessary at the outset to become acquainted with all
+the facts that might be of importance hereafter, and no time offered
+such opportunities for investigations of this nature as the present,
+while the war movement was in its incipiency, and before the lines
+between the opposing forces had been so closely drawn as to render
+traveling in the disaffected district unsafe, if not utterly impossible.
+
+As this mission was of a character that required coolness and tact, as
+well as courage, and as most of my men had been detailed for duties in
+other sections of the rebellious country, I concluded to make the
+journey myself, and at once stated my intention to the General, who
+received it with every evidence of satisfaction and approval.
+
+"The very thing I should have proposed, Major," said he; "and if you
+will undertake this matter, I have no fears of a failure, and every
+confidence in obtaining important developments."
+
+My action had been prompted by two impelling reasons. The first was the
+absence of the men whom I had thus far engaged, and who, as I have
+before stated, had been detailed upon missions of investigations in
+various parts of the South and West, and the other was a desire to see
+for myself the actual condition of affairs as they existed at that time.
+I have invariably found that a personal knowledge is far more
+satisfactory than that gleamed from others, and whenever it was
+possible, I have endeavored to acquire my information by such means.
+Another advantage to be derived from a personal observation was that I
+would be necessarily forced to rely in many matters to which it would be
+impossible for me to devote my personal attention.
+
+Having arranged everything to my satisfaction, in order that my absence
+would occasion no disarrangement in the proper conduct of the
+investigations already commenced, I left my office in the charge of Mr.
+George H. Bangs, my general superintendent, and started upon my journey,
+intending to be as rapid in my movements as circumstances would permit,
+and to return at as early a date as I could, consistently with the
+proper performance of the duties intrusted to me.
+
+My first objective point was the city of Louisville, in Kentucky. The
+position of this State at the present time was a peculiar one. Her
+Governor, if not a Southern conspirator, was, if his own language was to
+be relied upon, both in opinion and expectation, a disunionist. He had
+at first remonstrated against the action of the Cotton States, but after
+that action had been taken, he was unqualifiedly opposed to coercing
+them back to obedience, and in addition to this, he had endeavored to
+excite his own people to a resistance to the principles and policy of
+the party in power.
+
+The people, however, did not sustain his views, and while the popular
+sentiment was deeply pro-slavery, and while her commerce bound her
+strongly to the South, the patriotic example and teachings of Henry Clay
+had impressed upon them a reverence and love for Union higher and purer
+than any mere pressing interests or selfish advantage.
+
+At Louisville, therefore, I found a degree of excitement prevailing that
+was naturally to be expected from the unsettled condition of public
+affairs. The Governor had refused to comply with the President's call
+for troops, and the State had been in a state of hopeless bewilderment
+and conflict of opinion in consequence. A strong minority, arrogating to
+themselves an undue importance, were endeavoring, by self-assertion and
+misapplied zeal, to carry the State into the secession fold, but thus
+far they had made no substantial progress against an overwhelming
+undercurrent of Union sentiment. Failing in this, their energies were
+now devoted to an effort to place the State in a neutral attitude, which
+would prevent her from taking a decided stand upon the question of
+supporting the Union. Thus far they had been temporarily successful, and
+on the 16th day of May the house of representatives passed resolutions
+declaring that Kentucky "should during the contest occupy the position
+of strict neutrality."
+
+This was the existing condition of affairs when I arrived in Louisville,
+and which I found prevalent throughout all the sections of the State I
+passed.
+
+Representing myself as a Southern man, a resident of Georgia, I had no
+difficulty in engaging in conversation with the prominent men of both
+elements, and I decided then, from my own observations, that Kentucky
+would not cast her fortunes with the South, but that, after the bubble
+of unnatural excitement had burst and expended itself, the loyal heart
+would be touched, and "Old Kaintuck" would eventually keep step to the
+music of the Union. Results proved that I was not mistaken, and not many
+weeks elapsed before Union camps were established within her domain,
+and the broad-shouldered Kentuckians were swearing allegiance to the old
+flag, and, shouldering their muskets, entered into the contest with a
+determination to support the government.
+
+Passing on undisturbed, but everywhere on the alert, and making copious
+notes of everything that transpired, that I considered at all material
+to the furtherance of the loyal cause, I reached Bowling Green.
+
+At this place I found a very decided Union sentiment, the Stars and
+Stripes were floating from the various buildings, and the Union men were
+largely in the majority. There was one great cause for disquietude,
+however, which was very manifest even to a casual observer. Many
+residents of Bowling Green and the vicinity were slave owners, and the
+impression had become general throughout the negro communities that the
+opening of the war naturally and inevitably involved their freedom, an
+opinion, however, without sure foundation, at that time, but which was
+eventually to be justified by subsequent events. The slaves had heard
+their masters discussing the various questions which naturally grew out
+of a conflict of this chance character, and in which it was generally
+admitted, that emancipation must follow the commencement and continuance
+of hostilities between the two sections. It was not surprising
+therefore, that this opinion should spread among the entire colored
+element, or that it should be greedily accepted by these down-trodden
+blacks as the harbinger of a freedom for which they had been praying. In
+conversation with one of the leading men of Bowling Green, I was
+thoroughly impressed with the importance of this phase of circumstances.
+
+"Mr. Allen," said he, "you have no idea of the danger we are
+apprehending from the blacks. We know that the moment that Lincoln sends
+his abolition soldiers among our niggers, they will break out and murder
+all before them. Why, sir," continued he, "we cannot sleep sound at
+nights for fear of the niggers. They think Lincoln is going to set them
+free."
+
+"Why," I interrupted, "what can they know about Lincoln?"
+
+"They know too much about him," he replied; "there has been so much talk
+about this matter all through the State, that the niggers know as much
+about it as we do."
+
+"You should not talk before your niggers; it is not safe, and I never do
+it." As I never owned a negro this was perfectly true.
+
+"I know we should not, but it is too late now; they know as much as we
+do, and too much for our safety or peace of mind. Why, sir, we are
+compelled to mount guard at nights ourselves for mutual protection, and
+though there has been no outbreak as yet, and I believe that this is the
+only thing that keeps them in check."
+
+"It would be a good plan," said I, anxious to preserve my reputation as
+a Southern pro-slavery man, "to take all the men and boys over fifteen
+years of age and sell them South."
+
+"That's the devil of it," he replied, "we cannot do that; it was tried
+only last week, and a nigger that I was offered $1,500 for last year, I
+could not sell at any price."
+
+Already, it seemed, the fruits of the slavery agitation were being made
+apparent. The very institution for which these misguided men were
+periling their lives, and sacrificing their fortunes, was threatened
+with demolition; and the slaves who had so long and so often felt the
+lash of their masters, were now becoming a source of fear to the very
+men who had heretofore held them in such utter subjection.
+
+This state of affairs I found to be prevalent all over the country which
+I visited. Bright visions of freedom danced before the eyes of the
+slaves, and they awaited anxiously the dawning of the day, when the
+coming of the soldiers of the North would strike from their limbs the
+shackles they had worn so long. In the after years of this bloody
+struggle, many deeds of self-sacrifice were performed by these slaves,
+when, resisting the dazzling opportunities to obtain their coveted
+liberty, they cast their lot with the families of their old masters,
+whose male members were fighting to continue their bondage. Many cases
+could be cited where, but for the faithful labors and devotion of the
+despised slave, the families of many of the proud aristocrats would have
+starved. But the faithful heart of the negro ever beat warmly for those
+whom he had served so long, and disregarding the tempting allurements of
+freedom, he devoted himself to the service and to the maintenance of
+those who had regarded him as so much merchandise, or simply as a beast
+of burden.
+
+At Bowling Green I purchased a splendid bay horse, whose swiftness and
+powers of endurance I felt assured could be relied upon, intending to
+make the rest of my journey on horseback. By this means I would be the
+better able to control my movements than if I were compelled to depend
+upon the railroads for transportation. I would also be enabled to stop
+at any place where I might find the necessity, or a favorable
+opportunity for observation. I had no cause to regret the purchase I had
+made, for right nobly did the spirited animal which I had selected
+perform the arduous duties that were imposed upon him. Day after day he
+would be urged forward, and under his flying feet the distance sped away
+almost imperceptibly, and each morning found my charger rested and
+refreshed, and ready for the day's journey, be the weather fair or foul,
+or the roads easy or rugged.
+
+I reached Nashville, Tennessee, in due season, and resolved to devote
+several days to my investigations. Here the disunion element was more
+united and outspoken, but even here, I detected evidences of a Union
+sentiment which was none the less profound, because of the danger which
+its utterances would have incurred. There could be no doubt that this
+State had resolved to cast her fortunes with the confederacy, and the
+rebel General Pillow had been for some time engaged in fortifying the
+city of Memphis. At Nashville I met a number of officers of the rebel
+army, all of whom were full of enthusiasm, and whose bombastic
+utterances in view of the eventual results, seem at this time almost too
+absurd to be repeated. Here also I came in contact with an army surgeon,
+whose head was full of wild _Quixotic_ schemes for destroying the
+Northern armies by other processes than that of legitimate warfare. One
+of his plans I remember was to fill a commissary wagon with whisky, in
+which had been previously mixed a generous quantity of strychnine. The
+wagon was then to be broken and abandoned and left upon the road so as
+to fall into the hands of the Union soldiers. Of course, the liquor
+would be consumed by the finders, and the valiant Doctor, with evident
+satisfaction to himself, but to the equally evident disgust of his
+companions, loudly vaunted his death-dealing and barbarous scheme. This
+brave warrior, however, I learned afterward, had fled in terror at the
+first fire, and was afterwards dishonorably dismissed from the service
+he was so well calculated to disgrace. So far as I was afterward able to
+learn, this grand project for wholesale slaughter, of the valorous
+Doctor, received no sympathy or support from his more honorable
+associates, and the soldiers were enabled to drink their whiskey
+untainted with any other poisonous influences than is naturally a part
+of its composition.
+
+Leaving Nashville, I spurred on in the direction of Memphis, and in due
+time reached the city, which now presented a far different aspect than
+when I visited it only a few years before. Then the country was at
+peace. The war cloud had not burst with all its fury over a happy land,
+and the people were quietly pursuing their avocations. I was engaged in
+a detective operation which required my presence in the city, and had
+been in consultation with some of the express company's officials, for
+whom I was attempting to discover the perpetrators of a robbery of one
+of their safes. Turning a corner I came upon a scene that stirred my
+feelings to the utmost.
+
+It was the market square, and the merchandise disposed of were human
+beings. There was the auction-block and the slave-pen. Men, women and
+children were being knocked down to the highest bidder. Wives were sold
+away from their husbands, and children from their parents. Old and young
+were submitted to the vulgar speculators in flesh and blood, and their
+value was approximated by their apparent age, strength and
+healthfulness. My blood boiled in my veins as I witnessed, for the first
+time, the heart-rendering scenes which I had only heard or read of
+before. The cold cruelty of the buyers and abject misery of the sold,
+filled me with a spirit of opposition to this vile traffic that gave me
+renewed strength to fulfill my duty as an active abolitionist, and to
+labor earnestly in the cause of emancipation. I shall never forget the
+events of that day, and I can recall the feeling of intense satisfaction
+which I experienced on my second visit, when even then, I could see the
+dawning of that liberty for which I had labored, and I knew that the day
+of emancipation could not be far distant. Then the fair fame of
+independent America would no longer be blackened by the pressure of the
+slave or the master, but all men under the protection of the starry
+banner would be free and equal under the law.
+
+Now the streets were filled with soldiers, some of them fully armed and
+equipped, and others provided with but ordinary clothing, and furnished
+with such inefficient arms as they had brought with them from their
+homes. A most motley gathering they were, and their awkward and
+irregular evolutions at this time gave but little promise of the
+splendid army of which they were destined in the near future to form so
+important a part. The work of fortifying the city had been progressing
+in earnest; earthworks had been thrown up all along the banks of the
+Mississippi, and batteries were already in position, whose guns frowned
+threateningly upon the river.
+
+Here to be known or suspected as a Union man was to merit certain death,
+and to advocate any theory of compromise between the two sections was to
+be exiled from the city. Here rebeldom was rampant and defiant, and I
+had some difficulty in evading the suspicions of the watchful and alert
+Southron, who regarded all strange civilians with doubtful scrutiny, and
+whose "committee of safety" were ever on the _qui vive_ to detect those
+whose actions savored in the least of a leaning towards the North.
+Fearlessly, however, I mingled with these men, and as I lost no
+opportunity in pronouncing my views upon the righteousness of the cause
+of secession, and of my belief in its certain triumph, I obtained a
+ready passport to the favor and confidence of the most prominent of
+their leaders. I talked unreservedly with the private soldier and the
+general officer, with the merchant and the citizen, and by all was
+regarded as a stanch Southern man, whose interests and sympathies were
+wedded to rebellion.
+
+General Pillow was in command at this point, and almost every citizen
+was enrolled as a soldier, whose services would be cheerfully and
+promptly rendered whenever the call should be made upon them.
+
+Even this redoubtable chieftain was not proof against my blandishments,
+and he little dreamed when on one occasion he quietly sipped his brandy
+and water with me, that he was giving valuable information to his sworn
+foe, and one to whom every idea gained was an advantage to the
+government he was attempting to destroy.
+
+It is needless to relate the valuable items of information which I was
+enabled to glean upon this journey--information which in later days was
+of vast importance to the Union commanders, but which at this time would
+only burden a narrative of the events which they so ably assisted to
+successful results.
+
+Here, as in many other places, I found that my best source of
+information was the colored men, who were employed in various capacities
+of a military nature which entailed hard labor. The slaves, without
+reserve, were sent by their masters to perform the manual labor of
+building earthworks and fortifications, in driving the teams and in
+transporting cannon and ammunition, and, led by my natural and
+deep-seated regard for these sable bondsmen, I mingled freely with them,
+and found them ever ready to answer questions and to furnish me with
+every fact which I desired to possess.
+
+Here and there I found an unassuming white man whose heart was still
+with the cause of the Union, but whose active sympathy could not at this
+time be of service to the country, as he dared not utter a voice in
+defense of his opinions. From all these sources, however, I was
+successful in posting myself fully in regard to the movements and
+intentions of the rebel authorities and officers, and, as I believed,
+had also succeeded in concealing my identity.
+
+[Illustration: "_Fo' God, Massa Allen, ye'll be a dead man in de
+mo'nin'!_" P. 195.]
+
+On the third evening of my sojourn in Memphis, however, my dreams of
+fancied security were suddenly dispelled, and I was brought face to face
+with the reality of danger.
+
+I had retired early to my room, according to my general custom, and had
+scarcely been seated when I was disturbed by a faint but quick and
+distinct knocking at my door. I arose hastily, as it was something
+unusual for me to receive visitors after I had retired, and throwing
+open the door, I was somewhat surprised to see, standing before me, in a
+state of unmistakable excitement, the colored porter of the hotel.
+
+Before I had time to question him, he sprang into the room and closed
+the door behind him. His countenance evinced a degree of terror that
+immediately filled me with alarm. His eyes were fixed wildly upon me,
+his lips were quivering, and his knees trembled under him, as though
+unable to sustain the weight of his body. Indeed, so frightened was he,
+that he appeared to be struggling forcibly to do so.
+
+"What is the matter, Jem?" I inquired, in as calm a tone as I could
+assume, and with a view of reassuring him. "What has happened to
+frighten you so?"
+
+"'Fore God, Massa Allen," ejaculated the black, succeeding by a great
+effort in finding his voice, "you done can't sleep in this housn
+to-night, ef ye do, ye'll be a dead man before morning."
+
+As may be imagined, this information was not of a very agreeable nature,
+indefinite as it was; I felt assured that my informant could be relied
+on that something had occurred to endanger my safety, and I became
+impatient to learn what he knew.
+
+"Out with it, Jem," said I, "and let me know what it is all about." I
+spoke cheerfully and confidently, and the coolness of my manner had the
+effect of restoring the equilibrium of my sable friend, and, recovering
+himself with an effort, he began to explain:
+
+"I tell you what it is, Massa Allen, and I'se gwan to tell it mighty
+quick. Ye see, de General hab got a lot of spies up de river at Cairo, a
+watching of the Linkum sogers, and one o' dem fellows jes came in as you
+were going up stairs. De berry minit dat he seed you he said to de man
+what was wid him, 'Dat man is 'spicious; I seed him in Cincinnati two
+weeks ago, and he ain't down here for no good,' and he started right off
+for de General, to tell him all about it. I kem right up heah, massa,
+and you must git away as fast as ye can."
+
+This was too important to be ignored. I had no desire to be captured at
+that time, and I had no doubt of the correctness of the porter's story.
+I resolved to act at once upon the suggestion, and to make good my
+escape before it was too late. My admonitory friend was fearfully in
+earnest about getting me away, and he quickly volunteered to procure my
+horse, which I had quartered in close proximity to the hotel, and to
+furnish me with a guide who would see me safely through the lines and
+outside of the city. Bidding Jem make all possible haste in his
+movements, I gathered together my few belongings, and in a few minutes I
+descended the stairs and made my exit through the rear of the house.
+Through the faithfulness of Jem, and the careful guidance of the
+watchful negro he had provided me with, I was soon riding away from
+threatened danger and ere morning broke I had proceeded far upon my way.
+How much service these faithful blacks had been to me, I did not fully
+learn until some time afterwards, when I was informed by Timothy
+Webster, who arrived in Memphis following my departure, and who thus
+learned the full particulars of the exhausting pursuit of one of
+Lincoln's spies, who had mysteriously disappeared from the chief hotel,
+while a guard was being detailed to effect his arrest.
+
+I met the faithful Jem several years later, when he had worked his way
+as a refugee from his native State and entered the Union lines in
+Virginia, and he was soon afterwards attached to my force, where he
+proved his devotion in a manner that was quite convincing. My faithful
+steed, who had become thoroughly rested after his long journey, bore me
+safely through this danger, and in due time I entered the State of
+Mississippi. Here rebellion and disunion were the order of the day, and
+a widespread determination existed to fight the cause of the South to
+the bitter end. Stopping one night at Grenada, I pushed on my way to
+Jackson, and here I resolved to remain a day or two, in order to make a
+thorough investigation of the place and its surroundings.
+
+Putting up my horse, I engaged quarters for myself at the principal
+hotel in the city, and feeling very much fatigued with my long journey,
+I retired early to my room and passed a long night in refreshing sleep.
+
+In the morning I arose about five o'clock, as is my general custom. I
+was feeling in excellent health and spirits; my journey had thus far
+been fully as successful as I could have desired; and safely concealed
+about my person I had items of value that would amply repay me for the
+fatigues I had undergone and the dangers I had passed. I had plans of
+the roads, a description of the country, a pretty correct estimate of
+the troops and their various locations and conditions, and altogether I
+felt very well satisfied with myself and with the results of my mission.
+
+As I descended the stairs, I noticed a fine soldierly officer standing
+in the doorway, and after bidding him a hearty good-morning, I invited
+him to accompany me to the saloon of the hotel, where we mutually
+indulged in a decoction as is the universal custom in Southern cities.
+After I had obtained my breakfast, it occurred to me that, before
+attempting any active measures for the day, I owed it to myself to
+procure the services of a barber for a much-needed shave. I had been
+traveling for a number of days, and my face had been a stranger to a
+razor for a long time, and I concluded I would be more presentable if I
+consulted a tonsorial artist.
+
+This was an unfortunate idea, and I soon had occasion to regret having
+entertained it for a moment. I would have been far more contented if I
+had bestowed no thoughts upon my grizzled beard, and allowed nature to
+take its course with my hirsute appendage.
+
+Entirely unconscious, however, of what was in store for me, I entered
+the well-fitted saloon of the hotel, and patiently waited my turn to
+submit myself to the deft fingers of the knight of the razor.
+
+In response to the universal and well-understood call of "next!" I took
+my seat in the luxuriously upholstered chair, and in a few minutes my
+face was covered with the foamy lather applied by the dapper little
+German into whose hands I had fallen.
+
+I noticed when I sat down that the man wore a puzzled and speculative
+look, as though he was struggling with some vexing lapse of memory, and
+as he drew the keen edge of the razor across my face, his eyes were
+fixed intensely upon my features. His manner annoyed me considerably,
+and I was at a loss to account for his strange demeanor. Whatever ideas
+I may have entertained with regard to this singular action were,
+however, soon set at rest, only to give place to a feeling of unrestful
+anger.
+
+He had just cleared one side of my face of its stubby growth of hair,
+when a smile irradiated his face, and with a look of self-satisfied
+recognition and pride, he addressed me:
+
+"Vy, how do you do, Mr. Bingerdon?"
+
+Had a thunderbolt fallen at my feet I could not have been more perfectly
+amazed, and for a moment I could scarcely tell whether I was afoot or on
+horseback. I devoutly wished that I was anywhere than with this Dutch
+barber, whose memory was so uncomfortably retentive.
+
+I had been too accustomed to sudden surprises, however, to lose my
+self-control, and I replied to him, with an unmoved face and as stern a
+voice as I could command:
+
+"I am not Mr. Bingerdon, and I don't know the man."
+
+"Oh yes, your name is Bingerdon, and you leev in Geecago."
+
+The face of the German was so good-natured, and he appeared quite
+delighted at recognizing me, but for myself I was feeling very
+uncomfortable indeed. I did not know the man, nor what he knew of me. I
+knew, however, that he was perfectly right about my identity, and I knew
+also that it would be very dangerous for his knowledge to become
+general.
+
+"I tell you I don't know the man you are speaking of," said I, sternly.
+
+[Illustration: "_If you say another word to me, I'll whip you on the
+spot._" P. 201.]
+
+"Oy, Mr. Bingerdon," he replied, in a grieved tone, "I know you well.
+Don't you mind me shaving you in the Sherman House in Geecago, you was a
+customer of mine."
+
+The pertinacity of the man was simply exasperating, and fearing that his
+memory would be likely to get me into trouble, as several people were
+listening to our conversation, I resolved to end the difficulty at once.
+Jerking the towel from around my neck and wiping the lather from the
+unshaved portion of my face, I leapt from the chair, exclaiming angrily:
+
+"I tell you I know nothing of you Mr. Bingerdon, or any other d----d
+Yankee abolitionist, and if you say another word to me upon this
+subject, I'll whip you on the spot!"
+
+The barber presented a most ridiculous appearance; he was utterly
+frightened at my manner, and yet so convinced was he that I was the man
+he took me for, that he appeared more amazed at my denial, than at my
+threats of violence.
+
+Meanwhile, the occupants of the saloon began to crowd around us, and
+several came in from the adjoining rooms. Turning to them with
+well-simulated anger, I told them the story I had invented; I lived near
+Augusta, Georgia; never was in Chicago, did not know Mr. Pinkerton or
+any of his gang. Then I denounced the discomfited barber in round terms,
+and finished by inviting the entire crowd to take a drink with me.
+
+This they all did with alacrity, and by the time they had drained their
+glasses, every one of the party were strong adherents of mine. We then
+returned to the barber-shop, and so thoroughly was the crowd convinced
+of my truthfulness, that they were eager to punish the innocent occasion
+of my anger. One impetuous individual wanted to hang him on sight, and
+his proposition was received with general favor; but finding I had
+succeeded in evading detection for myself, I interfered in the poor
+fellow's behalf and he was finally let off.
+
+After another drink all round I managed to get away from the party, and
+it was not long before I was upon my horse, and traveling away from the
+possibility of a recurrence of such an accidental discovery. I procured
+a razor and shaving materials, and performed that operation for myself,
+as I did not care to excite curiosity by exhibiting my half-shaved face
+to any more inquisitive barbers.
+
+A few miles outside of the town I sold my horse, and concluding that I
+had obtained as much information as was desirable at that time, and as I
+had already been absent from headquarters longer than I had intended, I
+made my way back to Cincinnati by a circuitous route, and reached there
+in safety, well pleased with my work, and quite rejoiced to find that
+General McClellan was fully satisfied with what I had learned.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+_East and West Virginia.--Seceding from Secession.--My Scouts in
+Virginia.--A Rebel Captain Entertains "My Lord."--An old Justice Dines
+with Royalty.--A Lucky Adventure.--A Runaway Horse.--A Rescue._
+
+
+At this time the condition of affairs in the State of Virginia--the "Old
+Dominion," as it was generally denominated--presented a most perplexing
+and vexatious problem. The antagonistic position of the two sections of
+that state demanded early consideration and prompt action on the part of
+the Federal Government, both in protecting the loyal people in the
+Western section, and of preserving their territory to the Union cause.
+Within the borders of this commonwealth there existed two elements,
+directly opposed to each other, and both equally pronounced in the
+declaration of their political opinions. The lines of demarkation
+between these diverse communities were the Allegheny Mountains, which
+extended through the very middle of the state, from north-east to
+south-west, and divided her territory into two divisions, slightly
+unequal in size, but evidently different in topographical features and
+personal characteristics.
+
+From the nature of its earlier settlement, and by reason of climate,
+soil and situation, Eastern Virginia remained the region of large
+plantations, with a heavy slave population, and of profitable
+agriculture, especially in the production of tobacco. West Virginia, on
+the contrary, having been first settled by hunters, pioneers, lumbermen
+and miners, possessed little in common with her more wealthy and
+aristocratic neighbors beyond the mountains. They made their homes in
+the wilds of the woods, and among the rocky formations, under which was
+hidden the wealth they were seeking to develop, and in time this western
+country became the seat of a busy manufacturing industry, with a
+diversified agriculture for local consumption, while the east was
+largely given up to the production of great staples for export. As a
+natural result, the population and wealth of the eastern portion, which
+was thus made to stand in the relation of a mere tributary province to
+her grasping neighbor, who selfishly absorbed the general taxes for
+local advantage.
+
+The slave interest also entered largely into the creation and
+continuance of this antagonistic feeling. According to a census, which
+had been recently taken, it was ascertained that Eastern Virginia held
+but a few thousands. It was not a matter of surprise, therefore that
+secessionism should be rampant in the east, and that a Union sentiment
+should almost universally prevail in the west. As the institution of
+slavery was more or less the cause of the war, here, as in other parts
+of the South, secession reared its most formidable front where the slave
+interest predominated, and treason was more alert in the centers of
+accumulated wealth and family pride, whose foundations were laid by the
+suffering and the toil of the African bondsmen. The war had been waged
+to defend the "Divine institution," and it was scarcely to be expected
+that such a cause would be valiantly championed by men whose
+self-reliance and personal independence had endeared to them the rights
+of free and honorable manhood.
+
+When the Convention of Virginia met to consider the question of
+secession, the slave-holding dignitaries were somewhat startled by the
+logical, but novel, declaration of one of the western members, that "the
+right of revolution can be exercised as well by a portion of the
+citizens of a State against their State government, as it can be
+exercised by the whole people of a State against their Federal
+Government." This was followed by another, more pointed and
+revolutionary, "that any change in the relation Virginia now sustains to
+the Federal Government, against the wishes of even a respectable
+minority of her people, would be sufficient to justify them in changing
+their relation to the State government by separating themselves from
+that section of the State that had thus wantonly disregarded their
+interests and defied their will."
+
+The convention, however, denying the pertinency of this logic, passed
+its secret ordinance of secession on the 17th day of April, and within a
+week popular movements were on foot in the various towns and counties of
+Western Virginia, to effect a division of the State. The people united
+in a unanimous protest against the efforts of the slave-holding
+aristocrats to carry them into a cotton confederacy, and a determination
+to "secede from secession," was manifested everywhere. The loyal
+determination was rapidly followed by popular organization, an appeal
+for assistance was made to the government at Washington, who promised
+them countenance and support, and on the 13th day of May, delegates from
+twenty-five counties of West Virginia met at Wheeling, to devise such
+action as would enable them to fully and finally repudiate the
+treasonable revolt of East Virginia.
+
+Many circumstances favored their position. The state of Ohio,
+immediately adjoining, was organizing her military force of volunteers,
+and Western Virginia was, not long after, attached to the department of
+the Ohio under command of General McClellan. The blockade of Washington,
+and other events, had operated to keep the Western troops on the Ohio
+line, and the Unionists of West Virginia found a protecting military
+force at once in their immediate vicinity, with a commanding officer who
+was instructed to give them every encouragement and support.
+
+Meanwhile, Governor Letcher, of Virginia, ignoring the attitude assumed
+by the people of the West, had issued his proclamation calling for the
+organization of the state militia, and including Western Virginia in the
+call. Prompted by a spirit of arrogance or over-confidence, he at an
+early day dispatched officers to that locality to collect and organize
+the militia of Western Virginia. Owing to the sparsity of the
+population, and the hilly and mountainous situation of the country,
+there were but two principal localities or lines of travel, where a
+concentration of forces could be best effected--one of these being the
+line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and the other the valley of the
+Great Kanawha river. In these districts Governor Letcher sent his
+recruiting agents, but they soon returned reports of a very discouraging
+character. The rebel emissaries found the feeling very bitter: that
+Union organizations existed in most of the counties, and that while
+fragments of rebel companies were here and there springing up, it was
+very evident that no local force sufficient to hold the country, would
+respond to the Confederate appeal, while the close proximity of Union
+forces at several points along the Ohio, pointed to a short tenure of
+Confederate authority.
+
+This information was not at all cheering to the rebel Governor of the
+State, and he determined to maintain his authority in the disaffected
+districts with armed forces from the eastern portion of the State. To
+accomplish this, he detailed a few available companies from Staunton to
+march toward Beverly, from which point they could menace and overawe the
+town of Grafton, the junction of the main stem of the Baltimore and Ohio
+Railroad, with its branches extending to Parkersburg and Wheeling. The
+inhabitants showed more alacrity, however, to take up arms for the
+government than for Governor Letcher or General Lee. A Union Western
+Virginia regiment, under the command of Colonel Kelley, began to gather
+recruits rapidly at Wheeling, while the rebel camps between Beverly and
+Grafton were comparatively deserted, and Colonel Porterfield, who had
+been sent under orders of Governor Letcher, found his efforts at
+recruiting decidedly unsuccessful.
+
+On the 23rd day of May the State voted upon the ordinance of secession,
+and East Virginia, under complete military domination, accepted the
+ordinance, while West Virginia, comparatively free, voted to reject the
+idea of secession.
+
+Immediately after the result was ascertained, the rebel troops became
+aggressive, and Colonel Porterfield dispatched several of his companies
+to burn the bridge on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.
+
+The appearance of these troops was quickly brought to the notice of the
+Federal authorities at Washington. On the 24th day of May the Secretary
+of War and General Scott telegraphed this information to General
+McClellan, and inquired "whether its influence could not be
+counteracted." General McClellan at once replied in the affirmative,
+and this was the sole order he received from Washington regarding a
+campaign in Virginia.
+
+On the 26th, the General ordered two regiments to cross the river at
+Wheeling, and two others at Parkersburg. They were to move forward
+simultaneously by the branch railroads from each of these points to
+their junction at Grafton. The burnt bridges were restored in their
+passage, and after a most brilliant strategic movement, Porterfield was
+completely surprised, and the rebels were forced to disperse, in utter
+rout and confusion.
+
+This complete success of the first dash at the enemy had the most
+inspiriting effect upon the Union troops, and also encouraged and
+fortified the Western Virginia unionists, in their determination to
+break away from the East and to form a new State. This movement was
+successfully accomplished, and early in July they elected two United
+States senators, who were admitted to, and took part in the national
+legislature.
+
+Governor Pierpont, who was head of this provisional State government,
+organized at Wheeling, made a formal application to the United States
+for aid to suppress the rebellion and protect the people against
+domestic violence. General McClellan, in furtherance of this object,
+ordered additional forces into the State from his department.
+
+In order to act intelligently in the matter, it was necessary that some
+definite information should be derived respecting the country which was
+now to be protected, and from which it was necessary the invading rebels
+should be driven. For this purpose the General desired that I should
+dispatch several of my men, who, by assuming various and unsuspicious
+characters, would be able to travel over the country, obtain a correct
+idea of its topography, ascertain the exact position and designs of the
+secessionists.
+
+For this duty I selected a man named Price Lewis, who had just returned
+from a trip to the South, and whom I had reason to be satisfied was
+equal to the task. I resolved, therefore, that he should be one of the
+party to make this journey, together with several others who were
+delegated for the same purpose. In order to afford variety to the
+professions of my operatives, and because of his fitness for the
+character, I decided that Price Lewis should represent himself as an
+Englishman traveling for pleasure, believing that he would thus escape a
+close scrutiny or a rigid examination, should he, by any accident, fall
+into the hands of the rebels.
+
+Procuring a comfortable-looking road-wagon and a pair of strong gray
+horses, which were both substantial-looking and good roadsters, I
+stocked the vehicle with such articles of necessity and luxury as would
+enable them to subsist themselves if necessary, and at the same time
+give the appearance of truth to such professions as the sight-seeing
+Englishman might feel authorized to make. I provided him also with a
+number of English certificates of various kinds, and I also supplied him
+with English money which could be readily exchanged for such currency
+that would best suit his purposes in the several localities which he
+would be required to visit.
+
+Lewis wore a full beard, and this was trimmed in the most approved
+English fashion, and when fully equipped for his journey he presented
+the appearance of a thorough well-to-do Englishman, who might even be
+suspected of having "blue blood" in his veins. In order that he might
+the more fully sustain the new character he was about to assume, and to
+give an added dignity to his position, I concluded to send with him a
+member of my force who would act in the capacity of coachman, groom and
+body servant, as occasion should demand. The man whom I selected for
+this role was a jolly, good-natured, and fearless Yankee named Samuel
+Bridgeman, a quick, sharp-witted young man, who had been in my
+employment some time, and who had on several occasions proved himself
+worthy of trust and confidence in matters that required tact as well as
+boldness, and good sense as well as keen wit.
+
+Calling Sam into my office, I explained to him fully the nature of the
+duties he would be required to perform, and when I had concluded I saw
+by the merry twinkle in his eyes, and from the readiness with which he
+caught at my suggestions, that he thoroughly understood and had decided
+to carry out his part of the programme to the very letter.
+
+In addition to these, I arranged a route for two other men of my force.
+They were to travel through the valley of the Great Kanawha river, and
+to observe carefully everything that came under their notice, which
+might be of importance in perfecting a military campaign, in case the
+rebels should attempt hostile measures, or that General McClellan might
+find it necessary to promptly clear that portion of Virginia from the
+presence of secession troops. These two men were to travel ostensibly as
+farm laborers, and their verdant appearance was made to fully conform to
+such avocations.
+
+Everything being in readiness, the two parties were started, and we will
+follow their movements separately, as they were to travel by different
+routes.
+
+Price Lewis, the pseudo Englishman, and Sam Bridgeman, who made quite a
+smart-looking valet in his new costume, transferred their horses, wagon
+and stores on board the trim little steamer "Cricket," at Cincinnati,
+intending to travel along the Ohio River, and effect a landing at
+Guyandotte, in Western Virginia, at which point they were to disembark
+and pursue their journey overland through the country.
+
+I accompanied Lewis to the wharf, and after everything had been
+satisfactorily arranged, I bade him good-bye, and the little steamer
+sailed away up the river.
+
+There were the usual number of miscellaneous passengers upon the boat,
+and added to these were a number of Union officers, who had been
+dispatched upon various missions throughout that portion of the State of
+Ohio. These men left the steamer as their points of destination were
+reached, and after they had departed, several of the passengers who had
+hitherto remained silent, became very talkative. They began in a
+cautious manner to express their opinions, with a view of eliciting some
+knowledge of the sympathies of their fellow-travelers in the important
+struggle that was now impending. Lewis had maintained a quiet, dignified
+reserve, which, while it did not forbid any friendly approaches from his
+fellow-passengers, at the same time rendered them more respectful, and
+prevented undue familiarity. Sam Bridgeman contributed materially to
+this result; his deference to "my lord" was very natural, and the
+respect with which he received his commands convinced the passengers at
+once that the English-looking gentleman was a man of some importance.
+
+The passengers all appeared to be Union men, and while they expressed
+their regrets that the war had commenced, they regarded their separation
+from Eastern Virginia, with undisguised satisfaction.
+
+At midnight, on the second evening, the boat landed at Guyandotte, and
+Samuel, with a great deal of importance, attended to the transfer of his
+master and the equipage from the boat to the wharf. Here they found a
+number of men in uniform, who were ascertained to be representatives of
+the "Home Guard," and in a few minutes Bridgeman had secured the
+services of two of them, to assist him in safely landing their effects.
+This being satisfactorily accomplished, he, apparently in a sly manner,
+treated them to a drop of good whisky, which formed part of the stores
+they had been provided with. Stopping at the hotel over night, they
+continued their journey on the following morning. They drove leisurely
+along, and at about ten o'clock they stopped at a farm-house to rest
+their horses. They remained here until nearly three o'clock in the
+afternoon, conversing with the old farmer, who seemed to be much pained
+at the condition of affairs, but who had two sons who had joined the
+rebel army. They renewed their journey in the afternoon, and in about
+two hours reached the little village of Colemouth, where there was a
+rebel encampment. On passing this they were halted by the guard, who
+inquired their business and destination. Lewis told him he was an
+Englishman, accompanied only by his servant, and that he was traveling
+through the country for pleasure. The guard informed them that he could
+not let them pass, and asked Lewis to go with him to the Captain's
+headquarters, which was located in a large stone house, a few hundred
+yards distant. My operative willingly consented, and leaving Sam in
+charge of his carriage, he accompanied the soldier to the officer's
+quarters. He was ushered into a large and well-furnished apartment on
+the second floor, and in a few minutes the Captain came in.
+
+[Illustration: _An English Lord and a Rebel Captain._ P. 215.]
+
+He greeted my operative pleasantly, and informed him that he regretted
+the necessity of detaining him, but orders had to be obeyed. Lewis
+related in substance what he had already stated to the guard, which
+statement the Captain unhesitatingly received, and after a pleasant
+conversation, he invited the detective to accept the hospitality of the
+camp.
+
+An English gentleman traveling for pleasure was not to be treated with
+discourtesy, and upon Lewis' accepting of his invitation, a soldier was
+dispatched to bring the horses and carriage and their impatient driver
+into camp.
+
+Supper was ordered, and in a short time the Captain and his guest were
+discussing a repast which was far more appetizing than soldiers' fare
+usually is. During the meal Sam stood behind the chair of Lewis, and
+awaited upon him in the most approved fashion, replying invariably with
+a deferential,
+
+"Yes, my lord."
+
+After full justice had been done to the repast, Price directed Bridgeman
+to bring in from the carriage a couple of bottles of champagne, and by
+the time the hour of retiring had arrived the detective had succeeded in
+impressing his entertainer with a very exalted opinion of his rank and
+standing when at home.
+
+Lewis, being an Englishman by birth, was very well posted about English
+affairs, and he entertained his host with several very well invented
+anecdotes of the Crimea, in which he was supposed to have taken an
+active part, and his intimacy with Lord Raglan, the commander of the
+British army, gained for him the unbounded admiration and respect of the
+doughty Captain.
+
+From this officer Lewis learned that there were a number of troops in
+Charleston, but a few miles distant, and that General Wise, who was then
+in command, had arrived there that day.
+
+After a refreshing sleep and a bounteous breakfast, Lewis informed the
+Captain that he would continue his journey toward Charleston, and
+endeavor to obtain an interview with General Wise. The Captain cordially
+recommended him to do so, and furnished him with passports which would
+carry him without question or delay upon the road. As they were about
+taking their leave the Captain put into Lewis' hands an unsealed letter,
+at the same time remarking with great earnestness:
+
+"My lord, I beg of you to accept the inclosed letter of introduction to
+General Wise; as I am personally acquainted with him, this letter may be
+of some service to you, and I should be only too happy if it will be
+so."
+
+"Thank you," replied Lewis, "but you have been far too kind already, and
+believe me I shall always recall my entertainment at your hands with
+pleasure."
+
+The valiant Captain was not aware that he had been furnishing very
+valuable information to his gentlemanly visitor, and that while he was
+unsuspectingly answering his well-directed questions, his servant, the
+quiet Sam Bridgeman, was unobservedly making notes of all that he heard
+in relation to the situation of affairs and with regard to the probable
+movements of the rebel troops.
+
+A rather ridiculous incident occurred to our two travelers after leaving
+the camp. They had proceeded but a short distance upon their way, when
+one of the horses they were driving cast a shoe, which made it necessary
+for them to stop at a little village and secure the services of a
+blacksmith.
+
+Driving up to the hotel, Lewis alighted from the wagon, while Bridgeman
+drove to the blacksmith-shop in order to have his horse attended to. As
+Lewis ascended the steps of the hotel he noticed a tall, rather
+commanding-looking gentleman seated upon the porch, who was evidently
+scrutinizing his appearance, very carefully. The stranger was a man
+about sixty years of age, but remarkably well preserved, and the lines
+on his face scarcely gave but little indication of his years. There was
+an air of seeming importance about him which impressed Lewis with the
+fact that he must be one of the dignitaries of the place, and as he
+approached him he very politely raised his hat and saluted him.
+
+The old gentleman returned the salutation with an inquiring gaze, and
+Lewis, in order to pave the way to his acquaintance, invited him to
+partake of a drink, which was cordially accepted. In a few minutes,
+under its influence, the two men were conversing with all the freedom of
+old friends.
+
+Lewis ascertained that his companion was a justice of the peace, an
+office of some importance in that locality, and that the old gentleman
+was disposed to give to his judicial position all the dignity which a
+personal appreciation of his standing demanded. In a quiet manner, Lewis
+at once gave the justice to understand his appreciating the honor he had
+received in meeting him, and by a few well-administered flatteries,
+succeeded in completely winning the kind regards of the old gentleman.
+Their pleasant conversation was progressing with very favorable success,
+when Sam Bridgeman drove up with the team, having succeeded in finding a
+smithy and in having the lost shoe replaced.
+
+With a deferential, semi-military salute, he addressed Lewis:
+
+"We are all ready, my lord." At the mention of the title the old fellow
+jumped to his feet in blank amazement, and in the most obsequious
+manner, and with an air of humility, that, compared with his bombastic
+tone of a few moments before, was perfectly ridiculous. Jerking off his
+hat and placing it under his left arm, he advanced, and said:
+
+"If my lord would do me the honor to accept my poor hospitality, I would
+only be too happy to have the pleasure of his company for dinner; my
+house is only a short distance off, on the road to Charleston, and will
+detain you no longer than to rest and feed your horses, and partake of a
+true Southern meal."
+
+Lewis hesitated a moment, and then remembering that he had represented
+himself as traveling purely for pleasure, he did not see how he could
+avoid accepting his kind invitation.
+
+"I have heard, sir, of the hospitable character of the Southern
+gentlemen, and I assure you I shall be most happy to avail myself of
+your kindness."
+
+The old Justice could not conceal his pleasure at the prospect of
+entertaining a "live lord" in his own house, and with evident delight he
+accepted a seat in Lewis' carriage. He directed the way to his dwelling,
+which stood back from the road, surrounded by a grove of lofty pines,
+and then invited his guest within; intrusting the care of the team to
+the care of Sam and one of the servants, they entered the house, and
+were soon engaged in discussing the situation of affairs, both North and
+South. Lewis informed the old Justice that his name was Henry Tracy, of
+Oxford, England, and that his object was to reach Charleston, but that
+he was not aware that the country was so unsettled, or he would not
+have ventured on this trip. He then related his adventure of the day
+before, and commented favorably on the gentlemanly bearing of the
+Captain, and the manner in which he had been treated. They indulged in
+pleasant conversation, on various topics, until dinner was announced.
+
+When they had done justice to an excellent repast, they repaired to a
+shaded porch in the rear of the house, and Lewis instructed Sam to bring
+out a bottle of champagne and a bottle of brandy. These, as already
+intimated, had been labeled with foreign wrappers, so that the deception
+was complete. The brandy was a very ordinary article, and the wine of an
+inferior quality, but the old gentlemen went into ecstasies over it, and
+under its mellowing influence, he became familiar and confidential, and
+gave to my shrewd operative much valuable information. Finally the
+justice grew profusely demonstrative, and leaning across the table, he
+said:
+
+"My lord, I have never tasted such brandy as you carry in all my life, I
+have a couple of warm friends outside whom I have taken the liberty to
+send for, and whom I know will be delighted to see you, and still more
+pleased to taste this excellent liquor."
+
+"Certainly," replied Lewis, "bring them in; I shall be happy to meet
+them."
+
+Lewis supposed, of course, that the two men whom he had referred were
+planters and neighbors, but imagine his surprise when the justice
+returned, accompanied by the blacksmith and cobbler of the village.
+
+After being introduced to "my Lord Tracy," Lewis invited them to take a
+glass with them, and with evident pleasure, yet with visible
+embarrassment, they accepted the invitation and seated themselves at the
+table.
+
+It was now that the old gentleman grew loquacious; he was loud and
+profuse in his praises of the brandy; he asserted again and again, that
+it had never been his good fortune to taste such liquor, in which
+encomiums the blacksmith and cobbler heartily joined. As the afternoon
+wore away, and the present supply was exhausted, Sam was dispatched
+after another bottle, and the social meeting continued until evening.
+Lewis was careful as to the amount he drank, and intensely enjoyed the
+whole affair. The idea of the blacksmith and cobbler hobnobbing with an
+English lord, struck him as being so ridiculously funny, that he laughed
+again and again at the absurdity of the situation. Often during the
+evening he laughed immoderately, at what they supposed their own jokes
+and wit, when he was really thinking of the ridiculous comedy in which
+he was playing the leading part. When the hour for retiring arrived, the
+old man begged as a special favor that he would be allowed to keep one
+of the empty bottles, as a memento of the occasion of his lordship's
+dining with him, and to remind him of the pleasure he had enjoyed of
+drinking some rare old imported brandy (made in Cincinnati). The
+blacksmith and cobbler also looked so longingly at the empty bottles
+before them, that Lewis could scarcely refrain from laughing heartily,
+as he graciously complied with their request for a souvenir of the
+occasion. The evident satisfaction with which they appropriated a bottle
+apiece, as they started for home, and their hearty thanks as they bid
+him good-night, was heartily echoed by the old justice, who carefully
+laid his bottle away as a sacred relic of a never-to-be-forgotten event.
+
+While the party were enjoying themselves on the porch, Sam Bridgeman had
+been using his time well among the servants, and had gleaned much
+valuable information from them. They remained over night with the old
+gentleman, and on the following morning, after bidding him a kind
+farewell, they started on their journey. Lewis did not forget, however,
+before leaving, to take a parting glass with his host, who seemed very
+reluctant to have them depart. They continued on their way towards
+Charleston, traveling but slowly, as the roads were heavy from the
+recent rains. About noon they arrived at a farm-house, to which they had
+been recommended by their host of the night before. Here they stopped
+for dinner, and after refreshing themselves, they again went on. The
+afternoon was warm and pleasant, and their journey lay through a
+beautiful stretch of country. Driving quietly along, they beguiled the
+time admiring the beautiful scenery spread before them, and in pleasant
+converse. Their enjoyment was, however, suddenly interrupted by the
+sound of loud voices and the clattering of horses' hoofs immediately
+behind him. Quickly turning around, the cause of this unusual excitement
+was at once apparent. A fine black horse, covered with foam, was tearing
+down the turnpike at break-neck speed, and evidently running away. Upon
+his back was seated a young lady, who bravely held her seat, and who was
+vainly attempting to restrain the unmanageable animal. Some distance
+behind were a party of ladies and gentlemen on horseback, all spurring
+their horses to the utmost, as if with the intention of overtaking the
+flying steed in front of them. Intense fear was depicted upon the
+countenances of those in the rear, and not without reason, for the
+situation of the young lady was dangerous indeed.
+
+Quick as a flash, my operatives realized the situation of affairs, and
+the necessity for prompt action. Without uttering a word, Sam Bridgeman
+turned his horses directly across the road, intending by that means to
+stop the mad course of the fiery charger approaching them. As he did so,
+Lewis sprang from the wagon, and with the utmost coolness advanced to
+meet the approaching horse. On came the frightened animal at a speed
+that threatened every moment to hurl the brave girl from her seat, until
+he approached nearly to the point at which my operatives had stationed
+themselves, and then, evidently perceiving the obstructions in his path,
+he momentarily slackened pace. In that instant Lewis sprang forward, and
+grasping the bridle firmly with a strong hand, he forced the frightened
+animal back upon his haunches. The danger was passed. The horse, feeling
+the iron grip upon the bridle, and recognizing the voice of authority,
+stood still and trembling in every joint, his reeking sides heaving, and
+his eyes flashing fire. The young lady, with a sudden revulsion of
+feeling, fell back in the saddle, and would have fallen but that Sam
+Bridgeman, hastening to the relief of his companion, was fortunately in
+time to catch the fainting figure in his arms. Extricating her quickly
+from the saddle, he set her gently on the ground, and as he did so the
+fair head fell forward on his shoulder, and she lost consciousness.
+
+By this time Lewis had succeeded in quieting the excited animal, and had
+fastened him to a tree by the wayside, and as he turned to the
+assistance of Bridgeman, the companions of the unconscious girl rode up.
+Hastily dismounting, they rushed to her aid, and in a few minutes, under
+their ministrations, the dark eyes were opened, and the girl gazed
+wonderingly around.
+
+After being assisted to her feet, she gratefully expressed her
+thankfulness to the men who had probably saved her life, in which she
+was warmly joined by the remainder of the party.
+
+Sam Bridgeman received these grateful expressions with an air of modest
+confusion, which was indeed laughable, and then said:
+
+"It ain't no use thanking me, Miss, it was my lord here, that stopped
+the animal."
+
+At the words "my lord," a look of curiosity came over the faces of the
+new-comers, and Lewis stepped gracefully forward and introduced himself.
+
+"I am glad, ladies and gentlemen, to have been of service to this young
+lady, and permit me to introduce myself as Henry Tracy, of Oxford,
+England, now traveling in America."
+
+The three gentlemen who were of the riding party grasped the hand of
+their new-made English acquaintance, and in a few words introduced him
+to the ladies who accompanied them, all of whom were seemingly delighted
+to make the acquaintance of a gentleman who had been addressed by his
+servant as "my lord."
+
+This adventure proved to be a most fortunate one for my two operatives.
+The gentlemen, upon introducing themselves, were discovered to be
+connected with the rebel army, and to be recruiting officers sent by
+Governor Letcher to organize such rebel volunteers as were to be
+gathered in Western Virginia. By them Lewis was cordially invited to
+join their company to Charleston, which he as cordially accepted.
+Suggesting that as the young lady, who had scarcely recovered from the
+accident, might not feel able to ride her horse into town, he politely
+offered her a seat in his carriage, which offer was gratefully accepted,
+and attaching the runaway horse to the rear of the vehicle, the party
+proceeded on their way to Charleston, at which point they arrived
+without further event or accident.
+
+The young lady whom Lewis had so providentially rescued was the only
+daughter of Judge Beveridge, one of the wealthiest and most influential
+men in the State, and upon conducting her to her home, the detective was
+received with the warmest emotions by the overjoyed father. Lewis was
+pressed to make the house of the Judge his home during his stay, but
+gratefully declining the invitation, he took up his quarters at the
+hotel, where he could more readily extend his acquaintance, and where
+his movements would be more free.
+
+The young officers whom he had met upon the road had their quarters at
+the hotel at which Lewis had stopped, and under their friendly guidance
+no one thought of questioning his truthfulness, or impeaching his
+professions.
+
+By this means he was enabled to acquire a wonderful amount of
+information, both of value and importance to the cause of the North, all
+of which was duly reported to me at headquarters, and by me communicated
+directly to General McClellan.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+_The Rebels Attempt to Occupy West Virginia.--General McClellan Ordered
+to Drive them Out.--Early Battle.--The Federals Victorious.--West
+Virginia Freed from Rebel Soldiers._
+
+
+Recognizing the importance of holding West Virginia, and of preventing
+the Union forces from penetrating through the mountains in the direction
+of Staunton, the rebel authorities had sent two new commanders into that
+region. Ex-Governor Wise was dispatched to the Kanawha Valley, and
+General Garnett, formerly a Major in the Federal army, was sent to
+Beverly to attempt to gather up and reorganize the remnants of Colonel
+Porterfield's scattered command, and to adopt immediate measures to
+reinforce them.
+
+General Wise having been assigned to the Kanawha Valley, was expected to
+arrive at Charleston on the day following the appearance of my
+operatives, and the city was in a state of subdued excitement in
+anticipation of his coming.
+
+In the evening, Lewis, in company with the officers whom he had met in
+the morning, proceeded to the residence of Judge Beveridge, where he was
+cordially received by that gentleman and his charming daughter, who had
+now thoroughly recovered from the effects of her dangerous ride. With
+rare grace she greeted my operative, and her expressions of thankfulness
+were couched in such delicate language, that the pretended Englishman
+felt a strange fluttering in his breast, which was as novel to him as it
+was delicious. He passed a very delightful evening, and by his knowledge
+of English affairs, and his unqualified approval of the cause of the
+South, added to the fact that he was believed to be a gentleman of rank
+and fortune, he succeeded in materially increasing the high opinion
+which had previously been entertained regarding him.
+
+The next morning General Wise arrived, and his appearance was hailed
+with delight by the disunion element of the city, while those whose
+sympathies were with the North looked with apprehension and disfavor
+upon the demonstrations that were being made in his honor.
+
+At the first opportune moment, Price Lewis, with the assistance of his
+new-found friends, the rebel officers, succeeded in obtaining an
+introduction to the ancient-looking individual whose career had been
+marked by such exciting events, and who was so prominent a figure in the
+tragedy that was now being enacted. He was a small, intelligent-looking
+man, whose age appeared to be nearly seventy years, and whose emaciated
+appearance gave every token that he had not long to live. His eyes shone
+with the brilliancy of youth, and the fires of ambition seemed to be
+burning brightly in his breast. Perhaps no other man in the South had
+contributed in so great a degree to hasten the folly of secession, and
+certainly none rejoiced more heartily at its final realization.
+
+By his eloquence, and the magnetic power of his presence, he had led the
+ignorant classes of the State to firm belief in the justice of his
+cause, and by his teachings he had imbued them with a firm conviction
+that they were acting for their own best interests, and for the
+furtherance of the Southern supremacy and success.
+
+Stern and determined, he allowed nothing to stand between him and the
+accomplishment of his purposes. But a few months before, he had ordered
+the execution of John Brown, who, with a mere handful of men, had
+attempted to strike a blow in behalf of the slave. This ardent
+abolitionist attacked and captured Harper's Ferry, a government arsenal,
+by overpowering the men who were stationed at that place, but the
+authorities had been called upon, and then, yielding to superior
+numbers, he was compelled to surrender. In this encounter the majority
+of his men were slain, and John Brown, with six of his associates, was
+taken prisoner. This occurred on the 16th day of October, 1859, and on
+the 22d day of December, after a hurried trial, the prisoners were
+ordered by Governor Wise to be publicly hanged. The sentence was duly
+carried into effect, and the action of John Brown was used by the
+secession advocates to inflame the minds of the Southern people against
+the North. Now that secession had become an established fact, it was a
+matter of question whether the leaders of the Southern cause would not,
+in the end, strike a far more forcible blow in favor of the emancipation
+of the slave, than did the impetuous old man who gave up his life at the
+behest of the Southern leaders.
+
+The General had been previously informed of the presence of Lewis in the
+hotel, and of his adventure on the day previous, consequently, when he
+was presented to the new commander, he was received with warm
+cordiality. The General inquired particularly into his history, and his
+present movements, all of which were replied to by Lewis in a dignified
+and satisfactory manner. Under the influence of Lewis' good-nature the
+General became social and familiar, and invited him to dine with him in
+his apartments.
+
+Leaving no opportunity that offered, the detective took advantage of
+every available suggestion, and the result was he became fully posted
+upon everything that was of importance, and was enabled to render such
+an account of his labors as was satisfactory in the extreme. Sam
+Bridgeman, too, had not been idle, but mingling freely with the
+soldiers, he had succeeded in learning much of the conditions of the
+country that was of immense advantage in the after events of the
+campaign in Western Virginia.
+
+They remained in Charleston about eight days, and then, taking leave of
+the many friends they had made, they made their way safely back to
+Cincinnati and reported. The other two men whom I had dispatched upon
+the same mission traveled by rail across the State of Ohio and reached
+the West Virginia line at Point Pleasant. Here they began their
+investigations, and passing unquestioned they roamed through the
+country, passing eastward as far as Lynchburg. Thence, they made a
+detour to the South, and journeyed as far as Chattanooga and Nashville,
+in Tennessee, and thence to Louisville, Ky. Throughout their entire
+pilgrimage they were ever on the alert to acquire knowledge, and the
+immense amount of information which they gathered would only prove
+tedious to both myself and the reader. It is enough to say that they
+performed their duty in a manner creditable to themselves and valuable
+to the cause they represented, and I will simply summarize the
+situation.
+
+General Garnett had posted himself in the pass at Laurel Hill, with an
+additional force at Beverly, while another detachment, under Col.
+Pegram, had established himself in the pass at Rich Mountain. Here he
+had intended to fortify himself and to await a favorable opportunity for
+breaking the railroad. He found affairs upon his arrival in a miserable
+condition; the troops were disorganized and without discipline, arms or
+ammunition, and General Lee immediately sent him re-enforcements.
+
+This was the condition of affairs, when, early in July, General
+McClellan resolved to take the offensive and drive the rebels from West
+Virginia. In this campaign he received material aid and assistance from
+that brave officer General Rosecrans, who by superhuman exertions
+penetrated the pathless forest cutting and climbing his way to the very
+crest of Rich Mountain.
+
+This movement, difficult as it was, to the South of the rebels, was a
+complete surprise to the enemy, who was expecting their arrival from the
+North.
+
+They made a gallant resistance, however, but the Union forces had such
+an advantage that the contest was quickly decided. The rebel forces were
+driven from their breast-works and were compelled to take refuge in
+thickets or the mountains. Their confusion was deplorable, and their
+defeat unmistakable.
+
+This victory placed the enemy in a very precarious position. McClellan
+was in his front and Rosecrans in secure possession of the road behind
+him, and Pegram, realizing the danger that threatened him, returned to
+his camp and, hastily spiking his guns, he abandoned all his stores and
+equipments, and endeavored to escape by marching northward along the
+mountain, intending, if possible, to join Garnett at Laurel Hill.
+
+For the time being, he was successful in eluding the Federal commanders,
+and after a most laborious march of eighteen hours, found himself within
+three miles of Leedsville. Here he was doomed to disappointment, for he
+learned that Garnett had also retreated, and that a strong Union column
+was in close pursuit. Thus he was again caught between two Union armies,
+and despairing of effecting his escape, he sent a proposal to General
+McClellan, offering a total surrender of his command. The Union General
+accepted the proposition, and on the following day the half-famished
+rebel fugitives laid down their arms and became prisoners of war, only
+too glad to receive once more comfortable quarters and hunger-appeasing
+rations.
+
+The fugitives who had escaped from the battle of Rich Mountain carried
+the news of that disaster to Beverly, and to General Garnett, at Laurel
+Hill, and an immediate retreat was ordered. But he was closely pressed
+by the advancing Union armies, and when General Garnett reached
+Leedsville, he heard that General McClellan was at Beverly, thus cutting
+off effectually his further passage southward. He now resolved upon the
+desperate attempt of turning to the North and reaching St. George and
+West Union by a rough and difficult mountain road, during which his
+troops naturally became very much scattered and disorganized. Although
+he was nearly fifteen hours in advance of his pursuers, they gained
+rapidly upon him, and notwithstanding every effort was made by the
+rebels to impede his progress by felling trees in the narrow mountain
+defiles, the Union advance overtook the rebel wagon-train at Carrick's
+Ford, one of the crossings of Cheat River, about twenty-six miles
+north-west of Laurel Hill. Here Garnett resolved to risk an encounter,
+and facing about his troops, he took a position on a favorable and
+precipitous elevation on the river bank, and planting his guns so as to
+command the ford and the approaching road, he prepared to defend his
+retreat. A brisk engagement at once ensued, and after a sharp contest
+the rebel lines broke and fled, abandoning one of their guns.
+
+Retreat and pursuit were once more commenced, and at the next ford, a
+quarter of a mile further on, during a desultory skirmish fire between
+small parties of sharpshooters, General Garnett was killed. Here the
+Federal pursuit was discontinued, and the rebels left in the hands of
+the victors their entire baggage train, one gun, two stands of colors
+and fifty prisoners.
+
+Estimated according to mere numbers, these battles of Rich Mountain and
+Carrick's Ford appear somewhat insignificant in contrast with the great
+battles of the rebellion, which occurred during the succeeding three
+years. Hundreds of engagements of greater magnitude, and attended with
+much more serious loss of life, followed these encounters, and decided
+the mighty problem of Northern success, but this early skirmish with the
+rebels on Rich Mountain, and this rout of Garnett's rear-guard at
+Carrick's Ford, were speedily followed by great political and military
+results, which exercised a powerful influence upon the after-conduct of
+the war. They closed a campaign, dispersed a rebel army, which had for a
+long time been harassing a State whose sympathies were with the Union,
+and they permanently pushed back the military frontier to the borders of
+rebellious territory. Now, is it too much to say that the brilliant
+success which attended this first aggressive movement of General
+McClellan had a marked effect upon the public mind? That they gave a
+general impression of his military skill is not to be doubted, and he
+was from that time the hero of the hour. Certain it is that a train of
+circumstances started from these achievements which eventually led to
+his being called to Washington after the reverses at Manassas and Bull
+Run, and made him, on the first day of November following, the
+General-in-Chief of all the armies of the United States.
+
+It is not necessary for me to follow the subsequent operations in West
+Virginia, as my duties were connected with General McClellan and his
+campaigns in that district ended with the death of General Garnett and
+the dispersion of his army. About a week afterwards he was called to a
+new field of duty at Washington city, and it is not my purpose to touch
+upon events in which I took no part. It is enough to say that, with
+somewhat fluctuating changes, the rebels were gradually forced back from
+the Great Kanawha Valley, and the eventual result left West Virginia in
+possession of the Federal troops, her own inherent loyalty having
+contributed largely in producing this condition. The Union sentiment of
+the people was everywhere made manifest, and the new State government
+was consolidated and heartily sustained, ending in her ultimate
+admission as a separate member of the Federal Union in June, 1863.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+_General McClellan is called to Washington and placed in Command of the
+Armies, after the Battle of Bull Run.--The Secret Service
+Department.--Its Duties and Responsibilities._
+
+
+As I am not attempting to write a history of the Civil War, but merely
+relating, as best I can, the leading incidents connected with my labors
+in the secret service, I shall not dwell upon the details of the
+military movements of the war, except as they are necessarily connected
+with my own movements. It is necessary, however, to make cursory mention
+of that remarkable chain of circumstances which followed General
+McClellan's campaign in West Virginia, resulting in entire and
+unexpected change of circumstances to him, and a consequent enlargement
+of my own field of operations. Therefore, without pausing to describe
+the various movements and enterprises in West Virginia during the
+remainder of the year 1861, or detailing the campaign of the three
+months' volunteers under General Patterson, and their bloodless victory
+at Harper's Ferry, I will pass on to other scenes and events which lead
+directly to the turning-point in my story.
+
+Patriotism in the North was excited to such a pitch that the people were
+impatient of delay, and eager to strike a decisive blow--a blow that
+would at once annihilate treason and wipe out the insult to a nation's
+flag, and maintain a nation's honor. The resounding echoes of the rebel
+guns that had done their work of destruction on Sumter's walls, were
+still vibrating in the air.
+
+The Confederate seat of government had been transferred from Montgomery
+to Richmond, immediately after Virginia's indorsement of the secession
+ordinance, and this enthronement of rebellion so close to the very
+stronghold of freedom, caused patriotic resentment to blaze up with
+fresh intensity.
+
+In the month of June a determined movement against Manassas was resolved
+upon at Washington.
+
+As a preliminary step to the advancement upon the rebel capital, General
+Scott gave Patterson orders to offer Johnston battle, or detain him in
+the Shenandoah Valley by other demonstrations, in order that his army
+might not unite with Beauregard's and defeat the movement. But Patterson
+failed to perform the task assigned to him, and his failure lost to the
+Union cause the first great battle of the war.
+
+General Beauregard was in possession of Manassas with six thousand men,
+and this force was being very materially increased by the arrival of
+reinforcements from time to time; but notwithstanding this fact, it was
+believed that every chance of success would be provided for by the
+strength of the Union army at the capital, if only Johnston could be
+held in check for a few days.
+
+Delay in starting this expedition against the enemy's works was
+unavoidable, and it was not until the afternoon of the 16th of July that
+the march of McDowell's army commenced. Even then the progress was
+painfully slow, owing to inexperience and lack of discipline on the part
+of the troops.
+
+Manassas Junction was defended by about two thousand rebels, with
+fourteen or fifteen heavy guns, while at Bull Run, some three miles east
+of Manassas, was stationed Beauregard's main army, over twenty thousand
+strong, posted at the various fords of the stream, in a line fully eight
+miles long. McDowell, as a strategic movement to conceal his real
+purpose, directed his march upon Centreville, at which place Tyler's
+Division arrived on the morning of July 18th, to find that it had been
+evacuated by the rebels, who were all behind Bull Run. From Centreville,
+which is situated on a hill, Tyler and his men had a view of the whole
+valley spread out before them, with Manassas on the high plateau beyond.
+It has been hinted that Tyler was inspired with over confidence by the
+utter absence of opposition to his advance, and was thus betrayed into
+the indiscretion of a further advance and an experimental assault. This
+provoked a skirmish, which speedly culminated in the battle of
+Blackburn's Ford, the result of which was much loss and demoralization.
+
+Two more days elapsed before the great fight occurred. Those two days
+were occupied by the engineers in efforts to find an unfortified ford
+over Bull Run, which was accomplished in time to permit McDowell to call
+his officers together on Saturday night, and announce to them his plan
+of battle for the following day. This brought the main contest on
+Sunday, July 21st, and before daylight on the morning of that eventful
+day, both armies were up and astir, each intending to take the
+initiative. There was much unnecessary confusion and delay, mingled with
+undue excitement and impetuosity, showing that everything was raw and
+awkward on both sides. Perhaps no troops ever engaged in warfare with as
+little knowledge of the privations, hardships and dangers of
+soldier-life, as did the Union and Confederate armies on this bloody
+field.
+
+The day passed; the shades of evening fell, and the battle of Bull Run
+had been fought and lost! Victory had perched itself on the rebel
+banners, and the Union army was in full retreat towards Washington. The
+engagement had been well contested, and fought with equal courage and
+persistence by both sides, and the result was quite as unexpected to the
+Confederates as to the Federals.
+
+But Johnston had not been kept out of the fray, as it was calculated he
+would be. His army had been permitted to arrive on the battle-field in
+the nick of time to take a decisive part in the famous conflict, and to
+turn the fortunes of the day at a moment when the signs of victory were
+all in favor of the Federal troops. Totally unconscious of the fact that
+they had been fighting Johnston all day, the Union soldiers had not once
+lost confidence in themselves, and fully believed that they must win;
+but when a fresh assault from a new quarter convinced them that
+Johnston's forces had arrived, the realization and acknowledgment of
+coming defeat pervaded the whole army, and the quick instinct of retreat
+was aroused. They believed that success had now become hopeless, and
+nothing could change this belief, or check or control the impulse of
+flight, once started. The day was lost; the evidence of a great disaster
+became suddenly overwhelming to the non-combatants in the rear; the
+retreating brigades, and the nearer approach of cannonade and musketry
+soon confirmed the worst fears of a terrible defeat and a hot pursuit;
+and then began that insane scramble and stampede for safety.
+
+The sights and scenes encountered on the way to Fairfax Court-House will
+never be effaced from the memory of those who witnessed it. The story of
+that memorable retreat has been told over and over again; of the mad
+flight of civilians, in carriages and on horseback, lashing their steeds
+to the top of their speed; of soldiers of all regiments mingled
+confusedly together, some in complete uniform, others stripped of
+everything but trousers, shirts and shoes, and all foot-sore, haggard
+and half-starved; of arms, clothing and other valuables abandoned, that
+the progress of the runaways might not be impeded by such incumbrances;
+of vehicles, and even ambulances, bearing wounded men, left standing in
+the road, while the frightened teamsters rode away like the wind, on
+horses unhitched or cut out of their harness; of army wagons emptied of
+their loads and filled with stragglers, thundering along the crowded
+highway; of the dash and clatter of artillery carriages; of confusion,
+panic, demoralization and headlong hurry everywhere along the route.
+
+By midnight, mounted officers and civilians began to arrive in
+Washington; but not until the next day, when the rain was pouring down
+in torrents--that dreadful, drenching rain that continued for thirty-six
+hours, with but slight intermission--did the poor, hungry, fagged-out
+soldiers commence straggling in. That they were promptly and properly
+fed by the people, rich and poor, who threw open their doors and gave
+what they could to alleviate the suffering of these brave but
+unfortunate men, speaks volumes for the unselfish generosity of the
+loyal families of the capital during that period.
+
+It was while this discouraging state of affairs existed that General
+McClellan was called to Washington, to assume control of the lately
+defeated troops, General Rosecrans having succeeded him in the command
+of the Army of the West. Considering his recent success in West
+Virginia, and the military skill and judgment there displayed by him, it
+is but natural that McClellan should have been selected to re-create the
+army, which was destined to defend the Capital for the next three years.
+
+His arrival in Washington, on the 27th of July, was hailed with genuine
+delight by officers and citizens, for at that date he held the esteem
+and confidence and admiration of all loyal people. It was an immense
+responsibility which devolved upon him, but he accepted it cheerfully,
+and took up his task with that energy, tact and perseverance which
+precluded all possibility of failure. When first called to the command,
+he found a mere collection of regiments, undisciplined, undrilled and
+dispirited, cowering on the banks of the Potomac, and with only such
+material to work upon, he soon organized, equipped, and trained with
+rare skill, that grand body of troops, which he afterwards led in the
+campaign of the Peninsula.
+
+The war was but just commenced, at a time when most people thought it
+would be over. The "ninety days" theory was completely exploded. Those
+who had flattered themselves that the conflict would be "sharp and
+short"--that a single victorious and glorious campaign would crush the
+rebellion--were now undeceived. My own hopes had controlled my judgment
+on this subject, and made me visionary. I had hoped for myself to be
+able speedily to return to congenial pursuits and my domestic circle,
+and that a speedy collapse of their frenzy would save the Southern
+people from the inevitable ruin which must result from a protracted war.
+I had hoped for my country, that the spectacle she now presented to the
+world--exciting the derision of her enemies, and the melancholy pity of
+her friends--would soon be changed by the "returning good sense of the
+people," as it was so easily and egotistically phrased by many
+individuals at that time. Above all, I had hoped for the oppressed and
+shackled race of the South, that the downfall of slavery would be early
+accomplished, and their freedom permanently established. Being myself an
+old line abolitionist, and by no means the least active or energetic of
+those who had controlled and operated the famous "underground railroad,"
+I had the Anti-Slavery cause very much at heart, and would never have
+been satisfied until that gigantic curse was effectually removed.
+
+Indeed, during the whole time that I labored for the cause of the Union,
+the dearest object I had in view was the abolition of the most cruel
+system of oppression that ever cursed any people--an oppression long ago
+so justly characterized by John Wesley as "the sum of all villainy"--in
+comparison with which Egyptian bondage appeared simply burdensome. All
+these hopes were dissipated by the results of the late campaign. The war
+had developed into a reality to estimate. "The Federal Union--it must
+and shall be preserved!" was the sentiment that now prevailed, and all
+realized that the time for doubt and hesitation had gone by.
+
+There was no mistaking the duty of every loyal heart--the Republic must
+be saved at whatever cost.
+
+As I have previously stated, my connection with General McClellan was
+not interrupted by this change in his position. By my own preference, as
+well as at his request, I accompanied him to Washington, and cast my lot
+with those who were rallying there to protect and defend the government
+of the United States.
+
+Among the first things the General did, after being assigned to the
+command of the troops around that city, was to organize a secret service
+force, under my management and control. I was to have such strength of
+force as I might require; my headquarters were for the time located in
+Washington. It was arranged that whenever the army moved I was to go
+forward with the General, so that I might always be in close
+communication with him. My corps was to be continually occupied in
+procuring, from all possible sources, information regarding the
+strength, positions and movements of the enemy. All spies,
+"contrabands," deserters, refugees and prisoners of war, coming into our
+lines from the front, were to be carefully examined by me, and their
+statements taken in writing.
+
+This was the first real organization of the secret service. How much
+benefit was rendered to the country by this branch of the army will
+probably never be known--the destruction of nearly all my papers in the
+great fire of Chicago preventing their full publication--but that our
+operations were of immense practical value to the Union commander is a
+fact attested to by every one connected with the leading movements of
+our forces.
+
+It was about this time that the city of Washington was placed under
+martial law--a measure deemed necessary to correct the serious evils
+which existed, and to restore order in the city. Colonel Andrew Porter,
+of the Sixteenth United States Infantry, was appointed Provost-Marshal,
+and under his command was placed all the available infantry, a battery,
+and a squadron of cavalry. In addition to these, the assistance of a
+detective police force was deemed indispensable, and in answering this
+requirement I found work enough to keep myself and entire corps busy
+during our stay in Washington. A better understanding of my position and
+the nature of my duties at this time may be gained from the following
+extracts from a letter which I addressed to General McClellan when the
+organization of this department was yet in its incipiency.
+
+
+    "GENERAL:
+
+     "In accordance with your expressed desire, I beg leave to
+     submit to you my views with regard to the duties of my
+     detective police force, should the services of the same be
+     required by the government.
+
+     "In order to promote the efficiency of such a force, it is
+     highly necessary that its existence should be known to as
+     few persons as possible. It is an admitted and self-evident
+     fact that the movements of the various departments of the
+     government, civil and military, are closely watched, and it
+     is beyond a doubt that from some source the rebels have
+     received early, and to them, valuable notice of the intended
+     actions of the government. I am also led to believe that the
+     rebels have spies who are in the employment of this
+     government, or who possess facilities for acquiring
+     information from the civil and military authorities, or
+     bureaus, and that this information is imparted to others,
+     and transmitted, within a very short time, to the rebel
+     government. Many of the parties thus leagued with the enemy
+     are said to be persons of wealth and position.
+
+     "In operating with my detective force, I shall endeavor to
+     test all suspected persons in various ways. I shall seek
+     access to their houses, clubs, and places of resort,
+     managing that among the members of my force shall be
+     ostensible representatives of every grade of society, from
+     the highest to the most menial. Some shall have the _entree_
+     to the gilded salon of the suspected aristocratic traitors,
+     and be their honored guests, while others will act in the
+     capacity of valets, or domestics of various kinds, and try
+     the efficacy of such relations with the household to gain
+     evidence. Other suspected ones will be tracked by the
+     'shadow' detective, who will follow their every foot-step,
+     and note their every action.
+
+     "I also propose to employ a division of my force for the
+     discovery of any secret traitorous organization which may be
+     in existence; and if any such society is discovered, I will
+     have my operatives become members of the same, with a view
+     to ascertaining the means employed in transmitting messages
+     through the lines, and also for the purpose of learning, if
+     possible, the plans of the rebels. All strangers arriving in
+     the city, whose associations or acts may lay them open to
+     suspicion, will be subjected to a strict surveillance.
+
+            *       *       *       *       *
+
+     "Another and more dangerous feature of the service
+     contemplated to be rendered to the government by my
+     detectives, is that of entering the rebel lines, and
+     endeavoring to obtain accurate information of the nature of
+     their defences, the number of troops under their command at
+     various points, etc.
+
+     "In order to give efficiency to this movement, operations
+     should be commenced in Baltimore as well as at Washington.
+
+            *       *       *       *       *
+
+     "Considering the amount of labor to be done and the
+     necessity of immediate action on my part, in case these
+     plans are to be carried out, I purpose concentrating my
+     entire detective force of _both sexes_ into this work.
+
+            *       *       *       *       *
+
+     "The amount of force necessary to carry out such an
+     undertaking as I have indicated, will necessarily be very
+     large, and the assumption of disguises and characters by my
+     operatives, will be a very important item in itself," etc.,
+     etc., etc.
+
+My views were carried out just as they were set forth in this letter,
+and I was soon hard at work in my efforts to "regulate" the District of
+Columbia. It was too true that a great majority of the local police were
+disloyal, and could not be depended upon to faithfully discharge their
+duties to the government that employed them; therefore, in addition to
+my other work, I exerted myself to the utmost in aiding the municipal
+authorities to reorganize and discipline the police of the district.
+
+Many personal incidents worthy of note occurred during this period, but
+there was one which I recall at this moment with a laugh at my own
+expense--an incident in which I was reluctantly compelled to occupy the
+wrong side of a guard-house over night, and instead of capturing a
+prisoner became a prisoner myself.
+
+[Illustration: GUARD-HOUSE PRISONERS.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+_A Female Traitor.--Suspicious Correspondence.--A Close Watch under
+Difficulties.--I am Arrested.--Exposure of the Treason of a Trusted
+Officer.--A Disgraced Captain._
+
+
+During the earlier stages of the rebellion, a number of Southern
+sympathizers were domiciled in the city of Washington, and among the
+number were many ladies of refinement and wealth, from the South, who
+had been leaders of fashion and of society in the brilliant days of
+previous administrations. Many of these ladies were extremely
+fascinating in their manners, and being gifted with great personal
+beauty and with rare conversational qualities, they had gathered around
+them a brilliant circle of acquaintances, to whom they dispensed regal
+hospitalities and most delicate courtesies.
+
+When the war broke out, these ladies thoroughly identified themselves
+with the cause of the South, and upon all occasions were unreserved in
+the expression of opinions favorable to the rebels, and of fervent
+hopefulness for the eventual success of the disunionists. But little
+attention was paid to these _grand dames_ of the old regime, as it was
+not deemed possible that any danger could result from the utterances of
+non-combatant females, nor was it considered chivalrous that resolute
+measures should be adopted toward those of the weaker sex.
+
+That this policy was a mistaken one was soon fully proved, and when it
+was discovered that these fine ladies were secretly giving information
+to the enemy, it was deemed of great importance that such means should
+be adopted as would prevent their treasonable actions from being made
+valuable to the opponents of the government, and who were seeking its
+overthrow.
+
+From information received from reliable sources, it was shown that the
+rebel authorities were as fully conversant with the plans of the Union
+commanders as they were themselves. That they knew of the position of
+every regiment and brigade, and the contemplated movements of the
+commanders, and the time of proposed action, far in advance of any
+publicity being given to them, and when the utmost secrecy was the only
+true passport to victory. Indeed, it was openly boasted that the secret
+information given to the rebel generals had been mainly the cause of the
+defeat of our armies at Bull Run and Manassas.
+
+Upon these facts being fully proven, the government resolved to
+effectually prevent a continuance of these practices, and that if they
+were persisted in, the guilty parties should either be confined or
+exiled to the more congenial climate of Dixie.
+
+My department was in its infancy when the event occurred which I am
+about to relate. I had secured a house in Washington, and had gathered
+around me a number of resolute, trustworthy men and discreet women, who
+were devoted to the cause of their country, but were scarcely in such a
+condition as to move properly or with any systematized regularity. I had
+not been many days in the city when one afternoon I was called upon by
+the Hon. Thomas A. Scott, of Pennsylvania, who was then acting as the
+Assistant-Secretary of War, who desired my services in watching a lady
+whose movements had excited suspicion, and who, it was believed, was
+engaged in corresponding with the rebel authorities, and furnishing them
+with much valuable information.
+
+This lady was Mrs. Rose Greenhow, a Southern woman of pronounced rebel
+proclivities, and who had been unsparing in her denunciation of the
+"Abolition North," and who had openly declared that "instead of loving
+and worshiping the old flag of the Stars and Stripes," she saw "in it
+only the symbol of murder, plunder, oppression and shame." Mrs. Greenhow
+had occupied a prominent position in the social circles of the capital,
+and was personally acquainted with all of the leading men of the
+country, many of whom had partaken of her hospitality and had enjoyed a
+social intercourse that was both pleasurable and fascinating.
+
+She had now become an avowed hater of the Union, and it was feared,
+from her previous association with officers in the army, that she was
+using her talents in procuring information from them which would be
+immediately communicated to the rebel government at Richmond.
+
+The residence of Mrs. Greenhow was situated at the corner of Thirteenth
+and I streets--quite a fashionable quarter of the city, and within a
+short distance of the White House. The building, while not at all
+imposing in appearance, was large, roomy, and was furnished with every
+consideration for wealth and tasteful refinement. It was a two-story and
+basement brick building, the parlors of which were elevated several feet
+above the ground, and entrance was obtained by ascending a flight of
+steps in the center of the edifice. This lady was a widow, her husband
+having died some years before, and being possessed of considerable
+means, and mingling with the highest circles of Washington society, her
+home was the resort of most of the prominent people of the city.
+
+The instructions of the Secretary of War were, that a strict watch
+should be kept upon this house, and that every person entering or
+leaving the same should come under the close surveillance of my men, who
+should endeavor to ascertain who they were, and if they attempted in any
+manner to communicate with any suspicious persons. I was to report to
+him daily, and to continue my espionage until I received definite and
+official orders for its discontinuance. My further instructions were,
+that in case any of the visitors of Mrs. Greenhow should attempt to pass
+the lines of our troops, they should be arrested at once, and a rigorous
+search of their persons instituted, in order that nothing should be
+allowed to pass through without a thorough examination by the Secretary
+of War or Mr. Scott.
+
+After the departure of the Secretary I took with me two of my men, and
+proceeded to the vicinity of the residence of Mrs. Greenhow. I was then
+quite a stranger in Washington, and localities were not as familiar to
+me as they afterward became, and I therefore preferred to reconnoiter by
+daylight, to depending upon a survey after nightfall.
+
+The entire day had been dark, gloomy and threatening; clouds had been
+gathering in the heavens, and everything indicated the imminence of a
+severe storm. As I left my headquarters, a slight shower of rain was
+falling, which I knew was but the precursor of a storm more violent. On
+arriving at the designated locality I found everything to be as they had
+already been described to me. The inside shutters to the windows were
+closed, and no sign was apparent that the house was occupied, and after
+carefully noting the situation and the exposed condition of the
+premises, I left the two men within a convenient distance of the place,
+and returned for the additional aid which I thought might be needed.
+Selecting three of my most discreet men, I again repaired to the scene
+of operations. We had not proceeded far, when the storm burst upon us in
+all its fury. The wind blew strong and chill, and the rain fell in
+deluging torrents. Umbrellas were a useless commodity, and, unprotected,
+we were compelled to breast the elements, which now were warring with
+terrible violence.
+
+Arriving at Mrs. Greenhow's, under cover of the darkness I posted my men
+in such positions as I thought would be most advantageous for our
+purpose, and then calling in the two whom I had left there during the
+afternoon, I approached to within a short distance of the house. The
+darkness and storm, while decidedly uncomfortable, were of some benefit
+to us, as but few people were abroad, and these paid no attention to
+passing events, seeming to be only too anxious to reach their
+destination and to escape the pitiless rain.
+
+The blinds at the windows were still closed, but a light was observed in
+two rooms upon the parlor floor, and I knew that the house was occupied.
+Of course I could see nothing within, as my view was entirely obstructed
+by the closed blinds, and, at length, becoming impatient at this
+unprofitable and unsatisfactory waiting, I determined to obtain a
+glimpse, at least, of the interior, and to ascertain, if possible, some
+knowledge of its occupants.
+
+The parlor windows, through which the lights were gleaming, were too
+high from the ground to permit me to see within, and summoning the two
+men who were awaiting instructions I made use of their strong, broad
+shoulders in a manner quite novel to me, and quite ludicrous, no doubt,
+to a passer-by who did not understand the situation.
+
+Ranging the two men side by side under the broad windows in front of the
+house, I removed my boots and was soon standing upon their shoulders and
+elevated sufficiently high to enable me to accomplish the object I had
+in view. I was now on a level with the windows, and noiselessly raising
+the sash and turning the slats of the blinds I obtained a full view of
+the interior of the room. The furniture was rich and luxurious, valuable
+pictures hung upon the walls, and several pieces of statuary and various
+articles of artistic ornamentation were arranged about the apartment,
+but to my disappointment, it was unoccupied.
+
+I was about to give expression to my chagrin at this discovery, when a
+warning "Sh!" from one of my sturdy supporters induced me to be silent.
+Some one was approaching the house, and hastily clambering down from my
+perch, we hid ourselves under the stoop which led up to the front door.
+Scarcely had we ensconced ourselves in this convenient shelter when we
+heard the footsteps of the new-comer, and to our satisfaction, he
+stopped in front of the house, and ascending the steps rang the bell and
+in a short time was admitted.
+
+By this time we were drenched to the skin--the rain had fallen in
+copious showers and during all the time we had been exposed to its
+dampening influences--but paying but little heed to this, we again took
+our position in front of the window, and I was soon remounted upon the
+shoulders of my operatives, prepared to take notes of what transpired.
+
+As the visitor entered the parlor and seated himself awaiting the
+appearance of the lady of the house, I immediately recognized him as an
+officer of the regular army, whom I had met that day for the first time.
+He was a Captain of infantry and was in command of one of the stations
+of the Provost-Marshal, and not desiring to divulge the real name of the
+gentleman, who has since died, I will call him Captain Ellison.
+
+He was a tall, handsome man of a commanding figure and about forty years
+of age. He had removed his cloak, and as he sat there in his blue
+uniform, and in the full glare of the gaslight, he looked a veritable
+ideal soldier. As I watched him closely, however, I noticed that there
+was a troubled, restless look upon his face; he appeared ill at ease and
+shifted nervously upon his chair, as though impatient for the entrance
+of his hostess. In a few moments Mrs. Greenhow entered and cordially
+greeted her visitor, who acknowledged her salutations with a courtly
+bow, while his face lighted up with pleasure as he gazed upon her.
+
+Just at this moment I again received a warning from my supporters, and
+hastily jumping to the ground, we hid ourselves until the pedestrians
+had passed out of sight and hearing. When I resumed my station the
+Captain and Mrs. Greenhow were seated at a table in the rear part of the
+room, and their conversation was carried on in such low tones that, in
+consequence of the storm that was still raging, I could not catch but
+fragmentary sentences. At last, however, accustoming myself to the
+noise, I heard enough to convince me that this trusted officer was then
+and there engaged in betraying his country, and furnishing to his
+treasonably-inclined companion such information regarding the
+disposition of our troops as he possessed.
+
+Presently, he took from an inner pocket of his coat a map which, as he
+held it up before the light, I imagined that I could identify as a plan
+of the fortifications in and around Washington, and which also
+designated a contemplated plan of attack.
+
+My blood boiled with indignation as I witnessed this scene, and I longed
+to rush into the room and strangle the miscreant where he sat, but I
+dared not utter a word, and was compelled to stand by, with the rain
+pouring down upon me, and silently witness this traitorous proceeding.
+
+After watching their movements for some time, during which they would
+frequently refer to the map before them, as though pointing out
+particular points or positions, I was again compelled to hide myself
+under the shelter of the convenient stoop, and when I resumed my
+position the room was empty. The delectable couple had disappeared. I
+waited impatiently for more than an hour, taking occasional glimpses
+into the room and watching for their re-appearance. At the end of that
+time they re-entered the parlor arm in arm, and again took their seats.
+
+Again came the warning voice, and again I hastily descended, and as the
+retreating figures disappeared in the distance, I could hear the front
+door open and the step of the traitor Captain above me.
+
+With a whispered good-night, and something that sounded very much like a
+kiss, he descended the steps, and then, without paying any attention to
+the fact that I was without shoes, I started in pursuit of him, and
+through the blinding mist and pelting storms kept him in view as he
+rapidly walked away. It was then about half-past twelve o'clock, and the
+storm evinced no sign of a discontinuance.
+
+I was not sufficiently acquainted with the city at that time to tell in
+what direction he was going, but I determined to ascertain his
+destination before I left him. I was compelled to keep pretty close to
+him, owing to the darkness of the night, and several times I was afraid
+that he would hear the footsteps of the man who accompanied me--mine I
+was confident would not be detected as, in my drenched stockings, I
+crept along as stealthily as a cat. Twice, I imagined that he turned
+around as though suspecting he was followed, but as he did not stop I
+reassured myself and plodded on. I could not, however, disabuse my mind
+of the fear that I had been seen, I could not relax my vigilance, and I
+resolved to take my chances of discovery. I knew who my man was, at all
+events, and now I must ascertain where he was going.
+
+As we reached the corner of Pennsylvania avenue and Fifteenth street I
+imagined that I saw a revolver glistening in his hand, but it was too
+dark for me to determine that fact with any degree of certainty. At this
+point he passed a guard on duty, and quickly passed into a building
+immediately in advance of me.
+
+This movement was so unexpected, that I had no time to turn back, and I
+was so close to him that it would have been very unwise to have done so,
+but I was more surprised when, as I reached the building into which the
+Captain had disappeared, I was suddenly confronted by four armed
+soldiers, who rushed suddenly out upon me, with fixed bayonets pointed
+at my breast.
+
+"Halt, or I fire!" called out the officer of the guard.
+
+[Illustration: "_Halt, or I fire!_" P. 260.]
+
+Realizing that an attempt at resistance or escape would be both foolish
+and useless, I attempted to make an explanation. All to no purpose,
+however. I informed them that I had been out late and had lost my way,
+but they refused to listen, and ordered my companion and myself to march
+at once into the guard-house. I endeavored to make the best of my
+misfortune, and entering the building we seated ourselves and awaited
+developments.
+
+After waiting for about half an hour, I was informed that my presence
+was required by the Captain; and the guard conducted me up-stairs to his
+room. As I entered, I found myself face to face with Captain Ellison,
+who was pacing excitedly up and down the floor; stopping immediately in
+front of me, he glared fiercely at me for some minutes without uttering
+a word.
+
+I was a sorry figure to look at, and as I surveyed my weather-soaked and
+mud-stained garments, and my bare feet, I could scarcely repress a
+laugh, although I was deeply angered at the sudden and unexpected turn
+affairs had taken.
+
+"What is your name?" imperatively inquired the Captain, after he had
+fully recovered himself, and had taken his seat at a table which stood
+in the room.
+
+"E. J. Allen," I replied.
+
+"What is your business?"
+
+"I have nothing further to say," I coolly replied, "and I decline to
+answer any further questions."
+
+"Ah!" said the Captain, "so you are not going to speak. Very well, sir,
+we will see what time will bring forth."
+
+He endeavored to impress me with his importance and played restlessly
+with the handles of two revolvers that lay before him on the table, but
+I saw too plainly through his bravado, and I knew that the scoundrel was
+really alarmed.
+
+Finding that he could not compel me to answer his questions, he turned
+to the sergeant and ordered:
+
+"Take this man to the guard-house, but allow no one whatever to converse
+with him; we will attend further to his case in the morning."
+
+I made a profound bow to the discomfited officer as I departed, to which
+he replied with an oath, and then I was conducted down-stairs and placed
+among the other prisoners.
+
+I found myself in a mixed and incongruous assembly indeed. Most of my
+fellow-prisoners were stupidly drunk, and lay about the floor like logs;
+others were laughing and singing, while some were indulging in wild
+threats against the men who arrested them. Here I found my companion,
+who, representing himself as a Southern man had already become
+acquainted with two secessionists, who were laughing and talking about
+what they would have to tell when they obtained their release. He soon
+ingratiated himself with these men, and before daylight had obtained
+from them a revelation of certain matters that subsequently proved of
+great value to us in our operations.
+
+As for myself, my feelings can better be imagined than described.
+Inwardly chafing against the unfortunate and disagreeable position in
+which I found myself, I was deeply concerned regarding the situation of
+affairs at the residence of Mrs. Greenhow. I had given no definite
+orders to my men, and they would be doubtful as to what course to pursue
+until they heard from me, and here was I a prisoner in the hands of the
+man against whom I had grave charges to prefer, and whom I had detected
+in treasonable correspondence. Added to this, my wet garments and the
+cold atmosphere of the room in which I was confined, affected me with a
+degree of chilliness that was distressing in the utmost. I shook like an
+aspen, and my teeth for a time chattered like castanets. It may be
+imagined that the hilarity of my fellow-prisoners had but little charm
+for me, until at length one of the guards very kindly brought me a
+blanket and an overcoat, which I wrapped about me, and soon began to
+feel more comfortable.
+
+Despite the aggravating circumstances under which I suffered, I could
+not refrain from smiling at the ridiculous appearance I must have
+presented as I stood before the irate Captain who had caused my arrest.
+My hat was battered down over my face, and my clothing was spattered
+with mud from head to foot, and were dripping with water as I stood
+there. One might more readily imagine that I had been fished out of the
+Potomac than that I was the chief of the secret service of the
+government, in the performance of duty.
+
+By the Captain's orders I was prevented from conversing with my
+fellow-prisoners, so I turned my attention to the guard. My chief desire
+was to apprise Mr. Scott of my captivity, as early as possible, in order
+that my release could be effected without unnecessary delay, and I
+therefore applied myself to the entertainment of my jailer.
+
+The soldier who had charge of me I soon found to be a jolly,
+kind-hearted fellow, and I amused him immensely by relating some
+ridiculous anecdotes which I had heard, and before the time came for him
+to be relieved I had entirely won his favor.
+
+Seizing a favorable opportunity I asked him if he would deliver a note
+for me after his time for standing guard had expired, at the same time
+offering to repay him for his trouble. To this he readily assented, and
+by the dim light afforded us I managed to scribble a few hasty lines to
+the Assistant Secretary of War, informing him of my imprisonment, and
+requesting him to order my release as soon as possible, and in a manner
+which would not excite the suspicion of Captain Ellison.
+
+At about six o'clock the guards were changed, and my messenger departed
+upon his mission. He was fortunate enough to find the servants of Mr.
+Scott astir, and informing them that his message was of extreme public
+importance, he had it delivered to the Secretary in his chamber at once.
+At seven o'clock the guard returned, and coming to the door, he
+conversed a few minutes with the soldier who had succeeded him, when I
+called out:
+
+"How is the weather outside?"
+
+"All right, sir!" replied the man, with a sly wink, and then I knew that
+my note had been safely delivered, and my liberation simply a question
+of time.
+
+At about half-past eight o'clock the sergeant of the guard came to the
+door with a paper in his hand, and called out:
+
+"E. J. Allen and William Ascot!"
+
+Ascot was the name of my operative who had been arrested with me, and
+with whom I had not exchanged a word since I had been imprisoned. We
+responded to our names, and following the sergeant, were again taken to
+the room occupied by Captain Ellison.
+
+"The Secretary of War has been informed of your arrest, and you will be
+conducted to him at once, and then we shall see whether you will remain
+silent any longer."
+
+The manner of the Captain was imperious and commanding, and I laughed to
+myself as I thought of the possible result of our interview with the
+Secretary. The Captain led the way, and in the company of four soldiers,
+we left the place, arriving in a few minutes at the residence of Mr.
+Scott. He was awaiting our arrival, and as we entered the room he
+ordered the guard to release me, and directed me to accompany him to his
+room. I followed him immediately, and as the door closed behind us, he
+burst into a hearty laugh at my uncouth and unkempt appearance. I was a
+sorry spectacle indeed, and as I surveyed myself in the mirror, I joined
+in his merriment, for a more realistic picture of a "drowned rat" I
+never beheld.
+
+I at once detailed what had transpired on the preceding night, and as I
+related the interview which I had witnessed between Captain Ellison and
+Mrs. Greenhow, his brow became clouded, and starting to his feet, he
+paced the room rapidly and excitedly.
+
+"Mrs. Greenhow must be attended to. She is becoming a dangerous
+character. You will therefore maintain your watch upon her, and should
+she be detected in attempting to convey any information outside of the
+lines, she must be arrested at once. And now we will attend to Captain
+Ellison."
+
+Tapping a bell which stood upon his table, he ordered:
+
+"Request Captain Ellison to come here."
+
+As the Captain made his appearance, he seemed to be very ill at ease,
+and gazed searchingly at Mr. Scott and myself, as though he suspected
+something was wrong.
+
+"Captain," said Mr. Scott, addressing him, "will you give me the
+particulars of the arrest of this man?" pointing to me.
+
+The Captain answered that he had gone to visit some friends, who resided
+in the outskirts of the city, in the evening, and on returning at a
+late hour, he had noticed that he was being followed, and supposing me
+to be a foot-pad or a burglar, had ordered my arrest.
+
+"Did you see any one last evening who is inimical to the cause of the
+government?"
+
+The Captain became flushed and nervous under this direct question. He
+darted a quick glance at me, and after hesitating for some moments he
+answered in a faltering voice:
+
+"No, sir; I have seen no person of that character."
+
+"Are you quite sure of that?" sternly inquired Mr. Scott.
+
+"I am, sir."
+
+"In that case, Captain, you will please consider yourself under arrest,
+and you will at once surrender your sword to Captain Mehaffy."
+
+The Captain was completely unmanned as these words fell from the lips of
+the Secretary, and sinking into a chair, he buried his face in his
+hands, seemingly overcome by his emotions.
+
+But little remains to be told. Captain Ellison was arrested, and a
+search among his effects discovered sufficient evidence to prove that he
+was engaged in furnishing information to the enemy, and he was confined
+for more than a year in Fort McHenry. He was finally released but broken
+in spirit and in health, and fully realizing the disgrace he had
+brought upon himself, he died shortly afterward.
+
+After leaving the residence of Mr. Scott, I took a carriage and went
+directly to my headquarters, and dispatched new men to relieve those who
+had been on duty all night, and who had been so anxious for my safety
+that they had sent several times to make inquiries, and who were unable
+to account for my absence. They had, I was rejoiced to learn, taken care
+to recover my shoes, which I was afraid would be found by some one
+connected with the house, and thus lead to the suspicion that the
+premises were the object of espionage.
+
+We continued our watching of the premises, and during its continuance a
+number of prominent gentlemen were received by the fascinating widow,
+and among the number were several earnest and sincere Senators and
+Representatives, whose loyalty was above question, and who were,
+perhaps, in entire ignorance of the lady's true character.
+
+Almost every evening one particular individual was observed to call at
+the house, and his visits invariably were of long duration. He was
+therefore made the object of especial attention by me, and in a short
+time I succeeded in learning his true character, and the nature of the
+business which he followed. Ostensibly an attorney, I ascertained that
+he was undoubtedly engaged in the vocation of a Southern spy, and that
+he had a number of men and women under him by whom the information was
+forwarded to the rebel authorities. This gentleman, therefore, found
+himself, in a very few days, a prisoner of war.
+
+About eight days after this, orders were given for the arrest of Mrs.
+Greenhow herself. She was confined in her own house, and all her papers
+were seized and handed over to the custody of the Department of War. The
+intention of the government was to treat her as humanely and
+considerately as possible, but disdaining all offers of kindness or
+courtesy, the lady was discovered on several occasions attempting to
+send messages to her rebel friends, and finally her removal to the Old
+Capitol prison was ordered, and she was conveyed there, where she was
+imprisoned for several months. After this she was conveyed across the
+lines, and reached in safety the rebel capital, where she was greeted by
+the more congenial spirits of rebeldom.
+
+Mrs. Greenhow afterwards went to Europe, in some trustworthy capacity
+for the Confederacy, and while there was noted for her bitter animosity
+to the Union, and her vituperation of Northern men and measures, but
+retribution may be said to have followed her, and some time subsequent
+to this, having returned again to the South, she made her way to
+Charleston, S. C., from thence she took passage upon a blockade-runner,
+upon some secret mission for the Confederacy. Her person was loaded down
+with gold, which was packed in a belt close to her body. After passing
+Fort Sumter, a severe storm arose, and the little vessel began to pitch
+and roll in the angry waters, which swept in huge waves over her deck.
+Mrs. Greenhow was, I was since informed, washed over-board, and the
+weight upon her person carried her down and she was lost. No trace of
+her was ever afterwards discovered.
+
+[Illustration: A FEMALE SPY.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Baltimore.--An Encounter with a Fire-eater.--Webster
+Defends Himself.--Treason Rampant in the Monumental City._
+
+
+The city of Baltimore at this time was also under military rule. It was
+garrisoned by United States troops, commanded successively by Butler,
+Banks and Dix, for the purpose of enforcing respect and obedience to the
+laws, and of presenting any violations of order within its limits, by
+the malignant and traitorous element of the people. Marshal Kane, the
+Chief of Police, as well as the active members of the police
+commissioners, were arrested and held in custody at Fort McHenry,
+because of the alleged encouragement and protection which were given to
+those unlawful combinations of men who were secretly aiding in numerous
+ways the people at war with the government. General Banks appointed a
+Provost-Marshal for the proper execution of the laws, in conjunction
+with the subordinate officers of the police department. This condition
+of things was of course a direct result of the great riot of the 19th of
+April, and the intention was to curb those mutinous spirits, whose
+passions otherwise would have led them into committing all sorts of
+crimes and outrages against the government. Notwithstanding these
+measures, however, the disturbing element was not by any means passive
+and inert, although appearances may have warranted such a conclusion.
+Secret bands of conspirators were still in existence, and were working
+assiduously for the advancement of the Southern cause.
+
+By direction of General McClellan, I sent several of my best operatives
+to Baltimore, chief among whom was Timothy Webster, with whom the others
+were to co-operate whenever their assistance were required by him. The
+principal object in this was to enable Webster to associate with the
+secessionists of that city, and by becoming familiar and popular with
+them, to pave his way for an early trip into the rebel lines.
+
+During his residence in Baltimore he was directed to represent himself
+as a gentleman of means and leisure, and to enable him the better to
+carry out this idea, I provided him with a span of fine horses and a
+carriage, for his own pleasure. He made his home at Miller's Hotel,
+lived in good style, and in his own irresistible way he set about
+establishing himself in the good graces of a large number of people, of
+that class whose confidence it was desirable to obtain. This task was
+made comparatively easy by the fact that he already had numerous
+acquaintances in the city, who introduced him about with great
+enthusiasm, representing him to be--as they really believed he was--a
+gentleman whose whole heart and soul was in the cause of the South.
+Thus, by easy stages, he soon reached the distinction of being the
+center and principal figure of an admiring crowd. Before a week had
+elapsed he had become a quietly-recognized leader in the clique with
+which he associated, and soon regarded as a man of superior judgment and
+power in all matters relating to political and state affairs.
+
+During fair weather he would frequently drive out with one or more of
+his friends, and his handsome equipage became well known on the streets,
+and at the race-course. He was introduced into the houses of many warm
+sympathizers with the South, and by his agreeable and fascinating
+manners he became a favorite with the female members of the family.
+Through all, he was apparently an earnest and consistent advocate of
+Southern rights, never overdoing the matter by any exhibition of
+strained excitement or loud avowals, but always conversing on the
+subject with an air of calm conviction, using the strongest arguments he
+could invent in support of his pretended views. In compliance with the
+request of many of his Southern friends, he and John Scully, another of
+my operatives, went to a photograph gallery one day and had their
+pictures taken, holding a large Confederate flag between them, while
+Webster wore the rebel hat which the doughty Dr. Burton had presented to
+him in Memphis.
+
+During all this time Webster was gathering information from every
+quarter concerning the secret plots and movements of the disloyal
+citizens, and promptly conveying it to me, and for this purpose he made
+frequent trips to Washington for verbal instructions, and to report in
+person the success of his operations. Sometimes he would be accompanied
+by one or more of his intimate associates, and these occasions were not
+without profit, for when thus accompanied, although necessarily
+prevented from reaching my office, he was enabled to increase his
+acquaintance with the traitorous element of Washington, and finally was
+enabled to unmask several guilty ones whose loyalty had never been
+impeached or suspected.
+
+Once, on returning to Baltimore, after a longer absence than usual, his
+friends greeted him warmly.
+
+"By Jove, Webster, we had begun to think you were in trouble," one of
+them exclaimed.
+
+"No danger of that," was the laughing response. "I have no intention of
+being trapped before I fulfill my mission. I have some valuable work to
+do for the Southern Confederacy before the Yankees can get the upper
+hand of me."
+
+They were in a saloon--a favorite rendezvous of these men--and Webster
+was in the midst of his crowd. He was telling them about some imaginary
+"points" which he had picked up in Washington, and assuring them he
+would in some manner transmit the information he had received to the
+rebel commanders before he was a week older. While thus entertaining his
+hearers, his attention was attracted by a man who entered the saloon
+with a swaggering gait, his hands in his pockets, and his hat tipped
+over one side of his head. He knew this man as a ruffian and bully of
+the worst stripe, Bill Zigler, and one of the ringleaders of the mob
+that had attacked the Union troops on the 19th of April; consequently,
+he entertained a wholesome contempt for the fellow, and avoided him as
+much as possible.
+
+He was much surprised when the new-comer stopped in the middle of the
+room, and exclaimed, gruffly:
+
+"Hello, Webster! You're _here_, are you? By G--d, I've been looking for
+you!"
+
+Webster turned toward him a look of surprised inquiry.
+
+"Did you speak to me, sir?" he asked, quietly.
+
+"Yes, I spoke to you, sir!" mimicked Bill Zigler, in a bullying voice.
+"I say I've been lookin' for you, and when I've spoke my piece I reckon
+this town will be too hot to hold you many hours longer."
+
+"I don't understand you," protested Webster.
+
+"Ha! ha! ha!" laughed the ruffian, a glitter of triumph and hatred in
+his eyes. "You've been playin' it fine on the boys here for the last
+three weeks, but d--n you, I'll spoil your little game!"
+
+"What do you mean?" demanded Webster, his anger beginning to rise. "You
+speak in riddles."
+
+"I'll tell you what I mean!" blustered the bully. "Gentlemen," turning
+toward the crowd, and pointing his finger toward the detective; "that
+man is leagued with the Yankees, and comes among you as a spy."
+
+There was a general start of astonishment, and Webster himself was
+dumfounded.
+
+"Oh, nonsense, Zigler," spoke up one of the men, after a death-like
+silence of several moments. "You must be drunk to make such an assertion
+as that. There is not a better Southern man in Baltimore than Mr.
+Webster."
+
+"I am as sober as the soberest man here," declared Zigler; "and I reckon
+I know what I am talking about. I saw that fellow in Washington
+yesterday."
+
+"I can well believe that you saw me in Washington yesterday," said
+Webster, quietly, "for I certainly was there. I have just been telling
+these gentlemen what I saw and heard while there."
+
+"Maybe you have, but I'll bet ten dollars you didn't tell 'em that you
+had a conversation with the _chief of the detective force_ while you
+were there!"
+
+Webster, it must be admitted, was wholly unprepared for this, but he
+realized in an instant that the bully's insinuation must be denied and
+overcome. With an assumption of uncontrollable rage he cried out "You
+are a liar and a scoundrel!"
+
+[Illustration: "_The man reeled half way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables._" P. 277.]
+
+"I am, eh?" hissed Zigler through his clenched teeth, and before any one
+could make a movement to restrain him he sprang furiously toward
+Webster.
+
+Quick as was this movement, however, Webster was prepared for him. Like
+a flash of lightning his fist flew straight out from the shoulder,
+striking the ruffian between the eyes, with a force that would have
+felled an ox. The man reeled half-way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables.
+
+With a roar like that of a baffled beast, Zigler gathered himself up and
+rushed at Webster, flourishing above his head a murderous-looking knife.
+But, as if by magic, a revolver appeared in the detective's hand, the
+muzzle of which covered his adversary's heart.
+
+"Stop!" cried Webster, in a tone of stern command. "Hold your distance,
+you miserable cur, or your blood will be upon your own head!"
+
+Zigler involuntarily recoiled. The frowning muzzle of the pistol, the
+unmistakable meaning of those words, and the deadly purpose expressed in
+the cold, calm face before him, were too much even for his boasted
+bravery. He turned pale and drew back, muttering and growling.
+
+"Coward!" exclaimed Webster, "if I served you right I would shoot you
+down like a dog; and I am afraid I can't resist the temptation to do so
+anyway, if you don't immediately leave the room. Go! and in future be
+careful who you accuse of being in league with the accursed Yankees."
+
+By this time a number of the other men had recovered from their
+astonishment, and they immediately joined their threats to those of
+Webster, commanding Zigler to leave the saloon at once, if he desired to
+"save his bacon."
+
+Zigler did not dare to disobey. Sullenly putting up his knife, and
+muttering curses on the whole crowd, he slunk out, stopping at the door
+long enough to glance back at Webster, with the exclamation:
+
+"I'll fix you yet, d--n you!"
+
+When he was gone, Webster said:
+
+"I cannot conceive what that fellow has against me, that he should try
+to defame my character by such an accusation."
+
+Several of the men broke into a derisive laugh.
+
+"I'd as soon suspect Jeff Davis of being a Yankee spy," said one, with a
+boisterous guffaw.
+
+"Lord, Webster," spoke up another, "you needn't calculate that anything
+that fellow can say is going to injure you with the people here."
+
+"I reckon Zigler is mad because you won't clique in with him and his
+gang," said a third. "Nobody takes any stock in him. It would have been
+considered a good riddance if your pistol had gone off while it covered
+his heart. Bah! he isn't worth a thought. Come, boys, let's licker."
+
+And the affair ended in a witty cross-fire of jokes, frequent explosions
+of hearty laughter, and numerous bumpers of sparkling wine.
+
+So far from proving disastrous to Webster or his mission, this little
+episode with Bill Zigler rather elevated him in the estimation of his
+companions. The neat knock-down with which he had met the bully's
+unprovoked assault; his air of virtuous indignation in resenting the
+imputation of disloyalty to the South, and the manner in which he had
+defeated and put to flight a man who was much feared among his fellows,
+only won for him new laurels, and caused him to be regarded as brave as
+he was loyal. His intimate acquaintances reposed such firm faith in him,
+that not one of them entertained for a moment the thought that there
+might possibly be a grain of justice in Zigler's accusation.
+
+One morning, not long after this little episode, Webster left his hotel
+to walk down town, when he noticed that there was some unusual
+excitement on the streets. On every corner on Baltimore street, from the
+Exchange office, large numbers of men were standing in groups, evidently
+absorbed in some particular topic of conversation.
+
+While wondering what all this meant, the detective was accosted by a man
+named Sam Sloan, one of the most faithful of his adherents.
+
+"Webster, I was just going up to see you. Have you heard the news?"
+
+"I have heard nothing, Sam," was the reply. "Is there a new sensation
+this morning?"
+
+"Another of Lincoln's outrages," said Sloan, with an indignant oath.
+"Major Brown, Ross Winans, and several others were arrested last night,
+and taken to Fort McHenry."
+
+"What for?"
+
+"For no other purpose, I suppose, than to break up the election, which
+is to take place next month."
+
+"But how can that interfere with the election?"
+
+"By making us all afraid to go to the polls, or speak our minds."
+
+The two walked down the street together, and dropped into a drug store,
+which was known as one of the resorts of the unterrified. There they
+found a number of men conversing somewhat excitedly. The proprietor, a
+Mr. Rogers, turned toward the new-comers and said:
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Webster; we were just talking over last night's
+proceedings."
+
+"It beats anything I ever heard of," said Webster, warmly. "But what can
+we do?"
+
+"Nothing just now," returned Rogers; "but I think there will soon be a
+time when we will have a chance to do something. In the meantime,
+gentlemen, we must make up our minds to say nothing. We have all been
+too free with our tongues. Hereafter, we must keep mum, or we will all
+get into Fort McHenry."
+
+"We must just lay low, and wait till Jeff crosses the Potomac," said one
+of the loungers.
+
+"If we only had arms," said Webster, musingly.
+
+"Arms!" echoed Rogers; "why, sir, we have from five to six thousand
+stand of arms right here in Baltimore."
+
+"That may be true," said Webster, "but nobody seems to know where they
+are."
+
+"I am satisfied they will turn up at the right time," said Rogers.
+"Marshal Kane, before he was arrested, put them in the hands of men who
+will take good care of them until they are wanted."
+
+"And let us hope they will be wanted inside of two weeks," put in Sloan.
+"We can afford to be quiet now, boys, but when the Southern army comes
+this way, we'll rise ten thousand strong, and help take Washington."
+
+The opinion seemed to have fixed itself in the minds of nearly all the
+Southern sympathizers in the city, that in a very brief space of time,
+three or four weeks at the utmost limit, Baltimore would be occupied by
+rebel soldiers, and Jeff Davis would be there in person.
+
+"One thing is certain," said Webster, firmly. "If this thing goes on
+much longer, there will be a general uprising one of these days, and the
+streets of Baltimore will run with blood a thousand times worse than
+they did on the 19th of April."
+
+"You are right, there," said Rogers; "but for heaven's sake don't let
+any one outside of your circle hear you use that expression, or you will
+be the next one in limbo."
+
+"If they want me, now is their time," replied the detective, with a
+smile, "for I have made up my mind to undertake a journey down into
+southern Maryland and Virginia, at an early day."
+
+"The devil you have! You will find that a difficult and dangerous
+undertaking."
+
+"Nevertheless, I shall attempt it. I find that if I can make the trip
+successfully I may be of service to some of our people here, by carrying
+letters and messages to their friends and relatives, with whom they are
+unable to communicate in any other way."
+
+Webster made this intention known to all of his associates, and gave
+them to understand that he desired to sell his horses and carriage
+before leaving. The sale was accomplished in a manner that seemed
+legitimate enough to all, though it was a mere pretense. One of my
+operatives, whom I sent to Baltimore for that purpose, made a sham
+purchase of the team and turned it over to me in Washington.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+_Webster Makes a Journey to the South.--A Secret Organization.--The
+"Knights of Liberty."--Webster Becomes a Member.--A Sudden Intrusion of
+the Military.--The Conspiracy Broken Up._
+
+
+In accordance with my instructions, Webster commenced his tour through
+southern Maryland, on Thursday, September 26th. He was accompanied by
+John Scully, who had been assisting him in his Baltimore operations, and
+they followed a line of travel which I laid out for them. Taking passage
+on the steamboat "Mary Washington," they baffled the officers who
+stopped them by showing a pass issued by the Provost-Marshal of
+Baltimore, and were soon steaming down the Chesapeake toward Fair Haven,
+which was their pretended destination. Arriving at that point they went
+ashore, and proceeded to the village of Friendship. From there they
+worked their way south-west to Prince Frederick, then across the Big
+Patuxent to Bendict, from which place they proceeded to Charlotte Hall,
+and thence on foot to Leonardtown, a distance of twenty miles. At the
+last-named place they found Wm. H. Scott, another of my operatives,
+awaiting them, and were accompanied by him during the remainder of the
+journey.
+
+A number of messages, written and verbal, which had been intrusted to
+Webster by his Baltimore associates, were delivered at various points on
+the route, thus enabling them to form the acquaintance of certain
+secessionists who were men of prominence and influence in their
+respective neighborhoods, and who in turn provided them with letters of
+introduction to others of like ilk further on. Through this medium they
+secured attention and hospitality wherever they stopped, and had the
+advantage of valuable advice and assistance in the matter of pursuing
+their journey safely.
+
+They represented themselves to be rebel sympathizers on their way to the
+Potomac, for the purpose of finding a safe place where goods could be
+shipped across the river into Virginia. They were frequently cautioned
+to be very careful, as there were Union soldiers stationed all along the
+river, and people whose hearts were with the South were not permitted to
+express their sentiments with impunity. They penetrated as far as a
+point called Allen's Fresh, and deciding that they had gained all the
+information that could be picked up in that part of the country, they
+returned to Washington and reported to me.
+
+When Webster re-appeared on the streets of Baltimore, after completing
+this trip, he was more than ever lionized by his numerous friends who
+were in the secret of his Southern journey, and its supposed object. By
+endangering his life in the Southern cause, as it was believed he had
+done, he had made himself a hero in the eyes of the traitors who were
+attached to him.
+
+"Are you still keeping mum?" he asked, as he stood in the center of a
+group at Dickinson's billiard hall, adjoining the Exchange.
+
+"Those who have any regard for their personal safety are doing so,"
+replied Rogers; "and I think the majority of the boys have learned that
+lesson. Baltimore is comparatively quiet now. Only one man has been
+arrested since you left, and we have hopes that he will be released."
+
+"Who is he?"
+
+"A man from Washington. He was fool enough to think he could talk as he
+pleased in Baltimore."
+
+"By the way," remarked some one present, "Webster must join our----"
+
+"Sh," cautioned Dave Dickinson, the proprietor of the billiard room.
+"Have you no more sense than to reveal yourself _here_? Remember that
+your lips are sealed by an oath on that subject."
+
+There was a moment's silence; Webster looked from one to another, and
+noticed that an air of mystery had settled upon every countenance
+present.
+
+"What's this?" he demanded with a laugh. "Is it a conspiracy to betray
+me into the hands of the enemy?"
+
+"Not exactly," replied Dickinson, whose laugh was echoed by the crowd.
+"Sloan, you will give Mr. Webster his cue when a favorable opportunity
+occurs. We want him with us, by all means."
+
+Webster's curiosity was satisfied an hour later, when he and Sam Sloan
+walked toward Miller's Hotel together.
+
+"The fact is," said Sam, in a guarded tone, "since you went away we've
+formed a secret organization."
+
+"A secret organization?"
+
+"Yes; and we have held several meetings."
+
+"Is it a success?"
+
+"A perfect success. Some of the best in town are among our members. We
+may be forced to keep silent, but, by Heaven! they can't compel us to
+remain idle. We are well organized, and we mean undying opposition to a
+tyrannical government. I tell you, Webster, _we will not down_!"
+
+"Never!" responded Webster, copying the boastful tone and bearing of his
+companion. "It does not lie in the power of these white-livered Yankees
+to make slaves of Southern men! I should like to become a member of your
+society, Sloan."
+
+"They all want you," said Sloan, eagerly. "They passed a resolution to
+that effect at the last meeting. They want the benefit of your counsel
+and influence."
+
+"What is your society called?"
+
+"The Knights of Liberty."
+
+"When will your next meeting be held?"
+
+"To-night."
+
+"So soon?"
+
+"And you are expected to attend. Have you any objections?"
+
+"None whatever. But how will I get there?"
+
+"I am delegated to be your escort," replied Sloan.
+
+"What is your hour of meeting?"
+
+"Twelve o'clock."
+
+"Ah, a midnight affair. All right, Sam; you'll find me waiting for you
+at the hotel."
+
+Here they separated. Webster realized that quite an important period in
+his Baltimore experience was opening up before him, and that all his
+detective skill would probably be called into play to foil a band of
+conspirators. How to thwart the schemes of these Knights of Liberty,
+whose purpose, as he understood, was to assist in the overthrow of the
+Government of the United States, was now the question to be solved.
+
+He did not, however, attempt to form any plans at this time, but waited
+for such developments as he had no doubt would be made that night. He
+resolved to learn the nature of the plots that were in existence, before
+he commenced counterplotting.
+
+Promptly at eleven o'clock Sam Sloan put in an appearance at the hotel,
+and he and Webster proceeded toward the place of meeting. The night was
+dark and stormy, just the right sort of night, Webster thought, for the
+concocting of hellish plots and the performance of evil deeds.
+
+    "That night, a chiel might understand,
+    The Deil had business on his hand."
+
+The stars were hidden from view by masses of flying clouds; the wind
+whistled shrilly through the trees and spires; while the deep,
+threatening murmurs of distant thunder were accompanied by fitful
+flashes of lightning, which illumined the scene with a weird, quivering
+light. Few shops were open in the localities through which they passed.
+Occasionally a light was seen struggling through the screened window of
+a saloon, and the sound of midnight orgies within indicated that
+business had not been suspended there; but elsewhere all was dark and
+still.
+
+Sloan led the way to a remote quarter of the city, and into a street
+which bore a particularly bad reputation. Here he stopped, and said:
+
+"I must blindfold you, Webster, before proceeding further. This is a
+rule of the order which cannot, under any circumstances, be departed
+from."
+
+Webster submitted quietly, while a thick bandage was placed over his
+eyes and securely fastened. Then Sloan took him by the arm and led him
+forward.
+
+Blindfolded as he was, he knew that they turned suddenly into an
+alleyway, and he also knew when they passed through a gate, which Sloan
+closed behind them. He rightly conjectured that they were now in a sort
+of paved court, in the rear of a building.
+
+"Come this way and make no noise," whispered Sloan.
+
+The next moment the latter knocked on a door with a low, peculiar rap,
+that was like a signal. Immediately a guarded voice on the inside was
+heard:
+
+"Are you white?"
+
+"Down with the blacks!" responded Sloan.
+
+Nothing more was said. A chain clanked inside, a bolt shot back, and the
+door creaked on its hinges as it swung open.
+
+Webster was led through, and he and his conductor began to ascend a
+flight of stairs, so thickly carpeted that they emitted no sound from
+the footsteps upon them.
+
+At the head of the stairs they were again accosted:
+
+"Halt! Who comes there?"
+
+"Long live Jeff Davis," muttered Sloan.
+
+Passing on through another door, they found themselves in a small,
+square apartment, although, so far as Webster was concerned, there was
+no ocular proof of this. There seemed to be several persons here, and a
+voice, that was evidently meant to be tragical and impressive,
+demanded:
+
+"Whom have we here?"
+
+"Most Noble Chief," said Sloan, humbly, "I have a friend in charge, who
+wishes to become a worthy member of this league."
+
+"His name?"
+
+"Timothy Webster."
+
+"Have the objects of the league been fully explained to him?"
+
+"They have."
+
+The gruff-voiced speaker then said:
+
+"Mr. Webster, is it your desire to become a member of this knightly
+band?"
+
+"It is," responded the detective, firmly.
+
+There was a sound as of a number of swords leaping from their scabbards,
+and the clank and ring of the steel as the blades seemed to meet above
+his head. Then the Grand Chief continued:
+
+"You will now kneel upon one knee, and place your right hand upon your
+heart, while I administer to you the binding obligation of our
+brotherhood."
+
+Webster did as he was directed, and in this attitude repeated the
+following oath, as it was dictated to him:
+
+"I, Timothy Webster, citizen of Baltimore, having been informed of the
+objects of this association, and being in full accord with the cause
+which it seeks to advance, do solemnly declare and affirm, upon my
+sacred honor, that I will keep forever secret all that I may see or
+hear, in consequence of being a member of this league; that I will
+implicitly obey all orders, and faithfully discharge all duties assigned
+to me, no matter of what nature or character they may be; and that life
+or death will be held subordinate to the success and advancement of the
+cause of the Confederacy and the defeat of the bloody tyrants who are
+striving to rule by oppression and terrorism. Should I fail in the
+proper performance of any task imposed upon me, or should I prove
+unfaithful to the obligations I have here assumed, may I suffer the
+severest penalty for treason and cowardice, as well as the odium and
+contempt of my brother knights."
+
+The swords clanked again as they were returned to their scabbards, and
+the new-made member, having taken the oath, was commanded to rise. He
+did so in silence, and the bandage was removed from his eyes.
+
+At first the light of the room almost blinded him, but his eyes soon
+became accustomed to the change, and he looked about him with some
+curiosity. He found that he was in the presence of seven stalwart men,
+besides Sloan, all of whom wore swords at their sides, dark cloaks
+drooping from their shoulders, and black masks upon their faces. The
+masks, however, were now removed, and Webster discovered, to his relief,
+that they were all familiar to him.
+
+"Mr. Webster," said the Chief, dropping his tragic tone of voice,
+"without further ceremony, I pronounce you a Knight of Liberty. I greet
+you heartily;" and then, extending his hand--"Come with me."
+
+As they emerged into the main council-chamber, Webster quietly examined
+his surroundings. It was a spacious apartment, very plain in its
+appointments, with a low ceiling and bare walls, and furnished with
+chairs arranged in rows around the room. At the head of the hall was a
+low platform on which were tables and chairs. Behind these, on the wall,
+were suspended two Confederate flags, artistically draped, above which
+were the initials "K. of L." Some forty men were already assembled, and
+others were quietly dropping in at intervals. Webster noticed that all
+these men were from the better class of citizen secessionists, and that
+the low, rowdy element was not represented. They were mostly men who had
+not thus far been suspected of disloyalty to the Union cause.
+
+The Grand Chief and other officers now took their positions on the
+platform, and Webster was assigned to a seat where he could observe all
+that was said or done.
+
+Presently a clock in the room struck twelve. Instantly all the doors
+opening into the chamber were securely locked, and the secret conclave
+was in session. The Grand Chief rose and opened the meeting in regular
+form; and again, after the secretary had read the journal, made an
+address of some length. At the conclusion of his remarks, some one arose
+and said:
+
+"Most Worthy Chief, I believe we can now claim Mr. Webster as a member
+of this body. I understand that he has just returned from an interesting
+and somewhat dangerous mission, and I now move that he be invited to
+address this meeting relative to his experiences during the journey he
+has just completed."
+
+Webster, taken by surprise, undertook to combat the proposition, but the
+motion was unanimously concurred in, and no excuses were accepted. He
+therefore yielded good-naturedly, and mounting the platform, he
+proceeded to relate some of the particulars of his trip to the Potomac.
+He made the recital as entertaining and agreeable as possible, and
+although his statements did not always possess the merit of being
+strictly true, they were such as could not fail to meet the approval of
+his hearers, and were therefore received with great favor. Concluding
+with a well-timed panegyric on the "faithful" of Baltimore, he resumed
+his seat amid the congratulations of his many admiring friends.
+
+After this, the regular business of the meeting was taken up, in which
+Webster took no other part than that of a close listener and observer.
+Motions were made, resolutions were adopted, and various duties assigned
+to volunteer committees. The proceedings grew more and more interesting
+to the detective as they progressed, and it was not long before he began
+to feel considerable surprise, if not alarm, at the unexpected
+revelations which were made. It became evident to him that these
+conspirators had by some means succeeded in placing themselves in direct
+communication with the Confederate leaders, and that a gigantic plot was
+now in preparation to make a united and irresistible movement against
+Washington. Nearly ten thousand Baltimoreans, it was alleged, were
+prepared to rise in arms at a moment's notice, and join the rebel army,
+whenever such a movement might seem feasible. It appeared, also, that
+the Baltimoreans were not alone in this plot against the government, but
+that branches of their organization existed in a number of the outlying
+towns, and that the secessionists of the entire State were working
+harmoniously together for the accomplishment of one great purpose. There
+was no lack of arms, for these had already been secured, but their place
+of concealment was known only to a few and they were not to be brought
+to light until they should be needed.
+
+The main portion of the plot seemed to be well matured, and was most
+perfect in its details. The arrival of the rebel army in Maryland was
+expected in a very short time, as they had the promises of the Southern
+commanders themselves that they would soon cross the Potomac. Their
+coming was to be the signal for a simultaneous uprising of all the
+secessionists in the Western and Southern portions of the State, who
+were to unite in a movement that could scarcely fail to carry
+everything before it. There were also deep-laid schemes by which the
+Federals were to be kept in ignorance of the real designs of the
+Confederates, until too late to avert the blow.
+
+The extent of the conspiracy rather startled Webster, although some of
+the projects sounded rather visionary, and he made up his mind to
+consult with me at once. Accordingly, the very next day, he proceeded to
+Washington, and was closeted with me for several hours. As soon as he
+had explained the situation, I devised a plan of procedure, and gave him
+full instructions as to the manner in which he should proceed. The great
+object, of course, was to break up the organization, and defeat the
+conspiracy in a manner that would not compromise Webster; but it was not
+deemed prudent to go about this with any inordinate haste.
+
+I advised Webster to continue attending the meetings, in the character
+of an active conspirator; to learn all he could, and report to me as
+often as possible. In the meantime, I would send him two other
+operatives, and he was to secure their admission into the secret
+society, as members thereof. In a week or two the final act in the
+little drama would be introduced by first making a confidant of Mr.
+McPhail, the deputy Provost-Marshal of Baltimore, and then confronting
+the conspirators with a company of armed soldiers.
+
+Webster returned to Baltimore with a clear understanding of the course
+he was to pursue, and he followed that course with the untiring zeal
+with which he performed every duty assigned to him. He attended the
+midnight meetings regularly, and gained much information concerning the
+plans and movements of the Southern commanders, which proved of
+incalculable value to the government. The two operatives soon contrived
+to join the society, not through Webster's recommendation, as that was
+to be avoided, if possible, but by making the acquaintances of men whom
+he pointed out to them, and representing themselves as secessionists who
+were capable of keeping their own counsel.
+
+This done, the rest was comparatively easy. By the rules of the society,
+no one could enter the secret chamber of the conspirators without
+passing two guards, and giving sundry pass-words. These guards were
+appointed by the Chief from those who volunteered for the positions. At
+stated periods, new pass-words were arranged, by which every man was
+required to answer the questions of the guards, and any one who failed
+to commit these to memory sufficiently to satisfy these sentinels that
+he was a member of the society, found himself barred out of the meeting.
+
+Our plan worked to perfection. There came a night when my two operatives
+were on duty, as guards, they having volunteered their services at the
+last preceding meeting. This was the night set apart for the surprise.
+It had been announced that Webster would speak that night, and it had
+been arranged with the guards, that a certain part in his speech should
+be taken as the signal for the grand finale that had been decided upon.
+
+The hour of midnight approached. The old building in which the secret
+conclaves were held was shrouded in silence and darkness. At intervals
+one or more dark figures might have been seen to enter the covered
+archway leading thereto, and pass through the gate into the narrow
+court. Then, one at a time, they approached a certain door, and after a
+signal rap, and a low, muttered conversation with the guards, they
+passed in and ascended the dimly-lighted stairs. Another brief dialogue
+with the inside guard, and they entered the council-chamber, where they
+dropped their mysterious manner, and were ready to answer to their names
+at the calling of the roll.
+
+The clock struck twelve. The sound rang through the apartment in solemn,
+measured tones, and as the twelfth stroke was still vibrating in the
+air, all the doors, even those communicating with the ante-rooms, were
+promptly locked, no one being admitted after that hour.
+
+The meeting was opened after the regular form, and the business disposed
+of without interruption. When the time which was set apart for addresses
+arrived, Webster was called upon for his speech. He ascended the
+platform with a serious expression on his face, and after thanking his
+fellow-knights for the honor conferred upon him, he launched forth into
+a stirring address, the treasonable nature of which was calculated to
+fire the Southern blood of his hearers, and to add much to his own
+popularity. As the speaker appeared to warm up with his subject he
+lifted his voice and exclaimed:
+
+"The dissolution of the Union is one of the inevitable necessities of
+Lincoln's election, and it will be our mission to strike directly at the
+heart of the abolition party, and bury its foul carcass beneath the
+smoking ruins of Washington city!"
+
+This was the signal. The words had no sooner passed the lips of the
+speaker, than a startling noise, like that of a battering-ram being
+applied to one of the ante-room doors, cut short the speech, and caused
+every man present to spring to his feet in astonishment and alarm. Bang!
+bang! bang! sounded the heavy blows. The door burst open with a crash,
+and a stream of blue-coated soldiers, all fully armed, came pouring into
+the council-chamber, and quickly deployed around three sides of the
+room, effectually cutting off the retreat of the inmates before they
+could make a movement.
+
+[Illustration: "_The door burst open and a stream of blue coated
+soldiers came pouring in._" P 298]
+
+The sudden and unexpected appearance of these intruders had a paralyzing
+effect upon the conspirators. Had so many ghosts confronted them they
+could not have been more surprised. Horrified consternation was depicted
+on every blanched face; startled eyes looked wildly around for some
+avenue of escape, and exclamations of terror or baffled rage broke from
+many white lips. Some of the most desperate seemed for a moment to
+entertain thoughts of breaking through the line of soldiers and reaching
+the door, but no such mad attempt was made. McPhail stepped forward with
+a revolver in each hand, and in a low, thrilling voice, said:
+
+"Gentlemen, you are our prisoners. I advise you to give in gracefully.
+We are too many for you."
+
+His advice did not go unheeded. They surrendered as gracefully as
+possible under the circumstances, and resigned themselves to the custody
+of their armed foes. The chamber in which they had maliciously plotted
+the overthrow of the government became the scene of their own downfall,
+and it was with dejected countenances that they submitted to the
+inevitable, and permitted themselves to be marched in a body before the
+Provost-Marshal. It was not observed, however, until they were being
+removed, that Timothy Webster had somehow contrived to make good his
+escape.
+
+The leading spirits of this conspiracy--those who did the actual
+plotting, and who were known to be the arch traitors and prime movers in
+the secret enterprise--were taken to Fort McHenry. The rest, after
+taking the oath of allegiance, were released.
+
+My two operatives disappeared from Baltimore immediately after this
+occurrence, as well they might, for of course the suspicion of the
+defeated conspirators fastened upon them at once. As they did not show
+themselves in that city again, however, they never were made the victims
+of the terrible vengeance which some of their late associates swore to
+bring down upon their luckless heads at the first opportunity. As for
+Webster, instead of being suspected of any complicity in the betrayal,
+he was congratulated upon his fortunate and remarkable escape from the
+fate which befell his unfortunate brother knights.
+
+With the defeat of the "Knights of Liberty" in Baltimore, ended the
+existence of the branch lodges all over the State. The organization,
+which had so carefully planned the destruction of the Union at a single
+blow, was completely broken up. The conspirators, taking warning by the
+fate of their leaders, became mute and inactive, and although skilled
+detectives were sent to all outlying towns, no new signs of an uprising
+were discovered.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+_Suspicions in Washington.--"Uncle Gallus."--Property Searched.--A Rebel
+Family sent South.--Webster starts for Richmond._
+
+
+Aside from the operations of Timothy Webster and his assistants in
+Baltimore, there was work enough to do in Washington to keep myself and
+all the members of my large force constantly employed. Innumerable
+persons, suspected of treasonable designs, were closely shadowed; whole
+families became objects of distrust, and fell under the watchful eye of
+my department; while the ungracious task of searching the homes of
+people who stood upon the highest round of the social ladder became of
+frequent occurrence.
+
+Among the latter class were the wife and family of ex-Governor Morton,
+of Florida, who at this time were sojourning in Washington. Mrs. Morton
+was known to be in sympathy with the South, and the unceasing vigilance
+of my men soon developed the fact that she was in secret communication
+with certain officials of the rebel government, to whom she was giving
+information concerning affairs at the North. She was a lady of eminent
+respectability and refinement, and much esteemed by all who knew her,
+but this did not render it less advisable, under the circumstances, to
+have all her movements watched, and her house constantly shadowed by
+detectives. Her pleasant residence at No. 288 "I" street, was therefore
+placed under strict surveillance, and its inmates followed whenever they
+went out for a walk or drive, while all visitors at the house were
+invariably shadowed when they went away.
+
+There was an old negro servant, known as Uncle Gallus, who went to and
+from the house oftener than any one else, on errands for the family.
+Finally one of my operatives drew the old fellow into conversation, and
+found him so cheerful and communicative, and so firm in his loyalty to
+the Northern cause, that when the fact was reported to me, I concluded
+to talk with Uncle Gallus myself. Accordingly, I gave orders to have him
+brought to my office, if it could be done without opposition on his
+part. The friendship I bore for the colored race, and my long experience
+as an underground railroad conductor, had given me such an insight into
+the character of the negro, that I believed I could gain his confidence
+and good-will if I should meet him.
+
+Uncle Gallus came to my office quite willingly. He was a
+powerfully-built darky, though evidently well advanced in years, as
+attested by the bleached appearance of his wool and eyebrows. His skin
+was as black and shone as bright as polished ebony, and it took but
+little provocation to set him on a broad grin, which displayed two
+unbroken rows of glistening ivory.
+
+This interesting specimen appeared before me one afternoon, when Timothy
+Webster was with me in my office. We had just finished a discussion
+concerning some delicate point in Webster's Baltimore operations, and
+had lapsed into a desultory conversation. My sable visitor stood bowing
+and scraping, and turning his hat round and round in his hands, till I
+bid him be seated.
+
+"Your name is Gallus?" I said.
+
+"Yes, sah," he replied, his mouth stretched from ear to ear. "Folks done
+got so dey call me _uncle_ Gallus nowadays."
+
+"You have been a slave all your life, I understand?"
+
+"Yes, massa, eber sence I war knee-high to a hopper-grass. I'se done a
+mighty sight o' wu'k, too, 'kase I wus allus as big an stout as a
+sixty-dollah bull, an' I could stan' mo' hard-fisted labor dan any o' de
+udder niggahs on de plantation. But sence I been wid Massa Morton I
+ain't had nuffin' to do skursely, an' it seems as ef I'se gwine to git
+pow'ful lazy fur de want o' wu'k. H'yah! H'yah!"
+
+"What is your native State, Uncle Gallus?"
+
+"Ole Virginny, sah."
+
+He held his head a little higher, and sat a trifle more erect as he said
+this, showing that inordinate pride in his State which I had so often
+noticed in other Virginia slaves, as well as in Virginia masters.
+
+I asked him if the Mortons had offered him his freedom since the
+breaking out of the war. He shook his head and gravely replied:
+
+"Dey hain't been nuffin' said to dis pusson on dat 'ar subjick, but I
+knows dey'd gimme my freedom in less'n twenty-fo' hours ef I done ax 'em
+fur it."
+
+"Then you don't want to be free?"
+
+"Oh, yes, I does, massa; yes, I does, fur sho'. But Massa Linkum an' de
+Yankee boys am gwine ter fetch dat aroun' all right by'm-bye. Bress your
+soul an' body, I can't b'ar fur to run away from missus an' ole massa,
+'kase dey's been so good an' kyind to me; an' I'se done tuk an oath dat
+I won't leave 'em till dey gimme leaf. When missus goes back down Souf
+I'se gwine ter go wid her, ef she don't tole me to stay heah. It won't
+be long, nohow, 'kase de time am soon comin' when de darkies will all be
+free."
+
+"Your mistress intends to return to the South, then?"
+
+"Yes, sah; we'll soon be off now, ef de good Lo'd will let us. Massa,
+he's in Richmond, an' he hab done sent fur de family."
+
+"Is Mrs. Morton in communication with her husband?"
+
+"Spec' she is, sah. She writes letters, an' _gits_ letters. She has ter
+be sorter keerful like, for dese 'yah Yankees is got eyes like a cat,
+an' kin see fru a stun wall in de dark."
+
+"Do you know whether your mistress writes to any one besides her
+husband?"
+
+Uncle Gallus leaned back in his chair, and looked at me somewhat
+suspiciously, the whites of his eyes shining like polished china.
+
+"'Deed, sah, I doesn't know whedder she dusdo, or whedder she doant," he
+said, hesitatingly. "Please, massa, doant ax dis chile any mo'
+questions. My missus is de bes' woman in de wu'ld, and nebber didn't do
+nuffin' wrong in all her bawn days. Ole Gallus wouldn't say nuffin' to
+bring trubble on her for fifteen cents," he added, earnestly.
+
+I quieted the fears of the faithful old man by assuring him that I meant
+no harm to his mistress, and that I had no doubt she was the good lady
+he represented her to be. Satisfied with the result of my
+investigations, I permitted Uncle Gallus to depart, first charging him,
+however, to say nothing to any one concerning my interview with him. He
+promised secrecy, and bowed himself out with all his teeth visible,
+saying, as he went:
+
+"Fo' de Lawd, gemmen, I'se hopin an' prayin' de No'thun folks will be de
+top dog in dis wrastle, an' ef eber dis niggah hes a chance to gib
+yu'uns a helpin' han', yu' kin bet a hoss agin' a coon-skin he'll do it;
+but I hope an' trus' my missus not be boddered."
+
+Nevertheless, I had learned enough to bring me to the decision, that
+Mrs. Morton's house must be searched, and under orders of the Secretary
+of War, I sent three of my men to No. 288 "I" street, to perform this
+unpleasant task. The operatives chosen to make the search were W. H.
+Scott, John Scully, and Pryce Lewis. Mrs. Morton received them very
+civilly, and told them they were at liberty to make a thorough search of
+the premises, which they immediately proceeded to do. They had
+instructions to read all letters that were found, but to keep only those
+that were of a treasonable nature, and in no case to destroy any
+property or leave anything in a disordered condition. These instructions
+were obeyed to the letter. Boxes that were packed ready for shipment
+were all carefully repacked and closed after they had been examined by
+my men, and when the operatives departed, they left no traces of their
+search behind them. Their polite and considerate conduct won for them
+the good will, not only of Mrs. Morton herself, but also of her daughter
+and two sons, who expressed themselves as being agreeably surprised, for
+they had been informed that the men from the Provost-Marshal's office
+were a set of ruffians, who did not scruple to break up boxes, and
+litter the house with their contents, and that their conduct towards
+ladies was insulting in the extreme. They even went so far as to assure
+the operatives, that if any of them should ever be taken prisoner and
+brought to Richmond, they would do all in their power to secure kind
+treatment for them.
+
+Among the letters that were found, two of them were from ex-Governor
+Morton, to his son and daughter, requesting them to come to him at
+Richmond; but nothing of a criminating character was discovered, and the
+family were not subjected to further annoyance.
+
+Some two weeks afterwards, when John Scully boarded a train for
+Baltimore, whither I had sent him with a message to Webster, he chanced
+to meet Mrs. Morton and family in the car which he entered. They were
+departing from Washington, having been required to leave the North, by
+the authorities, who furnished them a safe passport to Richmond, and
+they were accompanied by the faithful Uncle Gallus. They recognized
+Scully, and greeted him with cordial courtesy, the eldest son rising in
+his seat to shake hands with him. They told him that on arriving at
+Baltimore, they were to take a flag-of-truce boat to Fortress Monroe,
+from which point they would continue their journey to Richmond. Scully
+as a matter of policy, gave them distinctly to understand that he had
+quitted the government service and was returning to his home in the
+North.
+
+This little experience with the Morton family was trifling enough in
+itself, and was only one of many similar episodes with which I and my
+force were connected during those troublous times; but I have been thus
+particular in detailing it because it has an important bearing upon
+other events which afterwards occurred.
+
+It was about a month after the incident above mentioned, that Timothy
+Webster completed his preparations for making his first trip into
+Virginia and through the rebel lines. A large number of Baltimoreans had
+intrusted him with letters to their friends and relatives in the South,
+and he had assured them that their messages would be delivered safely
+and answers brought back in due time.
+
+He left Baltimore on the 14th of October, and proceeded southward along
+the "Eastern Shore" of Virginia, seeking a convenient place to cross
+over to the mainland or "Western Shore." He arrived at Eastville, the
+county seat of Northampton county, on Tuesday, October 22d, where he
+found that he could effect a crossing with the assistance of a man named
+Marshall, who made a business of smuggling passengers and mails through
+the lines. He was compelled, however, to remain at Eastville several
+days, waiting for Marshall and his boat to come over from the other
+side, his trips being delayed on account of the bright moonlight nights,
+as the boatman did not dare to run the gantlet of the Federal guns,
+unless covered by darkness.
+
+Some two or three months before, this man, Marshall, had owned a sloop,
+which he had used successfully in running the Federal blockade. One
+night he was caught in a calm near the western shore, and was run-down
+by a gunboat. His sloop was captured, and he narrowly escaped capture by
+deserting his vessel and reaching the shore in a smaller boat. Since
+that time Marshall had been pursuing his vocation with a sort of canoe,
+or "dugout," thirty-one feet in length and five feet in width, carrying
+three sails--main, fore and jib. His route was from Gloucester Point,
+York river, to Eastville, and his business was to transfer from one side
+of the bay to the other the Confederate mail and passengers, and
+sometimes a small cargo of merchandise. Marshall being an expert pilot
+and a thorough seaman, was frequently employed by the masters of sloops
+and schooners to pilot them past certain points, they giving him the
+privilege of putting his passengers and mail-bags aboard the vessel
+without charge. It was his invariable custom to place a stone or other
+heavy substance in his mail-bag before starting, for the purpose of
+sinking it in case of being pressed by the gunboats.
+
+It was on a dark evening that Webster left Cherrystone Lighthouse in
+Marshall's canoe, to make the voyage across the Chesapeake. There were
+thirteen passengers, all told. Eight of these were Marylanders, mostly
+from Baltimore, every one of whom announced his intention of enlisting
+in the Confederate army or navy upon his arrival at Richmond.
+
+On starting, Marshall rowed off a short distance from the light-house,
+and rested on his oars for some time, taking observations to ascertain
+if the bay was clear of hostile craft. The night was scarcely dark
+enough for safety; the clouds were thin and scattered, and the stars
+were peeping through the dark, ragged curtain overhead. The wind was
+blowing strongly from the east, and the water was exceedingly rough.
+
+Resolving, however, to make the effort, Marshall hoisted his sails, and
+as they rapidly filled, the little vessel sprung forward like a thing of
+life. It fairly skimmed over the waves, its sharp prow cutting the water
+and dashing up clouds of spray that caused the men to turn up their
+coat-collars and pull their hats down closer upon their heads. All
+conversation was forbidden, lest their voices should betray them to the
+enemy. With sealed lips and motionless forms, they might have been so
+many dark phantoms speeding before the wind on some supernatural
+mission.
+
+Webster, by his own wish, had been put upon the look-out by the captain
+of the boat, and he keenly watched for signs of danger. When they had
+traveled nearly half the distance across the bay, he spied a point of
+light to leeward, and at once called Marshall's attention to it.
+
+"It is a gunboat with a light on her bows," said the latter. "Let her
+come. She can't catch us, for with oar present headway we are not to be
+overhauled by any boat on this water."
+
+The canoe was headed due west for about fourteen miles, then south-west
+by west for ten or twelve miles, then due west again to Gloucester
+Point. The entire run was made in three and a half hours, the sailing
+distance being about thirty miles.
+
+On nearing Gloucester Point, they were hailed by a sentinel, with the
+usual challenge:
+
+"Who comes there?"
+
+The blockade-runner sent back the answer:
+
+"Marshall--mail boat!"
+
+"Stand, Marshall, and give the countersign!"
+
+"No countersign," was the reply.
+
+The sentinel then called out:
+
+"Sergeant of the Guard, Post No. 1!"
+
+And another voice, further away, cried:
+
+"Who's there?"
+
+"Marshall, with mail boat and passengers."
+
+"Sentinel, let them pass."
+
+A few minutes later the passengers disembarked, and found themselves in
+a rebel camp.
+
+Webster, with others, went to Marshall's shanty--a rude, wooden
+structure, which that worthy had built on the Point for the
+accommodation of his passengers--and there the remainder of the night
+was spent in the refreshing companionship of Morpheus.
+
+On the following morning Webster was up and astir at an early hour. He
+ascertained that the encampment at Gloucester Point consisted of two
+regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry, and one field battery
+of six guns, all under the command of Col. Charles H. Crump. The
+entrenchments comprised an area of about fifteen acres, and the main
+breastwork on the beach consisted of a heavy earth-bank, walled on the
+inside with split pine logs set up on end. About the center of this
+breastwork was a sixty-four-pound gun, mounted on a high carriage, which
+traversed in a circle commanding a sweep of the whole land side of the
+entrenchments, where there was a clean field of about seven hundred
+acres bounded by timber on the north and York river on the south.
+
+General Magruder had command of this division of the army, including the
+forces at Gloucester Point, Yorktown and all the peninsula bounded by
+the James and York rivers, extending down to Fortress Monroe. The
+division embraced thirty-three regiments of infantry and cavalry.
+
+Webster called at Colonel Crump's headquarters and obtained from that
+officer a pass to Richmond, not only for himself, but for several others
+who had crossed the bay with him. At about the hour of noon on Saturday,
+the 26th, the party were ferried across the river to Yorktown, in a
+small boat. The landing at Yorktown was in front of a hill which rose
+with a gentle slope some twenty-five feet above the beach, on the top of
+which, in front of the town, was an earthwork mounting six or eight
+guns.
+
+From this point the party proceeded in a south-westerly direction,
+across the peninsula, to Grove Wharf, on James river. The distance was
+about ten miles, and was accomplished without difficulty or delay. On
+their arrival at Grove Wharf, however, they were disappointed to learn
+that no boat was to leave there for Richmond until the following Monday.
+There was no help for it, and with a rueful attempt at resignation, they
+took quarters at a neighboring farm-house, where they waited and rested.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+_The Spy at Richmond.--Earthworks Around the Rebel Capital.--An
+Unexpected Meeting.--Pistols for Two.--A Reconciliation.--Safe Return to
+Washington._
+
+
+On Monday morning Webster left Grove Wharf, on the regular steam packet,
+for Richmond, where he arrived on the evening of the same day. Here he
+separated from his companions and made his way alone to the Spotswood
+Hotel, where he registered, and proceeded to make himself at home. He
+was now in the rebel capital, surrounded on all sides by the enemies of
+his country, with no friends to whom he could apply in case of danger,
+and burdened with a mission, upon the successful performance of which
+his life depended. It was a mission, too, requiring such delicate and
+skillful labor, that a man less iron-nerved would have trembled at the
+very contemplation of it; but Webster, whose courage and self-command
+never deserted him in the most trying moments of his life, coolly
+reviewed the situation and laid his plans in a systematic manner for
+future operations.
+
+The next day, he busied himself about the city, delivering his letters,
+forming acquaintances, and paving the way for an interview with the
+Secretary of War, his object being to obtain from that high official, if
+possible, a pass to Manassas and Winchester. He was informed by General
+Jones, Post-Adjutant to General Winder, the Provost-Marshal at Richmond,
+and commander of the forces there, that no interview could be obtained
+with the Secretary of War, except upon business especially connected
+with the military department, as they were daily expecting an attack
+from the Federal Army of the Potomac, and the Secretary was wholly
+engaged with officers of the army.
+
+Among the acquaintances which Webster formed, was a young man by the
+name of William Campbell, originally a Baltimorean, to whom he brought a
+letter of introduction from the father of the young man. Campbell
+treated my operative with the utmost friendliness and courtesy, and
+invited him to a drive during the afternoon. The invitation was
+accepted, and as the weather was all that could be desired, they enjoyed
+a very pleasant afternoon. They visited the environs for the purpose of
+viewing the defenses, and Webster noted the fact that there were
+seventeen very superior earthwork batteries around the town, forming a
+rude semicircle with either end resting on the James river. The
+entrenchments around each of these batteries were from twelve to
+fourteen feet wide at the top, and about ten feet deep. Some of the
+batteries were designed for six guns and some for sixteen. They were
+nearly all completed at this time, and the work upon them had been done
+exclusively by negro slaves. In most cases they were mounted with their
+full complement of guns, varying in caliber, from thirty-two to
+sixty-four pounds. The land around Richmond consists of hills and
+valleys, and the batteries were planted on the most elevated and
+commanding points. The heaviest of these commanded the turnpikes and
+railroads which formed the approaches from Manassas and Fredericksburg.
+
+After visiting the batteries, Webster went with Campbell to the ordnance
+department, where he was introduced to several persons who had charge of
+the ordnance stores, and from whom he elicited much valuable
+information. Among other things, he was informed by the Colonel in
+charge, that the "Bermuda," an English vessel which had recently run the
+blockade, had brought over for the Confederate government twelve
+thousand Enfield rifles, a large supply of cavalry swords and a number
+of rifled cannon; and that, upon trial, the rifled cannon were found to
+be more accurate than any of their brass pieces.
+
+On the following day Webster concluded to make another inspection of the
+earthworks around the city. He went alone and on foot this time, as he
+desired to make some notes and calculations, which he was unable to do
+in the presence of others without running an unnecessary risk. It was a
+fine, brisk morning, the air was slightly tinged with the coolness of
+approaching winter, and the spy occupied the entire forenoon in
+strolling leisurely from point to point, apparently with the single
+object of idling away a few leisure hours. Now he passed some men
+engaged in planting a cannon on one of the redoubts, and again he saw a
+group of slaves busily at work with pickaxes and shovels, but no one
+seemed to pay any attention to him.
+
+About noon he came upon a scene, which, though characteristic of the
+time and place, was rather a novel sight to a Northern man, and he
+stopped to view it with considerable interest. In a sunny spot near the
+river bank about a dozen negro laborers were gathered, their
+surroundings showing that they had just left off work for the enjoyment
+of their allotted hour of rest, at noon. Having finished their mid-day
+repast, they were now filling their time by indulging in a species of
+amusement peculiar to their race. On a pine log sat a jolly-looking old
+negro, whose hair was white as snow and whose face was black as ebony,
+grinning, and rolling his head from side to side, while he patted "Juba"
+with great energy and skill, on his knees, chest and head. The other
+darkies were dancing to the "music," and apparently enjoying the sport
+to an unlimited degree.
+
+The detective was amused at the spectacle, but this feeling gave way to
+one of surprise and curiosity, as he looked more intently at the
+white-haired old man who was acting as _musician_. There was something
+strikingly familiar in those black, smiling features. Surely this was
+not the first time he had seen that face, or witnessed that tremendous
+grin. Where had he met this darky before?
+
+Suddenly his recollection was quickened. The person in question was none
+other than Uncle Gallus, the servant of ex-Governor Morton, whom he had
+seen in my office at Washington, on the day that I had questioned him
+about his mistress. This fact was clear enough to Webster, but somewhat
+surprising, withal. He remembered that Uncle Gallus had, on that
+occasion, represented the Mortons as very indulgent slave-owners, who
+never permitted him to perform any hard labor; yet here he was, in the
+role of a common workman, employed upon the fortifications around
+Richmond.
+
+Whatever had caused this change, however, it did not appear to weigh
+heavily upon the old darky, for at this moment he was in the very
+ecstasy of delight, as he patted inspiration into the nimble feet of his
+companions. The other darkies danced until their faces shone with
+perspiration, and the manner in which their loose-jointed limbs swung
+and wriggled, suggested the idea that those members were hung on pivots.
+They leaped and vaulted, and flung their heels in the airs, as if they
+were so many jumping-jacks and Uncle Gallus was pulling the string.
+
+The latter hummed snatches of plantation melodies as he warmed up to
+his work, and finally he sung a series of characteristic verses, of
+which the following are a sample:
+
+    "Did you ebber see a woodchuck lookin' at a coon-fight?
+          Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;
+    Did you ebber see a niggah gal dancin' in de moonlight?
+          Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!
+
+    "Possum up a gum-stump, chawin' slippery-ellum,
+          Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;
+    Nigga's in de market an' massa tryin' to sell 'em--
+          Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!
+
+    "Secesh in Richmon'--de Yankee boys has treed 'em--
+          Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;
+    All de little pickaninnies gwine to git dar freedom--
+          Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!"
+
+Suddenly the merriment of the blacks was interrupted in a most
+unexpected manner.
+
+Some tall bushes that covered the top of a slight elevation near by were
+suddenly parted, and a man, wearing the uniform of a Lieutenant in the
+Confederate army, leaped down among the astonished revelers. In a
+towering rage, he turned upon Uncle Gallus and shouted:
+
+"Shut your head, you d----d old villain, or I'll fill your black hide
+with lead!" and he flourished a cocked revolver in the face of the
+terrified negro.
+
+"Afo' God, Massa, we didn't mean no harm, we's jes passin' away de
+time," said Uncle Gallus, in a frightened voice.
+
+"Well, then," said the officer, with an oath, "be a little more careful
+in the future about the kind of songs you sing, or I'll have every
+d----d one of you bucked and gagged, and whipped within an inch of your
+lives."
+
+Replacing his weapon, and turning on his heel, he was striding angrily
+away when he came face to face with Webster.
+
+The recognition was mutual and instantaneous between the two men. As
+quick as a flash Webster had his revolver cocked and pointed at the head
+of the blustering Confederate.
+
+"Bill Zigler, what are you doing here? You move at your peril."
+
+"I'd kill you, curse you, but you've got the drop on me now, as you had
+once before. But my time will come, you d----d Yankee spy!"
+
+"Look here, Bill!" said Webster, anxious, if possible, to disarm at once
+and forever the suspicions of his enemy, "what is the use of our being
+continually at daggers' points? You were foolish enough to insult me in
+Baltimore by impeaching my loyalty to the South, and I resented it, as
+any man would. If you repeat the vile slander, I'll do the same thing.
+If, however, you have anything personal against me, and must fight, I'll
+put up my weapon and meet you hand to hand."
+
+Zigler looked at the speaker a moment, and then advancing and extending
+his hand, said:
+
+"Webster, put up your pistol; I guess I've made a d----d fool of myself.
+I did think you were a spy, but I knock under; I don't want to be an
+enemy to such a friend to the cause as I now believe you to be."
+
+Lowering his revolver, Webster good-naturedly received the friendly
+overtures of his former foe.
+
+"I thought you would come to your senses at last; but when did you come
+down here?"
+
+"Oh, I've been here several weeks. I enlisted in Baltimore and came down
+as a lieutenant," answered Zigler. "But where are you from?" he
+continued, "and what is the news from the Monumental City?"
+
+"I am just from that city," replied Webster, "and have brought a number
+of letters for parties here and at Manassas. I expect to go to the
+Junction to-morrow, if I succeed in getting a pass."
+
+"Who do you want to see there?"
+
+"Well, I want to see John Bowen," replied Webster, naming a particular
+friend of Zigler's, whom he knew was at Manassas. "I understand he is
+down with typhoid fever, and will no doubt be glad to hear from home."
+
+This straightforward story completely disarmed the suspicions of the
+bully as to Webster's true character, and finding that he had time to
+spare he invited the scout to his quarters.
+
+Thus the quarrel was settled between these two men, and the superior
+tact and coolness of Webster had succeeded in making a friend of a man
+who might have seriously interfered with his operations, and probably
+have jeopardized his life.
+
+As they were leaving the place, Webster cast a look at the group of
+negroes, whose mirth had been so suddenly interrupted, and he noticed
+that they were regarding the Lieutenant with looks of sullen anger. He
+was, however, considerably relieved to find that Uncle Gallus had not
+recognized him, and that as far as the aged negro was concerned, he had
+nothing to fear. He accompanied Zigler to his quarters, where they
+chatted pleasantly for an hour, after which Webster returned to his
+hotel, a much wiser man than when he first started out upon his walk.
+
+As he sauntered quietly back to the city, he felt quite elated at the
+success of his management of Zigler, whom he had made a fast friend.
+After supper, in company with Mr. Campbell, he strolled about the city
+for a short time, when his companion excused himself, and Webster
+pursued his way alone. He was walking along Utah street, apparently
+deeply absorbed in his own meditations, when he heard a voice behind
+him.
+
+"Hole on dar, Massa!"
+
+Turning around, he was surprised to see Uncle Gallus, approaching him as
+rapidly as his stiffened limbs would permit.
+
+"Well, uncle," said Webster, as the old man caught up to him--"did you
+speak to me?"
+
+"You'se de man dat I 'dressed, sah--done you know me?" said the old
+fellow, peering anxiously in the face of the detective.
+
+"No, I don't remember you," said Webster, determined to ascertain
+whether the old darky did know him; "where have you ever seen me?"
+
+"In Washington, sah," replied Uncle Gallus; "don' you remember you saw
+me at Majah Allen's, when I was dah libin wid Missus Morton?"
+
+Webster looked at the negro a moment, and then, feeling assured of the
+friendliness of his interlocutor, he said:
+
+"Your face does seem familiar to me; what is your name?"
+
+"Dey calls me Uncle Gallus, sah," answered the old fellow.
+
+"Oh, yes," said Webster, "now I remember you."
+
+"Golly, massa," grinned Uncle Gallus, "wen I seed you gib it to Bill
+Zigler dis mo'nin', I dun knowed you right away, but I wouldn't say
+nuffin' for de world, fo' I knowed you was a pullin' de wool ober his
+eyes."
+
+Knowing full well that he had nothing to fear from Uncle Gallus, he
+talked with him good-naturedly on various topics, and in the course of
+the conversation he learned that he was no longer with Mrs. Morton,
+having been disposed of by her, some time before, and that he was now
+being used by the Confederate government to work upon the
+fortifications. Not deeming it advisable to remain long in conversation
+with the old darky on the streets, he told him that he would see him in
+a day or two, and placing a coin in the old man's hand, he bade him
+good-night.
+
+The next morning Mr. Campbell and Webster visited General Jones, and
+obtained the sought-for passes to Manassas, for which place he left
+early in the forenoon. On his arrival there, he learned that John Bowen,
+for whom he had a letter, had been taken to Richmond, but having several
+other messages to deliver to parties of prominence there, he busied
+himself during the day in forming acquaintances, and in acquiring
+knowledge. From Manassas he went to Centreville, where he remained a few
+days, and from thence to Warrington, and finally back again to Richmond,
+where he delivered his remaining letters. Here he formed the
+acquaintance of a man by the name of Price, who was engaged in running
+the blockade, and who was making arrangements to return to Baltimore, to
+purchase a fresh supply of goods. Together they went to the office of
+the Provost-Marshal, where they obtained the necessary passes to insure
+their safe journey through the rebel lines.
+
+Leaving Richmond, they went to Fredericksburg, where he stayed long
+enough to visit all the places of interest around that city, and in
+company with Mr. Price they went on to Brooks Station, the headquarters
+of General Holmes, with whom Price was intimately acquainted. After
+remaining several days, he left his companion, making his way to
+Yorktown and Gloucester Point, and from thence to Washington, where he
+reported to me.
+
+This first visit of Timothy Webster to Richmond was highly successful.
+Not only had he made many friends in that city, who would be of service
+to him on subsequent trips, but the information he derived was
+exceedingly valuable. He was able to report very correctly the number
+and strength of the fortifications around the rebel capital, to estimate
+the number of troops and their sources of supplies, and also the forts
+between that city and Manassas Junction. His notes of the topography of
+the country were of the greatest value, and he received the warmest
+thanks of the commanding general, for what he had thus far been able to
+accomplish.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+_Again in Baltimore.--A Warning.--The Spy is Arrested, and Escapes._
+
+
+After the return of Timothy Webster from Richmond and Manassas, I deemed
+it best that he should again visit Baltimore and mingle once more with
+his rebel friends in that city. Since the summary collapse of the
+Knights of Liberty the majority of them had been remarkably quiet, and
+no indications were apparent that they contemplated any further
+proceedings of a treasonable nature. It will be remembered that on the
+night that the secret meeting was disturbed, Webster managed in some
+unaccountable manner to escape, and that he had disappeared almost
+immediately afterwards. As no suspicion existed as yet of his having
+been concerned in the affair, and as his prolonged absence might give
+rise to doubts of his loyalty, I concluded that it was best for him to
+again show himself among his old associates, and account for his escape
+in a manner that would appear truthful and straightforward.
+
+He accordingly took the train, and after arriving in Baltimore, he went
+directly to Miller's Hotel. Here he found several of his friends, and
+their greetings were most cordial and hearty. In a few moments others
+of the party had been notified, and came thronging in to welcome him and
+to congratulate him upon his escape and present safety. Eager inquiries
+were made as to the manner in which he had so successfully eluded the
+soldiers, and how he had spent the time since the occurrence of that
+event. In reply Webster gave a satisfactory and highly interesting
+account of his movements, all of which was heartily enjoyed by his
+listening friends. Gratified beyond expression at the pleasant condition
+of affairs, he became quite jolly, and the balance of the evening was
+spent in convivial and social enjoyment.
+
+On the following morning he started out in search of his old friend Sam
+Sloan, for whom he had a letter from his brother, who was in the rebel
+army, and stationed at Centreville. Having also a number of letters for
+other Baltimoreans, he desired to secure Sloan's services in their
+proper and safe delivery.
+
+Sam looked in astonishment as Webster blandly approached him, and after
+an effusive greeting he remarked earnestly:
+
+"Webster, you'll have to be mighty careful now, or you will be arrested
+yet. We are watched night and day--the least suspicious move we make is
+reported at once--and if repeated, the first thing the offender knows he
+finds himself in the guard-house."
+
+"Well," replied Webster, laughingly, "I'll have to take my chances with
+the rest of you."
+
+"I know your grit, Webster," said Sloan, "but by all means be careful. I
+was arrested myself since you went away."
+
+"The deuce you were!" ejaculated Webster. "How did that occur?"
+
+"Well, I went over to Washington to transact a little business, and
+while there I met some of the boys, and we had a little 'time.' I don't
+know what I did, but when I started to come home, the Provost-Marshal
+arrested me, and I had to take the oath of allegiance before I could get
+away."
+
+"You don't tell me that you took the oath, Sam?"
+
+"Yes, I did," laughed Sam. "I would take twenty oaths before I would be
+locked up;" and then he added: "I tell you, we are all spotted here in
+this city, and who is doing it we can't find out."
+
+"What makes you think that?" inquired Webster, doubtfully.
+
+"Many things. Why, only the other day I was taken before Lieutenant
+Watts, who has charge of the station-house, and the questions he put to
+me about the gang, convinced me that he knew a great deal more than was
+good for us."
+
+"Did he ask anything about me?" queried Webster.
+
+"No," replied Sam, "and if he had I wouldn't have told him anything, you
+may be sure."
+
+"I can readily believe that," said the detective, "but if it is so
+dangerous here, how am I going to deliver these letters?"
+
+"I can help you there," said Sloan, after a moment's consideration;
+"John Earl, Richardson and I will see that they are delivered, and that
+will keep you from incurring suspicion."
+
+"That will do," said Webster, "and you can tell the people you see to
+write their answers at once, and inclose them in two envelopes, one
+directed to their friend, and the other to John Hart, at Miller's
+Hotel."
+
+"I understand; but who is this John Hart you mention--can we trust him?"
+
+"I think so," replied the detective, laughing heartily; "his other name
+is Timothy Webster."
+
+"By Jove, Webster, you're a good one; I begin to think myself that there
+isn't so much danger of your getting caught after all."
+
+This being satisfactorily arranged, the two men started in search of
+John Earl and Richardson, who both agreed to assist in the delivery of
+the letters which Webster had brought with him from the South. They all
+went to the room occupied by the detective at the hotel, and after a
+friendly drink, the letters were properly assorted, and each man was
+given his particular portion. They were instructed to request answers
+from those only in whose friendship they could implicitly rely, and to
+take in person any that were prepared at the time.
+
+In the afternoon, Webster called on Mr. Campbell, the father of the
+young man who had accompanied him on his trip from Richmond to Manassas
+Junction. The old gentleman was rejoiced to hear from his son, and after
+a few minutes' conversation Webster discovered that he was quite as
+bitter a secessionist as any one he had met, although he was quite aged
+and not very active. He informed the detective that he had once made a
+very handsome horse-bit for General McClellan, and that he was now
+making one for General Johnston, which he would like Webster to take
+with him when he next went to Richmond, and deliver it to the General in
+person.
+
+"Have everything ready," said the detective, "and I will see that it
+reaches its destination in safety."
+
+Returning to the hotel, he went in to supper, and after a hearty repast
+seated himself in the reading-room to await the return of his
+mail-carriers. While carelessly glancing over the columns of a daily
+paper, he was approached by a gentleman, who stepped in front of him,
+exclaiming heartily: "Why, Mr. Webster, how do you do? I am glad to see
+you; when did you get back to Baltimore?"
+
+Looking up hastily from his paper, Webster recognized the speaker as Mr.
+Price, the blockade runner whom he had met in Richmond, and with whom he
+had traveled some distance through the rebel country.
+
+Their greeting was most cordial, and the return of John Earl and Sam
+Sloan found the two men engaged in animated conversation. From Price,
+Webster learned that a large amount of goods had been purchased by
+several wealthy gentlemen of Baltimore, who had adopted a very novel
+manner of transporting them into rebeldom, without danger from Federal
+pickets or gunboats. Their plan was to ship the goods upon a vessel
+bound for Europe and ostensibly the goods were intended for the same
+destination. In addition to this a small boat was purchased, which was
+to be taken in tow by the steamer. By an arrangement with the captain
+the vessel was to stand in as close as possible to the mouth of York
+river, when the small boat was to be brought alongside, then the goods
+were to be transferred to it, and the owners were to pull up the river
+to Yorktown, effect a safe landing, and the rest would be an easy task.
+
+Webster complimented his companion on the shrewdness displayed in this
+suggestion, and that evening he wrote to me, conveying full particulars
+of the proposed blockade-running.
+
+It is needless to say that this little plan, shrewd as it was, failed of
+execution. Men were at once placed upon the track of these merchants,
+and a more surprised coterie never existed than were these gentlemen,
+when their goods, carefully labeled for a foreign port, were seized by
+the government, and their conveyance to the South effectually stopped.
+An examination of the goods fully confirmed the correctness of Webster's
+information, and this venture, at least, was a losing speculation to
+those who had engaged in it.
+
+After Mr. Price had taken his departure, John Earl called Webster aside,
+and informed him that a gentleman desired to send a draft for a large
+amount of money to Richmond, and that he had insisted on placing it in
+the hands of John Hart himself.
+
+"Do you know this man, and that he is all right?" asked Webster.
+
+"No," replied Earl, "I know nothing about him except that he is vouched
+for by three parties who are true, and they say he is all right."
+
+"I don't like this idea," said Webster, doubtfully; "I guess you had
+better tell this man that you will deliver it safely for him, and then
+you can hand it to me."
+
+"I did suggest that, but he said his orders were to intrust it to no one
+but John Hart himself."
+
+After considering for some time, Webster finally concluded to see the
+individual in person. He was satisfied that no harm could come to him if
+the man was a Federal detective, as, by application to the authorities
+or to me he could readily extricate himself from any difficulty, and if
+he was a rebel, he would incur no risk whatever.
+
+"Very well," he said, after he had fully deliberated the question, "you
+can bring him to my room and then we will see what is to be done.
+Meanwhile I will take a short walk and smoke a cigar."
+
+On his return he found John Earl awaiting him.
+
+"The gentleman is up-stairs in my room," said Earl; "will you go up now
+and see him?"
+
+Webster signified his willingness, and the two men ascended the stairs.
+As they entered the room the stranger arose to greet them, and Webster
+scrutinized him carefully. The result of his scrutiny was decidedly
+unsatisfactory. The new-comer was a tall, well-formed man, of about
+forty years of age. His hair was dark, and he wore long side-whiskers of
+the same color. In appearance he was what would be ordinarily considered
+a handsome man, but there was a look of quiet curiosity about the eyes,
+and a peculiar curl about the mouth, which struck Webster very
+unpleasantly, and caused him to instinctively regret having accorded him
+the interview which he desired.
+
+"Mr. Hart," said the stranger, pleasantly, after they had been formally
+introduced to each other, "I have a letter here, inclosing a draft,
+which I am desirous of having safely delivered to my sister-in-law in
+Richmond. You will find the address upon the envelope inside. Can you
+attend to this?"
+
+"I guess so," replied Webster. "I can try, at all events."
+
+Webster could not overcome a feeling of unrest and suspicion, as he
+conversed with the man, and he felt considerably relieved when, after
+expressing his thanks, he took his departure.
+
+The next morning Webster was astir early, and after partaking of a
+hearty breakfast, he thought he would pay another visit to Mr. Bowen.
+Leaving the hotel, he walked rapidly down the street in the direction of
+the old man's residence. He had not proceeded far when, on turning
+around, he noticed that his friend of the night before was walking upon
+the opposite side of the street, and but a short distance behind him.
+Finding that he was observed, the man crossed the street, and after
+bidding Webster a very cordial good-morning, said:
+
+"Mr. Hart, as we are walking in the same direction, if you have no
+objection, we will walk together."
+
+Webster assented, and for a short distance they journeyed along,
+indulging in a very constrained conversation. Webster felt assured that
+the man had been following him, and that his apparent friendliness was
+assumed. Desiring to rid himself of his unwelcome and uncomfortable
+companion, he was upon the point of expressing himself very forcibly,
+when he was startled by the stranger grasping him firmly by the arm, and
+ejaculating:
+
+"John Hart, you are my prisoner!"
+
+Had a thunderbolt fallen at his feet he could not have been more
+surprised, but recovering himself quickly, he wrenched himself from the
+grasp of the man.
+
+"What do you mean, sir?" he asked.
+
+[Illustration: "_John Hart, you are my prisoner._" P. 334.]
+
+"Just what I have said," replied the other, coolly; "there is no
+occasion for any controversy upon the question, and as you are directly
+in front of the station-house, resistance would be worse than useless."
+
+The cool manner in which these words were spoken exasperated Webster
+beyond control, but he saw that there were two soldiers standing guard
+in the doorway, and he realized at once that any attempt at escape would
+be foolhardy in the extreme. He therefore submitted quietly, and
+suffered himself to be led into the building, where an officer was
+seated at a table, examining the reports of the previous day.
+
+The recognition between the Lieutenant and Webster's captor appeared to
+be mutual, and, indeed, the presence of my operative did not seem to be
+an unlooked-for event.
+
+"Lieutenant, this is Mr. Hart," said the stranger.
+
+"All right," replied that officer, "we will take good care of him."
+
+After a short consultation, held in a tone too low for Webster to hear,
+the stranger took his leave, and the officer turned to the detective:
+
+"Come with me, sir; your case will be attended to in the course of the
+day."
+
+"Lieutenant, I would like to speak to you a moment, now that we are
+alone," said Webster, desirous of ending the matter, and of enabling the
+Lieutenant to ascertain his true character.
+
+"I have no time to talk with rebels," said the officer, shortly, and
+then calling to the turnkey, he directed him to place Webster in a cell.
+
+Deeply resenting the treatment of the officer, but feeling that
+opposition would only aggravate his annoyance, Webster followed the man,
+internally vowing vengeance against the fellow who had instigated his
+arrest. He was anxious to express himself forcibly to the officer in
+charge, but he considered that he would probably do the same thing under
+the same circumstances. The Lieutenant believed him to be a rebel, and
+as such his treatment was harsh and impolite, and after debating the
+matter in his mind he came to the conclusion that he was not much to
+blame after all. He was desirous, however, of communicating with some
+one who could intercede for him, and by that means secure his release,
+and he resolved to make friends with his jailer as the best possible way
+of obtaining what he wanted.
+
+Shortly after he had been incarcerated, he heard the voices of Sam Sloan
+and John Earl, who had been informed of his arrest and had come to see
+him. Their request was denied, however, and they expressed themselves in
+very loud tones against the injustice they were compelled to submit to.
+All to no avail, however, and they reluctantly took their leave. The
+turnkey coming along the corridor at this time, Webster called to him,
+and requested his attention for a few moments. The man was about sixty
+years of age, and had a very benignant countenance, which Webster argued
+was a good omen for the work of propitiation which he had in hand.
+
+"Will you tell the Lieutenant that I would like to speak with him,"
+asked Webster.
+
+"It's no use," said the old man, with a shake of the head; "the
+Lieutenant says he won't have anything to say to you, until your case is
+reported to headquarters this evening."
+
+"Well, then," smiled Webster, "I suppose I will have to wait his
+pleasure; but can't a fellow get a little whisky and cigar? I'll make it
+worth your while if you can help me in that particular."
+
+The old man laughed, and said he would see what could be done, as
+Webster slipped a bill into his hand. He disappeared, and after about a
+half hour, he returned and slipped a small bundle through the grated
+door, admonishing Webster to be careful about exposing himself to the
+other prisoners within view.
+
+"All right," said Webster, "you keep the change, old man, for your
+trouble."
+
+In the afternoon another officer, accompanied by four men, came to his
+cell, and requested his appearance at the office. Here he was carefully
+searched, and upon his person were found some letters addressed to
+himself; a pass from Col. Cramp, and about seventy dollars in money.
+They were about to take these from him, when Webster inquired:
+
+"Who was the man who arrested me this morning?"
+
+"His name is McPhail, and he belongs to the secret service," was the
+reply.
+
+At the mention of the name, Webster started in surprise. He had heard of
+him as connected with my force, and knew that everything would soon be
+all right.
+
+"Well," said Webster, "will you be kind enough to send for Mr. McPhail,
+and ask him to telegraph to Major Allen, and inquire if Tim is all
+right?"
+
+"What Major Allen is that?" asked the officer.
+
+"Of the secret service," replied Webster. "McPhail will know all about
+him; and you will learn that I am no rebel, in a very short time."
+
+"We will do what you request," said the officer, "and if you are all
+right, we will be glad to find it out."
+
+Thanking the officer for his kindness, Webster was conducted back to his
+cell to await developments.
+
+About ten o'clock that night, the officer again made his appearance.
+
+"John Hart, come here."
+
+Webster presented himself before the iron grating of his cell.
+
+"Is your name John Hart?"
+
+"No, sir, my name is Timothy Webster."
+
+"Well, my orders are for a man named Hart, who is to be taken to Fort
+McHenry."
+
+[Illustration: "_Webster leaped from the wagon while it was in motion._"
+P. 339.]
+
+Something in the tone of the man's voice, and in the twinkle of his eye,
+told Webster that everything was understood, so he answered at once:
+
+"Very well, I am the man!"
+
+"Come with me, then."
+
+They conducted him to the street, where he saw a covered wagon in
+waiting. They all got in and then in a loud voice the officer gave the
+order:
+
+"Drive direct to Fort McHenry pier!"
+
+After they had started, the officer explained to Webster that it had
+been arranged, in order to prevent suspicion, that he should be allowed
+to jump from the wagon as it was driven along, and after a pretended
+pursuit, he would make his escape to his rebel friends with whom he
+should remain quietly for a few days, and then return to Washington and
+report to me.
+
+These directions he implicitly followed; and seizing a favorable
+opportunity, he leaped from the wagon and rapidly made his way in the
+direction of the city. Going directly to Sam Sloan's, he knocked loudly
+at the door. After a few minutes a window was raised and a voice
+inquired angrily:
+
+"Who are you, and what do you want?"
+
+"It is I--Webster--Sam, come down and open the door."
+
+The window was shut, with an oath of joyful surprise, and in a
+twinkling, the door was opened, and Sloan pulled Webster into the room,
+closing and locking the door behind him.
+
+"Great G--d, Webster, how did you manage to get away from the Yanks?"
+
+"Let me get warm, and I'll tell you," replied Webster, with a laugh.
+
+"Come up stairs," said Sloan heartily, "and we'll have something to
+drink."
+
+After refreshing themselves, Webster related the manner of his escape,
+carefully concealing the action of the officer, and the fact that he had
+been peaceably permitted to leave the vehicle--and when he had
+concluded, Sloan's admiration was unbounded. Promising to secrete him
+until he could safely get away, they all went to bed, and slept soundly.
+
+Early the next morning Sloan left the house, and after an absence of an
+hour or two returned, bringing with him several of Webster's trusty
+friends, among whom was John Earl, who was decidedly crestfallen at the
+thought of having been instrumental in leading Webster into such danger
+by introducing the strange man to him, without learning more about his
+character for loyalty to the cause. They were all overjoyed at his
+escape, and spent the afternoon in a jollification over his safe return.
+The newspapers contained full particulars of the affair, and when they
+were brought before him Webster could not restrain his laughter at their
+contents, as he read:
+
+
+     "ESCAPE OF A STATE PRISONER.[A]
+
+     "It was rumored yesterday that the man Webster, who was
+     arrested, stopping at the hotel of Messrs. McGee, upon the
+     charge of being concerned in the regular transportation of
+     letters between Baltimore and the seceded States, had
+     succeeded in making his escape. It is learned upon the best
+     authority that during a late hour of the night he was
+     removed from the western police station and placed in a
+     carriage under the charge of a special detective officer.
+     The wagon was driven towards Fort McHenry, he having been
+     previously ordered to that post, but while the vehicle was
+     in motion, and when within a short distance of their
+     destination, he gave a sudden bound from his seat, and
+     before the officer could seize him, he was beyond his grasp.
+     It is not known which direction he took, but he will
+     scarcely be able to escape from the city. He is a citizen of
+     Kentucky, but left there in the early part of April, and
+     since that time has been residing in Baltimore."
+
+In another paper he read:
+
+    [B]"We have learned from an entirely reliable source that
+     Mr. Webster was arrested in endeavoring to procure replies
+     to a number of letters which he had delivered from
+     Marylanders now residing in Virginia to friends at home. A
+     fact which, in view of the hazards of such an attempt,
+     should content the unfortunate exiles from Maryland with the
+     gratification of communication with their friends there and
+     without the reciprocal joy of hearing from the latter in
+     return. We have reason to believe that Webster is beyond the
+     reach of the Yankees."
+
+Remaining with his friends until after midnight on the second day, he
+made his way to the train, and at 4.30 in the morning started for
+Washington, where he arrived about seven o'clock, and reported at my
+headquarters.
+
+It may seem strange that Webster was arrested by one of my men, and that
+my intervention was necessary to effect his release, but a few words
+will serve as an explanation. McPhail, the operative who had caused
+Webster's arrest, had never seen that gentleman, and was entirely
+ignorant of his true character. Under such circumstances he very
+naturally was led to suspect him as a rebel spy, and to lay the trap for
+his capture. The delicate and important duties which had been assigned
+to Webster were such, that I deemed it advisable to inform but very few
+of my men of his immediate connection with me, hence the arrest, as far
+as McPhail was concerned, was a _bona fide_ revelation of what he
+believed to be a dangerous crime. As it was, the arrest did no harm, but
+rather enabled Webster to cement more closely the bonds of friendship
+which existed between himself and those with whom he had previously
+associated.
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[A] The above is from the _Baltimore American_ of November 22, 1861.
+
+[B] The above is taken from the _Gazette_ of November 22, 1861.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+_Webster and Scobell.--A Negro as a Spy.--A Traitor Deserts from the
+Army.--He Carries Dispatches to the Rebels, which Fail of their
+Destination.--An Attack in the Woods.--"The Loyal League."--Slaves as
+Patriots._
+
+
+On the first day of November, 1861, General McClellan was made the
+Commander-in-Chief of all the armies of the United States. Immediately
+on assuming this important position, the General turned his attention to
+the entire field of operations, regarding the Army of the Potomac as a
+branch, though the most important one, of the armies under his command.
+
+Reliable information regarding the location and strength of the enemy
+was the most desirable thing to be obtained at present, and although
+Webster had been performing giant labor in this direction, his
+operations comprised but a minor portion of the work that devolved upon
+me. Numerous men of various callings and abilities were traveling
+through the South, gathering items of news wherever possible, and
+reporting the same as accurately and as rapidly as they were enabled to
+do so. So numerous were the methods which I employed in promoting the
+successful operations of the secret service, that it is possible within
+the limits of the present volume to enumerate but very few of the many
+events which occurred. Among the many men thus employed, was a negro by
+the name of John Scobell, and the manner in which his duties were
+performed, was always a source of satisfaction to me and apparently of
+gratification to himself. From the commencement of the war, I had found
+the negroes of invaluable assistance, and I never hesitated to employ
+them when, after investigation, I found them to be intelligent and
+trustworthy.
+
+As I have previously stated, all refugees, deserters and contrabands
+coming through our lines were turned over to me for a thorough
+examination and for such future disposition as I should recommend. John
+Scobell came to me in this manner. One morning I was seated in my
+quarters, preparing for the business of the day, when the officer of the
+guard announced the appearance of a number of contrabands. Ordering them
+to be brought in, the pumping process was commenced, and before noon
+many stray pieces of information had been gathered, which, by
+accumulation of evidence, were highly valuable. Among the number I had
+especially noticed the young man who had given his name as John Scobell.
+He had a manly and intelligent bearing, and his straightforward answers
+to the many questions propounded to him, at once impressed me very
+favorably. He informed me that he had formerly been a slave in the
+State of Mississippi, but had journeyed to Virginia with his master,
+whose name he bore. His master was a Scotchman, and but a few weeks
+before had given him and his wife their freedom. The young woman had
+obtained employment in Richmond, while he had made his way to the Union
+lines, where, encountering the Federal pickets, he had been brought to
+headquarters, and thence to me. He gave an intelligent account of his
+travels through the country, and appeared to be well informed as to the
+localities through which he passed, and of the roads and streams round
+about.
+
+I immediately decided to attach him to my headquarters, with the view of
+eventually using him in the capacity of a scout, should he prove equal
+to the task. For two weeks I employed him in various capacities of minor
+importance, but those in which secrecy and loyalty were essential
+qualifications, and his performance of these duties was all that could
+be desired. At the end of that time I resolved to send him into the
+South, and test his ability for active duty. Calling him into my
+quarters, I gave him the necessary directions, and dispatched him, in
+company with Timothy Webster, on a trip to Virginia. Their line of
+travel was laid out through Centreville, Manassas, Dumfries, and the
+Upper and Lower Accoquan.
+
+John Scobell I found was a remarkably gifted man for one of his race. He
+could read and write, and was as full of music as the feathered
+songsters that warbled in the tropical groves of his own sunny home. In
+addition to what seemed an almost inexhaustible stock of negro
+plantation melodies he had also a charming variety of Scotch ballads,
+which he sang with a voice of remarkable power and sweetness. During the
+evenings his singing was the chief feature of the impromptu
+entertainments that were resorted to in order to while away the tedious
+hours before retiring, and he soon became a universal favorite.
+Possessing the talents which he did, I felt sure, that he had only to
+assume the character of the light-hearted, happy darky and no one would
+suspect the cool-headed, vigilant detective, in the rollicking negro
+whose only aim in life appeared to be to get enough to eat, and a
+comfortable place to toast his shins.
+
+It was arranged that the two men should travel together until they
+arrived at Leonardstown, when they were to separate, Webster proceeding
+on to Richmond by way of Fredericksburg, while Scobell was to make his
+way to the rebel camp at Dumfries, and then up as far as Centreville.
+
+Proceeding by stage to Leonardstown they parted company, each one
+depending upon his own exertions to get across the river. Although they
+had traveled in the same coach, they paid no attention to each other,
+nor gave any indication of a previous acquaintance. At Leonardstown
+Webster went to a hotel, kept by a Mr. Miller, who was a bitter
+secessionist, and had known my operative for some time. His greeting
+was cordial, and his enthusiasm over his escape from the officers at
+Baltimore, an account of which he had read in the paper, was quite
+overpowering.
+
+While they were conversing together a tall, dark-whiskered man came into
+the room, and after a quick, nervous glance at Webster, requested to see
+the land lord in another room. As they departed, Webster bestowed a
+searching look upon the new-comer and was at once impressed with the
+familiarity of his features. He recollected that while he was coming
+down on the stage, this man came riding rapidly behind them, seated in a
+buggy and driven by a young negro. They made several ineffectual
+attempts to pass the stage, and finally succeeded in doing so, and
+disappearing from view. Webster had forgotten all about him, until his
+sudden appearance at the hotel and his suspicious actions attracted his
+attention. After the lapse of a few minutes the two men again entered,
+and the stranger immediately took his departure.
+
+Filled with curiosity as to the identity of the man, Webster carelessly
+observed to the landlord:
+
+"That fellow seemed a little nervous, doesn't he?"
+
+"Yes," replied the landlord, "and he has cause to be; he is a deserter
+from the Yanks."
+
+"Was he an officer?"
+
+"He says he was a surgeon, and had served in the regular army on the
+Pacific coast for a number of years. His family are Southerners, and he
+says he concluded to throw up his commission and join our side."
+
+"Which way is he going?"
+
+"He wants to get to Richmond as soon as he can. He will be back shortly
+and I'll introduce you to him; perhaps you can give him a helping hand."
+
+"I'll do what I can," replied Webster, with a mental reservation. "What
+is his name?"
+
+"He gave me his name as Doctor Gurley: he brought a letter from a friend
+of mine in Washington, and I believe he is carrying some messages to Mr.
+Benjamin, the Secretary of War, which he is very anxious to deliver as
+early as possible."
+
+"Well, we may be fellow-travelers if he turns up in time to go over with
+me," said Webster, who was already attempting to devise some plan for
+intercepting the delivery of the dispatches which the titled deserter
+was carrying.
+
+"I have made all arrangements," replied the landlord, "and will send you
+both down to-morrow in time to get the boat."
+
+"All right," said Webster; "and now, as I have a little time before
+dinner, I will take a short walk to give me an appetite."
+
+Webster was intent upon finding John Scobell, if possible. He had formed
+a plan for getting possession of the dispatches, and he required the
+services of his colored companion in order to perfect it. Keeping a
+sharp look-out about him, he strode on in the direction of the negro
+quarters, where he felt reasonably sure of meeting with the man he was
+in search of. As chance would have it, when within a short distance of
+the locality, he saw, to his intense delight, Scobell approaching him
+from the opposite direction. In a few words, he developed his plan to
+the intelligent darky, and from the broad grin which overspread his
+countenance, it was evident that he not only fully understood, but
+highly relished, the propositions that had been made. It was arranged,
+that Scobell should be in the neighborhood of the hotel during the
+afternoon, and that Webster should endeavor to point out to him the
+deserting surgeon, after which Scobell was to perform the duty which
+Webster had delegated to him.
+
+That afternoon, the Doctor, who was stopping with some friends, a short
+distance out of town, made his appearance at the hotel, and Mr. Miller,
+having first assured him of my operative's loyalty, introduced the two
+men to each other. By reason of Webster's familiarity with the country,
+and his evident and hearty desire to serve his new-found friend, he soon
+won the kindly regards of the Doctor, who prolonged his visit until
+nearly dark. At length, promising to meet Webster on the morrow, and
+with a parting beverage, the Doctor started to go. Webster accompanied
+him to the door, and with apparent good-feeling, bade him good-evening.
+As Webster re-entered the hotel, he noticed with satisfaction that
+Scobell was on hand, and had posted himself in a secluded position,
+where, unobserved himself, he could watch the hotel, and notice what
+transpired.
+
+"There is going to be a shower, and the Doctor will have to walk fast to
+escape it," said Webster, as he entered the bar-room.
+
+He had been engaged in friendly conversation with Mr. Miller for about
+an hour, when they heard the hurried stamping of feet outside; in a few
+moments, the door was thrown suddenly open, and the deserting Doctor
+stood before them. The appearance of the Doctor was most rueful. He was
+without his hat; his clothing was disarranged, and torn and soiled; his
+face was of a death-like paleness, while his lips trembled as if with
+fear.
+
+Webster and the landlord sprang to their feet, and rushed toward the
+man, who was very near falling from exhaustion.
+
+"What has happened!" inquired Webster, in a tone of solicitude.
+
+"I've been attacked and robbed!" ejaculated the Doctor, weakly.
+
+The landlord poured out a glass of spirits, which he gave to the
+demoralized Doctor, and after swallowing it, he seemed to regain his
+strength. After he had been sufficiently restored, he related his story.
+After leaving the hotel, he had started to walk toward the house where
+he was stopping. It becoming quite cloudy, and fearing a storm, he had
+hastened his pace in order to avoid the rain. Suddenly, as he was
+passing through a small patch of woods, he was stealthily approached
+from behind, by some one, who struck him a fearful blow on the back of
+the head. He was completely stunned and fell to the ground. When he
+recovered consciousness, he found that he had been thoroughly searched,
+and that his dispatches to the Secretary of War had been taken. Nothing
+else about his person was disturbed, and the attack had evidently been
+made by somebody who was aware of the fact that he had them in his
+possession. The Doctor's anxiety about his loss was pitiable in the
+extreme, but Webster could scarcely repress a smile of satisfaction, at
+the success which Scobell had achieved in capturing the precious
+documents.
+
+"Never mind," said Webster, soothingly. "The loss of the papers won't
+amount to much; when we arrive in Richmond you can communicate verbally
+the nature of the papers you have lost."
+
+"That's the devil of it," blurted out the Doctor. "I don't know their
+contents; they were intrusted to me by men who are working in the
+interest of the South, and as they were sealed, I have no more idea than
+you have what they contained."
+
+This piece of information was an additional source of satisfaction to
+Webster, who had thus effectually prevented their transmission to the
+Rebel government. He sympathized with the Doctor, however, most
+sincerely, and although that individual was decidedly crestfallen at the
+turn of affairs, under Webster's ministrations he recovered some of his
+spirits, and finding that he was not seriously injured, he again started
+for his lodgings. He took the precaution, this time, to carry his
+revolver in his hand, and to keep a sharp look-out as he journeyed
+along.
+
+Miller, the landlord, was somewhat alarmed at this adventure, but
+Webster endeavored to reassure him as best he could. He suggested that
+the attack was probably made by some one who was in the interest of the
+South, but who was fearful that, as the Doctor had deserted from the
+Northern army, he might not be as true to the good cause as he should
+be. However this may be, Miller's fears soon disappeared, and by nine
+o'clock he had recovered his usual good-humor, and set about making his
+arrangements for the morrow. Feeling anxious to learn from Scobell,
+Webster lighted a cigar and strolled out into the street. He walked
+slowly along, and after he had gone some distance from the hotel he
+turned around, and saw following him, at some distance behind, a figure
+which he instantly recognized as Scobell's. He therefore went on until
+he came to the outskirts of the town, and then awaited the arrival of
+his companion.
+
+Scobell came up with a broad grin on his countenance, and extending his
+hand, said:
+
+"Here dey is, Mister Webster. Dey is all right, an' I reckon de Doctor
+don't know what hurt him by dis time."
+
+Webster took the packet from the outstretched hand of the black man, and
+complimented him warmly upon his success. Scobell seemed quite elated
+over his exploit, and it was with some difficulty that Webster could
+restrain him from breaking out into loud laughter.
+
+Scobell informed Webster that he had already made arrangements for
+forwarding the documents to me, provided they met with the approval of
+the scout. He suggested that they be intrusted to an intelligent and
+loyal colored man, who was to start for Washington on the following
+morning, and whose honor and truthfulness could be implicitly relied
+upon.
+
+"I should like to see this man first," said Webster, when Scobell had
+concluded.
+
+"Werry well; cum along of me," answered Scobell. "I'll show you sumfin
+you neber seed afore, I reckon."
+
+"Go ahead, then," directed the scout.
+
+Proceeding together a short distance, when the black stopped before a
+dilapidated building that had evidently not been used for some time. It
+was a low, two-story structure, the windows of which were boarded up,
+and no sign of life was visible from without.
+
+"Come this way," said Scobell, in a low voice, taking Webster by the
+hand and through a low door, on which he rapped three times.
+
+Webster had scarcely time to give vent to his astonishment by a low
+whistle, when the door was noiselessly opened. They entered without
+challenge and found themselves in utter darkness, while Webster could
+hear the bolts and bars being replaced upon the door. Listening
+intently, he thought he could hear voices overhead, and a noise as of
+the shuffling of feet. Presently he heard a shrill whistle from his
+conductor, which was replied to from above with the query:
+
+"Who comes?"
+
+"Friends of Uncle Abe!" was the reply.
+
+"What do you desire?"
+
+"Light and Liberty!" came the response.
+
+Immediately a trap-door overhead was opened, revealing a dimly-lighted
+room, and a rope-ladder was let down before them.
+
+"Mister Webster, you go up first," said Scobell, "and I will follow
+you."
+
+Webster took hold of the ropes and, ascending easily, found himself in a
+dimly lighted room and surrounded by a body of negroes, numbering about
+forty. Some of them were young men who had barely attained their
+majority, while others were middle-aged, with a goodly number whose
+heads were as white as snow. The room in which they were assembled was
+quite large and entirely destitute of furniture. An upturned barrel,
+with an American flag draped over it, served as the desk of the
+President, and his seat was made of a box, which had once been used in
+packing merchandise for shipment.
+
+It was not long before Webster realized that he was in a lodge of "the
+Loyal League," composed almost exclusively of colored men, and whose
+branches extended over the entire South. The trap-door being closed
+behind them, Webster was introduced to the assembly by John Scobell, who
+had already identified himself with the institution. His welcome was
+most cordial and hearty. Shortly after they had become quiet, the
+President, a tall, well-formed negro, about thirty-five years of age,
+took his position, and in a deep, full voice, addressed the meeting. He
+detailed the operations of the various lodges which he had visited, and
+gave an encouraging account of the good work that was being done by the
+colored men throughout the country. He was listened to intently, and
+when he had finished he was greeted with numerous remarks of approval
+and indorsement.
+
+Scobell had meanwhile disclosed the nature and objects of the "Loyal
+League." Although as yet prevented from taking up arms in defense of
+their rights, these colored men had banded themselves together to
+further the cause of freedom, to succor the escaping slave, and to
+furnish information to loyal commanders of the movements of the rebels,
+as far as they could be ascertained.
+
+The President of the League, Scobell said, was about undertaking a trip
+to Washington, and he was the person who had been selected to carry the
+packet to me. Webster conversed with him for some time after he had
+spoken, and finding him reliable and willing to undertake the task about
+to be imposed upon him, he signified his willingness to trust him with
+the delivery of the dispatches. Writing a hasty description of the
+manner in which they had been obtained, he safely sewed the package and
+his letter in the lining of the messenger's coat, and fully instructed
+him as to how the papers should be delivered.
+
+Webster was called upon before the meeting adjourned, and he replied in
+a few words of encouragement and compliment, which elicited the most
+sincere tokens of appreciation from his sable auditors.
+
+After thanking the colored men for their kindness to him, Webster and
+Scobell descended from the improvised lodge-room, and Webster made his
+way back to the hotel, feeling quite relieved as to the safety of the
+dispatches, and fully confident that they would reach their destination
+in safety. He shortly afterwards retired to rest, fully satisfied with
+the day's work, and slept soundly until morning.
+
+The trusty messenger arrived in Washington in due time, and I received
+from his hands the papers intrusted to him. They were of a highly
+important nature, and conveyed information to the rebel authorities
+which would have been very dangerous had they reached their legitimate
+destination. As it was, through Webster's sagacity, Scobell's physical
+power, and the exertions of the President of the "Loyal League," the
+traitor surgeon was prevented from assisting the cause of treason and
+rebellion, and as a bearer of dispatches, his first venture was far from
+being successful.
+
+[Illustration: A HOT CHASE.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+_A Negro Spy.--Passage on a Steam Packet.--Lyrical Melodies.--Scobell
+Deserts the Ship.--His Tramps Through Rebeldom._
+
+
+The next afternoon, Webster and Doctor Gurley started for their point of
+debarkation. The medical deserter was exceedingly downcast about the
+loss of valuable papers, although he had entirely recovered from the
+physical effects of his attack. He indulged in curses, loud and deep,
+upon the perpetrator of the theft, and speculated with grave seriousness
+as to the effect of their loss. Webster, who felt that he could be
+liberal in dealing out his sympathy, was profuse in his expressions of
+regret and condolence, though I am afraid, that an observer who was
+acquainted with the facts of the case, would have detected a sly twinkle
+of merriment in his eyes, that belied his words. They were driven to a
+farm-house, situated on a little creek that ran in from the bay, where
+they were met by a man named James Gough, to whom Webster had a letter
+of introduction from Mr. Miller at the hotel. After reading the letter,
+Mr. Gough invited the travelers to enter, and informed them that the
+boat would attempt to cross the bay that night, if the weather would
+permit. After partaking of a bountiful supper, the party repaired to the
+landing, and although there were indications of a storm, the captain,
+who was in waiting, determined to make an effort to get across. A large
+amount of merchandise had already been placed on board, and soon after
+the arrival of Webster and the Doctor, who were to be the only
+passengers, they put off. Their trip was made in safety, and by midnight
+they reached the Virginia side. Here they went to the house of a Mr.
+Woodward, who was a partner with Mr. Gough, in shipping goods into the
+rebel country, and who took charge of the cargo that came over with our
+travelers in the boat.
+
+Remaining at the house of Mr. Woodward during the night, on the
+following morning they went to Tappahannock, where they boarded a packet
+for Fredericksburg. Here they met a Colonel Prickett, who was an old
+acquaintance of Doctor Gurley, and from the general conversation that
+ensued, Webster obtained material information of the location of the
+rebel forces. That evening they proceeded to Richmond, and Webster,
+parting with his traveling companion, set about delivering some letters
+which he had brought with him. Finding that several of his friends, from
+whom he had hoped to receive information, were absent from the city, and
+that it would be impossible to do much good service, he resolved to
+return to Washington. He went to the office of the Secretary of War,
+and, obtaining a pass to Norfolk, he returned by that route, taking
+notes by the wayside, and arrived in Washington in due time.
+
+John Scobell remained in Leonardstown a few days after Webster's
+departure, mingling with the colored people of that locality, and
+posting himself upon several points that would be of benefit to him
+further on. The desire for freedom, and the expectation that the result
+of the war would determine that question, had now become universal among
+the colored men of the South. Although as yet debarred from taking up
+arms in defense of their rights, their efforts in behalf of the Northern
+troops were freely given when opportunity offered, and consequently,
+Scobell made hosts of friends among the black-skinned people, who
+advised him cheerfully and were profuse in their offers of assistance.
+
+During the time that he remained in Leonardstown Scobell made his home
+with an old negro who was an active member of the League, and who had
+conceived a wonderful friendship for my bright and intelligent colored
+operative. Uncle Turner, as he was called, was a genuine Virginia darky,
+who, having been reared as a house servant, had been enabled to acquire
+more than the average amount of intelligence, and obtaining his freedom,
+had settled himself in Leonardstown, where he obtained a livelihood by
+performing a variety of duties for the people in the town. Here, with
+his aged wife, a fat, good-natured negress, he lived in comparative
+comfort, and a more thorough abolitionist never existed than was Uncle
+Turner.
+
+Through this old negro, Scobell had made arrangements with a young
+colored man to set him across the river in a skiff, and after spending
+the day among his new-found friends, and amply provided with a
+substantial lunch from Aunt Judy, Scobell made his way to the river
+bank, where he found his man waiting for him, carefully concealed among
+some bushes that grew along the shore.
+
+After remunerating the boatman, and bidding him a hearty farewell,
+Scobell started up the river. His first plan was to walk as far as
+Dumfries, and from that point commence his operations among the rebel
+camps, but after reflection, he concluded to make his way to the
+Rappahannock, and endeavor to work his way on one of the river boats as
+far as Fredericksburg, which would save him a walk of some fifty miles
+and materially expedite his journey. He accordingly set out for the
+river and, walking briskly, he found himself about noon at Leestown, a
+small landing-place on the Rappahannock. Feeling somewhat fatigued by
+his long tramp, he remained over night, and early on the following
+morning repaired to the wharf, where he was in hopes of finding a boat
+on which he could secure his passage. He had not long to wait, for
+shortly after his arrival the packet boat "Virginia" steamed up to the
+landing, and soon the men were engaged in putting on board a quantity
+of miscellaneous freight, that was destined for Fredericksburg. Finding
+that there was plenty of work to do, Scobell stepped quickly on board
+and seeking the captain politely asked permission to work his passage.
+The Captain, who was a kind and genial man at heart, although he
+carefully veiled these characteristics under a rough exterior, and a
+bluff and impetuous demeanor, listened to the request, and being in want
+of some extra help, turned to Scobell and said:
+
+"You black rascal, what do you want at Fredericksburg? Come now, no
+lies, or I'll throw you into the river!"
+
+"I done tell no lies, Massa Cap'n," replied Scobell, with a broad grin
+overspreading his face, "but I've bin back in de kentry to see some ob
+my folks dar, and I dun got no money fur ter git back."
+
+"So you want me to take you to Fredericksburg, do you?" ejaculated the
+Captain, good-naturedly. "Well, go below and tell the cook to put you to
+work!"
+
+Scobell was about to express his thanks, when the Captain blurted out:
+
+"Clear out, d--n you! I've no time for talk now."
+
+Scobell hurried below, and seeking out the cook was soon busily engaged
+at work; before he had been very long employed he made a friend of his
+sable instructor, and was as merry as a cricket. The run to
+Fredericksburg was about twelve hours, but owing to shoal water they
+were obliged to stop at Coulter's Wharf to wait for the rising of the
+tide. In the evening the negro hands gathered on the deck around the
+smoke-stack, and with the stars twinkling overhead, they made the shores
+ring with their mirthful melodies. Among the party was an old negro, who
+had spent almost his entire life upon the river, and who was an
+excellent performer on the banjo, and he accompanied the singers with
+his instrument. "Nelly Gray," "Bob Ridley," "Way down upon de Swanee
+River," and a host of the most popular songs of the day were rendered in
+a style that elicited the heartiest applause from the delighted
+passengers. The climax of enjoyment was reached, however, when my
+Scobell, in his splendid baritone, and accompanied by the old negro and
+his banjo, sang that sweet old Scottish ballad:
+
+    "Maxwelton's braes are bonny,
+      Where early fa's the dew."
+
+The applause which greeted him upon its conclusion was most hearty and
+enthusiastic, and when he gave them
+
+    "A man's a man for a' that,"
+
+the passengers crowded around him and began to ply him with eager
+questions as to his knowledge of the music of the beloved bard of
+Scotia. The idea of a darky singing Scotch ballads, and with such true
+emotional pathos and sweetness, was such a novelty to them that all were
+anxious to learn where he had heard them. Scobell briefly and modestly
+informed them that he had been raised by a gentleman who was a native of
+Scotland, who was himself a good singer, and that his master had taught
+him the music he loved so well. The Captain, who was also a Scotchman,
+and who had listened to the melodies with the tears trickling over his
+rubicund nose, now stepped forward and said heartily:
+
+"Look here, young fellow, I need an extra man on this boat, and I'll
+give you forty dollars a month to work for me. The work is light--now
+what do you say?"
+
+Here was a dilemma entirely unexpected. Scobell had not only sung
+himself into the good graces of the passengers, but of the rough old
+Captain also. It was plain that this offer came from the very heart of
+the old salt, who was as deeply touched by the melodies as was any one
+else, and he wanted to secure Scobell's services as much for the songs
+he could sing as for the work he could do.
+
+Scobell bowed his thanks to the Captain, and said:
+
+"I'm werry much obliged to yer Cap'n; I'se bin lookin' fur a job ebber
+since I left ole Mississippi, an' I'll do my best to please you, sure."
+
+"All right," replied the Captain. "It's time to turn in now, so go below
+and tell the mate to take your time; your pay will commence from
+to-day."
+
+[Illustration: "_The work isn't hard. Now, what do you say._" P. 364.]
+
+All hands went below, where Scobell duly reported to the mate, a bunk
+was assigned to him and he was made one of the crew of the steam-packet
+"Virginia." This was a rather different turn of affairs than he had
+expected, but he had done the best he could under the circumstances, and
+regretting that he was compelled to deceive the honest old Captain, he
+turned in for the night and slept soundly.
+
+When he awoke the next morning, the boat was in motion, and he knew that
+he was on his way to Fredericksburg. How to get away was the next
+question to be decided, but he resolved to await the operation of events
+and adopt any chance that afforded for getting away. In due time the
+boat landed at her destination and soon all was bustle and confusion in
+discharging the freight. Scobell assisted manfully in landing the cargo,
+and earned the encomiums of the Captain for his diligent labor. Learning
+that the boat would not start on her return trip until the next morning,
+he requested permission to go on shore until they were prepared to
+start. This was readily granted by the unsuspecting and really
+good-natured Captain, who also gave him a small sum of money to defray
+his expenses, and cautioned him to report on time or the boat would
+start without him. Scobell promised to be punctual, and then took his
+leave.
+
+It is not necessary to state that the "Virginia" on her down trip went
+without the ballad-singing negro, for by the time she was ready to put
+off, he was on his way to Dumfries and the Accoquan.
+
+Carefully noting everything that came in his way he traveled through
+Dumfries, Accoquan, Manassas and Centreville, and after spending nearly
+ten days in these localities he finally made his way to Leesburg, and
+thence down the Potomac to Washington. His experiences on this trip were
+quite numerous and varied, and only a lack of space prevents their
+narration. Sometimes, as a vender of delicacies through the camps, a
+laborer on the earthworks at Manassas, or a cook at Centreville, he made
+his way uninterruptedly until he obtained the desired information and
+successfully accomplished the object of his mission.
+
+His return to Washington was accomplished in safety and his full and
+concise report fully justified me in the selection I had made of a good,
+reliable and intelligent operative.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+_A Perilous Ride.--A Suspicious Peddler.--Uncle Gallus Again.--Scobell
+Investigating.--Doubts and Suspicions._
+
+
+It was on a beautiful morning in the early part of the month of April,
+1862, when a lady, mounted upon a handsome and spirited black horse, and
+accompanied by a young and intelligent-looking negro, also excellently
+mounted, rode out of the city of Richmond, apparently for the purpose of
+enjoying a morning ride. Provided with the necessary passports, they
+experienced no difficulty in passing the guards, and after a short ride
+found themselves in the open country beyond the city.
+
+The lady was young, handsome and apparently about twenty-five years of
+age. Her complexion was fresh and rosy as the morning, her hair fell in
+flowing tresses of gold, while her eyes, which were of a clear and deep
+blue, were quick and searching in their glances. She appeared careless
+and entirely at ease, but a close observer would have noticed a
+compression of the small lips, and a fixedness in the sparkling eyes
+that told of a purpose to be accomplished, and that her present journey
+was not wholly one of pleasure.
+
+After leaving the city the colored attendant spurred to her side, and
+then, putting spurs to their horses, they broke into a swift canter.
+Their road lay along the river bank, which here led in a south-easterly
+direction. Turning to the negro at her side, the lady remarked:
+
+"Now, John, we have a ride of ten miles before us, and we must be at
+Glendale as early as possible."
+
+"All right, missus," rejoined her sable companion, "dese hosses will
+take us through in good shape, I know."
+
+They followed the course of the stream, whose waters glistened in the
+rays of the morning's sun like polished silver. On either side the road
+was fringed with a growth of cottonwood trees, that cast a grateful
+shade along their path, while the cool breezes of the rippling river
+rendered their ride a most delightful one indeed. But as they sped along
+the most casual observer would have noticed from the expression of their
+faces that their ride was being undertaken for other purposes than
+pleasure.
+
+The riders pressed on, scarcely slackening their speed until in the near
+distance could be seen the tall spire of the single church in the
+pleasant little village of Glendale. They now drew rein and brought
+their smoking steeds to a slow walk, and riding leisurely onward, they
+stopped before a neat little inn located on the outskirts of the town.
+
+An old, white-headed negro took their horses and led them away, while
+the landlady, a neat and tidy-looking matron, wearing widow's weeds, met
+the lady at the door, and cordially welcomed her into the house.
+
+"Here, Jennie," she called to her daughter, a trim little girl of twelve
+years, "show this lady to her room."
+
+Following the little girl, the lady was conducted into a cool and
+pleasant little parlor, with windows opening upon the garden, and
+through which came the fragrant breath of roses in full bloom.
+
+Scobell accompanied the old man with the horses into the stable-yard,
+where he assisted in caring for the heated animals.
+
+"I dun spose you's on de way to Yu'ktown?" queried the old darky, who
+was rubbing vigorously away upon the limbs of the glossy black horse.
+After waiting a short time, and hearing no response, he added:
+
+"What'd you say? dis yer hoss is fidgettin' aroun' so I didn't har you."
+
+"I didn't say anything," responded his companion good-naturedly, but in
+a tone that plainly indicated his intention not to submit himself to the
+pumping process at the hands of his garrulous friend.
+
+"I tought you hearn what I dun axed you," replied the old man, a little
+taken aback by the cool demeanor of his new acquaintance.
+
+Scobell, however, industriously worked away at his own horse and said
+nothing.
+
+"Well," said the old darky after another pause, and apparently communing
+with himself--"it am a fac' dat now an den you meets people dat ain't
+got de cibbleness to answer a question--nor de grit to tell a feller
+'tain't nun o' his business; but dey jes let on like dey didn't har wat
+you sed--wen all de time dey kin har jes as well as I kin."
+
+Still there was no satisfactory response, and at last the old man
+blurted out again:
+
+"Now I dun spec' it am nun ob Uncle Gallus's bizness were dese folks am
+a goin', but Jemima! I didn't tink it any harm to ax. Folks dat knows
+Uncle Gallus aint afeared tu tell him nuffin, coz dey knows he dun got a
+mitey close head when it am needcessary."
+
+The old man was none other than the veritable old Uncle Gallus, whose
+experience in the South seemed to be very different from the easy life
+he had led as the house servant of Mrs. Morton. How he came into this
+position I am unable to say, but here he was, and the same smile of
+good-nature irradiated his face, as when his way of life was pleasant,
+and his duties lighter. Perhaps, it would be as well to state here, that
+the two persons already mentioned were Mrs. Carrie Lawton, a female
+operative on my force, and John Scobell, who has figured before in these
+pages. These two persons had been for a time employed in Richmond, and
+were now endeavoring to effect their journey North.
+
+After finishing the last remark, Uncle Gallus straightened himself up
+and stood erect, with the air of a man who had been unjustly injured,
+and who was disposed to vindicate himself now and there.
+
+"I tell you, uncle," finally replied Scobell, "there are times when one
+must be careful what you say, and who you say it to."
+
+"Dat am a fac'!" ejaculated the old man.
+
+"Now, if I knowed you was all right," Scobell continued, "I might talk,
+but 'tain't smart to tell your business to strangers."
+
+"Dat am a fac', young man," observed Uncle Gallus, shaking his head with
+a knowing look; "but den I spose you's a friend to Uncle Abe, ain't you
+now?" he queried.
+
+"And if I am," said Scobell, "what do you want?"
+
+"Light and Liberty," replied the old man impressively, "and fo' de L'ud
+I b'lieve de day am nigh when it am a comin'."
+
+At these words, Scobell stepped forward and said in a low voice:
+
+"Do you belong to the League?"
+
+"I does," answered Uncle Gallus; "I dun jined it in dis berry place."
+
+"How often do you meet?" inquired Scobell.
+
+"We meets ebery two weeks, down at Uncle Dicky Bassett's--he libs on de
+bluff ob de ribber 'bout a mile furder down de road to'rds Wilson's
+Landin'."
+
+"How far is it to Wilson's landing?" asked Scobell, who, finding that
+Uncle Gallus was a member of the League, was now no longer loth to talk
+with him.
+
+"A little grain de rise ob twenty mile," replied the old man.
+
+"About sundown, then," said Scobell, "these horses must be saddled and
+ready for the missus and me, for we must be at the landing before
+midnight."
+
+"All right," rejoined Uncle Gallus, "dey'll be ready when yu want 'em."
+
+"See heah now, is yure name John?" suddenly asked the old man, as if an
+idea had just occurred to him.
+
+"Yes, that's what they call me."
+
+"An' you cum frum Richmun' dis mo'nin?"
+
+Scobell nodded.
+
+"An' dat young leddy am gwine to meet somebody, mebbe her husband, at de
+landin'?"
+
+"Yes," said Scobell; "but how do you know these things? Has anybody been
+here to see you?"
+
+"Yah! Yah!" chuckled the old man. "I dun tole you dat folks as knowed
+Uncle Gallus dun often come ter see him. I dun knowed you all de time,
+when you fust come--in fac', I was 'spectin' you and de missus all de
+mawnin'."
+
+"Was the landlady looking for us too?" inquired Scobell.
+
+"She knowed you was a comin'," replied Uncle Gallus; "dah was a gem'man
+heah las' night, as talked about you to her, an' lef' a note fur de
+lady."
+
+"Is the landlady all right?" asked Scobell.
+
+"True to de core," affirmed Uncle Gallus emphatically; "more'n one poor
+feller as 'scaped from Richmun' hes foun' a good bed an' supper at de
+'Glen House.'"
+
+"Well," said my operative, "you can finish your work here; I have an
+errand or two for the missus, and I must go and attend to them before
+dinner."
+
+So saying, he started for the house, leaving Uncle Gallus to water and
+feed the horses, which had now sufficiently cooled, and were enjoying
+their needed rest.
+
+Scobell's errand was simply to take a stroll about the village in order
+to ascertain whether there was any indication of their having been
+followed by anyone from Richmond. He strolled about the village, noting
+carefully every one whom he met, and, feeling comparatively secure,
+started to return to the hotel.
+
+Turning the corner of a street he came suddenly face to face with a
+peddler, who addressed him in a rich Irish brogue and inquired the way
+to the tavern. Scobell gave him the required information and stood
+watching the fellow as he ambled off in the direction indicated. There
+was something in the appearance of this man that attracted the attention
+and excited the suspicions of my observant operative. He resolved to
+keep an eye upon his movements and endeavor to discover, if possible,
+whether the man was a genuine peddler, or a spy, who had adopted that
+disguise to conceal his true character.
+
+In the few words that passed between them Scobell had noticed that while
+the man's hair was a fiery red his eyebrows and lashes appeared of a
+dark brown color, and his face was altogether of too florid a hue to be
+natural. These observations were sufficient to put Scobell upon the
+alert at once, and convinced him that the man was not what he appeared
+to be.
+
+Following slowly he watched him until he reached the hotel and entered
+the bar-room, where, laying aside his pack, he ordered his dinner.
+Scobell entered the room immediately behind him, and passing through it,
+he made his way to the kitchen, where the landlady was superintending
+the preparations for a most savory dinner. Calling her aside, he
+informed her of the peddler's arrival and of his suspicions regarding
+him, cautioning her to convey the news to his missus before they met at
+the table.
+
+In a few minutes dinner was announced, and the boarders, to the number
+of fifteen, including Mrs. Lawton and the peddler, with the landlady at
+the head, gathered around the long table in the low, old-fashioned
+dining-room. The lively clatter of the knives and forks soon attested
+the vigor with which they attacked the viands set before them. The
+peddler ate his meal in silence, undisturbed by the general
+conversation going on around him, and Mrs. Lawton noticed that he was
+keenly watching her whenever an opportunity occurred to do so, as he
+thought, unobserved. She, however, affected entire unconsciousness of
+the scrutiny she was subjected to, and kept up an animated conversation
+with the landlady upon various trivial topics until the meal was
+finished.
+
+Scobell, who temporarily acted as an attendant at the table, lost no
+opportunity to carefully watch the movements of the peddler, and his
+searching glances, directed towards Mrs. Lawton, fully convinced him
+that his previous suspicions were well founded.
+
+Mrs. Lawton returned to her room, not a little disturbed at the
+peddler's strange behavior, and having no doubt that the stranger was a
+spy, she determined to discover if she was the object of his visit, or
+whether his appearance bore any relation to her presence at the hotel.
+She accordingly sent for Scobell, and together they decided that he
+should carefully watch the movements of the peddler, and if nothing of a
+suspicious nature transpired, they would renew their journey after
+nightfall.
+
+Scobell immediately left the room, and as he entered the bar-room he
+noticed that the peddler was settling his score, preparatory to taking
+his departure. He remarked to the landlady, with the same rich brogue
+which Scobell had observed, that business was dull, and that he would
+have to walk to Richmond.
+
+"All right, my fine fellow," muttered my operative, "we'll see whether
+you are going to Richmond or not."
+
+The peddler lighted a short-stemmed clay pipe, and swinging his pack
+over his shoulder, set off at a rapid pace on the road to Richmond.
+
+Scobell hastened to the stable and, procuring a pole and line that he
+had observed there in the morning, started off in the direction which
+the peddler had taken, but taking a shorter cut to the river, which
+would enable him to reach the road about a mile below the village and in
+advance of the peddler. Sauntering along until he had gained the shelter
+of a belt of timber to his left, he then increased his pace until he was
+almost abreast of the peddler, though entirely concealed from view. He
+was now satisfied that with a little effort he could keep his man in
+sight, and he concluded not to pass him, as he had at first intended,
+but to follow him until he saw him on his way to the rebel capital.
+
+When they were about three miles from the village, the peddler suddenly
+left the road and turned into the woods, leading directly to the banks
+of the river, which at this point were remarkably high and steep. This
+movement was entirely unexpected by my operative, and his only recourse
+was to drop hastily behind a tree to prevent being seen. He was not
+discovered, however, although the peddler, after entering the timber,
+gazed carefully around him, as if to see whether he was being followed.
+Apparently satisfied with his survey he resumed his walk, in happy
+ignorance of the fact that a pair of gleaming eyes were not far distant,
+noting his every movement.
+
+Waiting until he had gone a sufficient distance to render it safe,
+Scobell rose slowly from the ground and stealthily followed his
+footsteps until the peddler paused at the edge of the bluff, which ran
+down into the river. Here he tightened the strap of his pack, and after
+another hasty glance behind him, he began the descent of the bluff, with
+the aid of the stout stick which he carried with him. The bank was
+almost perpendicular, and was covered with a heavy undergrowth of young
+timber and brush, which made the journey rather a hazardous undertaking.
+
+"Wonder if he's going to swim to Richmond with that pack on his
+shoulders," said Scobell to himself, as he wonderingly watched these
+strange movements of the peddler.
+
+Fully determined to see the end of this mysterious maneuver, but
+recognizing the necessity of exercising the utmost caution in his
+advance, Scobell slowly and noiselessly made his way to the spot where
+the peddler had vanished as completely from his view as if he had sunk
+into the bowels of the earth. Advancing to within a few feet of the
+edge of the bluff, he threw himself upon his hands and knees, and drew
+himself forward until he could overlook the steep descent. He could see
+nothing of the peddler, however, for the dense growth of bushes
+completely obstructed his view, but he could readily discern the marks
+of footprints in the soft soil, which had been made by him in his
+descent to the bottom.
+
+Here was a dilemma. He had lost his man, and he dared not follow
+directly after him, as the peddler might be lying in ambush, and an
+encounter might be fatal. After a few moments' consideration, he
+concluded to walk along the bluff a short distance and endeavor to find
+another path by which he might descend, and thus avoid the peddler, if
+he was waiting to surprise him. About a hundred yards further on he came
+upon a well-beaten path, and here he began his descent. Everything was
+as quiet as the grave around him, and he reached the base of the cliff
+in safety, but without seeing anything of the man he was after. Passing
+up along the lane by the river a short distance, he discovered a narrow
+path leading in the direction which the peddler had taken, and showing
+the mark of recent footprints. Passing cautiously along this path a
+short distance, he saw that the high bluffs were gradually giving to
+more level banks, and that a little further on the stream made a sharp
+detour to the right, and swept out into the open and level country.
+
+In the bend of the river, and on the same side, he noticed a small
+cabin, half hidden by a clump of trees. Surmising that the peddler had
+entered this cabin, he resolved to hide himself and watch for a few
+minutes, hoping that the man would soon make his appearance. He had
+scarcely taken a position where he could unobservedly note all that was
+going on, when a man, whom he at once recognized as the peddler, made
+his appearance at the door, and stood anxiously gazing around, as though
+expecting some one. He still maintained his disguise, and appeared to be
+alone. Returning into the cabin, and after a few minutes, to the
+surprise of Scobell, another individual made his appearance. This
+new-comer, while about the same size as the peddler, was a very
+different-looking person indeed, for instead of the red hair and florid
+complexion, he noticed that this man had a closely-cropped head of black
+hair, while his complexion was dark and swarthy.
+
+"So there's a pair of you!" thought Scobell.
+
+The fellow, after apparently satisfying himself that the coast was
+clear, proceeded to a small stable that stood in the rear of the cabin,
+and almost on the edge of the river bank. Scobell thought he heard the
+faint whinny of a horse, and shortly afterwards the man, mounted on a
+dark iron-gray horse, appeared, and made his way over the hill and out
+into the direction of the river road.
+
+It instantly flashed across Scobell's mind that this man was no other
+than his peddler, and without hesitation he approached the cabin and
+knocked loudly at the door. There was no response, and after a moment's
+hesitation he lifted the latch and entered. As he had conjectured, the
+cabin was empty.
+
+[Illustration: "GOOD-MORNING."]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+_The Journey Resumed.--A Midnight Pursuit.--A Brave Woman.--A Deadly
+Encounter.--Scobell Defends Himself.--Death of a Rebel Spy._
+
+
+While these events were occurring, General McClellan was advancing up
+the Peninsula towards Richmond. Yorktown had surrendered, the battle of
+Williamsburg had been fought, and the army was advancing to the
+Chickahominy.
+
+Mrs. Lawton and John Scobell had been for some weeks in Richmond, during
+which time they had obtained much important information, Mrs. Lawton
+taking the role of a Southern lady from Corinth, Mississippi, and
+Scobell acting as her servant. Having determined to leave Richmond, they
+were on their way to join the Union forces, which, under General
+McClellan, had their headquarters on the Chickahominy at a point about
+ten miles from Wilson's Landing. Here, according to previous
+arrangement, they were to meet Mr. Lawton, who was also one of my
+operatives, and from that point were to proceed to the Union camp.
+
+The landlady of the Glen House was a staunch friend to the Federals, and
+had on more than one occasion rendered valuable service to my
+operatives, especially to Hugh Lawton. It was therefore at his
+suggestion that his wife and Scobell adopted the plan they did to leave
+Richmond and to reach our lines. As Uncle Gallus had stated, a man had
+stopped at the tavern the night before and had informed Mrs. Braxton,
+the landlady, that these parties would take that route from
+Richmond--and had left a note to be delivered to Mrs. Lawton, which
+contained instructions of her future line of travel.
+
+The trip from Glendale was one attended with great risk, as the country,
+on that side of the river, was filled with the scouts of both armies,
+and if captured by the rebel scouts or pickets, the chances were that
+detection would be followed by serious consequences. Among my female
+operatives, however, none were clearer-headed or more resolute than Mrs.
+Lawton, who prior to this time had been a most efficient worker and had
+been remarkably successful on her trips into the lines of the enemy. In
+each case she had escaped with rare good fortune.
+
+When Scobell entered the structure which the stranger had left, he found
+that it comprised but a single room, and immediately proceeded to make a
+thorough examination of its interior. A small fire-place on one side,
+which showed no signs of having been recently used, and a number of
+benches, were scattered about. In the corner of the room he saw the pack
+and several articles that had been worn by the peddler, which left no
+further room for doubt in his mind as to the character of the
+individual he had been watching for so long a time.
+
+He accordingly set out for Glendale, where he arrived just as the sun
+was sinking behind the western horizon. He narrated the particulars of
+his chase to Mrs. Lawton, who was convinced that the peddler was a rebel
+spy; but the question was--Was he upon their track? Did he suspect them?
+and if so, by what means had he discovered who they were and what their
+destination was?
+
+Without attempting to settle these questions, however, they concluded to
+set out at once for the landing. The horses were brought to the door by
+Uncle Gallus, who was closely questioned as to whether a horseman
+answering the description given by Scobell had passed through the
+village that afternoon, did not remember having seen such a person.
+Believing that possibly the man might really have gone on to Richmond
+they concluded to start that night and hazard the consequences.
+
+Both of them were well armed and were therefore fully prepared to defend
+themselves, unless attacked by numbers. They rode swiftly along at the
+free and sweeping gallop for which the southern saddle-horses are so
+famous, and feeling quite secure, they conversed pleasantly together on
+their way.
+
+"I guess we will get through all right, notwithstanding our fears to the
+contrary," said Mrs. Lawton.
+
+"I dunno about that," replied Scobell; "we're not through with our
+journey yet, and there's plenty of time for trouble yet. Perhaps we had
+better walk the horses a spell."
+
+"That is a good suggestion," assented Mrs. Lawton, "we will walk them a
+mile or two, and then we will be enabled to go the faster."
+
+"I tell you, missus," said Scobell, "I wish we was at the landin';
+somehow I feel that there is yet danger ahead."
+
+"What makes you think so?" inquired Mrs. Lawton.
+
+"Well, I am afraid that confounded peddler will turn up before we get
+through."
+
+"Why, I can manage him myself," laughed Mrs. Lawton, "and if that is all
+you fear, we are perfectly safe."
+
+"Now you're pokin' fun at me, missus; but you'll find that I can fight
+if I get the chance, and I was thinking more of you than of myself."
+
+"Well, there's an old saying, John, don't cross a bridge until you reach
+it; so we won't borrow trouble until it comes."
+
+Their journey now lay through a richly cultivated district; on either
+side were fine farms, whose growing crops had not yet been touched by
+the ravages of war, and the country, under the soft light of the moon
+presented a scene of rare beauty. Away to the left ran the river, now
+bathed in a flood of silvery light, which, emerging from a belt of
+woods, pursued its winding way until again lost to view in the woods
+that were sharply outlined at a distance. To their right the country was
+broken and hilly, and the landscape presented a rugged and picturesque
+appearance in marked contrast to the evidences of cultivation upon the
+other side. The night was soft and balmy, and the silence was only
+broken by the sound of the horses' hoofs as they slowly trotted along.
+It seemed difficult to believe that war was abroad in the land, and that
+even now, while in the enjoyment of apparent safety, danger was lurking
+on every hand.
+
+Their horses being now sufficiently rested, they again pressed forward
+at a rapid pace until they were about five miles from the landing which
+was their point of destination. There Mrs. Lawton's husband was to meet
+her and the balance of the journey, to the Union camp would be free from
+danger, as the Federal pickets were posted across the river.
+
+They were now approaching a patch of timber, through which they would be
+compelled to pass, and an instinctive feeling of dread came over both of
+them as they drew near to it. The trees grew close together, shutting
+out the light of the moon, and rendering the road extremely dark and
+gloomy.
+
+"Just the place for an ambuscade," said Mrs. Lawton shiveringly; "draw
+your pistols, John, and be ready in case of attack."
+
+Scobell silently did as he was directed, and riding close together,
+they entered the wood. The darkness was so great, that they could
+distinguish objects but a short distance ahead of them. They passed
+safely through the wood, however, and as they emerged from the darkness,
+they congratulated themselves upon their good fortune, and began to
+think that they were unduly alarming themselves.
+
+Their comforting reflections were of short duration, however, for
+scarcely had they left the wood, than they perceived four horsemen
+approaching them at a swift gallop. What to do now was a question to be
+decided promptly. To turn and retreat would certainly insure their
+capture, as the woods were just behind, and they were afraid to travel
+through them on a run--so they resolved to bravely continue their way,
+and trust to chance for their safe deliverance, should the new-comers
+prove to be foes.
+
+A few hurried words were exchanged between them, as they arranged that
+each should select a man and fire on the instant they were challenged,
+and then they were to dash ahead, hoping by this bold and unexpected
+move to disconcert their assailants by killing or disabling two of their
+number, and thus effect their escape.
+
+As the advancing party came closer, they divided, two going on each side
+of the road, leaving a space between them for our travelers to pass
+through. They were now close enough for my operatives to discover that
+two of them wore the uniform of Confederate gray, with heavy sabres at
+their sides, while the others were apparently in citizens' clothes.
+
+Scobell, who had been intently regarding them, now exclaimed:
+
+"'Fore God, missus, that one on your side is the peddler!"
+
+He had scarcely uttered these words, when one of the men called out:
+
+"Halt, and throw up your hands!"
+
+They were now nearly face to face with each other, and in a flash two
+sharp reports rang out on the still night air, and two of the men reeled
+and fell from their saddles.
+
+"At 'em!" hissed Scobell, through his clenched teeth, as he plunged the
+spurs into his steed. The two animals sprang forward, like arrows from
+the string, and in a moment they had dashed past the others, who seemed
+dazed at the suddenness of their actions, and before they recovered
+themselves, my operatives were speeding like the wind some distance
+away.
+
+"Lay low to your saddle!" cried Scobell to his companion, "and turn your
+horse as far to the side of the road as you can," at the same time
+turning his own animal close to the fence that ran along the roadside.
+
+His directions were immediately followed by Mrs. Lawton, who retained a
+wonderful control over herself and the beast she rode.
+
+It was evident that their enemies had not been expecting such a result
+to their demand, and they sat for a time like statues; then, as if
+suddenly recollecting themselves, they wheeled their horses, and,
+discharging their revolvers in rapid succession, started in swift
+pursuit.
+
+"They'll never get us now," said Scobell, "unless their horses are made
+of better stuff than I think they are."
+
+The race now became an exciting one; the pursuers having emptied their
+weapons, without doing any harm to the escaping pair, did not take time
+to reload, but urged their horses to their utmost speed. They soon
+discovered that their horses were no match for those of the fugitives,
+and their curses were loud enough to be heard by both Scobell and his
+companion, as in spite of all their efforts they found themselves unable
+to lessen the distance between them.
+
+Scobell several times ventured a look over his shoulder, to note the
+progress of their pursuers, and on each occasion, finding them still
+lagging behind, he uttered some encouraging remark to Mrs. Lawton, who
+was straining every nerve in the attempt to escape.
+
+While indulging in one of these hasty observations, and forgetting for a
+moment the management of his horse, the animal suddenly swerved from the
+road, as if frightened at some object in advance of them, and,
+stumbling, fell heavily to the ground, throwing Scobell over his head
+and into the ditch.
+
+[Illustration: "_With a scream of anguish, the one nearest to him threw
+up his hands and fell heavily to the ground._" P. 380.]
+
+Scrambling quickly to his feet, the negro shouted to his companion:
+
+"Go ahead, don't mind me; save yourself!"
+
+He then turned his attention to his horse, which had now recovered his
+feet, and stood panting and trembling in every nerve both from fright
+and excessive exertion. Listening intently, he could hear the clatter of
+hoofs of the horse rode by Mrs. Lawton, in the distance, while coming
+closer every instant was the noise of the approaching horsemen. They had
+discovered his misfortune, and were now shouting and yelling with
+triumph at the possibility of capturing at least one of the party. There
+was no time for mounting, even if his horse was unhurt, and Scobell
+determined to make a bold stand and sell his life dearly, while he would
+assuredly prevent the capture of Mrs. Lawton.
+
+Leading his horse to the side of the road, he placed himself behind him,
+and resting his trusty weapon across the saddle, he awaited the coming
+of the approaching horsemen. He calmly waited until the two men were
+within a few yards of him, and then, taking as good aim as the light of
+the moon enabled him to do, he fired. The horseman nearest him uttered a
+scream of anguish, and, throwing up both hands, toppled from the saddle
+and fell upon the ground, while his frightened horse, with a snort of
+terror, wheeled around and dashed off in the direction from whence he
+had come.
+
+The remaining man stopped his horse with a jerk that drew him back upon
+his haunches, and then, turning swiftly around, set off in the opposite
+direction, while the bullets from Scobell's weapon whistled in
+dangerously close proximity to his ears.
+
+Scobell, seeing that three of the pursuers were either dead or badly
+wounded, proceeded to reload his weapon, and was preparing to remount
+his horse and follow after Mrs. Lawton, when he heard the tramp of
+horses' feet coming from the direction in which she had gone. From the
+noise they made, he was convinced that the approaching party numbered at
+least a score, and that they were riding at a sweeping gallop. A bend in
+the road, however, hid them from his view, and he was unable to
+determine whether they were friends or foes. In an instant later they
+swept into full sight, and, to his intense relief, he discovered that
+they were Union cavalrymen, and that Mrs. Lawton and her husband were at
+their head.
+
+"Hello, John!" exclaimed Lawton, as they came up, "are you hurt?"
+
+"No," replied Scobell.
+
+"What has become of your assailants?"
+
+"Two of them we left a mile or two back, one is lying there in the road
+and the other, so far as I know, is making tracks for Richmond,"
+answered Scobell.
+
+"You are a brave fellow, Scobell," said the Captain of the squad, coming
+forward. "You were lucky in escaping their bullets, and still more so
+that you didn't break your neck when your horse fell with you, at the
+speed you were going."
+
+"He fell on his head, I reckon," ventured one of the soldiers,
+waggishly, "which accounts for his not being hurt."
+
+"That's so," replied Scobell, in all seriousness, "I landed right square
+on my head in that ditch."
+
+A roar of laughter followed this remark, and Scobell added,
+good-naturedly:
+
+"It might have killed one of you fellows, but it didn't even give me the
+headache. I am glad, though, it wasn't the missus' horse, or things
+might have turned out different."
+
+The Captain now cut short the conversation by ordering four of the party
+to pursue the flying rebel, and, if possible, effect his capture, while
+the rest proceeded to hunt up those that had been injured. The man whom
+Scobell had shot last was soon found; he was dead, the ball having
+entered his skull. Riding back to the spot where the first encounter
+took place, they discovered the dead body of the peddler, or spy, who
+had met his doom from the bullet of Mrs. Lawton, while his companion,
+with a shattered arm, was sitting up, and nearly faint from loss of
+blood, and suffering intense pain.
+
+Having captured two of the horses ridden by the party, and bandaging the
+shattered arm as well as they were able, the wounded man was placed on
+one of the animals and under an escort they were conveyed to the Union
+lines.
+
+Two shallow graves were hastily dug, and in them were placed the bodies
+of the two dead men. The party sent after the escaped soldier soon
+returned, reporting that he had obtained too much the start of them to
+be overtaken, and they were compelled to give up the chase.
+
+The entire party then returned to the Landing, and in the morning my
+operatives were put across the river, where they reported in due time at
+headquarters, where they detailed fully the information which they had
+gleaned in the rebel capital.
+
+It was subsequently learned that the peddler was a rebel spy, and for
+some time past had been visiting the Union camps gathering information,
+which he had no doubt conveyed to the rebels. On his person were found
+papers which fully confirmed this, and that they failed to reach their
+destination on account of his death, was a fortunate occurrence for the
+Union cause.
+
+How he had discovered the character of my operatives is a mystery yet
+unsolved, as his wounded companion, when examined the next day, stated
+that he had met him that night for the first time, and had at his
+request accompanied him in the trip which had ended so disastrously. He
+further stated that his party belonged to a band of independent scouts,
+which had but lately been attached to Lee's Army, and were assigned to
+Gen. Stuart's Cavalry. Mr. and Mrs. Lawton and Scobell soon afterwards
+returned to Washington, where they were allowed to rest themselves for a
+time before being again called upon.
+
+[Illustration: A DEAD SHOT.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+_A Woman's Discoveries.--An Infernal Machine.--The Shipping in
+Danger.--Discovery and Destruction of the Submarine Battery._
+
+
+The destiny of nations, history tells us, sometimes turns upon the most
+trivial things. Rome was once saved by the gabbling of a flock of geese,
+whose cries awoke a sentinel sleeping at his post, just in time to give
+the alarm and enable the Roman soldiers to successfully repel the attack
+of an invading foe. A certain exiled and fugitive king took courage from
+watching a spider build its web, recovered his kingdom, and a crown that
+had been wrested from him by the misfortune of war. Darius, made King of
+Persia by the neighing of a horse--and in our own day historians agree,
+that had it not been for the opportune appearance of the "Monitor" when
+the rebel iron-clad "Merrimac" steamed out of Hampton Roads in March,
+1862, the destruction of the Union might have been an accomplished fact.
+For had not that formidable battery met her match in the "Yankee
+cheese-box," as the "Monitor" was derisively called, she might have
+cleared the water of Union sloops of war, raised the blockade, opened
+the way by river to Washington, shelled the national capital and turned
+the fortunes of war decidedly in favor of the South.
+
+This battle was an important epoch in the history of nations, and
+demonstrated to the world the formidable character of iron-clad war
+vessels, hitherto unknown; and placed the United States on record as
+having produced the most invincible navy in the world.
+
+In addition to the "Merrimac," the South, early in 1862, had devised a
+great many ingenious machines in the shape of torpedoes and submarine
+batteries, that were designed for the purpose of blowing up the Union
+vessels that blockaded the Southern ports.
+
+It was through the efforts of one of my operatives that the existence of
+one of these submarine batteries was discovered, and that, too, just in
+the nick of time to save the Federal blockading fleet at the mouth of
+the James River from probable destruction. It was in the early part of
+November, 1861, that I dispatched one of my lady operatives to Richmond
+and the South, for the especial purpose of ascertaining as much
+information as possible about these torpedoes and infernal machines,
+which I had good reason to believe were constructed at the rebel
+capital. The Tredegar Iron Works, the largest factory of the kind in the
+South, were located at this place, and since the commencement of
+hostilities had been manufacturing cannon and all kinds of shot and
+shell for the Confederacy.
+
+The lady whom I selected for this task was Mrs. E. H. Baker; she had
+been in my employ for years, and at one time had resided in Richmond,
+although, prior to the war, she had removed to the North, where she had
+since dwelt.
+
+This lady, fortunately enough, was well acquainted with a Captain
+Atwater and his family, who resided in Richmond, and after undertaking
+the mission, she wrote to them from Chicago, apparently, stating that
+notwithstanding the conflict between the two sections of the country,
+she designed to pay a visit to them and renew the acquaintance of years
+ago.
+
+She accordingly started, and after a circuitous journey, arrived in
+Richmond on the 24th day of the month. The Captain and his family
+received her most hospitably, and requested her to make her home with
+them during her stay in that city.
+
+Captain Atwater, although holding a commission in the rebel army, was at
+heart a Union man, and secretly rejoiced at the news of a Federal
+victory. He soon expressed his views to my operative so clearly and
+forcibly, that she believed, if he could do so, without jeopardy, he
+would join the Union troops, and fight for the cause that really had his
+heartiest wishes for success.
+
+While Mrs. Baker did not reveal to him her connection with the secret
+service of the United States, she took no pains to conceal from him her
+real sentiments, and in their confidential conversations, was quite
+free in expressing her desire for a speedy Union triumph. The Captain
+was firm in his belief that the South was wrong, and that the masses had
+been led into the war by designing and ambitious politicians, and that
+she must eventually fail. Moreover, he said, that, while born in a
+slave-holding State, he believed the institution to be wicked and cruel,
+and that the South should have given up her slaves rather than have gone
+out of the Union.
+
+Loyal as he was, the Captain understood the Southern people thoroughly,
+and he felt sure that they would fight long and stubbornly, rather than
+yield to the blacks the boon of freedom. Many days thus passed in quiet
+enjoyment and in these stolen discussions upon the important topics of
+the day. Mrs. Baker found herself very comfortably situated beneath the
+Captain's hospitable roof, and nearly a week was passed in viewing
+Richmond and the strange sights it then afforded.
+
+On every hand she saw preparations for war, and at every street she
+turned, she was confronted with armed soldiers, whose measured tread
+kept time to the music of fife and drum. In company with the Captain,
+she also visited the earthworks and fortifications around Richmond, and
+gained many valuable points of information in regard to their number and
+extent.
+
+As yet, however, she had been unable to discover anything concerning the
+special object of her mission, and feeling the necessity of
+accomplishing something in that direction, she resolved to act. She had
+now established herself so firmly in the estimation of those with whom
+she associated, that she believed she could with safety turn her
+inquiries in the direction that would lead to the knowledge she desired
+to gain. Accordingly, one evening at the tea-table she remarked,
+incidentally, that she desired very much to visit the Tredegar Iron
+Works.
+
+"Why, certainly," replied the Captain; "I will be most happy to go with
+you to-morrow."
+
+"That will be delightful," said Mrs. Baker, enthusiastically.
+
+"But stay a moment," said the Captain, musingly, "I am afraid I will not
+be able to go to-morrow, as I have to go down the river to witness a
+test of a submarine battery."
+
+"Why couldn't I go, too?" demurely asked my operative. "I am sure I
+should enjoy it very much; that is, if there is no danger connected with
+it."
+
+"Oh, there is no danger, whatever, and there will, doubtless, be a
+number of ladies present, and you can go if you wish to."
+
+"I should most certainly wish to," laughingly answered Mrs. Baker.
+
+"Very well," said the Captain; "if you and Mrs. Atwater will be ready by
+nine o'clock, we will have ample time to reach the place, which is some
+few miles below the city."
+
+The ladies were both much pleased with this arrangement, and expressed
+themselves in extravagant terms of thankfulness for a trip which, no
+doubt, would be exceedingly pleasant. The Captain then proceeded to
+explain to them the nature of the battery which was to be experimented
+with on the morrow. He explained the object to be obtained by this
+battery, which was to break up the blockading fleet at the mouth of the
+James River, and thus give the South an outlet to the sea.
+
+The next day they started in a carriage for the scene of the exhibition,
+which was located about ten miles below the city. Arriving at the
+appointed spot, they found quite a large number of military men, many of
+them accompanied by ladies, assembled to witness the testing of the
+machine, from which so much was expected.
+
+A large scow had been towed into the middle of the river, and the
+submarine vessel was to approach it and attach a magazine, containing
+nearly half a bushel of powder, to which was attached several deadly
+projectiles, and this was to be fired by a peculiarly constructed fuse,
+connected by a long wire coiled on board the submarine vessel.
+
+At a given signal the boat was sunk into the river, about half a mile
+below the scow, and shortly afterwards it began to make its way under
+the water towards it. The only visible sign of its existence was a large
+float that rested on the surface of the water, and which was connected
+with the vessel below, designed to supply the men that operated it with
+air. This float was painted a dark green, to imitate the color of the
+water, and could only be noticed by the most careful observer. As my
+operative listened to a full explanation of the machine and its
+workings, she could scarcely control her emotions of fear for the safety
+of the Federal boats, in the event of its successful operation, and
+provided the government was not speedily warned of its existence.
+
+It was learned that this vessel was but a small working model of a much
+larger one, that was now nearly completed, and would be finished in
+about two weeks, and would then be taken to the mouth of the James
+River, to operate on the war vessels guarding that port.
+
+They had obtained an excellent position, where they had a full view of
+the river, and with the aid of a strong field-glass they could
+distinctly watch the large "float," which indicated the approach of the
+vessel.
+
+"How do the men who operate the machine manage to attach the magazine to
+the vessel they design to destroy?" asked Mrs. Baker.
+
+"Two or three men, who operate the boat," replied the Captain, "are
+provided with submarine diving armor, which enables them to work under
+the water and attach the magazine to the ship intended to be blown up.
+They then have only to quickly move away to a safe distance, fire their
+fuse, and the work is done."
+
+The Captain also informed her, that the object was to break the blockade
+and allow the steamers "Patrick Henry" and "Thomas Jefferson" out to
+sea, these vessels being loaded with cotton and bound for England.
+
+While they were talking, my operative was closely watching, by the aid
+of her glass, the movements of the boat, and she now noticed that having
+approached to within a few rods of the scow, it stopped, and the water
+"float" which indicated its position remained motionless. After
+remaining in this position for a few minutes, it slowly began to recede
+from the scow, in the direction from whence it came.
+
+It moved steadily away some hundreds of yards, and Mrs. Baker was
+wondering at the seemingly long delay, when suddenly, and without any
+previous warning whatever, there was a terrific explosion, and the scow
+seemed lifted bodily out of the water and thrown high into the air. Her
+destruction was complete, and there was no longer any doubt that the
+submarine battery could be used with deadly and telling effect on the
+ships constituting the Federal blockading squadron.
+
+Those who witnessed the experiment were, of course, much elated over the
+efficient work of destruction which had been accomplished, and even
+Captain Atwater, in his enthusiasm as a soldier, forgot temporarily his
+real feelings, in his undisguised admiration of the ingenuity of the
+invention and the effectiveness of its operation.
+
+Mrs. Baker, however, looked on with a heavy heart as she reflected upon
+the terrible consequences of the workings of this machine, and at once
+felt the urgent necessity of taking steps to inform me what she had
+witnessed. Unless something was done in this direction, she felt
+confident that the Federal ships would be destroyed, the blockade
+forever ended, and untold disaster would attend the Union cause.
+
+After their return home that evening, she made copious notes of what she
+had learned and witnessed, which she safely secreted about her person.
+The next day, in company with the Captain, she visited the Tredegar Iron
+Works, and inspected the boat that was being built. It was truly a
+formidable-looking engine of destruction.
+
+The next day, being Sunday, she remained at the residence of the
+Captain, and on Monday morning, having procured a pass, she bade
+farewell to her host and his amiable spouse, and left Richmond for
+Fredericksburg. From thence she made her way to Washington by the way of
+Leonardstown, and lost no time in reporting to me the success of her
+trip. She had made a hasty, though quite comprehensive, sketch of the
+vessel, which sketch is still in my possession, and which showed the
+position under the surface of the water, and explained its workings.
+
+I immediately laid my information before General McClellan and the
+Secretary of the Navy, who at once transmitted the intelligence to the
+commanders of the squadron, instructing them to keep a sharp lookout for
+the "water-colored surface float," and to drag the water for the purpose
+of securing possession of the air tubes connecting the float with the
+vessel below.
+
+Nothing was heard from this for about three weeks, but about that time I
+was informed that one of the vessels of the blockading fleet off the
+mouth of the James River had discovered the float, and putting out her
+drag-rope, had caught the air-tubes and thus effectually disabled the
+vessel from doing any harm, and no doubt drowning all who were on board
+of her.
+
+This incident, and the peculiarity of the machine, was duly discussed in
+the newspapers at that time, who stated that "by a mere accident the
+Federal fleet off James River had been saved from destruction"--but I
+knew much better, and that the real credit of the discovery was due to a
+lady of my own force. The efficient manner in which this work was
+performed was of great service to the nation, and sustained the
+reputation of the Secret Service Department, as being an important
+adjunct in aiding the government in its efforts to suppress the
+rebellion.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+_"Stuttering Dave."--His Tramp Through the Rebel Lines.--An Ammunition
+Train.--"Dave's" Plan Succeeds in its Destruction.--A Man Who Stuttered
+and "Had Fits."_
+
+
+One morning, while the army was on the advance up the Peninsula, I was
+strolling about the camp, when I encountered a group of soldiers
+gathered around one of their number, who appeared to be entertaining
+them immensely with his droll anecdotes and dry witticisms. Approaching
+closer, I became one of the crowd that surrounded the narrator, and
+listened to an amusing incident admirably told, which had happened to
+him a day or two before while out with a scouting party.
+
+He was a man about thirty years of age, of medium height, strongly and
+compactly built, and with a good, firm, intelligent face, over which he
+had the most perfect control. So perfect was his command over his facial
+expression that he could make his hearers roar with laughter, while he,
+to use a homely phrase, would "never crack a smile." I noticed on
+joining the little crowd that had gathered around him, that the fellow
+stuttered amazingly, which fact, together with his imperturbable
+gravity, seemed to be the secret of his always having a good audience
+about him to listen to his stories and to enjoy his droll humor. I was
+struck with the man's appearance at first sight and at once concluded
+that, unless I was much deceived in him, he was a man whom I could use
+to good advantage, and I determined to ascertain who he was and where he
+belonged.
+
+Turning to a soldier at my side, I inquired the man's name. Looking at
+me as though surprised at my ignorance, he answered:
+
+"Why, that's 'Stuttering Dave,' the drollest, smartest man in this
+regiment, and one of the best fellows you ever met."
+
+"What regiment does he belong to?" I asked.
+
+"To the Twenty-first New York," said the soldier, "but ever since I have
+known him, he has been with a scouting party. He used to live in
+Virginia before the war, and is well acquainted about here."
+
+That day I called upon the Colonel of the regiment to which the man
+belonged, and informed him of my wishes, which, if agreeable to him, I
+would ask him to send "Stuttering Dave" to my quarters.
+
+Shortly after sundown he came, and to my astonishment, I found that his
+stuttering propensity had entirely disappeared, and that he conversed
+with me with surprising ease and intelligence, and a quiet earnestness
+that betokened a solid and well-informed man. The fact was that
+stuttering with him was only a favorite amusement, and so naturally was
+it simulated, that no one would suspect he was shamming or that he was
+anything else but a confirmed stutterer of the most incorrigible type.
+In the interview which followed he signified his willingness to enter
+the secret service, and a day or two later he was detailed to my force.
+Here he served with such ability and credit that he was shortly
+discharged from his regiment altogether, and for the rest of the war was
+one of my most faithful and valued operatives.
+
+A few days after this interview, David Graham, for that was his real
+name, otherwise known as "Stuttering Dave," set out under my
+instructions, on a trip within the rebel lines. As he was about leaving
+my tent, he shook hands with me, and said in his dry manner:
+
+"G-g-go-good-by, M-m-m-major, I'm g-g-g-oin to have s-s-some fun before
+I g-g-get home, if I d-d-don't I'm a g-g-goat, that's all."
+
+Cautioning him against allowing his propensity for "fun" to get him into
+trouble, I accompanied him to the edge of the camp, and saw him set out
+in the direction of the Confederate forces.
+
+Graham had adopted the disguise of a peddler of notions, and carried in
+his pack a goodly supply of buttons, needles, thread, pins and such a
+trifling articles as he knew would be in great demand by the soldiers.
+Discarding his uniform, and dressed in a suit of butternut jean, with a
+broad-brimmed hat, a stout stick, and a pack across his shoulder, he
+appeared a veritable tramping peddler. No one, to have seen him, would
+have imagined that he was an emissary of the secret service, and they
+would little have suspected that the stuttering, harmless-looking fellow
+who was hawking his wares, knew aught about military affairs, or the
+plans and movements of an army.
+
+It was in the fast deepening twilight of a beautiful evening, and but a
+few days after he had left the Union lines, that a party of rebel
+soldiers, weary and hungry with the toilsome march of the day, were
+resting around a camp-fire, engaged in the preparations of their evening
+meal.
+
+While thus employed, they were approached by a strange-looking
+individual, who walked right into their midst, and without ceremony,
+flung down his pack and seated himself among them.
+
+"B-b-boys," said he, "I'm most d-d-darned hungry, w-w-w-what do you
+s-s-say to givin' me a b-b-b-bite to eat; d-d-dang my buttons, I'm
+willin' to p-p-pay for it in t-t-trade or cash."
+
+"How did you manage to get inside the camp?" inquired one, who seemed to
+be the leader of the mess.
+
+"F-f-f-followed my legs, and they b-b-b-brought me right in," replied
+Stuttering Dave, as he coolly produced a short-stemmed, dirty-looking
+pipe, which he deliberately filled, and then lighted with a coal from
+the glowing embers at his feet.
+
+"What have you got to sell?" asked a soldier at his side.
+
+"O, n-n-needles, p-p-pins, thread, b-b-buttons and n-n-notions."
+
+"Did you come from the Yanks?" now asked the man who had first addressed
+him.
+
+"D-d-d-am the Yanks!" ejaculated Dave, "I d-d-don't know anything about
+'em. Ain't them your s-s-sentiments?" he added, nudging the fellow who
+sat nearest to him.
+
+His companion evidently did not relish this sly poke, for he growled:
+
+"I, for one, am gettin' most thunderin' tired of runnin' around the
+country, and nothin' would suit me better than for us to stop long
+enough to giv' 'em a good lickin'."
+
+"You l-licked 'em like the d-d-devil at Williamsburgh, d-d-d-didn't
+you?" said Dave.
+
+The fellow looked at him in surprise, but failed to detect any evidence
+of an intended sarcasm in the immovable gravity of his face, so mentally
+concluding that the peddler was a fool and one of nature's own at that,
+he dropped the conversation.
+
+By this time the meal was ready, and Dave, being invited to join them,
+gladly assented, and fell to with an appetite that showed how thoroughly
+he enjoyed the repast. Supper over, the party spent the evening in
+chatting and telling yarns. The detective opened his pack, and
+displaying his goods, soon disposed of quite a large quantity, in return
+for which he demanded, and would take, nothing but silver or gold. When
+"taps" were called, he turned in with the party, and placing his pack
+under his head for a pillow, he soon slept soundly, until reveille in
+the early morning aroused him from his slumbers.
+
+Having eaten his breakfast, he sauntered through the camp, taking keen
+notice of the number of troops, and finding out all he could concerning
+their intended plans and movements. During the day, he did a thriving
+business with his small stock of notions, and was everywhere followed by
+a crowd, who were attracted by his droll humor and witty sayings.
+
+On one of these occasions, and while he was driving some lively bargains
+with the soldiers that were gathered around him, he was approached by an
+officer, who slapped him familiarly on the shoulder and exclaimed:
+
+"Here, my good fellow, we can use men like you; hadn't you better enlist
+with us? You can do your country a great deal more good than you are
+doing, tramping around the country selling needles and pins."
+
+The detective turned around, and seeing who it was addressing him,
+replied:
+
+"C-Captain, I d-d-don't think you would want me; I t-t-tried t-to enlist
+s-s-s-sometime ago, b-b-b-but the d-d-doctor said, m-my f-f-fits and
+stuttering b-b-being so b-b-bad, he c-c-couldn't p-p-pass me."
+
+"Are you subject to fits?" the officer now asked, as a sympathetic look
+came over his face.
+
+"Had 'em ever s-s-since I was t-t-ten years old," replied Dave, "have
+'em every f-f-full of the m-m-moon."
+
+"Where do you live?" interrupted the officer.
+
+"On t-t-the other s-s-side of the river," he answered.
+
+"What is your name?"
+
+"They c-c-call me St-st-stuttering Dave," replied the detective, with an
+idiotic grin.
+
+The officer now turned and walked away, feeling no longer any interest
+in the fellow, except to pity his condition; and thoroughly satisfied
+that there was no harm in him, and that he was utterly unfit for a
+soldier.
+
+Well pleased to have shaken off the curious officer as easily as he had,
+Dave now turned again to the soldiers and resumed his occupation of
+dickering with the crowd about him; having concluded his business here,
+he ambled off to another part of the grounds where a large quantity of
+ammunition was stored in the wagons.
+
+Instantly, an idea occurred to him which he resolved to carry out if
+possible. It was to undertake the dangerous feat of firing the
+ammunition, and depriving his enemies of that much destructive material
+at all events. He lost all interest in disposing of his goods for a
+time, and proceeded to make a careful examination of the grounds about
+the wagons, and formed his plans for carrying out his project that very
+night.
+
+He soon decided that by laying a train of powder from the wagons and
+running it to a safe distance, he could readily set fire to it, and make
+his escape in the confusion that would follow. At midnight, therefore,
+he stole around to the wagons and quietly commenced his work. He had
+taken the precaution that afternoon, to supply himself with a quantity
+of powder fuses, by rolling the powder up loosely in long strips of
+rags.
+
+Placing these in position to connect with the ammunition in the wagons,
+and laying his train from one to another, the next thing was to lay a
+long train, that would enable him after firing it to get out of harm's
+way before the explosion occurred. Having completed his arrangements, he
+now took himself off, to wait until the whole camp should be quietly
+wrapped in slumber, before he started his "fireworks," as he called
+them.
+
+About midnight, had the sentinel on guard at the wagons containing the
+ammunition been awake, and looking sharply about him, instead of dozing
+at his post, he might have observed a man stealthily steal up to the
+stores, and silently and quickly disappear into the woods beyond.
+Fortunately, however, for our friend, and the enterprise he had on hand,
+he only snored quietly and peacefully against a neighboring tree, little
+dreaming of the surprise that was in store for him.
+
+A few minutes later, a long, quick flash of light darted along the
+ground, which was immediately followed by a loud, stunning report, and
+the murky darkness was illumined with a brilliant, flaming light, and
+great volumes of smoke.
+
+Instantly the entire camp was aroused, and the half-dressed and
+fully-frightened soldiers came rushing to the scene, which was now only
+a scattered pile of burning ruins. How it occurred, no one knew, or
+could tell aught about it, and wild conjectures were freely indulged in
+as to the probable cause of the disaster. In the meantime, the only man
+in the world who could tell anything about the affair, was traveling as
+fast as his legs could carry him in the direction of the Union camp.
+
+In a few days he made his appearance at my headquarters, and related the
+success of his journey. I could not refrain from laughing heartily at
+his peculiar and independent system of warfare, but advised him to be
+more careful in the future as to how he tampered with the stores of the
+enemy.
+
+I was not disappointed as to the ability of the man, however, and for
+months he served me faithfully and well, needing but little instruction,
+and always performing his work to the entire satisfaction of every one.
+He at times adopted various disguises, but generally depended upon his
+own natural shrewdness, and his natural adaptiveness for the role of an
+itinerant peddler to carry him through successfully.
+
+He was always fortunate in his trips, and, so far as I knew, his
+identity was never discovered, and in the peddler who stuttered and
+"sometimes had fits," the rebels never recognized an emissary of the
+Secret Service.
+
+[Illustration: SHOT BY A CANNON-BALL.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+_Another Trip to Richmond.--A Rebel General Taken In.--Curtis Makes
+Valuable Acquaintances.--"The Subterranean Headquarters."_
+
+
+Early in 1862, it becoming necessary to obtain more fully the plans and
+intentions of the enemy, and their numbers around Richmond, I in April
+of that year dispatched one of my keenest and shrewdest operatives on
+this important mission.
+
+The man selected for this delicate and dangerous work was George Curtis,
+a young man about twenty-five years of age, tall, well-formed, with dark
+complexion, clear gray eyes, and possessing handsome, intelligent
+features. He was one of those men rarely met, who was by nature a
+detective; cool-headed, brave and determined, with ready wit and
+sagacious mind, he was especially qualified for efficient work in that
+important branch, the secret service.
+
+He was a native of New York, and had at the opening of the war enlisted
+in an infantry regiment from that State.
+
+Learning of his desire to enter the secret service, I had procured his
+discharge from his regiment, and he was detailed on my force, where he
+served until the close of the war.
+
+It was a beautiful April morning when, with his instructions carefully
+treasured in memory, for he dared take no written ones, he left my
+office on "I" street, in Washington, and set out on his perilous trip.
+
+I had previously made arrangements that he should accompany General
+McClellan down the river on his boat, the "Commodore," and on which he
+had established his headquarters, to Fortress Monroe, and landing there,
+make his way to Richmond.
+
+The morning of the first, he left Washington, and the next day he
+arrived at Old Point Comfort, and landed under the frowning walls of the
+old fort. He remained here until the morning of the second day after his
+arrival, where he was provided with a horse, and set across the river
+and proceeded on his way towards the rebel capital.
+
+He had now a journey of near seventy miles before him, through a country
+filled with enemies to the cause he espoused, and from whom, should his
+true character and mission become known, he might expect anything but
+kind treatment at their hands. His object in crossing the James at this
+point was to place himself in less danger from suspicion as a spy, and
+to better enable him to learn the sentiment of the people, as well as to
+gain accurate knowledge of the condition of the country as to roads,
+bridges, streams, etc., all of which information is of essential
+importance for the General of an invading army to know.
+
+He, therefore, on horseback, and apparently as a man traveling for
+pleasure and recreation, proceeded on his way up the valley of the river
+and towards the objective point of his journey, the rebel capital.
+
+Nothing worthy of note occurred during the day; he stopped at noon at a
+house by the wayside, and obtained dinner for himself and horse. In a
+conversation with his host, who was a well-to-do old farmer, he
+apparently in a careless manner betrayed the fact that he himself
+followed the same occupation, that he lived on the river in the county
+of Norfolk, below, and was on his way to visit among friends at
+Petersburgh.
+
+It was towards evening that he neared the outskirts of the city, when he
+suddenly encountered the rebel pickets, stationed outside the town, who
+halted him and demanded to know his name and business. "My name is
+Curtis," replied the operative, "and I am from Norfolk; my business I
+will state to your commander when I am taken to him."
+
+Without further ceremony he was turned over to the officer of the guard,
+who sent him under escort to General Hill, the general in command.
+
+"Whom have you here?" queried the General, as in the company of his
+escort the detective was led into his presence.
+
+"A man who says he is from Norfolk," replied the guard, "but who refuses
+to tell his business to any one but yourself."
+
+"You may retire," said the General, and the escort immediately left the
+room. "Now," he exclaimed, turning to Curtis, "What is your business?
+Please be as brief as possible, as I am very busy."
+
+"Well, to come to the point at once," replied the detective; "in the
+first place, then, I spoke falsely to your pickets when I told them I
+was from Norfolk. My name is Curtis, and I am from Washington. As to my
+business, I deal in what the Yankees are pleased to term contraband
+goods; yet I don't see how gun-caps, ammunition of all kinds, and
+quinine should be considered contraband, for the simple reason that I,
+as a dealer, find a better market South than North for my goods. My
+desire," he continued, "is to get through to Richmond, where I hope to
+be able to effect contracts, with Secretary Benjamin, to furnish my
+goods to the Confederate government."
+
+"How did you get through the Union lines?" asked the General, still,
+evidently, a little suspicious of the sincerity of the detective's
+story.
+
+"I came down on the 'Commodore,' General McClellan's boat, three days
+ago," he answered, "was set across the river there, procured a horse
+from a friend, and here I am."
+
+"Do you know anything of McClellan's plans for an advance?" asked the
+General.
+
+"I can tell you nothing about them," answered Curtis, "as everything is
+kept secret from even his own staff, I am told."
+
+The General mused, thoughtfully, a moment, and then said: "I will give
+you a pass to Richmond, and you can proceed on your way in the morning."
+
+"Thank you, General," exclaimed the detective, "I assure you the cause
+shall suffer no loss by any efforts of mine. I shall, in all
+probability, return by this way, in a few weeks at farthest, when, if I
+can be of any service to you, you have only to command me."
+
+"By the way," said the General, "I have some letters to parties in
+Richmond, which ought to go at once. If you will do me the favor to
+deliver them I shall be obliged to you."
+
+"I shall be happy to serve you, General, and will take pleasure in
+seeing that your letters reach their destination all right."
+
+"Very well, then; call at my quarters in the morning, before you start,
+and I will have them ready for you, and will give you also your pass to
+Richmond."
+
+Curtis thanked him again, and, bidding him good-night, repaired to the
+hotel, and secured for himself and horse supper and lodging for the
+night.
+
+After he had partaken of a hearty meal, and provided himself with an
+excellent cigar, he sauntered out on to the veranda of the hotel, and,
+taking a comfortable seat, prepared to enjoy his fragrant weed, and
+amuse himself with listening to the conversation of those around him.
+
+He soon discovered that the war, and the prospects for a speedy victory
+for the South, were the subjects under discussion, and he listened with
+much interest to the ideas advanced, and the confidence that marked
+their assertions of the superiority of the Southern troops over the
+Northern mudsills, as they termed the Federalists.
+
+"You may depend on it, that General Johnson will not permit the Yanks to
+approach any closer to Richmond than they now are, without contesting
+every inch of the ground as they advance," remarked one gentleman of the
+party near which he was sitting.
+
+"No," emphatically rejoined another, "when they take Richmond, it will
+be when they have annihilated the Southern people, when not a thousand
+able-bodied men are left on Southern soil to rally to its defense."
+
+"Well, I am satisfied," remarked another, "that right here is to be the
+contest, that is to decide this matter one way or the other."
+
+"If the Yankees take Richmond, the South may as well surrender at once;
+if however they fail, as they are extremely liable to do, _they_, on the
+other hand, may as well withdraw their forces and acknowledge our
+independence."
+
+"If I am not greatly mistaken," now ventured my operative, "in the
+spirit of the Southern people, they will, to use a common phrase, 'fight
+to the bitter end.' And yet," he continued, "to the thoughtful
+observer, it is not pleasant to contemplate the spectacle of brother
+arrayed against brother, as they are in this war. I tell you,
+gentlemen," he added, "that while I am a Southern man, it grieves me to
+see our land so rent with strife and bloodshed and that the North has
+made it necessary for a resort to arms to settle a matter that should
+have been amicably adjusted."
+
+At this juncture, the party was joined by a new-comer, who had evidently
+just left the supper-room, as he carried an unlighted cigar in one hand,
+while with the other he was picking his teeth, with the manner of a man
+who had just eaten a hearty meal and who had enjoyed it.
+
+He was a man past the middle age, hair generously sprinkled with gray,
+and with a face, that while bronzed by exposure to the weather, was
+keenly intelligent, not unhandsome, and strongly expressive of force and
+decision of character. He seated himself and soon joined in the
+conversation, with that freedom and _nonchalance_ that characterizes the
+experienced yet courteous traveler, who has seen the world and is
+familiar with its ways.
+
+"We shall hear of some pretty hard fighting, shortly, I imagine,"
+finally observed the stranger; "McClellan has arrived at Fortress
+Monroe, and will no doubt commence hostilities at once."
+
+"And we shall also hear of his army getting badly whipped," put in one
+of the party.
+
+"Well," rejoined the stranger, "that may be true; but, after all, the
+real contest will be before Richmond; the fighting that may occur now
+will only be the strategic moves preceding the final struggle. Lee and
+Johnson," he continued, "are not yet ready for McClellan to advance upon
+Richmond, and they will see to it that it is put in the best possible
+condition of defense before he succeeds in reaching it."
+
+At this, my operative, who had taken little part in the conversation,
+except as an attentive listener, now arose and laughingly said:
+"Gentlemen, I guess we are all of one mind on this subject, let's
+adjourn down below and interview the bar-keeper; I don't profess to be a
+judge of military matters, but when it comes to a good article of
+whisky, I claim to be posted."
+
+The party, numbering near a dozen gentlemen about him, good-humoredly
+took the interruption and laughingly followed the detective, who now led
+the way to the bar-room.
+
+They filled glasses all around and Curtis proposed the rather ambiguous
+toast, "May the right prevail, and death and confusion, attend its
+enemies"--ambiguous in that it as much represented his real sentiments
+as it also met the approval of his secession friends.
+
+After the party had drank, they separated, agreeing to meet later in the
+evening; Curtis was himself starting for a stroll about the town, when
+the stranger, who had last joined the party on the veranda approached
+him and said: "I have just drank the toast you proposed, and judging
+from it and your conversation up stairs, I take you to be, at least, a
+friend to the South, if indeed you are not a Southern man. I should like
+much to have your company for a short stroll about the city; my name,"
+he added, "is Leroy, and I hail from Baltimore."
+
+"I shall be glad to accompany you, Mr. Leroy," said my operative,
+heartily: "I was just thinking of going for a walk alone, but I assure
+you I shall be only too glad to have a companion. And since you have so
+kindly told me your name, I may as well tell you, that mine is George
+Curtis, and I am from Washington. But before we start," he added, "let
+us have a fresh cigar."
+
+He then ordered the cigars and they started for their walk.
+
+They had not proceeded far, before his new companion revealed the fact,
+that he also was in the contraband trade, and singularly enough, was on
+his way to Richmond on precisely the same business my operative had
+represented himself as engaged. Of course, Curtis reciprocated the
+confidence of his new-found friend, and with such results, that he not
+only returned from his walk much better posted on how to get goods
+through to Richmond, but actually returned a partner in an enterprize to
+furnish their goods in large quantities to the Confederate government,
+provided they could succeed in making satisfactory arrangements with
+Mr. Benjamin, the Secretary of War. They returned to the hotel, where
+they had a long talk, completing their plans. It was arranged that my
+operative should leave his horse at Petersburg, and in the morning, they
+would proceed on their way to Richmond by rail.
+
+On the following morning he arose early, and after breakfast, proceeded
+to call on General Hill at his quarters and obtained his pass, also the
+letters he was to carry for him to parties in Richmond. They then took a
+train for the rebel capital, and by noon found themselves in that city.
+
+The day following his arrival, in company with Leroy, he called on Mr.
+Benjamin and succeeded in closing contracts to furnish large quantities
+of their goods to his government, and at prices that were highly
+satisfactory to Mr. Leroy, who jovially remarked, as they left the
+Secretary's presence, that if they only had good luck, their fortunes
+were made. Curtis, however, felt highly gratified over the result of the
+interview, more from the reflection of the aid it would give him in
+prosecuting the real object of his visit, than from any financial
+benefit he expected to derive from it. He had received a pass from the
+Secretary that would enable him to pass in and out of Richmond at his
+pleasure, a most important privilege, and one that really removed all
+practical hindrances, and left him free to more fully accomplish his
+work.
+
+He had not been in the city a week before he discovered that through
+some source, the rebels had almost daily news from the front, concerning
+the movements and plans of the Union troops. This he now determined to
+ferret out, and the next day, he in a careless manner, inquired of his
+friend Leroy, how it was, they obtained news so promptly from the front.
+
+"Why," replied his friend, laughingly, "haven't you heard of the
+subterranean headquarters?"
+
+"I confess I have not," replied the detective.
+
+"Then come along with me," said Leroy. "I ought to have told you about
+this before, as it is intimately connected with our business."
+
+He then led the way to the very hotel at which they were stopping, and
+conducted Curtis to a large and elegantly furnished room on the third
+floor, and in which were seated a number of gentlemen--some reading,
+while others were engaged in writing at little tables that were ranged
+about the room.
+
+"Here," said he, laughing, "are the subterranean headquarters, although
+they are above the top of the ground instead of beneath it. I need not
+tell you," he added, "that the name is given as much to mislead as for
+any other purpose."
+
+They then took seats at one end of the room where they were alone, and
+he proceeded with his explanation:
+
+"First," he said, "you must know that this is a bureau of intelligence,
+and is managed partly by the government and partly by wealthy merchants
+here and at Baltimore; besides being used in getting information
+concerning the movements of the Federal troops, it is also used by the
+merchants in getting our goods through from Baltimore. We employ," he
+continued, "nearly fifty persons, some of whom are constantly in the
+field carrying dispatches, gaining and bringing in information from the
+Yankee lines. These persons are all under the control of a chief at
+their head, and are all known to that man yonder," pointing to a
+gentleman seated at a desk at the opposite end of the room.
+
+"Strange as it may seem to you," he continued, "right here in this
+hotel, we have the most exclusive privacy. You noticed that man standing
+in the hall when we came in, the same one now sitting at the desk?"
+
+Curtis nodded, and he proceeded: "Well, he knew me, and consequently he
+knew you were all right. Had you come alone, that door would have been
+closed, and would not have opened, had you tried it. Now," he said, "I
+will call him here and introduce you."
+
+Touching a small bell that stood on the table, the gentleman, to whom he
+had alluded, instantly answered its summons and crossed the room to
+where they were sitting.
+
+"Mr. Wallace," said Leroy, "this is my friend and partner, Mr. Curtis."
+The two men bowed and shook hands, and Wallace seating himself proved
+to be a pleasant and well-informed gentleman.
+
+In the course of the conversation, Leroy asked, "What is the latest news
+from the front, Mr. Wallace?"
+
+"We have nothing as yet to-day," he answered, "but yesterday it was
+reported that McClellan had laid siege to Yorktown; the chances are,
+that we shall hear of a battle, in a few days at farthest." During the
+interview, Curtis learned also, that the persons operating for this
+bureau had confederates, both at Baltimore and at Washington; these, he
+determined to discover, if possible, in addition to the information
+already gained.
+
+To this end, he made himself very agreeable to Mr. Wallace, and in the
+course of the conversation, expressed his willingness to do what he
+could in aiding the force, and remarked that he should be passing back
+and forth, between Washington and Richmond, and could doubtless be of
+service.
+
+Mr. Wallace thanked him heartily, and gave him a small plain badge of
+peculiar shape, that would at any time, if shown, admit him to the
+headquarters, and then taking him about the room, he introduced him to
+the gentlemen present, and after a short conversation with his new
+friends, he in company with Leroy took his departure, and together they
+went down to dinner.
+
+That evening, as he was sitting in the bar-room of the hotel, one of
+the men he had met up-stairs in the forenoon, came to him and told him
+that in a day or two, he was to start for Yorktown with important
+dispatches for General Magruder, but that owing, to sickness in his
+family, he did not want to leave home, unless it was impossible for him
+to get some one he could trust to undertake the task for him.
+
+He then asked Curtis if he would object to making the trip for him. The
+detective thought a moment, and told him he would give him an answer in
+the morning. The two men then indulged in a friendly glass, after which
+they separated. The man had no sooner gone, than Curtis made up his mind
+to take the dispatches, not to General Magruder, but to me at
+Washington.
+
+Accordingly, the next morning he informed his friend he would undertake
+the task for him, as he intended returning to Baltimore at any rate.
+
+The next morning found him, with the dispatches carefully secreted about
+his person, at the depot, ready to take the first train for Petersburgh.
+
+Here he arrived about noon, and proceeded to call on General Hill. After
+procuring his dinner at the hotel, he ordered his horse and started on
+his long ride for the Union camp, where he delivered his dispatches to
+Mr. Bangs, the superintendent of my headquarters in the field, and
+forwarded copies of the same to me at Washington, together with a full
+account of his trip and information he had gained; not forgetting a
+full statement of his discovery of the "Subterranean Headquarters," and
+his enlistment as a member of its force of spies and agents, employed in
+transmitting intelligence of the movements and plans of the Union
+troops.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+_A Virginia Home.--Unwelcome Visitors.--Mr. Harcourt Arrested and
+Released.--Dan McCowan Makes Forcible Love to Mary Harcourt.--The Girl
+in Peril.--A Timely Rescue.--The Villain Punished._
+
+
+The important information brought to my notice by Operative Curtis, on
+his return from Richmond, concerning the character and working of the
+"Subterranean Headquarters," at once determined me on a plan of using
+the same body of men, or rather the information they carried, for the
+benefit of the Union forces, instead of allowing them to use it in the
+interests of the Confederates. To accomplish this, I detailed several
+members of my force, both at Washington and Baltimore, to co-operate
+with Curtis, whom I intended now should become an active agent of the
+rebels in carrying dispatches to and from Richmond. The plan was, in
+short, that all dispatches entrusted to him should be accurately copied,
+the copies to be delivered to his confederates, and the originals
+forwarded to their destination.
+
+In war, as in a game of chess, if you know the moves of your adversary
+in advance, it is then an easy matter to shape your own plans, and make
+your moves accordingly, and, of course, always to your own decided
+advantage. So in this case, I concluded that if the information intended
+for the rebels could first be had by us, after that, they were welcome
+to all the benefit they might derive from them.
+
+In a few days, then, having completed my arrangements, Curtis started to
+Richmond, by the way of Wilson's Landing and Glendale, he having decided
+that, provided as he was with his pass from the Secretary, it would be
+perfectly safe, and at the same time a much shorter route than by the
+way of Petersburgh.
+
+Leaving him for the present, then, to make his way to Richmond as best
+he can, we will turn our attention to other persons and to other scenes.
+The interior of a comfortable farm-house, the place, and early evening
+the time.
+
+The family are gathered around the tea-table, and are discussing
+earnestly the war, and the chances of the success of the Northern
+troops. The family consisted of five persons: the husband and wife, both
+traveling down the western slope of life, a young and beautiful
+daughter, apparently about twenty years of age, and two younger
+children, a boy and girl, aged, respectively, fourteen and twelve years.
+
+These latter are listening attentively to the conversation going on
+about them, and anon interjecting some childish observation, or asking
+some question commensurate with the quaint views and ideas of childish
+years.
+
+"Well," finally observed the old gentleman, "it is hard that one dare
+not speak their own sentiments in a country like this; my grandfather
+fought in the revolution, my father in the war of 1812, and I, myself,
+took a hand in the brush with Mexico; but I never dreamed of seeing the
+day when a man dared not speak his honest convictions, for fear of
+having his roof burnt from over his head, and, worse than all, endanger
+even his own life, and those dearest to him."
+
+"I have always told you, William," replied his good wife, "that the day
+would come when this fearful curse of slavery would have to be wiped out
+in blood, and you all know now that I prophesied truly. And," she added,
+"as for me, I have no fears for the result. _Our_ only mistake has been
+in casting our lot and settling in the South, and in the very presence
+of an evil we could not avert."
+
+"True, mother," rejoined her husband, "but you know I have ever been
+outspoken against slavery, and its attendant curses. I also flatter
+myself that I have had some influence in mitigating, at least, the
+condition of not a few of the black race. You remember Colonel Singleton
+liberated his slaves at the very outset of this war."
+
+"And was compelled to flee to the North to save his own life," answered
+his wife; "and had we been wise, we would have gone to a country more
+congenial to our views, and while we could have done so with safety. I
+am afraid," she continued, "if it becomes known that our son has joined
+the Union army, serious trouble may befall us at the hands of men who
+have long desired an excuse for arresting you and confiscating your
+property; if, indeed, they would be content with sparing your life."
+
+"If I were younger," said the old gentleman, "I would defy them to do
+their worst; and, as it is, my only fears are for my family, not for
+myself. Still," he added, "my neighbors are all friendly, and the
+majority of them, though thinking differently from me on these
+questions, are under obligations to me, so that I feel I have but little
+to fear at their hands. As to our boy, who has gone to fight for the old
+flag, I am proud of him; I fought for it, so did my fathers before me,
+and I would disown the child who would refuse, if necessary, to lay down
+his life in its defense."
+
+And here, fired with the sentiments he had just uttered, he arose from
+the table in an agitated manner and began to pace the floor.
+
+"Ah," he continued, "I love that old flag, and old as I am, would fight
+for it yet."
+
+Going to a case that stood in a corner of the room, he took from a shelf
+a beautiful silken banner, and holding it aloft, he exclaimed, with
+great earnestness, "There is the flag I fight under--the flag of the
+Union and of the country our fathers fought to save."
+
+"Father," exclaimed his eldest daughter, "you forget yourself in your
+enthusiasm; even now some one may be outside listening; you forget that
+Dan McCowan and his desperate gang may be in the vicinity and give us a
+call at any moment."
+
+Scarcely had the warning fell from her lips, when there came a loud
+knocking at the door, followed by a few vigorous and well-directed blows
+that threatened to take it from its hinges.
+
+The whole family started up in alarm, and while one snatched the flag
+from the old gentleman and hastily deposited it in its hiding-place,
+another answered the summons from without.
+
+The old man himself, while not frightened, was somewhat disconcerted by
+the noise, and remained standing in the center of the room, when the
+door was suddenly burst open, revealing a body of Confederate soldiers
+headed by a villainous-looking fellow, their leader, who now entered the
+room, and approaching him, said:
+
+"Mr. Harcourt, I have orders to place you under arrest, so you will
+prepare to accompany us to Glendale at once!"
+
+"What crime have I committed?" demanded the old man, now perfectly calm,
+"that you dare enter my house in this manner!"
+
+"You will know that soon enough," replied the officer; "so hustle on
+your duds, as we must be going. Bill," he commanded, turning to a fellow
+near him, "you will search the house and take possession of anything
+contraband or treasonable that you can find."
+
+This order was exactly what his followers wanted, as it meant really an
+order to plunder the house and appropriate to their own use whatever
+articles of value they found and that pleased them to take.
+
+As none of the family had offered the slightest resistance, the
+unwelcome intruders had conducted themselves, so far, very orderly. Mrs.
+Harcourt, a kind and matronly-looking woman, with a firmness and
+self-control, that under the circumstances was admirable, bustled about
+the room, getting together a small bundle of clothing for her husband to
+take with him on his enforced journey to Glendale; and anon, while doing
+this, spoke soothing words of comfort and encouragement to the younger
+children, who, white and speechless with terror, were crouching in the
+darkest corner of the room.
+
+The eldest daughter, at a sign from her father, accompanied the two men
+detailed to search the premises, and proceeded with them from room to
+room, as they rummaged chests and drawers, appropriating various little
+articles to their own use, in spite of the indignant protest of the
+spirited girl at such barefaced robbery.
+
+Finally, with much reluctance, she was compelled to admit them to her
+own room, and to witness their ruthless handling of the contents of a
+small trunk, in which were various little articles, trinkets and
+mementoes, worthless to any one else, but, of course, priceless to her.
+
+But what she most prized among them, and which caused her the most alarm
+should they be discovered, was a small packet of letters from her
+brother already mentioned as serving in the Union army, and a small
+locket containing his miniature. Judge of her dismay were one of the men
+picked up the letters, and with a laugh exclaimed: "These are from your
+feller, I suppose;" and then, observing the locket, he opened it and
+with a leer on his face, said: "And this is his picture, I reckon, eh?"
+
+"Yes," said the girl eagerly uttering, or rather echoing, the falsehood.
+"Yes," she repeated, "please don't take them, as they are of no account
+to any one but myself."
+
+"All right," said the fellow, good-naturedly, "I guess you can have
+them;" as he handed them to her. She eagerly seized them, trembling at
+the narrow escape they had had from falling into the possession of
+those, who knowing their contents, would have given her poor old father
+much trouble indeed.
+
+Having completed their search, and finding nothing that could be
+considered of a treasonable character, they returned to the room below,
+and reported to their Captain the result of their search. He then
+ordered his men to retire to the outside, where he followed them, and
+after consulting a short time, he returned to the house and brusquely
+informed Mr. Harcourt that as he had found nothing to convict him of
+treason against the Confederate government, he might go this time, but
+to be d--d careful in the future, or he would get him yet. He then
+slammed the door behind him, rejoined his companions who mounted their
+horses and rode slowly away.
+
+Satisfied that they had left, the family ventured to express their
+congratulations at the departure of their unwelcome visitors, and at
+once set to work rearranging the disordered room. They, however, felt
+that this was only the commencement of their prosecutions, and they well
+knew that another time, the chances were that they would not escape so
+easily; for should it become known that their son was in the Federal
+army, they could no longer hope to live in peace and safety. The men who
+had visited them on this occasion, were evidently strangers in the
+neighborhood, and were, no doubt, a scouting or foraging party, who had
+stopped more from a want of having anything else to do, than from a
+desire to do them any injury. They, however, knew, that from those in
+their own vicinity, there was much more to be feared; and of one person
+in particular, they stood in especial dread. That person was Dan
+McCowan, the man whose name was mentioned by Mary Harcourt, in her
+warning to her father, only a moment before the soldiers, had entered
+their dwelling. Dan McCowan was a man who for years had pursued the
+detestable calling of a negro-hunter.
+
+He was about thirty-five years of age, tall, of an ungainly form, and
+slightly stoop-shouldered; his hair and eyes were dark, and his
+complexion as swarthy as an Indian. His features, naturally coarse and
+repulsive, were rendered still more so, by being bronzed and hardened by
+long-continued exposure to the weather. His only associates and his most
+intimate friends appeared to be his blood-hounds, which he used in
+hunting and bringing back to their masters, the poor negroes who were
+seeking to escape from a life of continued toil and bondage. The
+following unique hand-bill, which he used to post up in various places
+over the country, will serve to show the nature of his business, and
+also the vast amount of intelligence necessary to carry it on.
+
+                      NO TIS.
+
+     The undersind taiks this methed of makkin it none that he
+     has got the best NIGGER HOUNDS in the state, and is always
+     redy to ketch runaway niggers at the best rates.
+
+     My hounds is well trained, and I heve hed 15 yeres
+     experience. My rates is 10 dollurs per hed if ketched in the
+     beate where the master lives; 15 dollurs in the coonty, and
+     50 dollurs out of the coonty.
+
+                            DAN MCCOWAN.
+
+     N. B.
+
+     Planters should taik panes to let me know, while the niggers
+     tracks is fresh, if they want quick work and a good job.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to say that his services were frequently
+employed to catch and bring back the poor runaways, and more than once
+had the Harcourt family been awakened in the night by his hounds, as
+they made the woods echo with their baying. Often had they pictured to
+themselves the terror of the poor wretches, over whose trail, with
+unerring scent, swept the monsters, who would tear them limb from limb,
+and whose only choice was death at their hands or the old life of labor
+and the lash.
+
+Mr. Harcourt was a strong anti-slavery man. Holding these views, he had
+ever spoken consistently against slavery. He was also a man of deeds, as
+well as words, for many a poor fugitive had been assisted by him on his
+long and perilous journey northward in search of friends and the freedom
+he craved.
+
+Owing to these proclivities, and to the fact that he had never taken
+pains to conceal his views, a mutual antipathy had long existed between
+Mr. Harcourt and Dan McCowan, the nigger-hunter. While the latter had no
+direct proofs, yet he had long suspected Mr. Harcourt of being a friend
+to, and a sympathizer with the very runaways whom it was his business to
+catch and return to the bondage they were endeavoring to escape from.
+Notwithstanding his dislike for the father, however, the fellow had
+conceived a violent attachment for Mary Harcourt, his daughter, and for
+a year past had greatly annoyed not only the poor girl herself, but the
+whole family, by his uncouth attentions.
+
+Finally, Mr. Harcourt told him plainly that his attentions to his
+daughter were extremely distasteful to her, and added a polite, yet firm
+request, that he cease his troublesome visits.
+
+Mary, who was a young lady of sweet and lovely disposition, possessing
+both intelligence and refinement, shrank from the fellow as she should
+from a viper in her path; while his odious attempts to lavish his
+unsought affections upon her so disgusted and frightened her that she
+always avoided his presence.
+
+Dan McCowan, however, was just the man, when thwarted in his plans, to
+at once take steps for revenge. For some time he had kept a close
+espionage of the house and the movements of its inmates. He had somehow
+obtained possession of the knowledge that young Harcourt was in the
+Union army, and he determined to use this in his well-laid plans to
+persecute the poor girl, who had been so unfortunate as to have been the
+object of his passion.
+
+On the day following the incidents just related, Mary, who had been
+spending the afternoon with a neighbor's family, towards evening was
+returning to her home, when she was suddenly and most unexpectedly
+confronted by Dan McCowan. So startled was she by this unlooked-for
+meeting, that she involuntarily gave a slight scream, as she recognized
+who it was that stood before her.
+
+"I see as how I have skeered you right smart now," said the fellow,
+grinning in her face with a wicked leer. "Your father told me as how he
+would be much obliged to me if I would stop my visits to his house,
+which, bein' a gentleman, I was bound to do, and as I had a little
+something to say to you, I thought this would be the time to say it."
+
+The girl, who had now somewhat recovered her composure, yet fully
+realizing the character of the man with whom she had to deal, stood
+quietly looking him full in the face, and said, in a tone that betrayed
+her contempt, "I suppose I must listen to you, sir, but be brief, as it
+is getting late, and my folks will be uneasy at my long absence."
+
+"Well, Miss Harcourt," he replied, "I will come to the point at once.
+You have a brother, who has been away from home fur some time. Do you
+know where he is?"
+
+Mary was silent, and he muttered, half to himself, "I thought so; the
+whole family are traitors. No more than is to be expected from these
+d--d abolitionists. I can tell you where he is," he continued; "he is on
+the other side, and fighting against the South."
+
+"And what if he is in the Federal army? He is fighting for the
+government you and yours are seeking to destroy," answered the spirited
+girl.
+
+"It don't matter much to me which side he fights on; but suppose I tell
+it around, that he is fighting with the Yankees, do you think it would
+matter to you then?"
+
+[Illustration: "_While she was struggling in his grasp, he was startled
+by a violent clutch upon his collar from behind._" P. 441.]
+
+"My brother is his own man," replied Mary, "and he alone is responsible
+for his acts; surely they would not harm my father and us for that; and
+surely you would not tell what you know, to injure us?"
+
+"That depends on you, Miss Mary," the fellow replied, now approaching
+closer, and attempting to take her hand.
+
+"What do you mean, you scoundrel?" demanded the girl, drawing back,
+while the fire flashed from her eyes. "Don't offer to touch me, Dan
+McCowan, or I'll----"
+
+"What would you do, now?" he exclaimed; and, before she was aware of his
+intentions, he had sprang quickly forward, seized her about the waist,
+and placed one hand over her mouth, but not until she had given one long
+and piercing call for help.
+
+The fellow's base designs were evident, and that he would have been
+successful there is no doubt; but help, fortunately, was at hand. While
+he was yet struggling with the girl, he felt a violent clutch on his
+collar, from behind, and before he could see from whence it came he was
+thrown violently to the ground, and was writhing under the well-directed
+kicks, which were most lavishly bestowed upon him by the new-comer, who
+was no less a personage than my operative George Curtis.
+
+The girl had sank to the ground almost fainting from fright, but so
+enraged was Curtis at the scene he had witnessed, that he continued to
+shower his kicks on the miserable wretch, who roared and begged for
+mercy, until the girl interposed, and begged him, for her sake, not to
+kill him, but to desist, and let him go.
+
+At this my operative ceased, more, however, from mere lack of breath
+than from a feeling that the fellow had been sufficiently punished, and
+allowed him to regain his feet. "You contemptible, cowardly brute," he
+exclaimed, as McCowan arose; "I have a mind to finish you, while I have
+my hand in. Miss," he continued, turning to the girl, "I am happy to
+have arrived in time to be of service to you. I do not know anything
+about this difficulty, but from what I saw, I concluded that I had not
+time to make any inquiries."
+
+"I am very grateful to you, sir, for what you have done in saving me
+from that villain. Look out!" she exclaimed, "he has a pistol."
+
+Curtis turned his head in time to see the fellow in the act of drawing a
+revolver. Quicker than a flash, his own weapon was in his hands, and
+covering the man, he said, coolly:
+
+"Drop your hands, you hell-hound, or I will blow you to atoms in a
+second."
+
+The fellow saw that he was foiled, and dropped his hands at his sides.
+
+Curtis advanced and disarmed him; then, stepping back a pace, he said:
+
+"Go now while I am in the humor to let you; another move like that, and
+I will shoot you as I would a dog."
+
+McCowan reluctantly obeyed, and slunk away muttering threats of
+vengeance.
+
+My operative, however, paid no attention to him now, but turned to the
+young lady who proceeded to relate the circumstance of her meeting with
+McCowan, from which his timely interference had saved her, and ended by
+a cordial invitation, blushingly given, that he would accompany her
+home, and spend the night under her father's roof. As he was anxious to
+find a lodging-place for the night, at any rate, the detective
+gratefully accepted the invitation, feeling such an interest in this
+really beautiful girl that he could not resist the desire to cultivate
+further the acquaintance, so strangely begun. He hastily brought his
+horse from where he had left him by the roadside, and leading him by the
+bridle, walked by the side of his companion until they reached the
+house. As they strolled along, Mary frankly told him the secret of
+McCowan's attack, and proceeded to explain the man's character, and the
+detestable nature of the business in which he was engaged.
+
+By this time, they had reached her father's house, where they were met
+at the gate by the old gentleman himself, who was alarmed and anxious at
+his daughter's absence so far beyond her usual time for return.
+
+"Father," said the girl, "this is"--here she paused, visibly
+embarrassed, and gazed timidly into the face of the detective.
+
+"Pardon me," said Curtis hastily, seeing the cause of her confusion; "my
+name is George Curtis; we have been so busy talking that I had not
+thought of names."
+
+She then introduced them, and briefly related to her father the cause of
+her detention, and her adventure with McCowan, not forgetting to mention
+the part my operative had played in her timely rescue from the villain's
+hands.
+
+The old man thanked him again and again, and so profusely, that Curtis
+begged that he would not mention it, as he had done nothing more than
+any gentleman, under the same circumstances, would have done, gone to
+the lady's rescue at her call for help.
+
+His horse was ordered to be taken to the barn, and he himself was soon
+seated in the house, receiving the tearful thanks of good Mrs. Harcourt,
+and the object of the admiring gaze of Mary's younger brother and
+sister, who regarded him as a hero, and a person who had no small claim
+on their affection and esteem.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+_Curtis Again on his Travels.--A Loving Episode.--Dan McCowan Again
+Turns Up.--The Capture of Curtis.--A Fight For Life, and Escape.--A Bit
+of Matrimony._
+
+
+The next day, my operative took his leave of the Harcourt family, and
+continued on his way to Richmond. He, however, gave them his promise,
+that he would visit them again before long, a promise he was in no wise
+loath to keep, as Mary had joined her request to that of her father,
+that he should not fail to give them a call, when he was in their
+vicinity.
+
+The truth was my operative, who was a very excellent young man, and,
+notwithstanding his calling, susceptible to the charms of the fair sex,
+was not a little smitten by the fair Mary, whom he had met under
+circumstances that would have caused even a less romantic person than
+himself to have fallen in love with her at once.
+
+On the other hand, the girl's feelings of gratitude and admiration for
+the young man, who had rescued her from McCowan's clutches, were those
+almost akin to love; but with true maidenly modesty, she simply treated
+him with that delicate courtesy that, while it showed plainly her high
+regard for him, yet it in no way overstepped the bounds of strict
+propriety. It was evident, however, that she regarded him as one who
+certainly had strong claims upon her friendship and esteem.
+
+Bidding them good-bye, then, Curtis took leave of the family, whom he
+had known but a single night, yet who, in that brief space, had grown to
+be like old acquaintances; and his regret on leaving them, was very much
+like that in parting from old and intimate friends.
+
+Taking the route by Glendale, he, towards evening, arrived at Richmond,
+without any event worthy of notice, and put up at Miller's Hotel.
+
+A few weeks later found him on his return to the Army of the Potomac,
+and in his possession important dispatches that he had obtained in the
+rebel capital. As he left Richmond, the news reached that city of the
+evacuation of Yorktown by the rebels, and their retreat up the peninsula
+towards Williamsburgh. The effect of these tidings was anything but
+encouraging to those who had hoped that a final and decisive battle
+would have been fought at Yorktown, and the further advance of the Union
+troops effectually checked.
+
+McClellan's vigorous preparations, however, for a protracted siege, had
+decided the rebels that it would be useless to risk a battle here, and
+they consequently determined to evacuate the place, which they did on
+the fifth of May, and by noon of the same day McClellan's army had
+broken camp and was in full pursuit. With such celerity did he make his
+movements, and so closely did he press the Confederates, that on the
+following day they were compelled to make a stand, and here was fought
+the battle of Williamsburgh, in which the rebels were defeated, and
+continued their retreat towards Richmond.
+
+The army of the Potomac now continued its advance, with all the rapidity
+the terrible condition of the roads would permit, having for its base of
+supplies the York River, until two weeks later it rested between the
+Pamunkey and the Chickahominy. It was at this stage of affairs on the
+Peninsula, that Curtis was on his return trip from Richmond. With his
+passes in his pocket, his dispatches securely concealed about him, and
+his trusty horse as his only companion, he set out for his long ride to
+Wilson's Landing, and the headquarters of the Union army.
+
+It was his purpose to stop by the way long enough to at least inquire
+after the health of the Harcourt family, and learn how they had fared
+during his absence. So, pushing rapidly ahead, towards the close of what
+had been a beautiful day in May, he, near nightfall, found himself at
+Farmer Harcourt's door, where he was most cordially welcomed.
+
+His jaded horse was led to the barn to be watered and fed, while he was
+soon resting his tired limbs in an easy chair, while waiting a tempting
+supper that was almost ready for an appetite keenly whetted by his long
+and hard day's ride.
+
+His object now, was to stop long enough to rest himself and horse, and
+then push on by night and endeavor to reach the Federal lines by
+daybreak. Mr. Harcourt informed him that they had not been molested by
+McCowan since his former visit, and that it was reported that he had
+formed a band of Guerrillas, and at their head was pillaging and robbing
+the people in an adjoining county.
+
+"He is an unscrupulous villain," observed the old gentleman, "and I
+confess I stand in no little dread that he may pay us a visit at any
+time, in which case, if we escape with our lives, we may consider
+ourselves fortunate. I have," he added, "fully made up my mind to take
+my family, leave my home here, and, if possible, go North, where a man
+of my way of thinking can live in security and peace. If I were younger,
+I would enlist, myself, but my fighting days are past."
+
+"I trust you may soon be able to get away from here," said Curtis; "and
+as the Union army is now advancing up the Peninsula, you can, I think,
+with little danger, make your way into its lines."
+
+He then informed him of the evacuation of Yorktown, and of the retreat
+of the Confederates, and advised him to hasten his arrangements to go
+North, while this opportunity afforded him a way to do so with safety.
+
+After the evening meal was over the family seated themselves on a
+pleasant little porch, that ran along one side of the old-fashioned
+house, facing the west, and in the deepening twilight they sat and
+talked over the trying times, and united in their wishes for a speedy
+termination of the fratricidal conflict.
+
+Thus the evening passed until near ten o'clock, when my operative
+informed his friends that he must take his departure, as he was
+determined, if possible, to reach the Union lines by daybreak.
+
+The whole family urged him to pass the night with them; but finding him
+bent on going, his horse was ordered to the door, and he prepared to
+take his leave.
+
+He shook hands with the good farmer and his wife, and looked anxiously
+around for Mary; surely she would bid him good-bye before he went away,
+but she was nowhere to be seen. He even lingered a few moments, hoping
+she would return; she did not, however, put in an appearance; so,
+leaving his regards for her with her parents, he mounted his horse, and
+with a heavy heart rode along down the long, narrow lane that led from
+the house to the main road.
+
+He could not understand why the girl should have absented herself just
+as he was taking his leave; could it be that he had in any way offended
+her, that she should avoid him on purpose? Revolving the matter in his
+mind, and feeling that hereafter he would take pains to avoid the
+Harcourt mansion, he now approached the terminus of the lane, still
+buried in thought, when his horse, becoming frightened, shied slightly
+to one side; hastily raising his eyes, he saw, to his amazement, the
+object of his thoughts standing by the roadside.
+
+He checked his horse, and, in a tone that betrayed his astonishment,
+exclaimed, "You here, Miss Mary!"
+
+"Yes," she answered, evidently a little confused, "I wanted to see you a
+little while alone. I trust you will pardon me for adopting the means I
+have to secure a short talk with you."
+
+By this time Curtis had dismounted, and was standing at her side.
+
+"Well, what is it, Miss Harcourt? I am happy to be at your service in
+any way in my power."
+
+"Thank you," she answered, hastily, "you have placed me under
+obligations to you, but I venture to-night to ask one favor more."
+
+"It is granted already," said Curtis.
+
+Thanking him again, she proceeded: "You know my brother is in the Union
+army, and I have not heard from him for several weeks; I wish you would
+try to get this letter to him, and, if it is not asking too much," she
+added, hesitatingly, "will you kindly bring me his reply, or at least
+some word that I may know he is safe and well?"
+
+Curtis took the letter from her hands, and, depositing it safely in an
+inside pocket of his coat, he said "I will do my best to deliver the
+letter, and, should I not return soon with an answer, you may know
+something unavoidable has detained me."
+
+As he stood there, gazing earnestly into the sweet face of his fair
+companion, a sudden purpose to then and there declare his love for her
+came into his mind. With him, to resolve was to act; extending his hand,
+he took hers in a friendly clasp, and said: "Miss Harcourt, I am going
+to bid you good-bye, with the hope of seeing you again very soon; but I
+will not conceal from you the fact, that, in the fortunes of war, it is
+possible that we may never meet again. Under these circumstances, then,
+I make bold to tell you to-night something that, ordinarily, I would not
+mention until your longer acquaintance with me would make it appear more
+proper, at least so far as society rules are concerned.
+
+"Miss Harcourt," he continued, still holding the hand that now lay
+passively in his, "in the short time I have known you I have learned to
+love you, and I am confident time only will strengthen that love. I do
+not ask your answer now; when we meet again, if we do, you can tell me
+my fate. If your answer then should be nay, I will try to bear it like a
+man, respecting you none the less even if I fail to win the love I would
+so highly prize. Good-bye, darling!" and lightly pressing her hand to
+his lips, he threw himself into his saddle, and giving his noble animal
+the rein, dashed away, leaving Miss Harcourt standing in a half-dazed
+manner, straining her eyes after his figure, that in the pale moonlight
+was rapidly disappearing from her view.
+
+Curtis now set off for the headquarters of the Union army. Our friend
+pushed on, and shortly after midnight arrived at the Landing, and from
+here faced about to the east, and in the direction of Williamsburgh,
+where the Union army, victorious in the battle just fought, were
+encamped.
+
+He now slackened his speed somewhat, to rest his jaded steed, and,
+dropping the reins, allowed him to take a moderate walk, while he
+himself fell into a deep reverie over the events of his trip.
+
+On this occasion he had been very successful in his work in the rebel
+capital, and had, so far, effectually escaped any suspicion as a spy.
+Considering the watchful vigilance that at this time was maintained by
+the rebels, Curtis had indeed done well; and it was with feelings of
+thorough satisfaction that now, near the close of his arduous journey,
+and when he felt reasonably secure from being molested, that he relaxed
+somewhat his usual vigilance, and allowed himself and animal a much
+needed rest.
+
+He was not, however, destined to get through so easily as he had
+anticipated. As he entered a small clump of timber, and while he was
+unsuspecting any danger at this nearness to the Union camp, two mounted
+men suddenly made their appearance from the side of the road, and from
+where they had been concealed in the bushes, and, holding their cocked
+weapons at his head, commanded him to halt.
+
+At the same instant, men came pouring in from both sides of the woods,
+that here skirted his path, and almost before he could realize his
+situation, or who were his assailants, he was overpowered, taken from
+his horse, and securely bound.
+
+He soon discovered his captors were a band of guerillas, who had been
+quartered in the grove, and he had by the merest chance stumbled right
+into their midst. While he was quickly debating in his mind his chances
+for escape, and his probable fate at their hands, he was led into the
+presence of the captain of the band, who, with a few of his followers,
+had evidently been sleeping about a camp-fire that had now burned low,
+leaving only a bed of glowing embers, that cast a faint light on the
+swarthy faces of the rough-looking men that now grouped yawningly about
+it awaiting his coming.
+
+"Who have you here," asked the Captain, as the party escorting Curtis
+came up.
+
+"Don't know, Capten," laconically answered one of the men; "we jest now
+found him and handed him in here without askin' him enny questions; but
+here he is, you can talk to him yourself."
+
+Curtis was now unbound, and led forward, and stood facing the Captain.
+As their eyes met, the recognition was mutual and instantaneous; in the
+man that stood before him, my operative recognized no less a personage
+than Dan McCowan, the man whom he had so unmercifully drubbed on a
+former occasion, which has already been described.
+
+At the same moment, McCowan saw who it was that had so unexpectedly
+fallen into his hands, and with a wicked laugh and a horrible oath, he
+sprang forward, and clutching him by the throat, exclaimed:
+
+"By G--d, I have been looking for you for some time; it is my turn now."
+
+It was evident that the fellow in his rage meant murder; but Curtis, who
+was both brave and cool, besides being strong and active, wrenched loose
+from his grip, and springing hastily backward, he dealt him, with the
+rapidity of lightning, a powerful blow between the eyes, that felled him
+like an ox. Then, before the lookers-on could scarcely realize what had
+taken place, he leaped over the form of the prostrate man, and
+disappeared in the darkness of the wood.
+
+The Captain by this time regained his feet, and showering curses upon
+his men for a pack of cowardly idiots, started off in pursuit, followed
+by a half a score of his fellows, who now, in order to conciliate their
+enraged leader, determined to retake the detective at all hazards.
+
+Fortunately for Curtis, he had been allowed to retain his weapons, and
+being fleet of foot, he had but little to fear.
+
+He soon succeeded in eluding his pursuers, and, shortly after daylight,
+found his way into the Union camp.
+
+He then reported to me with his dispatches from Richmond, and related
+his adventures here recorded.
+
+I ought to state, however, that he did not, at that time, inform me of
+his proposal to Miss Harcourt; but after remaining with me until the
+close of the war, during which time he made many trips to and fro
+between Richmond and the headquarters of the Federal army, after the
+struggle was ended and we both had retired to the life of a citizen, he,
+as a salesman in a business house in Chicago, I to my business as a
+detective in the same city, then it was he related the story of his
+courtship, and the manner in which he wooed and won the woman who was
+then, and still is, his wife. As for the Harcourt family, they made
+their way to the North, by the aid of my operative and young Harcourt,
+and the courtship between Curtis and the daughter was kept up until the
+close of the war, when they were married.
+
+I will also say, that they are still living happily together, surrounded
+by an interesting family of children, who with childlike eagerness
+clamber on their papa's knees to hear him tell them stories of the war,
+and his adventures before they were even born, a period that to them
+seems ages and ages ago.
+
+Dan McCowan was killed in an attack that his party, led by him, made on
+a band of our scouts, shortly after the occurrence of the incidents
+described in this chapter.
+
+I would fain have dwelt longer on the work of young Curtis, and noted
+more minutely the importance of his labors in the secret service, but a
+lack of space and time compel me here to drop him with the passing
+comment, that he was an excellent operative, and that he so faithfully
+and efficiently did his work, that the subterranean headquarters, with
+its corps of operatives, never did the Union cause any practical harm,
+but a great deal of good, in furnishing intelligence of the movements
+and intentions of the rebel forces.
+
+[Illustration: NIGHT ON THE BATTLE-FIELD.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+_McClellan and his Enemies.--The Peninsula Campaign.--The Rebel Forces
+Before Richmond.--The Union Forces Outnumbered by the Enemy, and their
+Commander Hampered By Superiors.--An Honest Opinion._
+
+
+It is not my purpose to attempt to detail the various movements of the
+army, to describe the battles which were fought, or to chronicle the
+victories and defeats which were achieved and sustained by the brave
+soldiers who fought under the flag of the Union. That duty belongs to
+the historian; mine simply to relate the experiences of my own men in
+the delicate, dangerous and laborious duties which devolved upon them.
+Far less is it my desire to enter into a discussion upon the various
+subjects that have, since that fratricidal conflict, engrossed the
+attention of the student of history.
+
+I trust, however, that I may be pardoned, if, for a time, I depart from
+the main narrative and devote a brief space to the consideration of that
+much discussed subject, the campaign of the Peninsula. I make no
+pretension whatever to being a military scholar, nor in any sense a
+military man, but my connection with the government during the war, and
+participation in the movements of the Army of the Potomac, together
+with my long and intimate acquaintance with its commander, General
+McClellan, may entitle me to a brief expression of my own views of that
+campaign. I may be pardoned, also, if I attempt to ascribe to their
+proper source, some of the causes which contributed largely to the
+disasters that attended it.
+
+There can be no doubt of the fact, that the young commander-in-chief was
+subjected to the persecutions of the most malignant political
+intriguers, who feared that his growing popularity would result in
+political exaltation. Taking advantage of the fact, therefore, that
+General McClellan was an avowed Democrat, a scheming cabal was working
+to weaken his influence with the people by vague insinuations against
+his loyalty to the Union cause. To further that end, his plans, so
+carefully and intelligently matured, for the speedy crushing of the
+rebellion, were either totally disregarded by an unfriendly cabinet, or
+were so frequently thwarted, that to successfully carry them out was an
+utter impossibility.
+
+As I have always been a faithful adherent of the maxim, "speak the
+truth, though the heavens fall," and believing it to be a doctrine, that
+if practically carried, will right all wrongs, uphold the innocent,
+administer censure where deserved, and praise where it is due, I have
+invariably attempted to form my judgment of my fellow-men upon their own
+intrinsic merits.
+
+Whatever may have been his faults as a man, his mistakes as a General,
+he was throughout unflinchingly loyal to the cause of the North. With
+him it was but one sentiment, and one ambition--to whip the rebels into
+subjection--and manfully did he perform his duty toward the
+accomplishment of that object. Much of the censure which has been heaped
+upon him and his conduct as Commander of the Army of the Potomac, is due
+to a hasty and inconsiderate judgment of the man and his motives, or the
+result of direct prejudice and ill-will. In the eyes of his critics his
+great fault lay in what they considered his inexcusable delay in moving
+against the enemy in the Spring of 1862, after, as they supposed, he had
+ample time to prepare his army for the field.
+
+From this point began the open and unfriendly criticisms which were
+designed to excite an impatient people, who did not, and could not,
+understand why active operations were not at once begun. This delay was
+adroitly used by scheming politicians to cast the shadow of disloyalty
+upon a man, who never for one moment entertained a disloyal thought, nor
+performed a single action which he did not believe would redound to the
+credit and honor of the Union troops, and of the Government which he
+served.
+
+My acquaintance with General McClellan began before the war, and when he
+was the Vice-President of the Illinois Central Railroad. That
+corporation had, on frequent occasions, employed my services in various
+operations affecting their interests, and in this way I first met and
+became associated with the General. From this date began my warm regard
+for the man, which, during the many years that have passed, has known no
+diminution.
+
+I knew the man so well, and my confidence in his integrity and
+patriotism was so thorough, that a doubt of his loyalty never entered my
+mind. Many of my old-line abolition friends went so far as to reproach
+me for my steadfast adherence to McClellan, and accused me of abandoning
+my principles. I, however, knew my own ground, and held it. I knew that
+the General was not an abolitionist, but that he was not a patriot I
+could not believe for a moment. I have always thought, and my opinion
+remains unchanged to this day, that had he been left free to carry out
+his plans in the Peninsula campaign, the Army of the Potomac would have
+escaped the disasters that befell it; Richmond would have been reduced,
+and occupied by the Federal troops; and victory instead of defeat would
+have crowned their heroic efforts from the river to the rebel seat of
+government.
+
+"How do you account for General McClellan's 'masterly inactivity' during
+all these months that his army lay at Washington?" is asked. Ah, there
+is the mistake. It was anything but inactivity, and it is beginning to
+be pretty generally understood now what he was doing at that time.
+
+More than one writer on the campaigns of the Civil War, has taken
+occasion to say that the splendid achievements of the Army of the
+Potomac at subsequent periods, and under other commanders, were mainly
+due to the careful drilling and the rigid discipline inculcated under
+McClellan. At the time he was called to the command of the army it was
+nothing better than a band of disorganized men, who had not recovered
+from the defeat of Bull Run, and whatever efficiency it attained, was
+accomplished by the indefatigable efforts of General McClellan and the
+officers under his command.
+
+The South, at the outbreak, was far better prepared for war than the
+North. For months preceding the election of Mr. Lincoln the people of
+the South were secretly preparing for a struggle. They had even then
+determined, if beaten by the ballot, to resort to the bayonet, and to
+decide upon the battle-field the questions which they failed to settle
+by fair discussion and honest legislation in the National Congress. The
+people of the North, on the contrary, being so long accustomed to submit
+to the expressed will of the majority, apprehended no danger. While they
+were keenly alive to the important nature of the issues presented in the
+campaign, they did not dream that the new party, if successful, would
+have a gigantic civil war on its hands as the result of its triumph in a
+contest peaceably decided by the silent yet all-powerful ballot. Resting
+in this fancied security from danger, the war was a surprise, for which
+they were but illy prepared.
+
+I need not detail the situation of affairs when the news flashed over
+the wires that Fort Sumter was fired upon. Suffice it do say, that the
+South was up in arms, in full preparation almost, before the North could
+realize that war was at hand.
+
+The first great battle of the war was fought, and the Union troops
+suffered a most humiliating defeat, falling back in disordered crowds
+upon Washington, and at this time General McClellan took command and
+brought order out of chaos.
+
+The community did not seem to consider, or to understand, that it was
+necessary to spend so much time in drilling the troops and making
+elaborate preparations for the field. But the commanding officer was too
+good a general to imitate the impetuous actions of his predecessors, and
+to make an aggressive campaign with raw and undisciplined troops. It was
+in consequence of this, that months were spent in the patient and
+persistent task of properly organizing, drilling and equipping his men
+for the field, and in the spring of 1862, when the army did move, in the
+language of the General, it was one "from which much was to be
+expected."
+
+Unfortunately, however, at the very outset, the General and the
+President had each matured a plan for the conduct of the war, and, in
+many respects, these were diametrically opposed to each other. At this
+point the question might be asked, whose plan should have been followed?
+
+By the Constitution, the President is the Commander-in-Chief of all the
+armies and the navy of the United States, and is, of course,
+_ex-officio_, the highest military authority in the land. "But if a
+President disclaims all knowledge of military affairs," as President
+Lincoln did, "it then becomes a question how far he should defer the
+conduct of a war to his appointed Commander-in-Chief, who is supposed to
+be chosen on account of his skill and sagacity in military matters, and
+upon his presumed fitness for the position."
+
+In President Lincoln's hesitation between the advice of his Generals in
+the field, and the views urged by his Cabinet lay the foundation of many
+of the blunders and mistakes of the war, the trouble being, as one
+writer affirms, that "instead of one mind, there were many minds
+influencing the management of military affairs." As the result of this
+there was a lack of concert and action between the two heads of the
+military department, and at the critical period of the campaign,
+McDowell's forces were held at Washington when McClellan expected him to
+re-enforce the army of the Potomac.
+
+Notwithstanding all that has been said and written upon this subject, I
+have no hesitation in expressing the opinion, that had not the President
+and his advisors, stood in such ungrounded fear for the safety of
+Washington, and had not withheld McDowell's forces at a time when their
+absence was a most serious blow to the plans of General McClellan, the
+close of the year would have seen the Rebellion crushed, and the war
+ended.
+
+At the commencement of the campaign I had an interview with General
+McClellan, and he expressed the utmost confidence in his ability,
+provided his plans were fully supported and carried out, to gain the
+objective point of the war, and to accomplish the reduction of the rebel
+capital. My force of operatives had been diligently at work in procuring
+what information that was possible of attainment, of the numbers of the
+enemy, and with such success that in March I was able to report the
+approximate strength of the rebel army at 115,500 men, apportioned about
+as follows:
+
+    At Manassas, Centerville and vicinity,            80,000
+    " Brooks' Station, Dumfries, &c.,                 18,000
+    " Leesburg,                                        4,500
+    In the Shenandoah Valley,                         13,000
+                                                     -------
+    Total,                                           115,500
+
+In gaining this important information, Timothy Webster, Pryce Lewis,
+John Scobell and a host of other efficient members of my force, some of
+whom have already been mentioned in these pages, deserve especial credit
+for their sleepless energy in prosecuting the work that had been
+assigned to them.
+
+On the 4th of April the forward movement was made, and the siege of
+Yorktown was begun. The result of this siege the student of history
+already knows, a simple detention of the Army of the Potomac, until the
+enemy could occupy and fortify Richmond. Here is where McClellan
+suffered from the detention of McDowell at Washington--he had prepared a
+plan with McDowell as one of its principal actors, and with that force
+withdrawn, the General's intentions were not only radically interfered
+with, but seriously deranged.
+
+During this time the rebel army was being daily reinforced and
+strengthened, until, by June 26th, its numbers were swelled to nearly
+200,000 effective men. McClellan, on the contrary, starting as he did,
+with a smaller army than he thought was necessary to cope with the
+enemy, found himself, when before their fortifications, after being
+deprived of McDowell's division, with an army of less than 90,000
+effective troops.
+
+Another element in this campaign must not be lost sight of. The Navy,
+whose co-operation and assistance had been promised and relied upon, was
+unable to aid him at all. Can it be wondered at, therefore, that his
+plans, however well laid, and whatever their merits, viewed from a
+military stand-point, or the stand-point of common sense, failed in
+their execution.
+
+One writer, in speaking of the treatment of General McClellan, has well
+said: "A general of high spirit and sensitive soul might have found in
+the government's action the occasion for sending in his resignation; but
+General McClellan continued in command, accepted the situation, and
+endeavored to make the best of it."
+
+And still another has said, although inclined to be partial and unfair,
+in his account of the battles of Antietam and Fredericksburg:
+
+"His capacity and energy as an organizer are universally recognized. He
+was an excellent strategist, and, in many respects, an excellent
+soldier. He did not use his own troops with sufficient promptness and
+vigor to achieve great and decisive results, but he was oftener
+successful than unsuccessful with them; and he so conducted affairs that
+they never suffered heavily without inflicting heavy loss upon their
+adversaries. It may appear a strange statement to follow the other
+matter which this volume contains, but it is none the less true, that
+there are strong grounds for believing that he was the best commander
+the Army of the Potomac ever had." Concluding a comparison, that
+redounds much to the credit of General McClellan, both as a soldier and
+a patriot, the same writer says:
+
+"A growing familiarity with his history as a soldier, increases the
+disposition to regard him with respect and gratitude, and to believe,
+while recognizing the limitations of his nature, that his failure to
+accomplish more was partly his misfortune, and not altogether his
+fault."
+
+General McClellan knew much better than some of his self-appointed
+critics the numbers and strength of the enemy. He knew from the reports
+of the secret service that the general estimate of the rebel army at,
+and around Richmond, was far below their real numbers.
+
+My shrewd and daring operatives, men and women trained for the work,
+moved in and out among the Rebel troops at all times and places. From
+actual observation they gathered the location, character and strength of
+their fortifications, and from actual count the estimates were made of
+the numerical strength of the opposing army.
+
+Suffice it to say, that I knew of my own knowledge, and General
+McClellan knew from the reports I laid before him, the fearful odds
+against which he had to contend in the bravely fought but disastrous
+campaign of the Peninsula.[C]
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[C] See detailed statement in Appendix.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+_Webster's Expedition.--His Gallantry.--A Stormy Passage.--A Mysterious
+Package.--Treason Discovered and Punished._
+
+
+It was Christmas morning, in Washington, and the bells were ringing
+merrily throughout the city. The sun was just peeping over the hills,
+and lighting up the winter landscape with a beauty and brilliancy that
+would defy the skill of an artist. Washington was alive with soldiers.
+Throughout the city the military was the predominating element, and for
+miles around the country was dotted with the white tents that marked the
+encampments of the country's defenders. Thousands of muskets gleamed in
+the morning light, as with the rattle of the drum or the shrill blast of
+the bugle, the _reveille_ awoke the hills and valleys from the
+death-like silence and slumber of the night.
+
+The Union army was encamped around the capital, and General McClellan
+was in command. For months the process of drilling and disciplining the
+volunteer troops had been going on under his watchful eye and masterful
+hand, and the "Army of the Potomac" was rapidly approaching a degree of
+efficiency that was eminently calculated to make them formidable
+adversaries to their reckless and determined enemies.
+
+This morning, at my headquarters on I street, Timothy Webster was
+engaged in completing his arrangements for another extended journey into
+Rebeldom. By this time he had succeeded in thoroughly ingratiating
+himself into the favor of the rebel authorities, and at the War
+Department in Richmond he was regarded as a trusted emissary of the
+Confederate government.
+
+Upon the trips which he had previously made he had carried numerous
+letters from Northern residents to their secessionist relatives in the
+South, and then, upon returning, he had delivered communications from
+Southern people to individuals north of the line. Of course these
+letters and communications, before being delivered to the parties to
+whom they were addressed, were first submitted to the inspection of
+trusted employees of my office, and anything which tended to convey
+information of the movements and intentions of the Southern leaders was
+carefully noted, and the Federal authorities duly notified. By this
+means a double purpose was served. Webster not only won the entire
+confidence of the Southern authorities, but he was very frequently the
+bearer of important dispatches, whose contents were often valuable to
+the Northern leaders.
+
+After finishing his preparations, Webster came into my room, where Mr.
+Bangs and I were seated, and announcing his readiness to start, inquired
+if I had any further orders for him.
+
+"I am ready now, Major," said he, cheerily, "have you any further
+commands?"
+
+"No, Webster," said I, "I believe everything has been carefully
+arranged, and I have no commands to give except for you to take good
+care of yourself."
+
+"I'll try to do that," he replied with a laugh, and then, tapping his
+breast lightly, where his letters were sewed into the lining of his
+waistcoat, "I will take care of my mail too."
+
+With a warm clasp of the hand, and a hearty good-bye, Webster went out
+into the bright sunlight and frosty air of a winter's morning, and was
+soon lost to view.
+
+Procuring a conveyance, Webster left Washington, passing the guards
+without difficulty, and made his way toward Leonardstown, in Maryland.
+This journey was accomplished without event or accident, and early on
+the following morning, he drove up before the hotel, and was warmly
+greeted by John Moore, the landlord of the hostelry at that place.
+
+This Moore was a strong secessionist at heart, although openly
+professing to be a Union man, and regarding Webster as a Southern
+emissary his greeting was always cordial, and his hospitality unstinted.
+The air was cold and frosty, and riding all night in a stagecoach, which
+was far from being weather-proof, Webster was chilled through when the
+stage stopped before the comfortable inn of John Moore. Very soon,
+however, a jug of steaming punch, and the genial warmth from a fire of
+crackling logs in the large open fire-place, were instrumental in
+loosening the stiffened joints of my tired operative, and contributing
+materially to his comfort.
+
+"Well, John," said Webster at length, "what is the prospect for crossing
+the river to-night?"
+
+"We can't cross here at all any more, Webster," replied Moore, with an
+oath; "the damned Yankees are too sharp for us."
+
+"Is there no way of getting over about here at all?" asked Webster,
+somewhat troubled at the unexpected information.
+
+"There's a way for some people," replied Moore with a laugh, and a
+significant wink, "and I guess you are included in the number."
+
+"All right," said Webster, immeasurably relieved, "but how do we manage
+it?"
+
+"Well," replied Moore, "you will have to go up to Cob Neck, and then I
+will see that you are taken care of."
+
+Cob Neck is a point of land extending out from the main shore, about
+fourteen miles distant from Leonardstown, and was very well adapted for
+the purpose in view. On each side of the point, or neck, there was a
+wide bay or inlet where a boat could put out, and the ground, which was
+soft and marshy, was completely covered with a growth of pine thickets
+and underbrush, which prevented the placing of vigilant pickets at this
+point. Being perfectly acquainted with the locality named, Webster had
+no fears of being able to get safely across the Potomac into Virginia,
+and then continuing his way to the rebel capital.
+
+"By the way," said Moore, "I have a favor to ask of you, Webster."
+
+"Well," replied Webster, "anything I can do will be cheerfully done for
+you, Moore."
+
+"I know that, Webster," said Moore, heartily, "and there is no one in
+the world I would rather oblige than you. The fact is, I have got two
+ladies here, who are wives of army officers, now stationed in Richmond,
+they have been living North for some time, and are anxious to get to
+their husbands; they have three children with them, and I want you to
+take charge of the party, and see them safely on their way."
+
+"I'll do that with pleasure," replied Webster, "and I'll take good care
+of them, too."
+
+That night, about nine o'clock, a close-covered carriage was driven away
+from the hotel, in the direction of Cob Neck. John Moore and Timothy
+Webster sat on the driver's seat, while within were the families of the
+rebel officers, who had been placed in my operative's charge. Reaching
+their destination in safety, the party alighted, and walking out to the
+end of the point, Moore uttered a shrill whistle, which was immediately
+answered in the same manner. Soon they heard the splashing of oars, and
+in a few minutes a boat was discernable through the darkness, and the
+voice of a man called out:
+
+"Here I am, Cap'n! on time, as ye see."
+
+"All right, Tom," replied Moore, "I've got a party here that you must
+take good care of."
+
+"Very well, Cap'n, I'll do the best I can, but I'm afraid the wind ain't
+right for landin' on t'other side."
+
+"Well," said Moore, "you must do your best, and I guess you will get
+over all right."
+
+The night was dark and cold, the wind was blowing sharp and chill, and
+heavy clouds were shifting overhead. The river was running swiftly, and
+was of that inky blackness that invariably presages a storm. The wind
+through the low pines was sighing like a human being in distress, and
+the ladies gazed fearfully and shudderingly at the dark waters and the
+frail craft which was to carry them to the opposite shore. Webster
+uttered words of courage and assurance to the shrinking ladies, and
+assisted in comfortably bestowing them in the boat, and then, with a
+parting salutation to John Moore, the boat pushed off from the shore.
+
+After getting clear of the land they hoisted sail, and were soon flying
+rapidly over the water, before the driving wind. As the wind was against
+them, they were obliged to make short and frequent tacks, and thus
+their approach to the opposite shore was accomplished by slow and
+labored degrees. The ladies were huddled together in the stern, clasping
+their frightened children nervously in their arms, while Webster, active
+and alert, rendered such assistance in managing the boat as was in his
+power.
+
+"The storm's coming!" shouted the boatman, after a long silence, "and
+the women had better cover up."
+
+The storm came, sure enough. A blinding rain, icy cold, which beat
+pitilessly down upon the unprotected voyagers, while the little vessel
+rocked to and fro at the mercy of the dashing waves. The wind suddenly
+changed, the frail yacht gave a sudden lurch, and in a twinkling the
+keel of the boat was heard scraping upon the bottom of the river, and
+they were aground. They had been blown out of their course, and had
+drifted into the shallow water, a mile below their landing place, and
+within a hundred feet of the shore.
+
+Without a moment's hesitation, Webster bade the boatman lower his sail,
+and then, jumping into the water, which was waist deep, and as cold as
+ice, he took two of the children in his strong arms, and carried them
+safely to the river-bank. Returning again, he assisted in carrying the
+ladies and the remaining child ashore, although he was so chilled that
+his lips were blue and his knees knocked together with the cold. The
+nearest place of shelter was a mile away, but unmindful of the cold and
+the pelting storm, Webster cheered his companions by his hearty words,
+and bidding the boatman take care of one of the children, he picked up
+another, and the weary party set out to walk through the icy rain to the
+little hut, whose welcome light was gleaming in the distance.
+
+[Illustration: "_Webster took two of the children in his strong arms,
+and carried them safely to the bank._" P. 474]
+
+Thanks to a flask of good brandy, which Webster fortunately had with
+him, the ladies were strengthened and sustained sufficiently to make the
+journey; and when they arrived at last at the comfortable cabin, their
+words of gratitude to Webster were heartily and unstintingly uttered.
+
+After warming themselves before the fire, and drying their drenched and
+dripping garments as far as practicable, the ladies retired to another
+room, leaving Webster, who, overcome with fatigue, was obliged to sleep
+in his wet clothing in the room to which they were first admitted.
+Unmindful of himself, however, his only solicitude was for the ladies
+who had been placed in his charge, and after they had been comfortably
+disposed of, he prepared to take his own much-needed rest.
+
+He spread a blanket before the roaring blaze, and was about to stretch
+his weary limbs upon it, when he noticed, lying upon the floor, a short
+distance from him, a small packet, wrapped in oiled-cloth, and tied with
+red tape. It had evidently been dropped by one of the ladies, and its
+loss had escaped her notice. Picking it up, he examined it carefully by
+the light of the fire, and to his surprise he found that it was directed
+to Mr. Benjamin, the Rebel Secretary of War. As "all things are fair in
+love and war," Timothy lost no time in secreting the precious document
+about his own person. He had no objection at all to assisting two ladies
+to reach their husbands, even if they were enemies; but he objected
+decidedly to lend his aid to the forwarding of dangerous information to
+those who were fighting against the cause he held so dear. His
+conscience, therefore, gave him but little uneasiness as he pocketed the
+mysterious little packet, and with the resolve to discover its contents
+on the morrow, he stretched himself before the burning logs, and was
+soon sound asleep.
+
+The next morning, when he arose, his clothing was dry, but he
+experienced acute pains in his limbs, and a sense of weariness, that
+boded no good to his physical condition. Ignoring his own ailments,
+however, he busied himself in securing the comfort of his charges, and
+after a hearty breakfast, the party set out upon their trip to Richmond.
+They traveled for several miles in an ox-cart, and then by team, to a
+place called Hop Yard Wharf, on the Rappahannock River. Here the party
+embarked on a steamboat, and traveled as far as Fredericksburg, where
+Webster was obliged to remain for two days, owing to an acute attack of
+rheumatism, which was caused by his exposure in behalf of the ladies,
+whose safety he had undertaken to insure. At this time he received a
+striking illustration of the gratitude which one earns by the
+performance of a kindly act of self-sacrifice. No sooner had the boat
+landed at Fredericksburg, than these ladies expressed their impatient
+desire to push on directly to the rebel capital. Notwithstanding
+Webster's precarious condition, the danger in leaving him alone, and the
+fact that his sufferings had been occasioned by his efforts in their
+behalf, these high-toned Southern dames, intent only upon their selfish
+pleasures, left him to his own resources, and without displaying the
+slightest interest in his welfare they went their way, and Webster,
+unable to move himself, was obliged to depend upon the services of
+absolute strangers, for that care and attention of which he stood in so
+much need.
+
+[Illustration: _Webster discovers a mysterious package._ P. 475.]
+
+It was while he was detained at Fredericksburg, that he seized the
+opportunity of examining the package, which had come into his possession
+in the little cabin at Monroe's Creek. Removing the enfolding wrappers,
+he discovered that the contents of the bundle were complete maps of the
+country surrounding Washington, with a correct statement of the number
+and location of the Federal troops. Several items of information were
+also conveyed, in regard to the probable intentions of the Union
+Commanders in the coming spring. From the nature of this information, it
+was evident that a trusted officer of the Federal government was
+unfaithful to his duty, and was assisting the enemies of the country.
+Webster congratulated himself upon the lucky chance which had thrown
+this little packet in his way, and he resolved to forward the same to me
+at the first opportunity that occurred.
+
+On the second day, though suffering severely, he was able to resume his
+journey, and taking the train at Fredericksburg he was soon approaching
+the City of Richmond. Immediately upon his arrival, he repaired to the
+office of the Secretary of War, and delivered the letters which he had
+brought with him from the North, and which were to be forwarded to their
+various addresses by the Confederate authorities. Mr. Benjamin warmly
+congratulated Webster upon his success in passing through the Union
+lines, and for the information which he brought. He furnished him with
+passports, which would enable him to journey unrestricted and
+unquestioned throughout the Southern dominions, and requested a further
+interview at a later day.
+
+Leaving the War Department, he went to the Monumental Hotel, where he
+engaged a room for himself, and where he found Mrs. Lawton, who had
+remained in the city during his absence. Mrs. Lawton informed Webster
+that she had just received a visit from Mr. Stanton, another of my
+operatives, who had arrived in Richmond from Nashville, Tenn., and that
+he was going to attempt to leave for Washington that night.
+
+This was a lucky chance, and Webster resolved to see Stanton, and
+entrust to him the conveyance of the packet that had so fortunately come
+into his hands. Knowing the places at which he would be most apt to be
+found, he made a tour of the city, and was at length fortunate enough to
+discover the man he was in search of. Selecting a secluded place,
+Webster confided his package to Stanton, instructing him to deliver it
+to no one but myself under any circumstances, and then, feeling the need
+of rest, he went back to the hotel, and shortly afterward retired to
+bed. The next day he was unable to move. His sufferings were
+excruciating, and for weeks he was compelled to endure the agonies of an
+acute attack of inflammatory rheumatism, which confined him a prisoner
+to his bed.
+
+Leaving Webster at the Monumental Hotel, we will return to the movements
+of my operative, who had been delegated to deliver the package which
+Webster had found. Mr. Stanton arrived safely in Washington, and after
+rendering a report of his own observations upon his journey from
+Nashville to Washington, he produced this packet of Webster's, a careful
+examination of its contents revealed to me the author of the treasonable
+communications.
+
+His name was James Howard, a native of the South, and he was a clerk in
+the Provost-Marshal's office. I had frequently seen his handwriting, and
+knew it perfectly. There could be no possibility of mistake about this,
+and I lost no time in laying before the commanding officer, the proof
+of the suspected man's guilt. Howard was confronted with the evidence
+against him, and finding it impossible to deny the truth, he confessed
+his treason, and implicated several others in the conspiracy. Before the
+shades of night had fallen over the tented city, James Howard, and his
+treasonable confederates, were placed within the enfolding walls of the
+old capital prison, and behind iron bars were left to meditate upon the
+heavy price they had paid for an attempt to betray their country.
+
+[Illustration: "HAIL COLUMBIA!"]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+_Activity in Washington.--Webster's Journey Through The South.--His
+Return to the Capital._
+
+
+During the month of January, 1862, I was actively engaged in the city of
+Washington. With a part of my force, I was acting in conjunction with
+General Andrew Porter, the Provost-Marshal of the district, while the
+remaining portion was assisting General McClellan in obtaining reliable
+information about the topography of the Southern country, and of the
+number and disposition of the Southern troops.
+
+Almost every day witnessed some incident of importance to the national
+cause, and my time was fully occupied with the numerous and responsible
+duties which necessarily devolved upon me. Mr. George H. Bangs, who is
+now the general superintendent of my agencies, was detailed to the
+headquarters of the army, while I remained in charge of my office on "I"
+street, although I was kept fully informed by daily reports of whatever
+transpired at both places. As may readily be imagined, my office was no
+sinecure. Many times I was obliged to deprive myself of needed rest and
+sleep, engaged in laborious duties from early morn far into the waking
+hours of the succeeding day, and for weeks scarcely obtaining a peaceful
+night's slumber. The capital was filled with suspicious personages, with
+Southern spies, and their Northern allies, and frequently officers of
+the government, holding elevated positions, would be discovered in
+secret, but active correspondence with the rebel authorities. Arrests
+were numerous, and the searching of suspected premises of almost daily
+occurrence, while the large number of men employed by me required
+constant and unceasing personal surveillance.
+
+In the army it was astonishing what rapid progress had been made in
+drilling and disciplining the large, and, for the most part, untried
+force of soldiery. The commanding general was engaged in perfecting his
+plans for a campaign against Richmond, and in order to do this
+intelligently, much information was required of the condition of the
+country through which the army must pass, and of the number of the enemy
+he would be likely to encounter. The obstacles that must be overcome,
+the defenses which would impede his passage, and all the minutia of
+warlike particularities, were mainly left to be discovered by the men in
+the secret service department, of which I was the authorized leader, and
+responsible head. Engaged in these duties the month of January passed
+away. Numerous operatives had been dispatched into the hostile country
+before us, and had made their examinations, and returned, conveying to
+me and to the commanding general items of valuable information which
+could have been obtained in no other way.
+
+We will now follow the movements of Timothy Webster, whom we left in
+Richmond struggling with his old and relentless enemy, the rheumatism.
+
+After a painful confinement to his bed for nearly a week, he was at last
+able to move about once more, and in a few days thereafter was strong
+enough to undertake a journey which he had been contemplating for some
+time.
+
+In company with one of the largest contractors for the rebel government,
+he left Richmond for Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Campbell, the contractor,
+was engaged in the purchase of leather and desirous of purchasing
+directly from the tanner, instead of depending upon the dealers, who
+might not be able to supply him in such quantities as he required.
+Traveling with this gentleman, and armed as he was, with an all powerful
+passport from the Secretary of War, Webster would have every opportunity
+for making his observations without incurring the slightest suspicion.
+During this journey he traveled through Knoxville, Chattanooga and
+Nashville, in Tennessee, then to Bowling Green, in Kentucky, and then,
+on his return, he passed through Manassas and Centreville, carefully
+noting in his passage through the country the number and condition of
+the various troops, the number and extent of batteries and
+fortifications, and eliciting an amount of information that seemed
+wonderful for one man to accomplish. He made the acquaintance of
+commanding officers, and conversed unreservedly with them upon the
+various matters connected with their divisions, and their movements,
+present and perspective. He carefully examined the fortifications that
+had been erected, and the number of guns they contained. He talked with
+the private soldier and the civilian, and in fact, on his return to
+Richmond, was as well informed with regard to the military resources of
+the enemy as were the generals themselves. Rejoiced at his success, and
+carefully noting what he had witnessed, Webster prepared to return
+North.
+
+Visiting the War Department and the office of the Provost-Marshal, he
+received from Mr. Benjamin and General Winder a large number of letters
+and several important commissions, which were to be delivered and
+attended to after he should arrive in Washington and Baltimore.
+
+Leaving Richmond, he safely passed the pickets and outposts of both
+Federals and rebels, and reported to me. His trip had been a most
+important and successful one, and the information he brought was most
+invaluable. Webster seemed as well pleased at his success as were either
+General McClellan or myself, and after a short rest announced himself as
+quite prepared to make another journey to the South, whenever his
+services should be required.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+_Webster's Last Mission.--Anxiety at his Long Absence.--No Tidings of
+the Faithful Scout.--Operatives Sent in Search of him.--Webster Ill in
+Richmond._
+
+
+In the latter part of January, 1862, another packet of rebel mail matter
+had accumulated, and the various articles, which Webster had agreed to
+purchase for the residents of Richmond and vicinity, were ready for
+delivery, and Webster prepared himself for another journey into the
+South. While in Washington he had not experienced any painful reminders
+of his old disease, and he was impatient to be actively employed once
+more.
+
+Accordingly, everything was arranged for his trip, and early one bright
+winter's morning he came, as was his custom, to bid me farewell.
+
+I often recall, and with an emotion that I cannot control, the
+appearance of Timothy Webster, as I saw him that day. Brave, strong and
+manly, he stood before me. The merry twinkle in his eyes seemed to belie
+the sternness of the set lips, which were even now curved with a smile
+of good humor. No trace of fear or hesitancy was apparent in his manner.
+He seemed to be animated solely by an earnest desire to serve his
+country to the best of his ability. He well knew, as did I, that his
+journey lay through a hostile country; that danger was lurking
+everywhere around him, and that if his true character was discovered,
+the consequences would, no doubt, prove fatal to him. Notwithstanding
+this, there was no quivering of the compact muscles, the hand that
+grasped mine was as firm as iron, and the brave heart that throbbed in
+his bosom was insensible alike to a thought of shrinking, or a desire to
+evade, the responsibility that devolved upon him.
+
+After a few words of necessary caution and with good wishes for his
+welfare and safe return, Timothy Webster took his departure, and went
+his way. I did not know then that I had looked upon his face and manly
+form for the last time, and no hint or warning of his subsequent fate
+came to me as I sat watching his retreating figure. But to this day, I
+can picture him with sentiments of pride, in his valor and services, and
+regrets, deep and heartfelt, for the brave man who but a few months
+afterwards laid down his life for his country.
+
+For some time previous to this journey of Webster's, Mrs. Lawton had
+been located at Leonardstown, where she had assiduously cultivated the
+acquaintance of the most important people in that locality, whose
+sympathies were with the Southern cause, and whose assistance to Webster
+and herself would be valuable in time of need.
+
+Among this number was a man whose name was Washington Gough, a wealthy
+secessionist, who was one of the most active in his efforts to assist
+the Southern blockade-runners in crossing over into Virginia, and in
+eluding the watchfulness of the Federal pickets. Through her
+acquaintance with this man, Mrs. Lawton was enabled to acquire much
+valuable information from those who sought the aid of Mr. Gough in
+obtaining the facilities for reaching the rebel lines in safety.
+
+With Gough, Webster was a prime favorite, and so thoroughly had my
+operative ingratiated himself into the favorable opinion of this rebel
+gentleman, that any service which would be required would be performed
+without question or delay. Mrs. Lawton was invited to make the house of
+Gough her home, while in Leonardstown, and by her charms of manner and
+conversation proved a powerful ally to Webster in the discovery of
+important secrets relating to the movements and intentions of the enemy.
+
+Webster's footing with the rebel authorities was also firmly
+established, and every one of them with whom he came in contact yielded
+to the magic of his blandishments and was disposed to serve him whenever
+possible.
+
+An event which happened about this time fully justified this assertion.
+It appeared that during Webster's absence from Leonardstown, a gentleman
+by the name of Camilear had crossed over the river, and although a
+noted secessionist in his own immediate vicinity, was not known to any
+one upon the other side of the water. He was accordingly arrested and
+placed in confinement. The appeals of his friends and relatives were
+unavailing in securing his release, and the captive chafed terribly
+under the burden of his captivity. At length, on Webster's appearance,
+the matter was presented to him, and he was entreated by Camilear's
+relatives to intercede in his behalf. He promised to do so, and indited
+a letter to the officer who had the prisoner in charge, requesting his
+release, and giving assurances of the man's fealty to the Confederate
+government. In a few days the prisoner was returned to his home, and was
+informed by the officer, that only the protestations made by Webster had
+been sufficient to accomplish his release. From the highest to the
+lowest, the confidence in Webster was universal.
+
+On this last mentioned trip Webster decided to take Mrs. Lawton with
+him, and having obtained my sanction to his proposition, he journeyed to
+Leonardstown and communicated his wishes to the lady, who was nothing
+loath to accompany him. They accordingly made their preparations, and in
+the darkness of the night they made their way to the river-bank where an
+oyster boat was in waiting to cross the river. Mrs. Lawton wore an
+overcoat and felt hat belonging to Webster, and to a casual observer
+appeared very masculine in her habiliments. The river was entirely
+clear of vessels, and the journey was made in perfect safety. As they
+neared the opposite bank the moon shone out brightly, and revealed the
+"pungy" to the rebel pickets, who were known by Webster, and from whom
+he expected no interference or opposition.
+
+The lights on shore revealed the stations of these pickets, and as they
+were expecting his return Webster called out loudly: "Pickets!
+Pickets!!"
+
+There was no response to this call, and to his dismay the lights were
+suddenly extinguished. The boatman was greatly frightened at this
+proceeding, and was in momentary dread of being fired upon; but Webster
+reassured him, and continued his loud, but ineffectual calls for the
+guard.
+
+Finding it impossible to attract the attention of those who should have
+been upon the lookout for him, Webster assisted the boatman in landing
+their trunks, after which the "pungy" was pushed off from the shore, and
+soon afterwards disappeared in the darkness.
+
+Webster and his companion wandered about for more than an hour, and it
+was nearly midnight when they came to a farm house, where their approach
+was heralded by the loud barking of numerous dogs, who were aroused by
+the unwonted presence of human beings, and were disposed to resent their
+approach.
+
+The noise of the dogs brought the farmer to his door, who demanded, in
+no very gentle terms, to know who they were, and what had brought them
+there at that unseasonable hour. In a few words Webster explained the
+situation, and the genial farmer bade them welcome, and safely bestowed
+them for the night.
+
+They had scarcely retired, when they were aroused by a loud knocking at
+the door, which was discovered to have been made by the pickets from the
+adjoining camp, who demanded to know who the new-comers were, and stated
+that they had been ordered to bring them immediately before an officer
+of the guard, two miles away.
+
+"Why didn't you tell them that, when they called out to you before?"
+inquired the farmer, in a contemptuous tone.
+
+"Well we did not know who they were," answered the leader of the party,
+"and we did not think it was safe."
+
+"Oho! you were afraid of them, were you, and ran away?"
+
+At this point, Webster, who had heard the conversation, made his
+appearance at the door, and demanded to know what was wanted.
+
+The leader of the guard again explained his mission, and demanded that
+Webster should accompany him to the camp.
+
+"Tell your commander that I will not stir from this house until morning.
+My name is Timothy Webster. I am in the employ of the Confederacy, and
+if you had answered my call, there would have been no difficulty."
+
+Finding that Webster was determined, the men went away, and left the
+household to their repose. The next morning Webster reported at the
+camp, and requested to see Major Beale, the officer in command. He was
+informed, that this gentleman was stationed twenty miles away, and upon
+telegraphing to him, the answer was returned: "Let Webster go where he
+pleases."
+
+The day was cold and stormy, and the roads were in a wretched condition,
+but notwithstanding this Webster pushed on to Fredericksburg, and after
+delivering some letters and merchandise which he had brought for
+residents there, he pushed on to Richmond.
+
+Taking up their quarters at the hotel, they resolved to wait until the
+following day before commencing their operations. During the night,
+however, Webster's malady returned, and he suffered terribly from his
+old enemy, the rheumatism. In the morning he was helpless, and unable to
+move.
+
+From this time, I heard nothing further from him directly, and for weeks
+was utterly ignorant of his movements or condition. I began to grow
+alarmed. Hitherto, his visits had not occupied more than three or four
+weeks, and he had always succeeded in escaping suspicion, and evading
+being detained by either force through which he would necessarily be
+obliged to pass. As the days and weeks passed, and brought no tidings
+from him, my apprehensions became so strong that I resolved to send one
+or two of my men to the rebel capital, in order to ascertain the cause
+of his unusual and long-continued absence.
+
+My anxiety was equally shared by General McClellan, with whom Webster
+was a great favorite, and who placed the utmost reliance upon his
+reports. One evening, early in February, the General called upon me, and
+advised the sending of one messenger, or two, for the sole purpose of
+hunting up Webster, or discovering some trace of him. I informed him
+that I had already considered the necessity of some such action, and was
+upon the point of submitting the matter for his approval. Finding the
+General thus fully in accord with the proposition, I at once selected
+two of my men for this important mission. After mature consideration, I
+decided upon despatching Price Lewis and John Scully upon this delicate
+quest. My reasons for this selection, were that both Scully and Lewis
+had been connected with other operations in Baltimore, in company with
+Webster, and had thus been enabled to form the acquaintance of a great
+number of secessionists in that city, some of whom had gone South, while
+others, who remained at home, had influential friends in Richmond.
+During these operations, both Lewis and Scully had pretended the most
+earnest and sincere sympathy for the cause of the Confederacy, and were
+known as ardent secessionists. This, I concluded, would materially
+assist them after reaching Richmond, particularly if they should be
+fortunate enough to meet any of their old Baltimore associates. They had
+also been engaged upon various investigations through the Southern
+States, and especially in Western Virginia, where they had rendered good
+service in the early campaigns in that section of the country. I had,
+therefore, no doubt of their ability to perform the task assigned to
+them, and felt perfectly satisfied that they would perform their duties
+to the best of that ability.
+
+Requesting their presence in my private office, I broached the matter to
+them, and submitted the question of their undertaking this task to their
+own election. Upon operations of this kind, where there was danger to be
+incurred, where a man literally took his life into his own hands, and
+where death might be the result of detection, I invariably placed the
+question upon its merits, before the person selected for the mission,
+and then allowed him to decide for himself, whether he would voluntarily
+undertake its accomplishment.
+
+I did this for various reasons. In the first place, I felt very loath to
+peremptorily order a man upon an enterprize where there was every
+possibility of danger, for in the event of fatal result, I should be
+disposed to reproach myself for thus endangering the lives of those
+under my command. It is true, that under their terms of service, and by
+virtue of the authority vested in me, I had the undoubted right to issue
+such order; but I always preferred that my men should voluntarily, and
+without urging, signify their willingness to undertake hazardous
+missions. Again, I have invariably found, that the ready and cheerful
+officer performs the most acceptable service, and that the absence of
+fear or hesitation are sure passports to success; while on the other
+hand, should there be timidity or unwillingness, or a disposition to
+avoid danger, success is rarely, if ever, attained.
+
+It is but just, however, to state that during my entire connection with
+the secret service of the government, I never found any of my men
+disinclined to undertake an operation that was delegated to them; but on
+the contrary, I always experienced the utmost cheerfulness and ready
+support from those who so valiantly served under my orders. Nor was I
+disappointed in the present instance. On presenting the case, with all
+its attendant dangers, to Price Lewis and John Scully, both of them
+signified, without the slightest hesitation, their voluntary desire to
+go to Richmond, and to make the inquiries, which were considered of so
+much importance by both General McClellan and myself.
+
+But few instructions, and very little preparation, were required for
+this journey, and in the afternoon both men were prepared to start. I
+did not deem it advisable to provide them with any goods, as was
+sometimes the case, in order to furnish an excuse for their
+blockade-running experiences, for the reason that their journey would be
+much delayed, owing to the impassability of many of the roads. I did,
+however, cause a letter to be written, apparently by a rebel spy, then
+in Washington, and which was directed to Webster. This letter introduced
+the two men to Webster as friends of the South, and informed him that
+his old route back was no longer a safe one, owing to the presence of
+Federal troops in that locality, and advising him to select some other
+and less hazardous one on his return to Washington. I did this to guard
+against their being suspected and detained after reaching the rebel
+lines, as, upon presenting this, they would at once be known as Southern
+emissaries, and given safe conduct to the capital. Provided with this
+letter, and with full verbal instructions as to their manner of
+proceeding, they started from Washington late on the evening of the 14th
+of February. As an additional safeguard, I sent along with them an
+operative by the name of William H. Scott, who was well acquainted with
+the various Federal commanders, and who was to see them safely across
+the Potomac river.
+
+The three men departed in good spirits, and, though fully conscious of
+the danger before them, thoroughly resolved to successfully accomplish
+what they had undertaken.
+
+Prior to despatching these men, I had some misgivings that there might
+be still remaining in Richmond some of those families who, while
+residing in Washington, had been suspected of sympathizing with, or
+furthering the cause of the Confederacy, and whose papers had been
+seized, and themselves transported beyond the lines. Among the most
+noted of these were the families of Mrs. Phillips, of South Carolina,
+and of Mrs. Ex-Gov. Morton, of Florida, who had been residing in
+Richmond for a short time. To satisfy myself upon this point, I made
+extensive inquiries from deserters, refugees and contrabands, and
+learned, from a variety of sources, that Mrs. Phillips had gone to
+Charleston, and that Mrs. Morton and her family had departed for their
+home in Florida. Believing my information to be reliable, I felt
+reassured, and then the men were selected.
+
+While these men were making their way to Richmond, Webster was suffering
+excruciating pain, confined to his bed, and unable to move. During all
+this time, he was carefully attended and nursed by my resident
+operative, Mrs. Hattie Lawton, and through the long, weary days and
+sleepless nights, no patient ever had more careful nursing, or more
+tender consideration than did Timothy Webster, from the brave
+true-hearted woman who had dedicated her life and her services to the
+cause of her country and its noble defenders.
+
+This was the state of affairs on the last day of January, and when the
+information which Webster had gained would have been of vast importance
+and benefit to the cause of the Union, but which, lying an agonized
+invalid in a Richmond hotel, he was unable to communicate to those who
+were anxiously awaiting his return. And now, leaving Webster at
+Richmond, and with Price Lewis and John Scully on their way to the rebel
+capital, we will return to Washington, and watch the events which were
+transpiring at the capital.
+
+[Illustration: EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+_McClellan and the Government.--Lewis and Scully Arrested as Spies.--An
+Attempted Escape.--Trial and Conviction.--Condemned to Die.--Before the
+Gallows their Mouths are Opened._
+
+
+The month of February added its slowly passing days to those that had
+preceded it, and as yet no tidings were received from Timothy Webster,
+or from those who had gone in search of him. W. H. Scott had returned,
+and reported that they had safely passed over the Potomac River, and
+landed upon rebel soil, but further than this, I had no information that
+tended to allay my anxieties, or to give assurance of their safety.
+
+In the meantime, the troops around Washington had not been idle.
+Reconnoissances had been made from time to time, by the advance-guard of
+the army, and skirmishes with the enemy were of frequent occurrence.
+These movements were of great importance, not so much from the actual
+results of victories attained, as for the education which it imparted to
+the troops, in accustoming them to the presence of their foes, and
+giving them confidence while under fire.
+
+General McClellan had completed his plans for the investment of the
+rebel capital, and the public mind was in a state of feverish anxiety
+and expectation for the forward movement of the troops. The popular cry
+of "On to Richmond," was echoed from lip to lip throughout the entire
+country. Every one, except those who knew and realized the danger and
+difficulties to be encountered and overcome, were filled with an
+enthusiasm which only regarded results and never considered the cost of
+their accomplishment. Extravagant ideas of a struggle which should be
+"short, sharp and decisive," were the only ones entertained by the great
+army of "stay at homes," and the question of caution, foresight and
+sagacity was left to the consideration of those who must brave the
+dangers of the field, and face the deadly fire of their determined
+enemies.
+
+Added to this a feeling of dissatisfaction began to display itself in
+high circles at Washington. The delay, which General McClellan wisely
+deemed necessary for the perfect equipment and education of his army,
+was being used as a pretext by those who envied the young commander, to
+detract from his reputation, and to impair the confidence which a united
+people had reposed in his loyalty and ability. The President was
+besieged by importunate cavillers the burden of whose refrain was the
+defamation of the hero of West Virginia, and it is not surprising,
+however much to be regretted, that Mr. Lincoln gradually permitted
+their clamors to disturb him, and eventually partook of some of the
+distrust with which they endeavored to impress him. From a legitimate
+and wise desire to prevent an untimely divulgence of his plans, General
+McClellan had, up to this time, kept his ideas and opinions to himself
+and confined his military discussions to but a few of his immediate
+officers, and those whom he had known and trusted for years. This manner
+of proceeding was not to the taste of some of the leading men in high
+places at that time, who deemed themselves as competent to confer with
+and advise the commanding general, as those whom he had chosen. In order
+to soothe their wounded self-pride they had recourse to a species of
+revenge not admirable, to say the least. They plied the ears of the
+President with comments derogatory to McClellan, and with innumerable
+suggestions of pet schemes of their own conception, which would, in
+their opinion, undoubtedly end the war with surprising alacrity. The
+result of these onslaughts was, that McClellan was required by Mr.
+Lincoln to unfold his own carefully arranged plans to a council of
+generals, for their consideration and approval. To this "wicked and
+ignorant clamor" he was obliged to yield, and it is not to be wondered
+at, that his proposed movements were betrayed, and that not long
+afterwards he was subjected to the mortification of having his army
+divided into corps, against his wishes, and their commanders appointed
+without consulting him, and without his knowledge. Subsequently he was
+compelled to submit to having the conduct of the war in Virginia placed
+in charge of inexperienced, irresponsible and jealous-minded officers,
+whose antipathy to him was as well known as it was unceasing and
+violent.
+
+Notwithstanding all this, the general pursued his way. His army was
+organized, his plans prepared. The defense of Washington was provided
+for, as he thought, in the most complete manner possible, and in command
+of a noble army, which had grown up under his immediate guidance and
+control, the brave commander started upon his campaign.
+
+During the month of March, 1862, the forward movement was commenced. By
+divisions the army was transported from Alexandria to their point of
+destination upon the Peninsula, and on the first day of April, General
+McClellan embarked, with his headquarters, on the steamer "Commodore,"
+reaching Fort Monroe on the afternoon of the following day.
+
+At this point we will leave the army, to follow the movements of my
+operatives, and detail their experiences in the rebel capital, although
+the facts were not reported to me until a long time after their actual
+occurrence.
+
+Price Lewis and John Scully reached the city of Richmond without
+accident or delay, and at once established themselves in the Exchange
+Hotel, where they remained quietly for the night. The next morning they
+started out to search for Timothy Webster, and for the purpose of
+obtaining reliable information of him they went to the office of the
+_Richmond Enquirer_, for the proprietors of which Webster had frequently
+carried letters, and purchased goods while in the North. Here they were
+informed that Webster was confined to his bed at the Monumental Hotel.
+Repairing at once to the place where they were directed, they were shown
+to Webster's room, and here they found the brave fellow, lying a weak
+and helpless invalid, attended by Mrs. Lawton, whose attentions to him
+were unremitting. There was also in the room, a Mr. Pierce, a warm
+Southern friend, whose friendship for Webster was of long standing, and
+whose visits to the sick man were of daily occurrence.
+
+The recognition between them was a most formal and undemonstrative one,
+and no one would have suspected that they were engaged in the same
+vocation, and acting under the same authority. During the short
+interview that ensued, Webster was fretful and ill at ease. Knowing the
+sentiments of the people as he did, and associated as intimately as he
+was with the most prominent of the Confederate authorities, he was
+fearful that the precipitate and unheralded appearance of his companions
+might lead to their being suspected, as well as to attaching suspicion
+to himself.
+
+The few words of conversation, therefore, that ensued, were marked by a
+constraint which was uncomfortable to all parties, and the visit was of
+short duration. When they called again upon Webster, they found with him
+a rebel officer from the Provost-Marshal's office, who was a friend of
+Webster, and who visited him frequently.
+
+Webster introduced his two friends to Captain McCubbin, for that was the
+man's name, and after a few minutes, that officer inquired:
+
+"Have you gentlemen reported at General Winder's office?"
+
+"No, sir," replied Lewis, "we did not think it was necessary, having
+fully reported to Major Beale, and received his permission to travel."
+
+"It _is_ necessary for you to report to the Provost-Marshal here, and I
+now give you _official_ notice of the fact," said McCubbin, laughingly.
+
+"Very well," returned Lewis, "we will do so as early as possible."
+
+"Any time within a day or two will answer," said the officer.
+
+Webster watched the rebel captain carefully while he was speaking, and
+he thought he detected beneath his careless, laughing demeanor, an
+element of suspicion, which he did not like, and more than ever he
+deplored the fact that my men had visited him so soon, or had appeared
+to be acquaintances of his. However, the mistake had been made, if
+mistake it was, and he resolved to give the matter as little concern as
+possible, trusting that his anxiety was ill-founded, and that all would
+be right in the end.
+
+On the following morning my two operatives presented themselves at the
+office of the Provost-Marshal, and meeting Captain McCubbin there, they
+were soon introduced to General Winder, who occupied that position in
+the rebel capital. After they had been formally introduced to General
+Winder, that officer made very minute inquiries, as to the antecedents
+and the business of the two men before him, although no word was
+mentioned, that led either of them to believe that they were suspected
+of being other than they seemed. They informed the Marshal that they
+were natives of England and Ireland, that Scully had been in America
+nearly three years, while Lewis had arrived only eighteen months before;
+that one of them had been connected with a prominent dry-goods house in
+New York city, and the other represented a London publishing firm, whose
+office was located in the same city. They also stated that in Baltimore
+they had become acquainted with W. H. Scott, who had informed them of
+great opportunities for making money by smuggling goods into the
+Confederacy, and that this visit had been made to afford them the
+knowledge requisite to embarking in such an enterprize. They had agreed
+to deliver the letter, which Mr. Scott gave them, to Mr. Webster, which
+they had done, and further than this their intimacy with either
+gentlemen did not extend.
+
+This interview was conducted in a very pleasant manner by General
+Winder, and after they had fully answered all the questions which had
+been propounded to them, they took their leave, being politely invited
+by the General to call upon him whenever convenient.
+
+Congratulating themselves upon the fortunate outcome of a visit which
+they had looked forward to with more or less solicitude, they repaired
+to Webster's room to give him an account of what had transpired.
+
+They had not been seated very long, when a detective from the Marshal's
+office made his appearance, and after apologizing for his visit,
+inquired from what parts of England and Ireland the two men had come;
+stating also, that General Winder desired the information.
+
+After this man had left, Webster turned to his companions and in as firm
+a voice as he could command, said:
+
+"Get away from Richmond immediately! There is danger brewing. You are
+certainly suspected, and it may go very hard with all of us, unless you
+leave the city at once!"
+
+"Why do you think so?" inquired Scully, in a skeptical tone. "We
+certainly cannot be suspected, and I am confident that you are alarming
+yourself unnecessarily."
+
+A spasm of pain prevented Webster from replying immediately; but when
+the agony had somewhat subsided, he answered:
+
+"I tell you that man never would have come here with that question
+unless there was something wrong. You must, indeed, get away, or the
+consequences will be serious."
+
+Scarcely had he uttered these words, when there came a sharp rap at the
+door, which, upon being opened, revealed the forms of two men, one of
+them being George Cluckner, a detective officer attached to the
+Provost-Marshal's office, and the other no less a personage than Chase
+Morton, a son of ex-Governor Morton, of Florida, whose house in
+Washington my operatives had at one time assisted in searching.
+
+The consternation of Lewis and Scully may well be imagined, and the
+latter, without uttering a word, walked rapidly towards the open doorway
+and disappeared, leaving Lewis, filled with astonishment and
+apprehension, to pass the ordeal of an introduction. The salutations
+between them were, as may be conjectured, not of a very cordial
+character; and after the merest form of politeness, Lewis bade Webster
+good-evening, and left the room. At the top of the landing he found
+Scully awaiting him, and they were about to descend the stairs,
+felicitating themselves upon having escaped a threatened danger, when
+the door of Webster's room was opened, and the Confederate detective
+again stood before them.
+
+"Are your names Lewis and Scully?" he inquired.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Lewis, promptly, resolved to put as bold a face
+upon the matter as possible.
+
+"Then," said the officer, "I have orders to convey you to General
+Winder's office."
+
+There was no help for it, and they signified their readiness to
+accompany him at once, intending to make an effort to escape when they
+reached the street. This hope, however, was dashed to the ground; for,
+as they descended the stairs, they found three other officers awaiting
+their appearance, who immediately took them in charge, and accompanied
+them to the Provost-Marshal's office.
+
+Several times, during their journey, Lewis noticed, with increasing
+apprehension, that the gaze of young Chase Morton was riveted fixedly
+upon them, and he had no doubt whatever that they had been recognized,
+and would certainly be apprehended. This prospect was far from being a
+cheerful one; but they mustered up all their latent courage, and
+conversed good-humoredly with their escort, as they walked briskly
+along.
+
+Arriving at the General's headquarters, they learned that that
+functionary was absent upon some urgent business, but would shortly
+return, and had left orders that they should await his appearance. Lewis
+and Scully were accordingly admitted to a private room, and requested to
+make themselves comfortable until General Winder should desire their
+presence. The door closed upon the retreating forms of their escort, and
+left them in a most uncomfortable condition of mind indeed. There was
+now no doubt of the correctness of Webster's suspicions, and they
+bitterly regretted their haste in visiting him, and also not having
+taken his advice at once. However, this was no time for regrets, and
+they resolved to firmly adhere to their original statements, and await
+the disposition of their case by General Winder.
+
+While they were conversing together, the door was opened, and young
+Morton entered the room, accompanied by an officer. Stepping directly up
+to Price Lewis, he addressed him:
+
+"Don't you remember me?"
+
+"I do not," responded Lewis; "I do not remember to have seen you at any
+time before to-day."
+
+He looked unflinchingly into the eyes that met his, and the determined
+tones of his voice betrayed no trace of the emotions that were raging
+within his bosom.
+
+"Don't you remember," continued young Morton, "coming to my mother's
+house, in Washington, as an agent of the secret service of the Federal
+government, and making a thorough search of our premises and its
+contents?"
+
+"You are mistaken, sir," replied Lewis, firmly. "I know nothing of what
+you are alluding to."
+
+"I am not mistaken," said the young Southerner, "and you are the man!"
+
+"Perhaps this gentleman will say that he recollects me, next," said
+Scully, resolved to be as bold as possible, under the circumstances.
+
+Chase Morton gazed at him a few moments and then answered, decidedly:
+
+"Yes sir, I recollect you also; you were one of the men who assisted in
+searching my mother's residence."
+
+Both men insisted strongly upon their ignorance of any such proceeding,
+and indignantly repudiated the charges that had been made against them.
+
+At this juncture General Winder came in, and walking up to Lewis he
+greeted him cordially, warmly shaking him by the hand, saying:
+
+"How do you do, Mr. Lewis, and how is Mr. Seward?"
+
+"I do not know what you mean," replied Lewis.
+
+"Perhaps not," said Winder, with a disagreeable smile, "but I am
+inclined to think that you know a great deal more than you are willing
+to admit."
+
+"I do not understand you."
+
+"Very well," said the Provost-Marshal, "you will understand me, and all
+in good time. Do you know gentlemen, I suspected you were all wrong from
+the start, and you were not keen enough to impose your story upon me?
+George," he added, turning to one of his men, "go to the hotel, and get
+the baggage belonging to these gentlemen. We will see if that will
+throw any further light upon their true character."
+
+The officer departed, and during his absence, General Winder plied them
+with questions about their mission; their knowledge of Timothy Webster;
+their visit to Richmond, and in fact about everything imaginable, and
+all of them showing conclusively that he believed them to be spies, and
+unworthy of credence. Their satchels were finally brought in, and a
+rigid examination failed to discover anything to justify his suspicions,
+and Winder finally left the room, angrily ordering them to remain where
+they were, and directing his officers and Chase Morton to accompany him.
+
+A few minutes elapsed after their departure, during which the loud voice
+of Winder could be heard, angrily declaiming against the two men; he
+then came back again, and addressing my operatives said:
+
+"Gentlemen, your stories don't agree with what I know about you, and we
+will give you time to think the matter over;" then turning to his deputy
+he commanded, "Take them away!"
+
+"Where to?" inquired the officer.
+
+"To Henrico Jail," was Winder's response.
+
+They were then conducted to the jail and placed in a room in which six
+others were confined, where the officers left them to their meditations,
+which, as may be imagined, were far from pleasant. Not knowing what
+might be in store for them, and fearing that their presence in Richmond
+might result in danger to Webster, they resolved to say nothing
+whatever, and to adhere strictly to the story originally told by them,
+and then to abide by the consequences, no matter how serious they might
+be.
+
+During the afternoon of the following day, an officer accompanied by an
+elder son of Mr. Morton made their appearance at the jail, and he, too,
+identified the two men, as being concerned in searching his mother's
+residence in Washington, and endeavored to recall several incidents
+which had taken place on that occasion. To all of his statements,
+however, Price and Scully made emphatic denials, and vehemently asserted
+their entire ignorance of anything connected with the Mortons, or their
+relations to the Federal government.
+
+Finding it impossible to obtain any admission from the two prisoners,
+they took their departure, and left the confined detectives to their own
+unpleasant reflections.
+
+For three days they remained in their place of confinement, and during
+that time no word came from the Marshals office or from any one
+concerning their disposition or future movements. It seemed as though
+the authorities had been content with simply placing them in durance
+vile, and then had dismissed them from their minds. This was the most
+favorable view they were able to take of the case, and they were
+solacing themselves with the fallacious hope of having escaped a fate
+which they dreaded, and also with the belief that Webster, their friend
+and companion, would not be associated with their presence in Richmond,
+and that their discovery would not operate to his injury.
+
+On the fourth day, however, an attaché of the Marshal's office came to
+the jail, and calling for John Scully informed him that his presence was
+required by General Winder. Scully prepared himself for the visit, and
+taking leave of his companion followed the officer. He did not return
+that night, and for days afterwards Lewis was in ignorance of what had
+become of him, or what fate he was to expect at the hands of these
+minions of disloyalty and secession.
+
+Lewis, meanwhile, had become acquainted with his fellow prisoners, all
+of whom were in a state of anxiety as to what measure of punishment
+would be meted out to them, and all nearly crazed with the uncertainty
+of their impending fate. For days they had been concocting a plan of
+escape, and finding Lewis disposed to make an effort to be released from
+his confinement, they developed their plans to him, and requested his
+aid in the accomplishment of their purpose.
+
+Lewis hailed with delight a proposition that promised to enable them to
+exchange the damp and noisome air of a prison for the free breath of
+nature, and the dark hours of captivity for the freedom and liberty he
+longed for, and he became an energetic and careful coadjutor of those
+who suffered with him the degrading position of being imprisoned by a
+government which they despised, and by which their lives were menaced.
+
+The part of the jail in which they were confined was separated from the
+main building, and contained four cells, two upon the ground floor and
+two immediately above them. These cells were reached through a corridor
+from the yard outside, and secured by two doors; one a heavy iron one
+fastened on the inside, and the other a stout wooden barricade, the lock
+of which was placed on the outside of the building. It was the custom of
+the old man, who acted as the jailer, to allow the prisoners a half
+hour's walk in the yard during the early evening, and then, locking them
+up safely again, he would leave them alone in the building, while he
+went to his home, several blocks distant.
+
+One of the men had managed to secrete a file about his person, and with
+this they succeeded in making a saw out of a knife. These were the only
+implements which they had to work with. Notwithstanding the meagerness
+of their implements, but a few days had elapsed before the bolts on
+every cell-door were sawed through so that they only required a few
+minutes' labor to detach them from their fastenings altogether.
+
+It is impossible to detail the hours of feverish anxiety, of tireless
+energy, and of momentary fear of detection, through which these men
+passed while engaged in their difficult and dangerous work--or to depict
+their joy, when at last their labor was completed, and they awaited the
+time of carrying their plans into execution.
+
+The outside door was now the only barrier between them and their coveted
+freedom, and various plans were suggested to overcome this obstacle. At
+length one was decided upon which promised to secure the object of their
+desires. In one corner of the yard in which they took their daily
+exercise, there was a large pile of ashes and garbage, which had been
+accumulating for a long time. It was resolved that one of their number
+should be buried under this rubbish, while several of the other
+prisoners engaged the old jailer in animated conversation.
+
+The man selected for this purpose was a good, brave fellow, who was
+formerly a sailor, and had lately been a member of an artillery company
+from New York. His name was Charles Stanton, and he had come into the
+South upon his own inclination, and for the Quixotic purpose of
+obtaining command of a gunboat of the Confederacy, and then attempting
+to run it through to the Union lines. He had, however, been suspected,
+and remanded to prison, where he had remained without a trial, and
+without hope of release, for several months.
+
+The prisoners were all turned out for their usual exercise in the yard,
+on the evening which had been agreed upon; and in accordance with their
+arranged plan, several of the prisoners surrounded the old turnkey, and
+engaged him in an earnest discussion, while others set actively to work
+to dig the grave of Stanton in the ashes. In order that he might not be
+unbearably uncomfortable, his body only was covered with the contents of
+the ash-heap, while his head and shoulders were concealed from view by
+some straw, which one of the men brought from his cell for that purpose.
+
+In the jail, at this time, there were a number of negroes, who had been
+captured while attempting to make their way to the North, and although
+these faithful blacks were aware of the attempted escape, and knew full
+well that they were not included in the movement, their efforts were
+none the less active in behalf of the white men who were struggling for
+liberty.
+
+They had been informed of the attempted escape, from the first, and had
+kept the matter a profound secret, at the same time rendering such
+service as they were capable of to the whites.
+
+Everything worked to their entire satisfaction. The turnkey was
+unsuspicious; the grave was made without discovery, and Stanton was
+carefully concealed. In a few minutes afterwards the call for retiring
+was heard, and the men, with throbbing hearts, rushed in a mass toward
+the door of the corridor. This was done in order to escape the counting
+of their number, in case the old man should attempt to do so. They
+passed quickly into their cells, and were not required to be counted.
+Thus far, all had been done as successfully as could be hoped for, or
+expected; no suspicions were excited, nor was their missing comrade
+called for. It had been the custom of the old man to make a tour of the
+cells after the prisoners had retired, to see if they were all there
+before he went away for the night. In order to overcome this possibility
+of detection, a figure had been made of straw, stuffed into the garments
+of the men, and laid upon the bed, in order to look as much like a human
+being as possible.
+
+This precaution proved to be a good one, for just before the time of
+closing up the prison arrived, the glimmer of the old turnkey's lantern
+was seen in the corridor, and shortly after, his face appeared at the
+door, as he eagerly scanned the occupants of the various cells.
+Apparently satisfied with his scrutiny, the jailer went his way, the
+heavy outside doors were closed and locked, and the retreating footsteps
+of the old man could be distinctly heard.
+
+The critical moment had at last arrived, and they awaited in breathless
+silence the appearance of Stanton. Fortune favored them in a peculiar
+manner this evening. As the old man was passing the pile of ashes under
+which Stanton was concealed, he noticed the unusual appearance of the
+straw. Stopping for a moment, he drew a match from his pocket, lighted
+it, and then walked toward the heap as though with the intention of
+setting fire to it. The match fortunately was extinguished by a blast of
+wind, and after searching in his pocket for another match, but finding
+none, he slowly turned, and walked out of the gate, locking it securely
+behind him.
+
+Stanton's feelings, under this ordeal, may be imagined. If the old man
+had succeeded in igniting the straw, under which he was concealed,
+detection would have followed instantly, and no doubt serious injury
+would have been inflicted upon the brave fellow, who had willingly
+suffered the discomforts of his unpleasant confinement for the purpose
+of assisting his comrades to escape.
+
+No sooner had the gate closed upon the jailor, than he crawled nimbly
+out from his place of concealment, and hastily made his way to the door.
+He at once began his operations upon the lock. The appearance of Stanton
+at the door was the signal for the others, and in less than an hour the
+locks upon the cell doors had been removed. Stanton had wrested the lock
+from the outside door, and only the iron inside one was now to be
+overcome. This barrier resisted all their efforts, and it was at last
+decided that the lock must be removed by main force. This was a
+proceeding which necessitated a great deal of noise, and they were in an
+agony of apprehension lest their clamor should attract the attention of
+people passing on the outside, and thus lead to their detection. To
+prevent this, the colored men, without any solicitation or instruction,
+came to the rescue in a very important, though unexpected manner. They
+commenced to sing in concert, at the top of their voices, snatches of
+plantation and camp-meeting melodies, which effectually drowned the
+sound of their blows, and enabled them to work without fear of
+detection.
+
+The lock at last yielded to their combined efforts, and the men issued
+silently forth into the darkness of the night, breathing once more the
+stimulating atmosphere of hope and promised liberty. Only the wall
+around the prison yard was now to be surmounted, and with the aid of
+some old planks that were lying around, they succeeded in reaching the
+top, after which they noiselessly dropped themselves to the ground.
+Although this wall was very high, they all reached _terra firma_ in
+safety, and with one impulse breathed a prayer of thankfulness for the
+success which had thus far attended their efforts.
+
+Silently, and walking in couples, at long distances apart, they started
+out to leave the city. The sky was clear, and the moon was shining
+brightly overhead. The stars were twinkling merrily, as though enjoying
+the success which had attended these brave, patient men, in their labor
+and toil of days and weeks.
+
+This was on the eighteenth day of March, and Martial law had been
+proclaimed some time previously. It was now nearly eight o'clock, and by
+the provisions of the law any one found upon the streets after nine
+o'clock, must be in possession of a pass, or be liable to arrest. Great
+haste was therefore necessary, in order to leave the city before that
+hour. With only the stars for their guide, they set out in a northerly
+direction. Not one of the men was acquainted with the country, and their
+journey was all the more perilous on that account.
+
+By midnight they had reached the Chickahominy, having succeeded, by the
+greatest good fortune, in escaping any one who was disposed to make
+inquiries or to molest them in any manner whatever. Across this swamp
+their way led through quagmires and deep pools, and was dangerous in the
+extreme. Sometimes waist deep in the soft mud and water, and scrambling
+over slipping places which furnished insecure footholds, and threatened
+instant danger from falling back into the pools through which they had
+made their way. Their journey was full of hardship and suffering. The
+air was cold and frosty, and their wet garments clung to them like ice;
+their limbs trembled; their teeth chattered with the cold, and their
+condition was really a pitiable one indeed.
+
+At length they reached the woods upon the opposite side. Here they were
+obliged to stop and rest, completely exhausted. Some of the hardier of
+the party removed their dripping garments, and attempted to wring the
+water from them; while others, unable to stand the chilling air any
+longer, built a fire, around which they gathered in the effort to warm
+their bodies and to dry their water-soaked clothing.
+
+They rested for about two hours, and then pushed on again until
+daylight, when they sought the shelter of the woods and laid down,
+hoping to get some sleep after their laborious and fatiguing journey of
+the preceding night. Sleep, however, was impossible; their clothing was
+wet, and the air was cold. Their sufferings became intense, and at
+length, finding it impossible to endure the freezing atmosphere longer,
+they determined to build a fire, regardless of the consequences.
+Proceeding further into the wood, they gathered some boughs, and soon
+the cheerful blaze afforded them sufficient heat to dry their frozen
+clothing and to warm their benumbed and freezing bodies. Thus passed the
+day, and when darkness came on again they resumed their journey.
+
+Already they began to experience the pangs of hunger. They had eaten
+nothing since the evening before, and had walked many weary miles. They
+were foot-sore and tired and hungry. They had provided themselves with
+the remnants of the corn cake which had been served for their supper on
+the previous evening, but these had become thoroughly soaked with water
+on their journey through the swamps, and had crumbled to pieces.
+Notwithstanding their pitiable condition, their strong wills and brave
+hearts sustained them, and they plodded on.
+
+The night was intensely dark; the stars were obscured, and a pall of
+inky blackness hung over them, which rendered their journey exceedingly
+hazardous, as they could not see the way before them, and were unable to
+tell in which direction they were traveling.
+
+They had not proceeded far when the storm broke, and a drenching torrent
+of rain descended. The wind whistled and howled through the trees, and
+for hours the tempest raged with relentless fury. Seeking the shelter of
+the woods again, they crouched close to the trunks of the trees, and
+vainly attempted to screen themselves from the deluge. It was of no
+avail, however; the leafless timber afforded them no protection, and
+during the continuance of the storm the poor, tired and almost exhausted
+fugitives were exposed to the pitiless blast.
+
+Shivering with cold, their teeth chattering, their garments drenched
+through to their quivering skin, they knelt or crouched upon the ground,
+and when daylight dawned, and the storm at last cleared away, they were
+almost too weak to help themselves.
+
+Price Lewis looked around him as the faint streaks of sunrise illumined
+the horizon, and to his dismay saw that nearly all of his late
+companions had disappeared, and that only three others beside himself
+remained.
+
+With the greatest difficulty they succeeded in building a fire, and were
+just preparing to enjoy its comforting warmth, when they were alarmed by
+the sound of the hasty tramping of feet, and in a moment they were
+surrounded by a number of Confederate soldiers, who commanded them to
+surrender at once.
+
+This sudden and unexpected appearance was a crushing blow to their
+hopes. They submitted without a word; and although bowed to the ground
+with disappointment, they experienced a sensation almost amounting to
+relief, at the prospect of receiving the care and attention which even
+enemies would give to those in such distress as were these poor
+fugitives.
+
+Limping along, they were marched to an out-building, connected with a
+farm-house near by, when, to their surprise, they saw the remainder of
+their party, who had been captured by another band of soldiers, huddled
+together in one corner of the room.
+
+The soldiers were touched with pity, as they beheld the forlorn
+condition of the men whom they had secured, and in a short time they had
+provided them with a repast, which the famished fugitives devoured with
+a rapidity which gave ample testimony of their long and painful
+abstinence.
+
+After dispatching this meal they were conveyed directly back to
+Richmond, and returned to their old quarters in Henrico jail. On their
+arrival each man was placed in a separate cell, and doubly ironed, to
+prevent a repetition of their efforts to escape.
+
+[Illustration: _The prisoners re-captured._]
+
+While Price Lewis had been engaged in this unsuccessful attempt to gain
+his liberty, John Scully had been undergoing a far different experience.
+A court-martial had been hurriedly convened, where he was fully
+identified by every member of the Morton family as the man who had
+searched their premises in the city of Washington, and had, after a very
+summary trial, been convicted and remanded back to prison to await his
+sentence.
+
+On the second day after the return of Price Lewis he was conducted
+before a court-martial, and in a remarkably short space of time was
+accorded a trial, if trial it could be called, and his conviction
+followed as quickly as did that of John Scully.
+
+They had been charged with being alien enemies, and at one time acting
+in the service of the Federal government in Washington. In addition to
+this, they were charged with loitering around the fortifications at
+Richmond and taking plans of the same. Notwithstanding the fact that no
+witness could be procured who would swear to having seen them in such
+localities, or engaged in any such occupation, the members of the
+court-martial, with singular unanimity, found them guilty of the second
+charge, with as much haste, and as manifest an air of solemnity, as they
+did of the first.
+
+The next day they were each informed of their sentence, which was that
+they should be hung by the neck, as spies, and that their execution
+should take place in one week from the day of the communication of the
+information to them.
+
+This sentence was a heavy blow to the two prisoners; and from the
+character of the men by whom they were surrounded, they felt that hope
+was useless. The spirit of animosity manifested toward them by the
+court, the indecent haste with which their trial had been conducted, and
+the rapidity with which their sentence had followed their conviction,
+gave them no reasons for hoping for clemency, or that they would be able
+to escape the dreadful fate which now was impending over them.
+
+The conduct of the various members of the Morton family in betraying my
+operatives to the authorities, and in appearing as accusing witnesses
+against them, in face of their promises, long ago made, to befriend them
+if possible, was an act which did not reflect very favorably upon their
+regard for truth, or their appreciation of delicate treatment when they
+themselves were suspected of treachery.
+
+Lewis and Scully had never seen each other from the time when the latter
+was removed from the cell a few days after their first imprisonment, and
+each was unconscious of the other's fate or of the state of their
+feelings under the fatal sentence which hung over them both.
+
+After their conviction they had both been sent to a prison called Castle
+Godwin, and had been placed in irons, and in separate cells. During the
+first two days that elapsed after their conviction, they were visited
+by Judge Crump, who conducted the trial, and by several members of
+General Winder's staff, all of whom endeavored to obtain some admissions
+from the two prisoners which would justify their action in condemning
+them to death. All with no avail, however; the two men stoutly insisted
+upon their original story, except so far as to admit that they had
+searched the premises of Mrs. Morton, but each man was firm in stating
+that he had become disgusted with the service, and had left it very soon
+after that act had been committed.
+
+On the day after their sentence had been communicated to them, a letter
+was brought to Lewis, from the commandant of the post, stating that
+Scully was suffering with a serious illness, and having requested that
+Lewis be allowed to visit him, the privilege had been granted. On
+entering the cell where Scully was confined, Lewis found his
+fellow-prisoner in a very depressed condition of mind, although his
+physical infirmities had been assumed in order to secure an interview
+with his partner in misfortune.
+
+After discussing their situation as philosophically as possible under
+the circumstances, seeking for some ray of hope and finding none, they
+were at last compelled to the belief that their doom was sealed, and
+that their only plan was to bear up manfully to the end.
+
+Scully, who was a Roman Catholic, desired the services of a priestly
+comforter, to whom he could make such statements as would relieve his
+mind in the coming trial, and made known this wish to Lewis.
+
+"You will not tell him what you know of Webster, and his connection with
+this matter, will you?" said Lewis, fearful that Webster might be
+betrayed.
+
+"I don't know what I will tell him," answered Scully; "I have not
+decided what to say, nor do I know what I will be commanded to relate."
+
+"For God's sake, Scully, don't say anything about Webster; we can meet
+our fate like men, but to mention his name now, would be wrong indeed."
+
+"I tell you," said Scully, "I don't know what I am going to say. I don't
+want to do wrong, but I cannot tell what I may have to do yet."
+
+Lewis argued with his companion long and earnestly upon this matter, and
+when at last the priest arrived, and Scully followed him to another
+cell, the warning admonitions of his fellow-prisoner were ringing in his
+ears.
+
+What transpired during that secret meeting between the condemned spy and
+his father-confessor, Lewis did not know, but when he was conducted to
+his own cell, late that night, he saw a man and woman closely guarded,
+in the lower hall, and his heart grew heavy and cold as his imagination
+conjured up the direful fate which a confession from his imprisoned
+comrade would bring to the faithful patriot Webster, who lay suffering
+and anxious upon his bed of pain.
+
+After a long and restless night, in which he tossed uneasily upon his
+hard prison bed, vainly attempting to court the rest-giving slumber of
+which he stood so much in need, Lewis arose from his couch, feverish and
+unrefreshed, as the first faint rays of the morning sun penetrated his
+damp and dingy cell.
+
+His mind was in a state of confusion, and his heart was filled with
+fear. What had been done he knew not, and yet those guarded figures of
+the night before were ever in his mind. Could it be that they were
+Webster and his faithful attendant Mrs. Lawton? He shrank involuntarily
+from this thought; and yet, strive as he would, it recurred to him, with
+increased force, and with more convincing power, after each attempt to
+drive it from him.
+
+In a little while, the prison was astir. The guards were making their
+accustomed rounds, breakfast was served, and another day, with all its
+solemn activity, and its bustle so death-like and subdued, had begun.
+
+Unable to partake of the scanty meal that was set before him, Lewis
+impatiently awaited the hour when he would be permitted to visit his
+fellow-prisoner whom he had left upon the eve of consulting with his
+spiritual adviser, and, if possible, learn the result of his interview
+with the priest.
+
+About ten o'clock the turnkey appeared, and he was conducted to Scully's
+cell. As he entered the dimly-lighted room, he noticed that the face of
+the man whom he had left the night before, had undergone a wonderful
+change. His cheeks were sunken and pale; his eyes had a strange, wild
+expression, and the shadows under the lids were dark and heavy. His hair
+was unkempt, and his lips trembled with the emotions which he was
+struggling to repress. Whatever events had transpired since he had seen
+him last, it was evident that their effect upon Scully had been terrible
+and agonizing. He had been unable to sleep, and the tortures of his mind
+had been almost unbearable. His greeting to Lewis showed a degree of
+restraint which had been unknown before, and for a moment he seemed
+unable to speak.
+
+At length he grew calmer, and related to his friend the events of the
+preceding night, and the influences that had been brought to bear upon
+him. The promise of freedom; his loving family at home; the certainty of
+an ignoble death if he refused; the degradation of the impending
+scaffold; and the promise that his admissions should result in injury to
+no one, all combined against his weak condition of both mind and body,
+and at last, yielding to the influences which he could not control, he
+had told his story, and had given a truthful account of all his
+movements.
+
+Who can blame this man? Who, that has stood before the frowning
+scaffold, and with a free world before him, can utter words of censure?
+Only those who have suffered as he did, prostrated as he was, can know
+the terrible agony through which he passed ere the fatal words were
+forced from his trembling lips. For myself, I have no judgment to
+utter. Now, as when the news was first communicated to me, I cannot
+express an unjust sentence. John Scully and his companion were not
+heroic martyrs. What then? They were simply men who, after having
+performed many brave acts of loyalty and duty to their country, failed
+in a moment of grand and great self-sacrifice. I cannot apologize for
+them--I cannot judge them. Their trial was a severe one, and they were
+in sore distress. If they succumbed to a controlling emergency, it was
+because of a lack of the heroic elements of humanity; and who, in our
+day, can claim their possession in the very face of death and dishonor?
+
+Let us hasten over these unpleasant and disastrous events. Finding that
+the worst had occurred, and that further concealment was of no avail,
+Lewis, too, opened his mouth. He was again visited by the rebel
+authorities, and at last he, too, added his voice to that of Scully, and
+made a revelation of his true character, and of the nature of his
+mission to Richmond. The next day they were respited. They had escaped
+an ignominious death, but, perhaps, in their lonely cells they suffered
+a death in life, beside which an actual demise might have seemed a
+blessing. Leaving them to their reflections, we turn again to Timothy
+Webster.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+_Webster Arrested as a Spy.--A Woman's Devotion and a Patriot's
+Heroism.--Webster is Convicted.--The Execution.--A Martyr's Grave._
+
+
+After the departure of Lewis and Scully from Webster's room, where they
+were so closely followed by the Confederate detective and Chase Morton,
+my trusty operative heard nothing of them for some time. Fearing to make
+inquiries concerning them, lest he should compromise them still further,
+as well as bring himself under the suspicion of the rebel authorities,
+he maintained a strict silence with regard to the movements of his
+companions. Several days of anxious suspense followed, which, to one in
+Webster's critical condition, were fraught with agonizing doubts and
+heartfelt fears for the ultimate safety of himself and his friends.
+Resolving, however, to utter no word which would compromise them, he
+bore the solicitude with unmurmuring firmness. Only to the heroic woman,
+who so faithfully nursed him, did he unburden his mind of the weight of
+care which oppressed him, and her words of womanly friendship and
+encouragement were the only influences which supported him through the
+trying ordeal.
+
+One day, Mrs. Lawton came into his room--as was her custom--but this
+time there was a gravity about her manner, which, to Webster's quick
+perceptions, boded no good. Finding him receiving some friendly
+visitors, the lady withdrew, and repressing his impatience as well as he
+was able to do, Webster dispatched his friends as quickly as politeness,
+and a due consideration for their kindly regard, would permit. When they
+had disappeared, Mrs. Lawton again entered the room.
+
+"You have news for me," said Webster, impatiently; "what is it?"
+
+"Be calm, my dear friend," said the devoted little woman; "what I have
+to tell, calls for the utmost calmness."
+
+"Tell me what it is," said Webster; "I will be as calm as you could
+wish, but do not, I pray you, keep me in suspense."
+
+"Well," replied Mrs. Lawton, "I learned this morning that Lewis and
+Scully have been arrested and taken to Henrico Jail."
+
+"When did this occur?" asked the invalid, a great weight pressing upon
+his heart.
+
+"The very day they were here last," answered the woman.
+
+"Then all is lost," exclaimed the sick man. "I feared as much; and now
+the time has come I will meet it manfully; however," he continued, "it
+will be only a short time before I will share the same fate."
+
+"Why do you think so?" anxiously inquired Mrs. Lawton. "Surely they
+cannot connect you with these men."
+
+"I do not know why I think so, but I am as confident that I will be
+brought into this matter as though the officers were already here to
+arrest me."
+
+While he yet spoke, there came a knock at the chamber door, which, on
+being opened, revealed the form of Captain McCubbin.
+
+As he entered the room he gazed furtively around, and his salutation to
+Webster was very different from the cordiality which had marked his
+previous visits.
+
+"Good morning, Webster," said he, as he took the offered chair, and for
+the first time since they had known each other neglecting to shake the
+invalid by the hand. "This is bad news about Lewis and Scully, isn't
+it?"
+
+"What is it?" inquired Webster, apparently receiving the information for
+the first time.
+
+"They have been arrested as spies, are confined in prison, and General
+Winder wants that letter which they brought to you from the North."
+
+There was something so cold and imperious in the officer's tones, which
+confirmed Webster's fears for his own safety; but without evincing the
+slightest alarm, he cheerfully made reply:
+
+"I am sorry to hear this news, and trust that they will be able to
+exonerate themselves from the charge. Anything, however, that General
+Winder wants from me will be cheerfully given. Mrs. Lawton, will you get
+the letter, and hand it to Captain McCubbin."
+
+There was no tremor of the voice, and the watchful Confederate looked in
+vain for any evidence of fear in the face of the man, who, stricken by
+disease as he was, still showed the bravery of a lion, and gazed
+unflinchingly at him. Though the hand of fate was upon him, Webster
+never lost his heroic courage, and bore the scrutiny of the officer
+without the quiver of a muscle.
+
+Captain McCubbin received the letter, and almost immediately withdrew.
+As he closed the door behind him, Webster turned to his faithful
+companion, and, in a low, solemn voice, said: "That letter has sealed my
+fate!"
+
+From this point, Webster's physical condition seemed to improve, and
+although depressed with fears for the fate of his companions, he
+gradually became stronger, and was at length able to leave his bed and
+move about his room.
+
+The visits of his numerous friends had now almost ceased. From General
+Winder's officers, with whom he had previously been so intimate, he
+heard nothing, nor did they make inquiries about his health, as had been
+their custom. Of the many friends in private life, who had surrounded
+him, only two remained. These were Mr. Pierce and Mr. Campbell, with
+whom Webster had traveled for some time, and his family. This dropping
+away of old friends, and the breaking up of old associations, was
+significant to Webster of impending danger. It must be that he, too, was
+suspected, and that the favor of the rebel authorities had been
+withdrawn.
+
+Day by day, during his convalescence, did the brave little woman who had
+nursed him back to life, endeavor to encourage him to a hopeful view of
+his situation, and to impress him with her own sanguine trust for a
+favorable outcome from this present dilemma. Webster listened to the
+bright promises of his devoted companion, but he was too profoundly
+aware of the danger that threatened him to permit himself to hope that
+the result to him would be a beneficial one.
+
+After he was able to leave his bed, he accepted the pressing invitation
+of Mr. Campbell, and was removed to the residence of that gentleman,
+where he would be more quiet, and where he could receive that care and
+attention which could not be afforded him in a hotel. The kindness of
+Mr. Campbell and his family was heartfelt and unceasing. They did
+everything in their power to make him comfortable, and their courtesy to
+Mrs. Lawton was as marked and genuine, as was their regard and care for
+Timothy Webster.
+
+Webster had been domiciled at the house of Mr. Campbell but two days,
+when one of Winder's men came to know if Webster was sufficiently
+recovered to go out, as his presence was imperatively demanded at the
+court room, as a witness in the trial of John Scully. The officer
+further stated that the evidence of Webster had been solicited by Scully
+himself. Finding him unable still to leave the house, the officer stated
+that arrangements would be made by which his testimony could be taken in
+his room. On the second day after the appearance of the officer, the
+court-martial adjourned to Campbell's house, and Scully accompanied
+them. Seating themselves around the bedside of the invalid, the court
+was formally opened, and Webster was requested to state what he knew of
+the antecedents of the accused.
+
+Though very weak, and speaking with considerable difficulty, Webster
+made his statement. He said that he had known John Scully from April,
+1861, to the time of his arrest. That the prisoner was in Baltimore when
+he first met him, and was always in the company of known secessionists,
+and was considered by them to be a good friend to the South. So far as
+he had any knowledge of the accused he was what he assumed to be, and
+that his appearance in Richmond was a surprise to him. He was not known
+to be in the employ of the government, and Webster had never met him
+under any circumstances which would indicate that fact.
+
+This was all that he could say, and although closely questioned by the
+president of the court, and the attorneys present, he insisted that his
+knowledge of John Scully was confined to what he had already stated.
+Finding it impossible to obtain any further information upon this
+subject from the sick man, the court, in a body, left the room, and
+departed from the house.
+
+Mrs. Lawton, who had been compelled to retire on the entrance of the
+Confederate authorities, and who had been in a wild state of excitement
+and apprehension during their visit, instantly repaired to Webster's
+room. When she entered the chamber, she found that the brave man, after
+the exciting experiences through which he had been compelled to pass,
+had fainted. His strength of will, which had supported him through the
+investigation, had given way, and he lay, limp and inanimate, upon the
+bed.
+
+Several days of anxiety and solicitude now passed. Unable to learn any
+tidings of his unfortunate comrades, Webster tortured himself with all
+manner of vague fears and doubts as to their probable fate, all of which
+had their effect in retarding his recovery, and keeping him confined to
+his room.
+
+At last, after days of weary and anxious waiting, the newspapers were
+brought in one morning, and the information of the conviction of Lewis
+and Scully was duly chronicled. The same paper also announced the day
+upon which their death was so speedily to follow. This filled the cup of
+Webster's misery to overflowing, and, sinking upon a chair, he wept
+like a child. Refusing to be comforted, although Mrs. Lawton exerted
+herself to the utmost, Webster paced the room, half frantic with his
+grief, at the horrible fate which had overtaken his friends.
+
+Slowly the day passed, and when the shadows of evening were falling
+Webster was at last induced to lie down, and attempt to snatch a few
+hours sleep. He was soon slumbering quietly, although ever and anon he
+would start nervously and utter an inarticulate moan, as though his mind
+was still troubled with the sad events of the day. While he lay thus,
+attended by Mrs. Lawton, Mr. Campbell suddenly entered the room, with a
+look of fear upon his face, which filled Mrs. Lawton with alarm.
+
+"What is the matter?" she hurriedly ejaculated.
+
+"One of Winder's men is below, and I fear his presence indicates
+misfortune for Webster," was the reply.
+
+"Who is it?"
+
+"Cashmeyer," answered Mr. Campbell. "He inquired for Webster, and says
+he must see him at once."
+
+Webster, disturbed by this conversation, was awake in an instant and
+inquired what was wanted.
+
+"Cashmeyer has called, and wishes to see you," said Mr. Campbell.
+
+"Let him come up at once," replied Webster, in the hope that he might
+bring some tidings of Lewis and Scully.
+
+Mr. Campbell departed, and in a few moments returned with the
+Confederate officer. Cashmeyer's salutation was cold and formal, and
+without any preliminary he addressed Webster.
+
+"I have a painful duty to perform, Mr. Webster. I am directed by General
+Winder to arrest you, and convey you at once to Castle Godwin."
+
+As he spoke, two soldiers appeared at the doorway.
+
+"You cannot wish to take him away in this condition, and at this hour of
+the night," said Mrs. Lawton. "Such an action would be his death, and
+would be the worst of inhumanity."
+
+Webster stood silent and unmoved. He did not utter a word, but gazed
+fixedly at the officer, whose visits heretofore had been those of
+sympathy and condolence.
+
+"I cannot help it," said Cashmeyer, "my orders are to take him dead, or
+alive, and those orders I must obey."
+
+"Then," said Mrs. Lawton, "I will go too. He needs care and attention,
+without it he will die, and no one can nurse him so well as I."
+
+Cashmeyer gazed at the brave little woman for a moment, and a shade of
+pity came over his face.
+
+"I am sorry to inform you, that my orders are to arrest you also, and to
+search your trunks."
+
+"This is infamous," exclaimed Webster; "what can Winder mean by
+arresting this woman, and what am I charged with that renders your
+orders necessary?"
+
+"Webster," answered Cashmeyer, "as God is my witness, I do not know; I
+only know what my orders are, and that I must obey them."
+
+Without further parley, Webster and Mrs. Lawton prepared to accompany
+their guards, and Cashmeyer, demanding their keys, commenced a search of
+their trunks, which resulted in his finding nothing that would criminate
+his prisoners.
+
+A carriage was procured, and Webster was assisted into it, while Mrs.
+Lawton, under the escort of Cashmeyer was compelled to walk. It was
+quite late when they arrived at the prison, and as Price Lewis was
+ascending to his cell, Webster and his faithful female companion entered
+the gloomy portals of the jail.
+
+General Winder was present when they arrived, and after a hurried
+examination Webster was remanded to a room, in which a number of Union
+prisoners were already confined, and the atmosphere of which was reeking
+with filth and disease.
+
+As he entered the room, pale and emaciated, and scarcely able to walk,
+the prisoners gathered around, in silent pity for his forlorn condition.
+
+"My God!" exclaimed one of their number, "they will send the dead here
+next."
+
+Mrs. Lawton was conducted before the General, but she stoutly declined
+to answer a single question that was propounded to her. This so enraged
+the valiant officer that he ordered her to be taken away at once. She
+was then conducted to a room in which another lady was confined, and
+left for the night.
+
+As midnight tolled its solemn hour over the city, and the tramp of armed
+men resounded through the streets, the noises within the prison died
+away. An awful and impressive silence brooded over the place. The dim
+light in the corridor shone faintly upon four miserable human beings,
+who tossed restlessly upon sleepless couches through the long, weary
+watches of the night.
+
+Who can tell the thoughts that thronged through their brains, as the
+slow moving hours advanced toward the dawn? The brave woman who had been
+cruelly deprived of her privilege to administer to the needs of her
+suffering friend. The heroic Webster, wasted by disease, weakened by his
+long and painful illness, but still brave and defiant. Price Lewis and
+John Scully, tortured with the thoughts of their impending fate, and
+harassed with reflections of a more agonizing nature, which we may not
+analyse.
+
+The trial of Webster was ordered for an early day. With a haste that was
+inhuman, the Provost-Marshal made his preparations for the farce of an
+investigation. It seemed as though he was fearful that his victim would
+die, ere he could wreak his vengeance upon him. The court was convened,
+and, owing to Webster's weakened condition, their sessions were held in
+the jail. For three long, weary weeks did the investigation drag its
+slow length along, although it was apparent that those who tried him had
+already decided upon his fate. Numerous witnesses were examined, and
+testimony was admitted which would have been excluded by any righteous
+tribunal whose ideas of justice were not obscured by an insane desire
+for revenge.
+
+Price Lewis and John Scully were compelled to give their evidence; and
+although they attempted to do their utmost to lessen the effect of their
+testimony, it bore heavily against the poor prisoner, who sat pale and
+emaciated before them, and whose heart never failed him through the long
+and tedious ordeal. What Webster's feelings must have been during this
+harrowing experience is unknown to any one. What thoughts were rushing
+through his brain, as the damaging statements fell from the lips of his
+late associates, were never revealed by him. No murmurs escaped his
+lips, no words of censure or blame against the men whose evidence cost
+him his life, were ever uttered. A heroic calmness, born of the very
+despair which oppressed him from the first, was manifest throughout the
+long, weary investigation. Indeed so manfully had he borne himself, so
+completely had he controlled his feelings, that his physical health
+perceptibly improved, so much so that the tribunal removed their
+sittings to the court-house, and Webster was able to be in daily
+attendance.
+
+Webster had secured able counsel for his defence, and they did all that
+was possible for man to do. Although they were rebels, their efforts in
+behalf of the accused spy were such, that if pleadings could have
+availed him aught, his fate would have been averted.
+
+It was not to be, however; the trial came to an end at last. A verdict
+of guilty followed quickly upon the heels of the partial and
+antagonistic charge of the judge, and Timothy Webster was convicted of
+being a spy in the employ of the Federal authorities.
+
+Not even then did the brave spirit break down. Firm and heroic he
+received the fatal verdict, and the satisfaction of his enemies was
+robbed of its value by the unflinching deportment of their victim.
+
+After the trial, he was remanded to a cell, and closely watched. But a
+little time elapsed, and then came the warrant for his execution. An
+officer appeared in the cell, the paper was produced, and the faithful,
+brave, true-hearted man was condemned to be hung on the twenty-ninth day
+of April, but ten days after the approval of his sentence.
+
+[Illustration: _The death warrant._ P. 542.]
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+The Union army was before Yorktown. McClellan had already sustained two
+serious disappointments, and both of them at the hands of the government
+at Washington. In the first place, on his arrival at Fort Monroe, he had
+ascertained that the promised assistance of the navy could not be relied
+upon in the least, and that their efficient co-operation with him would
+be an utter impossibility. This interference with his plans might have
+been overcome, although the loss of the naval support was a serious
+misfortune to him; but a more surprising and disheartening act of the
+authorities was yet in store for him. A few days later, he was
+thunderstruck at the unexpected information that General McDowell's
+entire corps, upon whose assistance he had confidently relied, was
+detached from his command, and had been ordered to remain in front of
+Washington, for the protection of the capital, which was erroneously
+believed to be in imminent danger of capture by the rebels. These events
+rendered a scientific siege of Yorktown a necessity; and while engaged
+in this laborious work, I was in constant consultation with the
+commanding General. Numerous scouts had been sent out through the rebel
+country, and the secret service department was taxed to its utmost.
+George H. Bangs was busily engaged in examining the rebel deserters and
+prisoners, Southern refugees and contrabands, who were either captured
+or came willingly into camp, and in preparing daily reports of our
+movements, which were required to be made to the General in command. I
+had accompanied McClellan upon this campaign, and gave my untiring
+personal supervision to the management of the large corps of men and
+women, white and black, then engaged in obtaining information.
+
+During all this time, not a word had been received of my missing
+operatives. Tortured by the uncertainty of their fate, I passed many an
+anxious hour. At length all doubts were set at rest, and a dreadful
+certainty manifested itself to my mind. A newspaper, published in
+Richmond, was received by me, and in hastily perusing its contents, with
+a view of acquiring such military information as it contained, my eye
+alighted upon a small paragraph, which filled me with dread and sorrow.
+This paragraph was the simple announcement that Price Lewis and John
+Scully had been arrested as spies in the rebel capital, and had been
+sentenced to be hung on the 6th day of April.
+
+I cannot detail the effect which this announcement produced upon me. For
+a moment I sat almost stupefied, and unable to move. My blood seemed to
+freeze in my veins--my heart stood still--I was speechless. By degrees I
+was able to exercise a strong command over myself. I then sought my
+immediate associates, and communicated the fatal news to them. Their
+consternation and grief were equal to my own. Every man seemed to be
+impressed with the solemnity of the fate of their comrades. What was to
+be done? How to intercede in their behalf? I rushed to the tent of
+General McClellan, and relating the news to him, besought his aid in
+this direful extremity. His sympathy and sorrow were as acute as though
+the men had been joined to him by ties of blood. Anxiously we discussed
+the situation, in the vain attempt to seek some mode of obtaining their
+release, and all without definite or satisfactory conclusion.
+
+All that night I paced the camp, unable to sleep--unable almost to think
+intelligently; and when morning dawned I was as far from devising any
+practical plan of relief as when I first received the information.
+
+I telegraphed to Captain Milward, Harbor-Master at Fortress Monroe, and
+in charge of the flag-of-truce boat for exchanging prisoners, asking him
+to endeavor to ascertain from the Richmond papers, or from any other
+source, anything definite as to the fate of my unfortunate operatives.
+
+Several messages were received from that officer, containing various
+statements of the case, and finally came the crushing intelligence that
+Lewis and Scully had been respited, after having given information which
+implicated Timothy Webster, whom the rebels now regarded as the chief
+spy of the three.
+
+This was the crowning burden of all, and I was almost prostrated by the
+blow. Hurried consultations were held, every conceivable plan was
+suggested and discussed, which would avail in the slightest degree to
+avert so terrible a fate from the faithful patriot who now was in such
+deadly danger.
+
+I suggested that General McClellan should send, by flag-of-truce boat,
+such a demand as would, if possible, save their lives; but to this the
+General demurred, fearing, and justly too, that such a course might be
+productive of more injury than good--that it would be a tacit
+acknowledgment of their real character as spies, and they would be hung
+without further delay.
+
+It was at last decided that I should go to Washington, accompanied by
+Colonel Key, an eminent patriot, and an efficient member of General
+McClellan's staff. We were to confer with the President and the members
+of the Cabinet, lay the matter before them, and petition for the
+official interposition of the government in their behalf.
+
+With Colonel Key, I started for Washington, about the middle of April.
+The interest of that officer was scarcely second to my own, and he was
+fully determined to exert every energy of his manly, sympathetic nature
+in the work of saving their lives, if possible.
+
+The journey to Washington was quickly made. Mr. Lincoln was readily
+seen, and he, too, filled with sympathy for the unfortunate men,
+promised to call a special session of the Cabinet to consider the case,
+that evening.
+
+In the meantime, Colonel Key and I occupied ourselves in visiting the
+various heads of the departments, in order to prepare them, before
+evening arrived, for energetic and speedy action. We felt that no time
+was to be lost; if, indeed, it was not already too late to avert their
+dreadful doom.
+
+Secretary Stanton, whom, among others, we saw, expressed in strong terms
+his willingness to assist Webster to the extent of the resources of the
+government, but he was but little disposed to assist the others, who, he
+alleged, had "betrayed their companion to save their own lives."
+
+In the evening the Cabinet was convened, and, after a full discussion of
+the matter, it was decided that the only thing that could be done, was
+to authorize the Secretary of War to communicate with the rebel
+authorities upon the subject. He was directed to authorize General Wool
+to send by flag-of-truce boat, or by telegraph, a message to Jefferson
+Davis, representing that the course pursued by the Federal government
+toward rebel spies had heretofore been lenient and forbearing; that in
+many cases such persons had been released after a short confinement, and
+that in no instance had any one so charged been tried for his life, or
+sentenced to death. The message concluded with the decided intimation
+that if the rebel government proceeded to carry their sentence of death
+into execution, the Federal government would initiate a system of
+retaliation which would amply revenge the death of the men now held.
+
+Receiving a copy of these instructions, Colonel Key and myself, feeling
+that we had exhausted the power of the government in this matter,
+returned at once to Fortress Monroe. We arrived there on the 23d day of
+April. General Wool was immediately found, and without a moment's delay,
+he caused the required dispatches to be forwarded, by way of Norfolk,
+through General Huger, who was then in command of that place, with the
+urgent request that he would instantly transmit it by telegraph to the
+Richmond authorities.
+
+This, I learned, was done as had been requested, and I learned further,
+that it reached the officers of the rebel government, and received their
+consideration in time to have been of avail, had there been one spark of
+manly sympathy animating the breasts of those who were the leaders of a
+vile conspiracy to destroy the noblest government under the blue canopy
+of heaven.
+
+Feeling that all had now been done that was possible to save the lives
+of my men, and believing that the hate and malignity of the rebel
+officers would not carry them to such a murderous extent as this, I
+awaited the result of our mission with painful solicitude.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+After the day of execution had been fixed, Mrs. Lawton was permitted to
+visit Webster in the room to which he had been assigned. During all the
+time that the trial had been in progress, they had never been allowed to
+communicate with each other, and the noble little woman had been
+compelled to suffer in silence, while Webster was undergoing the painful
+experiences of the investigation, which had resulted in his being
+condemned to be hung as a spy.
+
+The meeting between Webster and Mrs. Lawton was a most affecting one.
+Tears filled the eyes of the faithful woman, as she gazed at the pale
+and emaciated form of the heroic patriot. Their hands were clasped in a
+warm pressure, and her words of heartfelt sympathy and grief were choked
+by the sobs which shook her frame. Even in the excess of his despair,
+Webster's fortitude never for a moment forsook him. He bore the burdens
+which had been imposed upon him with a courage and firmness that
+impressed all who witnessed it.
+
+Under Mrs. Lawton's direction, the room in which he was confined was
+soon made cheerful and clean; with her own hands she prepared for him
+such delicacies as he needed most, and her words of comfort were of
+great effect in soothing his mind, and in preparing him for the dreadful
+fate which he was called upon to meet.
+
+Nor did Mrs. Lawton stop here. She sought an interview with Jefferson
+Davis, but, finding him engaged with General Lee, she obtained the
+privilege of visiting the wife of the Confederate president. With Mrs.
+Davis she pleaded long and earnestly in behalf of the condemned man.
+Besought her by every holy tie of her own life to intercede for the
+pardon of the poor invalid, whose life hung by so slender a thread.
+
+All in vain, however. While fully sympathizing with the fate of the
+unfortunate man, Mrs. Davis declined to interfere in matters of state,
+and Mrs. Lawton left the house utterly hopeless of being able to avert
+the dreadful fate which impended over Webster.
+
+The hours flew swiftly by, and the day of execution drew near, and still
+a ray of hope glistened through the gloom which surrounded him. If
+McClellan only succeeded in capturing Richmond all would be well. But as
+the days passed, and this result seemed further from accomplishment than
+ever, even that flickering ember of hope died out, and he prepared to
+meet his fate like a man.
+
+One thing, however, impressed the doomed man more than anything
+else--the thought of being hung. Any other mode of punishment would have
+been accepted with joy, but to be hanged like a murderer, was a disgrace
+which he could not bear to think about. On the day before his execution,
+he requested a visit from General Winder, and that officer, evidently
+expecting a revelation from the lips of his victim, soon made his
+appearance at the prison.
+
+As he entered the cell where Webster was reclining upon his couch, he
+roughly accosted him:
+
+"Webster you have sent for me; what is it that you desire?"
+
+"General Winder," replied Webster, "I have sent for you to make an
+appeal to your manhood; my fate is sealed. I know that too well--I am to
+die, and I wish to die like a man. I know there is no hope for mercy,
+but, sir, I beseech you to permit me to be shot, not be hanged like a
+common felon,--anything but that."
+
+"I am afraid that cannot be done," said Winder, coldly.
+
+"It is not much to ask," pleaded Webster; "I am to die, and am prepared,
+but, sir, for God's sake let me not die like this; change but the manner
+of my death, and no murmur shall escape my lips."
+
+"I cannot alter the sentence that has been ordered."
+
+Mrs. Lawton, who was present, and unable further to restrain herself,
+exclaimed:
+
+"General, as a woman I appeal to you--you have the power, and can
+exercise it. Do not, I pray you, condemn this brave man to the odium of
+a felon's death. Think of his family, and his suffering. Let the
+manliness of your own heart plead for him. It is not much that he asks.
+He does not sue for pardon. He seeks not to escape your judgment, harsh
+and cruel as it is. He only prays to be allowed to die like a brave man
+in the service of his country. You certainly can lose nothing by
+granting this request, therefore, in the name of justice and humanity,
+let him be shot instead of the dreadful death you have ordained for
+him."
+
+While she was speaking, the hard lines about the rebel's mouth grew
+still more harsh and rigid. He did not attempt to interrupt her, but
+when she had finished, he turned coolly upon his heel, and, as he
+reached the door he said:
+
+"His request and yours must be denied. He hangs to-morrow."
+
+"Then," ejaculated the undaunted woman, "he will die like a man, and his
+death will be upon your head,--a living curse until your own dark hour
+shall come!"
+
+Without deigning to notice them further, he passed out of the cell,
+violently closing the door behind him.
+
+The shadows of the night came down over the prison. The last night on
+earth to a brave man who had met death in a hundred forms ere this. How
+many times the gaunt, repulsive form of the fatal scaffold, appeared to
+the vision of the condemned man, as he sat firm and rigid in his dark
+cell, we may not know. How many times he lived over again the bright
+scenes of his past life! The happy, careless days of childhood, when the
+fond eyes of a loving mother beamed upon him in his sportive gambols.
+His school days, the lessons conned by the evening lamp in the dear old
+home of long ago. The merry days of youth, which glided away amid scenes
+of mirth and jollity. The first dawnings of the passion of his life,
+when a soft hand nestled lovingly in his, and earnest eyes, full of love
+and trust, seemed to speak a world of affection. Then the stirring
+scenes of active life, he a man among men battling with the world,
+performing his daily duties, mingling honorably with his fellows, and
+upheld by a pride of honor and self-respect. His sacrifices for his
+country in the dark hour of her peril. The lonely marches, the weary
+burdens, the unflinching steadfastness of his fealty to his government.
+The long nights of storm and danger, the varying episodes of pleasure
+and of pain, conflicts with enemies, and happy hours with friendly
+companions--all these thoughts came upon him with a distinctness which
+brought their actual presence near. Now he was listening to the sweet
+lullaby of his mother's voice, now he stood in the hall of the "Sons of
+Liberty," in the midst of affrighted conspirators and blue-coated
+soldiers--anon he strayed by a purling stream, with a loved one upon his
+arm--and again he breasted the dashing waters and the deluging storm on
+the bay, as he rescued the women and children from the stranded boat. So
+vivid were these pictures of his mind that he lived again a hundred
+scenes of his past life, partook of a hundred pleasures, shared in a
+hundred sorrows. Suddenly in the midst of some thrilling vision of
+by-gone days, the flickering of his lamp or the tread of the sentry
+outside would recall him from a delightful reverie to the dark and
+dreadful present. Then gloomy and despondent thoughts would come to him.
+He would picture minutely the scenes of the morrow, the rude platform,
+the dangling noose, the armed soldiers, the hideous black cap, the
+springing of the gallows trap.
+
+Then, unable to bear the agony of his thoughts, he would start to his
+feet, press his hands to his ears, as if to drown the fearful sounds,
+and pace rapidly the narrow cell. Mrs. Lawton never left him; ever alert
+to his needs, ever ready with sustaining words, although her own brave,
+tender heart was breaking, she did her utmost to strengthen and sustain
+him. Gradually he became calmer. The slow moving hours passed on, and he
+resolutely performed the last duties that devolved upon him. Messages
+were confided to his unwavering nurse for the dear friends at home;
+expressions of love and regard for his kindred, and unswerving
+breathings of devotion to his country.
+
+"Tell Major Allen that I met my fate like a man. Thank him for his many
+acts of kindness to me. I have done my duty, and I can meet death with a
+brave heart and a clear conscience."
+
+The first faint streaks of the early dawn came in through the grated
+window; the sun was rising in the heavens, brightly and gloriously
+lighting up a day that should have been shrouded in gloom. Its beams
+illumined the little chamber, where Webster lay calm and wakeful, his
+hands clasped by the woman who had so nobly shared his captivity.
+
+A silence had fallen upon them. Each was busy with thoughts which lips
+could not utter, and the death-like stillness was undisturbed save by
+the tramp of the guards in the corridor.
+
+Suddenly there came the sound of hurried footsteps. They paused before
+the door. The heavy bolts were shot back, and in the doorway stood Cap.
+Alexander, the officer in charge.
+
+The little clock that ticked upon the wall noted a quarter past five
+o'clock.
+
+"Come, Webster, it is time to go."
+
+There was no sympathy in the rough voice which uttered these words.
+
+"To go where?" inquired Webster, starting up in surprise.
+
+"To the fair grounds," was the laconic reply.
+
+"Surely not at this hour," pleaded the condemned man; "the earliest
+moment named in my death-warrant is six o'clock, and you certainly will
+not require me to go before that."
+
+"It is the order of General Winder, and I must obey," answered
+Alexander. "You must prepare yourself at once."
+
+Without another word Webster arose from his bed, and began his
+preparations. Not a tremor was apparent, and his hand was as steady and
+firm as iron. When he had fully arranged his toilet, he turned to Mrs.
+Lawton, and taking both her hands in his he murmured:
+
+"Good-bye, dear friend; we shall never meet again on earth. God bless
+you, and your kindness to me. I will be brave, and die like a man.
+Farewell, forever!" then turning to Captain Alexander, who stood unmoved
+near the door, he said:
+
+"I am ready!"
+
+As they went out through the door, a piercing shriek rent the air, and
+Mrs. Lawton fell prostrate to the floor.
+
+Arriving at the entrance to the prison, they found a company of cavalry
+drawn up before them, and a carriage, procured by Mrs. Lawton, awaiting
+their appearance. Webster crossed the pavement with unfaltering step and
+entered the vehicle, the order to march was given, and the procession
+started for the scene of execution.
+
+At Camp Lee, the scene was one of bustle and excitement. Soldiers were
+moving about in companies, and in small detachments. Eager spectators
+were there, curious to watch the proceedings, and the streets leading to
+the grounds were lined with people whose prevailing emotion seemed to be
+that of idle curiosity.
+
+On arriving at the camp, Webster was conducted into a small room, on the
+ground floor of one of the buildings, and was left alone with the
+clergyman who had been requested to accompany him.
+
+Thus he remained for several hours. At ten minutes past eleven, the
+carriage was drawn up before the door, and Webster appeared leaning upon
+the arm of the jailer, and attended by his spiritual adviser.
+
+The doomed man wore a look of calm composure. His face was pale, and the
+feebleness of his condition was manifest in his tottering walk; but his
+eye was clear and steady and not a muscle of his face betrayed his
+emotion.
+
+They reached the scaffold, which was erected on the north side of the
+parade ground. Slowly and painfully he ascended to the platform. Amid a
+breathless silence, he stood for a moment and gazed about him. The
+bright blue sky overhead, the muskets of the soldiers glistening in the
+rays of the sun, the white, eager faces which surrounded him. His last
+look on earth. Though much exhausted by his long illness, he stood alone
+and firmly whilst his arms were tied behind him and his feet were bound
+together.
+
+The black cap was placed over his head, and then followed a moment of
+solemn stillness. The entire assembly seemingly ceased to breathe. The
+signal was given, the trap was sprung, and, with a dreadful, sickening
+thud, Webster fell from the gibbet to the ground beneath. The hang-man's
+knot had slipped, and the man, bound hand and foot, lay in a confused
+heap, limp and motionless, before the gathered throng. He was lifted up
+and carried to the scaffold.
+
+"I suffer a double death," came from the lips of the dying man as he was
+again placed upon the readjusted trap. The rope was again placed around
+his neck, this time so tight as to be excruciatingly painful.
+
+"You will choke me to death this time," came in gurgling tones from
+within the enveloping hood.
+
+In a second the trap was again sprung, and the brave patriot was
+swinging in the air, between heaven and earth.
+
+Rebel vengeance was at last satisfied, the appetite for human blood was
+sated.
+
+Treason had done its worst, and the loyal spy was dead.
+
+Early in the afternoon, Captain Alexander returned to the prison, and
+informed Mrs. Lawton that all was over. He found her deathly pale, but
+now firm, and giving no other outward sign of the agony of the past few
+hours.
+
+"May I see him before he is taken away?" she asked.
+
+"There is no objection to that."
+
+Accompanying the officer, she went to the room in which the body lay,
+incased in a metallic coffin which Mrs. Lawton had procured. His face
+was not discolored in the least, and the features indicated the same
+Roman firmness which he exhibited when he left the prison. He died as he
+had lived--a brave man.
+
+Several rebel officers stood around the coffin. Turning suddenly upon
+them, and facing Captain Alexander, Mrs. Lawton, in a burst of passion,
+exclaimed:
+
+"Murderers! this is your work. If there is vengeance or retribution in
+this world, you will feel it before you die!"
+
+As if stung to the quick by this accusation, Captain Alexander stepped
+up to the coffin, and laying his hand upon Webster's cold, white
+forehead, said:
+
+"As sure as there is a God in Heaven, I am innocent of this deed. I did
+nothing to bring this about, and simply obeyed my orders in removing him
+from the prison to the place of execution."
+
+Application was made to General Winder for the privilege of sending
+Webster's body to the North, where it might be buried by his friends;
+but this the rebel officer peremptorily refused. A petition was then
+made that it be allowed to be placed in the vault in Richmond, with no
+better success. Not content with heaping ignominy upon him while living,
+the fiend was determined that even in death the patriot should be the
+subject of odium and contempt.
+
+In the dead hour of the night, he ordered the remains to be carried
+away, and buried in an obscure corner of the pauper's burying-ground.
+
+Farewell, brave spirit! I knew thee well. Brave, tender and true; thou
+hast suffered in a glorious cause, and died a martyr's death. Thy memory
+will long be green in the hearts of thy friends. When treason is
+execrated, and rebellion is scorned and despised, the tears of weeping
+friends will bedew the sod which rests above the martyred spy of the
+Rebellion--Timothy Webster.
+
+After the war was over, and peace once more reigned throughout the land,
+I procured his body, and it now lies in the soil of a loyal state--the
+shrine of the patriot--the resting-place of a hero.
+
+But little more remains to be told. After weary months of captivity,
+Mrs. Lawton, Price Lewis and John Scully, were sent to the North, where
+their stories were told, and from whose lips I learned the particulars I
+have narrated.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+_The Defeat of General Pope at the second Battle of Manassas.--McClellan
+Again Called to the Command.--The Battle of Antietam.--A Union
+Victory.--A Few Thoughts about the Union Commander.--McClellan's Removal
+from Command and his Farewell Address._
+
+
+On the second day of September, 1862, the following order was issued:
+
+
+     "War Department, Adj't.-Gen.'s Office,
+
+         "Washington, Sept. 2, 1862.
+
+     "Major-General McClellan will have command of the
+     fortifications of Washington, and of all the troops for the
+     defense of the Capital.
+
+                              "By order of
+
+     "E. D. TOWNSEND,      "Maj.-Gen. HALLECK.
+          Ass't. Adj't.-Gen."
+
+
+
+At this time the Federal troops, under General Pope, were retreating in
+great disorder from the disastrous defeat in the Virginia campaign, and
+the roads leading to Washington were, for the second time during the
+war, filled with stragglers from the ranks, making their way to the
+capital. It will be remembered that while McClellan and the main Eastern
+army were in the Peninsula, the divisions of McDowell, Fremont and
+Banks were, by orders of the government, held near Washington, for the
+protection of the national capital. On the 26th day of July, these
+forces were consolidated as the Army of Virginia, and placed under the
+command of General Pope. This army was guarding the line of the Rapidan.
+
+Soon after the retreat of the Union army under General McClellan, the
+Confederates, in August, 1862, began to move towards Washington.
+Stonewall Jackson, leading the advance of the Southern army, attacked
+Banks' force at Cedar Mountain, on the 6th day of August. Banks,
+however, was able to hold Jackson in check for some time; but the main
+body of the rebels arriving, Banks was compelled to retreat. Lee now
+pressed heavily upon Pope, who retreated northward from every position
+then held by him.
+
+When this movement became known to the authorities, General McClellan
+was ordered to hastily ship the Army of the Potomac back to Washington,
+and so persistent was General Halleck in his orders to that effect, that
+at the second battle of Manassas McClellan found himself completely
+stripped of his army--literally without a command--and compelled to
+submit to the mortification of listening to the roar of the battle from
+afar, and without being allowed to participate in its conflicts. Some
+idea of his feelings may be learned from a dispatch sent by him to
+General Halleck at this time:
+
+     "I cannot express to you the pain and mortification I have
+     experienced to-day, in listening to the distant sound of the
+     fighting of my men. As I can be of no further use here, I
+     respectfully ask that if there is a probability of the
+     conflict being renewed to-morrow, I may be permitted to go
+     to the scene of battle with my staff, merely to be with my
+     own men, if nothing more; they will fight none the worse for
+     my being with them. If it is not deemed best to intrust me
+     with the command even of my own army, I simply ask to be
+     permitted to share their fate upon the field of battle."
+
+These appeals, however, were utterly disregarded. Gen. Pope was to
+command the army, and to do the fighting, and in the end the
+contemptuous superiors of the heroic commander suffered a crushing
+defeat in the bloodiest battle of this campaign. The second battle of
+Manassas was a most disastrous one, and on August 29-30 Pope's army was
+utterly defeated.
+
+Lee was now pressing forward, flushed with victory, and threatening
+Washington. On the 1st of September the battle of Chantilly was fought,
+and in which those brave Generals, Kearney and Stevens, lost their
+lives.
+
+Learning by bitter experience the culpable folly of ignoring the genius
+and bravery of McClellan, and with the rebel army besieging the capital,
+General Halleck, in the excess of fear, was forced to again call for the
+services of the gallant commander of the Army of the Potomac, and
+General McClellan was once more placed in command of an army defeated
+and demoralized by the incompetency of its generals.
+
+The broken army of Pope was now united with that of the Army of the
+Potomac, and the army of Virginia ceased to exist as a separate
+organization. With the intense enthusiasm of the soldiers for McClellan,
+he soon brought order out of chaos, and in an incredibly short space of
+time he faced them about, in orderly columns, and started to repel the
+invading army of Lee, who was now crossing the Potomac.
+
+From reports made by my operatives at this time, it was ascertained that
+Lee had abandoned, if, indeed, he ever seriously entertained the idea of
+advancing directly upon the capital, and was now contemplating carrying
+the campaign into Maryland. Longstreet's division had left Richmond
+about the 5th day of August for Gordonsville, marching to Orange
+Court-house, he fell back to Gordonsville. Jackson fell back at the same
+time, and they both participated in the battle of Manassas, and in the
+fighting that followed. Jackson then crossed the river into Maryland,
+before Longstreet, who crossed a few days later, at or near Edwards'
+Ferry.
+
+On the 4th day of September, my operatives, who were watching the
+movement of the rebel army, reported that Lee had his headquarters on
+the Aldie turnpike, near Dranesville; while Jackson was near Fairfax
+Court-house. On the 9th, it was understood that the rebels had moved
+their entire army into Virginia, and it was presumed that his objective
+point was Baltimore.
+
+General McClellan left Washington on the 7th day of September, and
+established his headquarters at Rockville, having first made all
+arrangements for the defense of Washington, and placing General Banks in
+command of the troops at that place. By this time it was known that the
+mass of the rebel army had passed up the south side of the Potomac
+river, in the direction of Leesburg, and that a part of the army had
+crossed the river into Maryland.
+
+The uncertainty of Lee's intentions greatly distracted the authorities
+at Washington for the safety of that city, and they were fearful that he
+would make a feint towards Pennsylvania, and then suddenly seize the
+opportunity to attack the capital.
+
+Some writers have animadverted freely upon the alleged "slowness" of
+McClellan's movements up the Potomac, and his "delay" in offering battle
+to Lee before the latter had time to unite his army and occupy the
+strong position he held at Antietam; but they persistently ignore the
+fact that the dispatches from the commander-in-chief at Washington, to
+McClellan in the field, from the 7th to the 16th of September, were
+filled with cautions against a too hasty advance, and the consequent
+impropriety of exposing Washington to an attack. Indeed, it seems
+evident to me, when I regard the career of the Army of the Potomac,
+that had those in power in Washington been less concerned for their own
+safety, and trusted more to the skill and sagacity of the general in the
+field to direct its movements, the history of that army would have been
+widely different from what it is. The campaign of the Peninsula
+terminated disastrously to the Union arms, and it was mainly due to this
+real or assumed fear of the authorities for the safety of Washington.
+
+It is not presuming too much to say, that McClellan knew far better than
+those at Washington the movements and intentions of the enemy, and that
+he was apprised of them sooner; but it is equally true that a certain
+element in the Cabinet was unfriendly to the secret service branch of
+the army, and, with characteristic stubbornness, placed but little
+reliance upon the information obtained from this source.
+
+For instance, General Halleck was of the opinion, on the evening of the
+day before Antietam, that Lee's whole force had crossed the river, and
+so telegraphed McClellan, when the fact was that the rebel army was
+actually in our front, and ready for the battle that so speedily
+followed.
+
+Still, the importance of moving with extreme caution was kept constantly
+in view, and the army was moved so that it extended from the railroad to
+the Potomac River, the extreme left flank resting on that stream.
+
+On the twelfth of September, a portion of the right wing of the army
+entered Frederick, Md., and on the following day the main body of the
+right and the center wings arrived, only to find that the enemy had
+marched out of the place two days before, taking the roads to
+Boonesboro' and Harper's Ferry.
+
+Lee had left a force to dispute the possession of the passes, through
+which the roads across South Mountain ran, while he had dispatched
+Jackson to effect the capture of Harper's Ferry. In these plans he was
+partially frustrated, for, while Jackson succeeded in capturing Harper's
+Ferry, McClellan drove the rebel troops from the passes, after short but
+vigorous engagements at South Mountain, on September 14th, but failed in
+his efforts to relieve Harper's Ferry, and that place was surrendered on
+the following day.
+
+Immediately following the actions at South Mountain, Lee, being closely
+pressed by McClellan, turned at bay in the beautiful valley of the
+Antietam. Here he resolved to endeavor to hold his position until he
+could concentrate his army. His forces at this time numbered about forty
+thousand men.
+
+On the sixteenth, he was reinforced by Jackson's gallant corps,
+numbering about five thousand men, which, together with other
+reinforcements, received during the day, swelled his numbers to fifty
+thousand men, which, in the language of one of their own writers,
+constituted "the very flower of the Army of Northern Virginia."
+
+Our own forces did not exceed eighty-five thousand men, and it is but
+correct to say that not seventy thousand were actually engaged on the
+day of the great battle. My own judgment is, that at no time during the
+fight was the Confederate army ever confronted by a force outnumbering
+their own.
+
+Confederate writers have sought to make it appear that Lee, at Antietam,
+fought and practically defeated a force in excess of his own in the
+ratio of three to one. This assertion is proven to be a glaring error,
+for the facts are that the odds were less than three to two, even in
+point of actual numerical strength present, while, all things
+considered, these were reduced until the two armies faced each other on
+the morning of Antietam pretty evenly opposed, and with no decided
+advantage in favor of either contestant.
+
+To explain: taking it for granted that McClellan had eighty-seven
+thousand men at roll-call on the morning of the seventeenth, it is now
+known that the battle was mainly fought by the First, Second, Ninth and
+Twelfth Corps, while the Fifth and Sixth Corps and the Cavalry Division
+were scarcely used at all. In addition to this, it should be remembered
+that ours was the attacking force; that the enemy occupied a chosen
+position, and therefore, in this view of the situation, the odds were by
+no means great in favor of the Federal troops.
+
+[Illustration: "_My horse was shot under me while crossing the stream._"
+P. 569]
+
+On the morning of the sixteenth, being then at headquarters, and
+desiring to learn from personal observation something of the position of
+the enemy, I accompanied a party of cavalry sent out to reconnoitre
+across the Antietam. Here it was discovered that the enemy had changed
+the position of some of their batteries, while their left and center
+were upon and in front of the Sharpsburg and Hagerstown turnpike, and
+their extreme left rested upon the wooded heights near the cross-roads
+to the north.
+
+While returning from this reconnoitering expedition, fire was opened
+upon us from a masked battery upon the hill, and my horse, a beautiful
+sorrel, that had carried me for months, and to which I was much
+attached, was shot from under me while I was crossing the stream.
+Several of the men who accompanied me were seriously wounded, and I
+narrowly escaped with my life.
+
+The next morning, at early dawn, the battle commenced, and raged with
+unabated fury until nightfall, when the rebels withdrew, and our
+soldiers slept that night upon a dearly won, yet decisively victorious
+field. McClellan determined not to renew the attack upon the following
+day, for which his critics have censured him severely; yet, I am
+satisfied, that not a few writers, who have fought, _on paper_, the
+battle of Antietam, just as it should have been fought in their own
+estimation, have not, in a single instance, given the subject more
+painful and anxious thought than did the General himself, during all
+that night, while his weary troops lay resting on their arms, on a
+field covered with their own and their enemy's dead.
+
+No better reasons can be assigned, and, indeed, none better need be
+given for the course he pursued, than he, himself, has stated in his own
+report of that battle. He says: "I am aware of the fact, that, under
+ordinary circumstances, a General is expected to risk a battle if he has
+a reasonable prospect of success; but at this critical juncture, I
+should have had a narrow view of the condition of the country, had I
+been willing to hazard another battle with less than an absolute
+assurance of success. At that moment, Virginia lost, Washington menaced,
+Maryland invaded, the National cause could afford no risks of defeat.
+One battle lost, and almost all would have been lost. Lee's army might
+then have marched as it pleased on Baltimore, Washington, Philadelphia
+or New York. It could have levied its supplies from a fertile and
+undevastated country, extorted tribute from wealthy and populous cities,
+and nowhere east of the Alleghanies was there another organized force
+able to arrest its march."
+
+The day after the battle, however, General McClellan gave orders for a
+renewal of the attack on the morning of the nineteenth; but when morning
+dawned, it was discovered that the rebels had suddenly abandoned their
+position and retreated across the river, leaving nearly three thousand
+of their unburied dead on the late field of battle. Thirteen guns,
+thirty-nine colors, upwards of fifteen thousand stand of small arms,
+and more than six thousand prisoners, were taken in the battles of South
+Mountain, Crampton's Gap and Antietam, while not a single gun or color
+was lost by our troops in any of these encounters.
+
+The Battle of Antietam, in its effects, was a brilliant and decisive
+victory for the Union arms, as it was a terrible blow to the South, who
+had expected much from Lee's sudden and daring invasion of a loyal
+state; and their losses, from the time they first invaded Maryland until
+the end of the Battle of Antietam, were in the neighborhood of thirty
+thousand men.
+
+Whatever, therefore, has been said by unfriendly critics, concerning
+General McClellan's achievements, they must be regarded by the
+intelligent and fair-minded student of history, as far from being
+failures. Nor were they merely the achievements of an ordinary man. It
+is an easy, and no doubt a tempting task, nearly twenty years after a
+battle has occurred, and with the knowledge and materials now at hand,
+for writers to fight this battle over again, and point out alleged
+blunders here and there, and in their vivid, and not always truthful,
+imaginations conduct affairs as they should have been conducted.
+
+It may be safely asserted, that no General in the history of the Nation
+was ever so shamefully treated by his government, as was General
+McClellan. With a brave and noble devotion, and with a self-sacrificing
+love for his country and her flag, he fearlessly offered his life and
+his services in sustaining the honor of the one, and the perpetuity of
+the other.
+
+Reviewing his career from the date of his taking command of all the
+armies, down to the close of the battle of Antietam, he received the
+bitter opposition of the Cabinet, and the ill-concealed enmity of the
+politicians; and scarcely had he been called to this important position,
+than his enemies began working to effect his downfall. With such
+persistence and success did they devote themselves to their task, that
+by the time he had his Army of the Potomac ready for the field, they had
+practically deposed him as the Commander-in-Chief.
+
+His plans of the campaign were required to be submitted to a body of
+twelve of his subordinates for approval, and this ridiculous proceeding
+ended in their adoption by a vote of eight to four. The next day the
+enemy abandoned Manassas, a move which was the result of direct treason,
+or, at least, criminal indiscretion on the part of some member of that
+commission, either directly or indirectly. After his plans were adopted,
+and their execution commenced, he was hampered and distressed by orders
+from his superiors at Washington, conflicting with his own well formed
+ideas and deranging his carefully prepared plans in the field.
+
+He, however, bore all these things patiently, and at all times
+faithfully endeavored to do the very best, under the adverse
+circumstances which surrounded him. He, however, at all times, had the
+courage to speak his convictions, knowing the purity of his own actions,
+notwithstanding the fact that he was frequently called upon to execute
+orders that his own better judgment convinced him were conceived in
+ignorance or malice, and which could but do harm to him and to the cause
+he loved.
+
+On July 7, 1862, we find him writing to the President his views on the
+conduct of the war. He said:
+
+"In carrying out any system of policy which you may form, you will
+require a Commander-in-Chief of the army, one who possesses your
+confidence, understands your views, and who is competent to execute your
+orders by directing the military forces of the nation to the
+accomplishment of the objects by you proposed. I do not ask that place
+for myself, I am willing to serve you in such position as you may assign
+me, and I will do so as faithfully as ever subordinate served superior.
+I may be on the brink of eternity, and as I hope for forgiveness from my
+Maker, I have written this letter from sincerity towards you, and from
+love for my country."
+
+Through all his correspondence, while in the field, with his superiors,
+there breathed a spirit of earnest and sincere devotion to country; and
+rarely was he tempted to utter words which proved how sorely he was
+tried and how much he resented the interference of incompetent
+authority. When pushed beyond all control by the foolish, unfriendly
+and unjust course of those at Washington, and when their interference
+had caused the failure of his plans, he wrote to Secretary of War
+Stanton, "You have done your best to sacrifice this army," and even then
+the words were written more in a tone of regret than of anger.
+
+Nearly a month later, when the order was issued for the withdrawal of
+the Army of the Potomac before Richmond, under the full force of his
+convictions, he uttered a manly protest against such action, and
+entreated that the order might be rescinded. "All points," said he, "of
+secondary importance elsewhere should be abandoned, and every available
+man brought here. A decided victory here and the strength of the
+rebellion is crushed, it matters not what partial reverses we may meet
+with elsewhere. _Here is the true defense of Washington; it is here, on
+the banks of the James, that the fate of the Union should be decided._
+Clear in my convictions of right, strong in the consciousness that I
+have ever been and still am actuated by love of my country,... I do now,
+what I never did in my life before, I entreat that this order may be
+rescinded."
+
+How true these words were, and how prophetic their scope, may be proven
+by the words of General Sheridan several years later. When Grant was
+compelled at last to adopt the very plans of McClellan, thus giving as
+practical a vindication of that general as could be desired, Sheridan
+sent a message to Grant, but a little while before the surrender,
+urging him to come with all the force he could command in pursuit of
+Lee, saying, "_Here is the end of the rebellion._" A fit corollary to
+McClellan's dispatch from James River to Halleck: "_Here, directly in
+front of this army, is the heart of the rebellion._"
+
+No general in this country, or in any other, was more universally
+beloved and admired by his troops, and no commander ever returned that
+affection with more warmth than did McClellan. Troops that under other
+commanders suffered defeat after defeat, until dismayed and discouraged
+they fled to Washington, followed by a pursuing and exultant enemy, were
+in a few days, by his magical influence over them, again transformed
+into brave and hopeful soldiers, ready to follow anywhere their trusted
+commander might lead.
+
+It is a strange fact, but a fact, nevertheless, that the Army of the
+Potomac received all its good words, words of cheer and encouragement,
+from McClellan alone. Those in power at the capital were painfully blind
+to its sufferings on the toilsome march, or its deeds of valor on the
+bloody field. After the battle of Antietam, and after the Army of the
+Potomac had driven Lee from Maryland, General McClellan telegraphed his
+chief as follows: "I have the honor to report that Maryland is entirely
+freed from the presence of the enemy, who has been driven across the
+Potomac. No fears need now be entertained for the safety of
+Pennsylvania; I shall at once occupy Harper's Ferry."
+
+Two days later, receiving no word of acknowledgement for his troops,
+whom he felt had earned them from the Commander-in-Chief, he, in a
+telegram of September 20th, said: "I regret that you have not yet found
+leisure to say one word in commendation of the recent achievements of
+this army or even to allude to them."
+
+Before this, he had taken occasion to remind General Halleck of the fact
+that the army deserved some credit for its labors, and appreciated any
+acknowledgment of the same which the Commander-in-Chief might make.
+
+On August 18th, 1862, and after the fighting before Richmond, he wrote
+to General Halleck as follows:
+
+     "Please say a kind word to my army, that I can repeat to
+     them in general orders, in regard to their conduct at
+     Yorktown, Williamsburg, West Point, Hanover Court-house, and
+     on the Chickahominy, as well as in regard to the seven days,
+     and the recent retreat. No one has ever said anything to
+     cheer them but myself. Say nothing about me; merely give my
+     men and officers credit for what they have done. It will do
+     you much good, and strengthen you much with them, if you
+     issue a handsome order to them in regard to what they have
+     accomplished. They deserve it."
+
+Is it any wonder, then, that the army exhibited such splendid enthusiasm
+for their leader, when they, above all others, were fully acquainted
+with his character as a man and a general?
+
+Self was his last and least consideration. Always mindful of the comfort
+of his men, yet inculcating, by his splendid discipline, the essential
+requisites of the true soldier, he led his troops through the campaigns
+of the Peninsula and of Maryland, achieving a record that was a credit
+to him, his army, and the nation, and is an enduring monument to the
+faithful devotion and the gallant services of the Army of the Potomac. I
+cannot close this chapter in more fitting words than those used by
+General McClellan, in his brief and affectionate farewell to his
+officers and men, after the battle of Antietam, when, having won a
+victory at a critical period, he was, as a reward, relieved from his
+command.
+
+
+                                "November 7th, 1862.
+
+     "Officers and soldiers of the Army of the Potomac:
+
+     "An order of the President devolves upon Major-General
+     Burnside the command of this army. In parting from you I
+     cannot express the love and gratitude I bear you. As an
+     army, you have grown up under my care. In you I have never
+     found doubt or coldness. The battles you have fought under
+     my command will proudly live in our nation's history. The
+     glory you have achieved, our mutual perils and fatigues, the
+     graves of our comrades fallen in battle and by disease, the
+     broken forms of those whom wounds and sickness have
+     disabled--the strongest associations which can exist among
+     men--unite us still by an indissoluble tie. We shall ever be
+     comrades in supporting the constitution of our country and
+     the nationality of its people."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+_General Burnside in Command.--My Connection with the Secret Service
+Severed.--Reflections upon Important Events.--Conclusion._
+
+
+On the evening of the seventh of November, following the battle of
+Antietam, General McClellan was removed from the command of the Army of
+the Potomac. After having spent weeks in the laborious effort of
+reorganizing his forces, which had been severely shattered and weakened
+by the hard marching and the still harder fighting in the recent battles
+with Lee, the brave commander, upon the eve of an important forward
+movement was deprived of his noble army. General Burnside was named as
+his successor. Again had the political cabal at Washington succeeded in
+their opposition to the noble commander of the Army of the Potomac, and
+this time effectually.
+
+McClellan's tardiness was the alleged cause of his removal. No one in
+authority seemed to consider for a moment the necessity, which was
+apparent to their immediate commander, of affording the Federal troops
+an opportunity to recuperate from their exhausted condition. The serious
+losses sustained at South Mountain, Crampton's Gap, and Antietam had
+left the army badly disorganized, and the privations and hardships to
+which they had been subjected, rendered a delay, for the purpose of
+allowing the worn and weary soldiers time to rest and recuperate, an
+absolute necessity. In the language of McClellan, "The Army had need of
+rest." After the terrible experiences of battles and marches, with
+scarcely an interval of repose, which they had gone through from the
+time of leaving the Peninsula; the return to Washington; the defeat in
+Virginia; the victory at South Mountain, and again at Antietam, it was
+not surprising that they were, in a large degree, destitute of the
+absolute necessities for effective duty. Shoes were worn out; blankets
+were lost; clothing was in rags; the army was unfit for duty, and time
+for rest and equipment was absolutely necessary.
+
+McClellan at once notified the authorities of the condition of his
+troops, and made the necessary requisitions on the proper departments
+for the needed supplies. For some unaccountable reason--unaccountable to
+this day--the supplies ordered were so slow in reaching the men, that
+when, on the seventh of October, the command came for him to cross the
+river into Virginia, and give battle to the enemy, a compliance with the
+order was practically impossible.
+
+Then, too, re-enforcements were needed. In ordering the advance, the
+President, through the General-in-Chief, had submitted two plans, of
+which McClellan could take his choice. One was to advance up the valley
+of the Shenandoah with reenforcements of fifteen thousand troops, the
+other was to cross the river between the enemy and Washington, in which
+case he was to be reenforced with thirty thousand men. McClellan's first
+inclination was to adopt the movement up the Shenandoah Valley,
+believing, that, if he crossed the river into Virginia, Lee would be
+enabled to promptly prevent success in that direction by at once
+throwing his army into Maryland. Owing, however, to the delay of the
+supplies in reaching the army, it was nearly the end of October before
+the troops were ready to move. About the twenty-sixth, the army
+commenced to cross at Harper's Ferry, and by the sixth of November the
+advance upon the enemy was begun. On the night of the seventh,
+therefore, when the order came relieving him from the command,
+McClellan's advance guard was actually engaged with the enemy.
+
+I had already learned that Longstreet was immediately in our front, near
+Culpepper, while Jackson and Hill's forces were near Chester's and
+Thornton's Gap, west of the Blue Ridge. McClellan had formed the plan of
+attempting to divide the enemy, with the hope of forcing him to battle,
+when it was believed, an easy victory would be achieved.
+
+At this juncture, however, and when the army was in an excellent
+condition to fight a great battle, when officers and men were
+enthusiastic in their hopes of being able soon to strike an effective
+blow, McClellan was removed, and Stanton had, at last, accomplished his
+revenge. Not only this, but he had also secured the failure of, what was
+undoubtedly destined to be, a great and decisively victorious campaign.
+
+McClellan's plan on discovering the position of the enemy's forces, was
+to strike in between Culpepper Court House and Little Washington, hoping
+by this means to separate the rebel army, or at least to force their
+retreat to Gordonsville, and then advance upon Richmond, either by way
+of Fredericksburg or the Peninsula.
+
+Burnside, on assuming the command, submitted a plan of his own, which
+was to make a feint of doing, what McClellan really intended to do,
+before adopting the move upon Fredericksburg or the Peninsula, and then
+to advance from Fredericksburg.
+
+This plan, however, did not meet the approval of General Halleck. That
+General had a long conference with Burnside, at Warrenton. Here their
+various plans were discussed, without either agreeing to the plan of the
+other, and the matter was finally referred to the President for his
+decision. After a further delay of several days, Mr. Lincoln adopted
+Burnside's plan, and the advance was ordered.
+
+The success of this plan depended upon the immediate possession of
+Fredericksburg by the Federal army. The intelligent student knows full
+well that this was not even _attempted_ until Lee had ample time to
+heavily re-enforce the rebel army already there. The subsequent results
+show Burnside's delay to have been fatal to his success.
+
+There was a time when he could certainly have taken Fredericksburg, with
+but little loss; but that time was passed when he permitted the enemy to
+fully garrison the place, and make ample provision for its defense with
+an army of nearly ninety thousand men.
+
+At this time, however, my connection with the Army of the Potomac, and
+with the military concerns of the government, ceased. Upon the removal
+of General McClellan, I declined to act any further in the capacity in
+which I had previously served, although strongly urged to do so by both
+President Lincoln and the Secretary of War, Edwin M. Stanton.
+
+From my earliest manhood, I had been an ardent and active abolitionist,
+and I have endeavored to demonstrate this fact throughout these pages.
+My deep admiration, therefore, for General McClellan, was the result of
+my knowledge, of my intimate acquaintance with him, and a consequent
+high regard, based upon his innate and intrinsic qualities, both as a
+man and a soldier, and not from any political affinity whatever.
+
+Refusing longer to continue with the army under its new commander, I was
+afterwards employed by the government in the work of investigating the
+numerous claims that were presented against the United States. While
+acting in this capacity, I was instrumental in unearthing a vast number
+of fraudulent claims, and, in bringing to justice a large number of men
+who were engaged in the base attempt to swindle and defraud the nation
+in the dark hours of her need and peril.
+
+In the Spring of 1864, I was transferred to the Department of the
+Mississippi, under General Canby, and my headquarters were located at
+New Orleans. Here I was engaged in looking after cotton claims, and the
+frauds which were sought to be perpetrated against the government in
+that region of the country.
+
+In 1865, I severed my connection with the "Secret Service of the United
+States," and returned to Chicago, where I have since been engaged in the
+active prosecution of my profession as a detective.
+
+Very often, as I sit in the twilight, my mind reverts back to those
+stirring scenes of by-gone days; to those years of war and its
+consequent hardships, and I recall with pleasure my own connection with
+the suppression of the rebellion. My subsequent life has been none the
+less happy because of my having assisted, as best as I could, in putting
+down that gigantic act of attempted disunion, and in upholding the flag
+of our fathers. More than all do I rejoice in the freedom it brought to
+nearly half a million of people, who, prior to that time, had been held
+in inhuman bondage,--striking the shackles from their bruised limbs, and
+placing them before the law free and independent.
+
+My task is done. In a few brief pages I have attempted to depict the
+work of years. The war is over, the rebellion has been crushed, peace
+and plenty are everywhere apparent. The flag of the Union floats from
+every port in the United States, the slave is free, the South is
+recovering from the ravages of war, and the stories of those stirring
+times seem now like the legends of an olden time.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+One more scene remains, and I will then draw the curtain.
+
+It is a Sabbath morning, the air is fragrant with blossom and flower,
+the birds are carolling sweetly a requiem for the dead. Around us,
+sleeping the sleep that knows no waking, lie the forms of those whom we
+knew and loved. We are in the "city of the dead." The wind sighs through
+the waving branches of the trees, with a mournful melody, suggestive of
+the place. Near by is the bustling city, but here we are surrounded only
+by the mute, though eloquent testimonies of man's eternal rest. Here
+beneath a drooping willow let us pause awhile. Flowers are blooming
+over a mound of earth, saturating the atmosphere with a grateful aroma.
+Let us lean over while we read what is inscribed upon the marble tablet.
+
+      SACRED
+
+    TO THE MEMORY OF
+
+    TIMOTHY WEBSTER,
+
+        WHO
+
+    WAS EXECUTED AS A SPY,
+
+        BY THE
+
+    REBELS, IN RICHMOND, VA.,
+
+      APRIL 29, 1862,
+
+    AFTER GALLANT SERVICE IN THE WAR
+        OF THE REBELLION.
+
+    HE SEALED HIS FIDELITY AND DEVOTION
+
+        TO HIS COUNTRY
+
+        WITH HIS BLOOD.
+
+
+    Alike to him are the heats of summer, or the snows of winter.
+    Peacefully and quietly he sleeps. The Spy of the Rebellion is at rest.
+
+
+
+
+APPENDIX.
+
+THE HARDSHIPS AND PRIVATIONS OF A DETECTIVE'S LIFE
+
+
+Every person who may have survived the experience has undoubtedly a
+lively recollection of the wild groups of people which the building of
+the Union and Central Pacific Railroads brought together from all
+directions, and from all causes.
+
+There were millions upon millions of dollars to be expended; and as the
+points of construction neared each other, and the twin bands of iron
+crept along the earth's surface like two huge serpents, spanning mighty
+rivers, penetrating vast mountains, and trailing through majestic
+forests, creeping slowly but surely towards each other, there was always
+the greatest dread at the most advanced points, which, like the heads of
+serpents, always contained danger and death; and the vast cities of a
+day that then sprang into existence, and melted away like
+school-children's snow-houses, were the points where such wild scenes
+were enacted as will probably never again occur in the history of
+railroad building.
+
+Everything contributed to make these places typical of Babelic
+confusion, or Pandemoniac contention. Foreigners were told of the
+exhaustless work, and the exhaustless wealth, of this new country which
+was being so rapidly developed, and they came; men--brave men, too--who
+had been on the wrong side during the late irritation, and who had lost
+all, having staked all on the result of the war, saw a possible
+opportunity of retrieving their fortunes rapidly, and they came; the
+big-headed youth of the village whose smattering of books at the
+academy, or the seminary, had enlarged his brain and contracted his
+sense so that he was too good for the common duties and everyday
+drudgeries which, with patience, lead to success, learned of the glory
+and grandeur of that new land, and he came; the speculating shirk and
+the peculating clerk came; the almond-eyed sons of the Orient in
+herds--herds of quick-witted, patient, plodding beings who could be
+beaten, starved, even murdered--came; the forger, the bruiser, the
+counterfeiter, the gambler, the garroter, the prostitute, the robber,
+and the murderer, each and every, came; there was adventure for the
+adventurous, gold for the thief, waiting throats for the murderer; while
+the few respectable people quickly became discouraged, and fell into
+the general looseness of habits that the loose life engendered, and
+gradually grew reckless as the most reckless, or quickly acquiesced in
+the wild orgies or startling crimes which were of common occurrence. In
+fact, as in the human system, when any portion of it becomes diseased
+and all the poison in the blood flows to it, further corrupting and
+diseasing it until arrested by a gradual purification of the whole body,
+or by some severe treatment, so from every portion of the country flowed
+these streams of morally corrupt people, until nearly every town west of
+Missouri, or east of the mountains, along these lines, became a terror
+to honest people, and continued so until an irresistible conflict
+compelled a moral revulsion, sometimes so sweeping and violent as to
+cause an application of that unwritten, though often exceedingly just
+law, the execution of which leaves offenders dangling to limbs of trees,
+lamp-posts, and other convenient points of suspension.
+
+As a rule, in these places, every man, whatever his business and
+condition, was thoroughly armed, the question of self-defense being a
+paramount one, from the fact that laws which governed older communities
+were completely a dead letter; and the law of might, in a few instances
+made somewhat respectable by a faint outline of ruffianly honor, alone
+prevailed, until advancing civilization and altered conditions brought
+about a better state of society; so that in these reckless crowds which
+pushed after the constantly changing termini of the approaching roads,
+any instrument of bloodshed was considered valuable, and stores where
+arms and ammunition could be secured did quite as large a trade as those
+devoted to any other branch of business; while so outrageous was the
+price extorted for these instruments of aggression or defense, that they
+have often been known to sell for their weight in gold; and just as,
+during the war, the army was followed by enterprising traders who turned
+many an honest penny trafficking at the heels of the weary soldiers, so
+the same class of people were not slow to take advantage of such
+opportunities for gigantic profits which, though often lessened by the
+many risks run in such trading, were still heavy enough to prove
+peculiarly attractive.
+
+As a consequence, there were many firms engaged in this particular
+business, but probably the heaviest was that of Kuhn Brothers, who were
+reported to be worth upwards of one hundred thousand dollars, which had
+principally been made along the line of the road, and who, with
+headquarters at Cheyenne, had established various "stores" at different
+points as the Union Pacific was pushed on, always keeping the largest
+stock at the most advanced point, and withdrawing stocks from the paper
+cities which had been left behind, though only in those towns which had
+not been altogether destroyed by the periodical exodus occasioned by
+each change of terminus.
+
+For this reason the firms were obliged to entrust their business to the
+honesty of many different employés, who were subject to the vitiating
+influences and temptations, which were unusual and severe under the
+circumstances already mentioned, while the distances between the points,
+and the scarcity of secure means of safely keeping the large sums of
+money which would occasionally unavoidably accrue at certain points,
+left Kuhn Brothers, in many instances, really dependent on those
+dependent on them.
+
+In this condition of affairs, and after a slight defalcation had
+occurred at one of their smaller stores in the spring of 1867, the firm
+were seeking a man whom they could place in actual charge of one or two
+of their establishments at the larger towns, and give a sort of general
+supervision over the others, when the senior member of the firm, being
+in Laramie, casually met a young gentleman, who happened to be able to
+do him so great a favor that the incident led to a close friendship and
+ultimate business relations, eventually resulting in this narrative of
+facts.
+
+It was a pleasant May evening, and Mr. Kuhn had decided to returned to
+Cheyenne in order to secure a proper man for the superintendency nearer
+home. He was to have left Laramie for the East at a late hour of the
+evening and, being at a loss how to pass the intervening time, strolled
+out from the hotel with no particular destination in view and his mind
+fully occupied with the cares of his business, only occasionally
+noticing some peculiarity or strange sight more than usually striking
+among the thousands of weird things, to which his frontier business had
+compelled him to become accustomed, when suddenly he found himself in
+front of a mammoth dance-house, and, yielding to a momentary impulse of
+curiosity, turned into the place with the stream of gamblers,
+adventurers, greasers, and, in fact, everybody respectable or otherwise,
+who, so far from civilization, found such a place peculiarly attractive.
+
+The dance-house was a sort of hell's bazaar, if the term may be
+allowed--and it is certainly the one most befitting it--and was really
+no "house" at all, being merely a very large board enclosure covered
+with a gigantic tent or series of tents, bedecked with flags and gaudy
+streamers. The entrance fee to this elegant place of amusement was one
+dollar, and you had only paid an initiatory fee when you had gained
+admission.
+
+On either side as you entered were immense bars, built of the roughest
+of boards, where every kind of liquid poison was dispensed at the
+moderate sum of twenty-five cents a drink, five-cent cigars selling at
+the same price, and the united efforts of a half-dozen murderous looking
+bar-tenders at each side were required to assuage the thirst of the
+quite as murderous looking crowd that swayed back and forth within the
+space evidently prepared for that purpose.
+
+Beyond this point, and to either side, as also down the center for some
+distance, could be found almost every known game of chance, dealt, of
+course, "by the house," while surrounding the lay-outs were every
+description of men crazed with drink, flushed with success, or deathly
+pale from sudden ruin; while everywhere the revolver or the bowie
+intimated with what terrible swiftness and certainty any trifling
+dispute, rankling grudge, or violent insult would be settled, one way or
+the other, and to be marked by the mere pitching of an inanimate form
+into the street!
+
+After these attractions came a stout partition which had evidently been
+found necessary, for beyond it there was the strikingly strange heaven
+of a mushroom city--a vast department where there were music and women;
+and it seemed that the "management" of this grand robbers' roost had
+shrewdly calculated on the fact that if a poor fool had not been
+swindled out of every dollar he might have had before he reached this
+point, those two elements, all powerful for good or evil the world over,
+would wring the last penny from him.
+
+Here was another but a finer bar, where more time was taken to prepare a
+drink and drug a man with some show of artistic excellence, and where a
+half dollar was changed for a single measure of poison; women,--shrewd,
+devilish women who could shoot or cut, if occasion required, with the
+nicety and effect of a man,--"steering" every person giving token of
+having money in his possession to the more genteelly gotten up
+"lay-outs," and acting in the same capacity, only with far more
+successful results, as the ordinary "ropers-in" of any large city; a
+wild, discordant orchestra that would have been hooted out of the lowest
+of the "varieties" east of the Missouri; but in this place, and to these
+ears, so long unused to the music of the far-away homes beyond the
+Mississippi, producing the very perfection of enchanting harmonies; but
+above all, and the crowning attraction before which every other thing
+paled and dwindled to insignificance, a score of abandoned women,
+dancing and ogling with every manner of man, robbing them while
+embracing, cheering and drinking with them, and in every way bedeviling
+them; the whole forming a scene viler than imagination or the pen of man
+can conceive or picture; grouping of wild orgies and terrible
+debaucheries, such as would put Lucifer to a blush, and compel a
+revolution in the lowest depths of Hades.
+
+Kuhn had strolled through the place, and now, out of compliment to
+general custom, purchased a cigar and was just turning to depart, when
+he suddenly found himself being hustled back and forth among several
+hard-looking fellows, who, evidently knowing his business, and surmising
+that he carried large sums of money upon his person, had determined to
+provoke him to resistance; when there would, according to the social
+codes then in existence at Laramie, have been a just cause for either
+robbing and beating him, or murdering him outright and robbing him
+afterwards; when a tall, finely-formed man suddenly stepped into the
+crowd, and in a very decided tone of voice said:
+
+"I say, gentlemen, that won't do. You must stand back!"
+
+Then taking the terror-stricken ammunition dealer by the coat collar
+with his left hand, but keeping his right hand free for quick use and
+certain work, if necessary, he trotted him through the now excited
+throng and out into the open air, hastily telling him to "cut for the
+hotel," which were quite unnecessary instructions, as he made for that
+point at as lively a gait as his rather dumpy legs could carry him.
+
+The person who had thus prevented the merchant's being robbed, and had
+also possibly saved his life, was a tall, comely young man of about
+twenty-eight years of age, and with a complexion as fair as a woman's,
+pleasant, though determined, blue eyes, and a long, reddish, luxuriant
+beard, all of which, with a decidedly military cut to his gray, woollen
+garments, and long fair hair falling upon his shoulders--the whole
+crowned, or rather slouched over, by a white hat of extraordinary width
+of brim, gave him the appearance of an ex-Confederate officer, and right
+good fellow, as the term goes, perfectly capable of caring for himself
+wherever his fortune, or misfortune, might lead him, which proved the
+case as he turned and confronted the desperadoes, who had immediately
+followed him in a threatening manner, and whom he stood ready to receive
+with a navy revolver half as long as his arm, mysteriously whipped from
+some hiding-place, in each steady hand.
+
+A critical examination of the man as he stood there, and a very casual
+survey of him, for that matter, would have instantly suggested the fact
+to an ordinary observer that a very cool man at the rear ends of two
+navy revolvers huge enough to have been mounted for light-artillery
+service, was something well calculated to check the mounting ambition on
+the part of most anybody to punish him for the character of the
+interference shown; and the leader of the gang contented himself with
+remarking, "See here, Captain Harry, if it wasn't you, there'd be a
+reck'ning here; lively, too, I'm tellin' ye!"
+
+"Well, but it _is_ me; and so there won't be any reck'ning. Will there,
+now, eh?"
+
+The ruffians made no answer, but sullenly returned to the dance-house,
+when Captain Harry, as he had been called, rammed the two huge revolvers
+into his boot legs, which action displayed a smaller weapon of the same
+kind upon each hip; after which he nodded a pleasant "good-night" to the
+bystanders, and walked away leisurely in the direction Mr. Kuhn had
+taken, pleasantly whistling "The Bonnie Blue Flag," or "The Star
+Spangled Banner," as best suited him.
+
+The moment that Mr. Kuhn's protector appeared at the hotel, the former
+gentleman expressed his liveliest thanks for the opportune assistance he
+had been rendered, and introduced himself to the Captain, who already
+knew of him, and who in return gave his name as "Harry G. Taylor, the
+man from somewhere," as he himself expressed it with a pleasant laugh.
+
+It was easy to be seen that there was a stroke of business in Mr. Kuhn's
+eye, which his escape from the dance-house had suggested, as he told
+Taylor that he had intended to return to Cheyenne that night; but he
+further stated that as he had so unexpectedly been befriended, he should
+certainly be obliged to remain another day in order to secure a further
+acquaintance with the man to whom he already owed so much.
+
+Mr. Kuhn then produced some choice cigars, and the gentlemen secured a
+retired place upon the hotel-porch, at once entering into a general
+conversation, which, from the merchant's evident unusual curiosity, and
+Taylor's quite as evident good-humored, devil-may-care disposition,
+caused it to drift into the Captain's account of himself.
+
+He told Mr. Kuhn that his family resided at that time in Philadelphia,
+where they had moved after his father had failed in business at Raleigh,
+N. C., but had taken so honorable a name with him to the former city
+that he had been able to retrieve his fortunes to some extent. The
+Captain was born at Raleigh, and had received his education in the
+South, and, being unable to share in his father's regard for the North,
+even as a portion of the country best adapted for doing business, sought
+out some of his old college friends in Louisville, Atlanta, and New
+Orleans, who had been able to secure him a fine business position at
+Atlanta, where by care and economy in 1860, though but a mere boy yet,
+he had accumulated property that would have satisfied many a man twenty
+years his senior.
+
+Being impulsive, and a warm admirer of Southern institutions, he was one
+of the first men to join the Confederate army at Atlanta, and fought in
+a Georgia regiment under Johnson and Hood during the entire war, at
+Jonesville and Rough-and-Ready Station seeing the smoke ascend above the
+ruins of the once beautiful city, and realizing that the most of his
+earthly possessions had disappeared when the flames died away.
+
+Having been promoted to a captaincy, he had fought as bravely as he
+could against the "blue-coats," like a man, acknowledging their bravery
+as well as that of his comrades; and at the close of the war, which of
+course terminated disadvantageously to his interests, he had sold his
+lots at Atlanta for whatever he could get for them, and with thousands
+of others in like circumstances, had come West and taken his chances at
+retrieving his fortunes.
+
+This was told in a frank, straightforward way, which seemed to
+completely captivate Mr. Kuhn, for he at once spoke to Taylor concerning
+his business in Laramie, and bluntly asked him, in the event of mutual
+and satisfactory references being exchanged, whether he would accept the
+engagement as superintendent of his business over that portion of the
+road, and take actual charge of the store in that place, and the one
+about to be established at Benton City.
+
+The result of the evening's interview was the engagement of Taylor by
+the firm at a large salary; his immediately taking supervision of the
+business without bonds or any security whatever; and for a time his
+management and habits were so able and irreproachable that, with the
+gratitude for his protection of Mr. Kuhn at Laramie still fresh and
+sincere, the firm felt that they had been most fortunate in their
+selection of an utter stranger, and were in every way gratified with the
+turn events had taken.
+
+
+II.
+
+During the early morning of a blustering December day of the same year,
+I was quite annoyed by the persistence of a gentleman to see me, on what
+he insisted, in the business office of my Chicago agency, on terming
+"important business."
+
+It was not later than half-past eight o'clock; and, as I have made it a
+life-long practice to get at business at an early hour, get ahead of it,
+and keep ahead of it during the day, I was elbow-deep in the mass of
+letters, telegrams, and communications of a different nature, which, in
+my business, invariably accumulates during the night, and felt anxious
+to wade through it before taking up any other matter.
+
+The gentleman, who gave the name of Kuhn, seemed very anxious to see me,
+however; and letting drop the statements that he greatly desired to take
+the morning train for Cheyenne, where he resided; might not be able to
+be in Chicago again for some time; felt very desirous of seeing me
+personally; and would require but a few moments to explain his business,
+which he agreed to make explicit; I concluded to drop everything else
+and see him.
+
+On being ushered into my private apartments, he at once hastily gave me
+an outline of the facts related in the previous chapter, adding a new
+series of incidents which occasioned his visit, and to the effect that
+the firm had made the necessary arrangements for increasing their
+business under their new superintendent, having added largely to their
+stock at Laramie, and placed about twenty thousand dollars' worth of
+goods at Benton City.
+
+According to the agreement, he was required to forward money whenever
+the sales had reached a stated sum at each point, and was given
+authority to take charge of goods or moneys on hand at any of the less
+important stations, when convinced that things were being run loosely,
+or whenever it in any way appeared for the interests of the firm for him
+to do so.
+
+It will be seen that under this arrangement, which was in every respect
+injudicious, no security having been given by Taylor, he immediately
+became possessed of great responsibility, as well as power; but appeared
+to appreciate the unusual confidence reposed in him, and conducted the
+business of Kuhn Brothers with unusual profit to them and credit to
+himself. Matters progressed in this way for some time, when suddenly,
+about the first of October, the firm at Cheyenne began to receive
+dispatches from different employees along the road, inquiring when
+Taylor was to return from Cheyenne, and intimating that business was
+greatly suffering from his absence. The members of the firm were
+astonished. They knew nothing of Taylor's being in Cheyenne. On the
+contrary, their last advices from him were to the effect that he should
+be at their city on the tenth of that month, with large collections; and
+the announcement was accompanied with glowing accounts of the prosperity
+of their business under his careful management.
+
+After the startling intelligence of Taylor's unaccountable absence, a
+member of the firm immediately left for Laramie, Benton City, and other
+points, to ascertain the true condition of affairs, still unable to
+believe that the handsome, chivalrous captain had wronged them, and that
+everything would be found right upon examination of matters which was
+immediately and searchingly entered upon; but the first glance at
+affairs showed conclusively that they had been swindled, and it was soon
+discovered that he had gathered together at the stores under his own
+charge, and at different points along the line, under various pretexts,
+fully fourteen thousand dollars, and had been given two weeks in which
+to escape.
+
+Mr. Kuhn did not desire to give the case into my hands on that morning;
+but explained that he had returned from a fruitless trip to Philadelphia
+in search of his former superintendent, and had been advised by a
+telegram from his brothers to lay the case before me and request my
+advice about the matter; at the same time securing information about the
+probable pecuniary outlay necessary for further prosecution of the
+search, and such other items of information as would enable him to
+counsel with the remainder of the firm concerning the case, and be able
+to give the case into my hands, should they decide to do so, without
+further delay.
+
+This was given him; and I, in turn, secured from Mr. Kuhn all the
+information possible concerning Taylor, which was scant indeed, as they
+had seen very little of him, could give but a very general description
+of the man, and here they had injudiciously given him over two months'
+start, during which time he might have safely got to the other side of
+the world.
+
+Only one item of information had been developed by which a clue to his
+whereabouts could by any possibility be imagined. He had often spoken to
+Mr. Kuhn in the most glowing terms of life in both Texas and Mexico, as
+he had passed, so he had said, a portion of a year in that part of
+America, since the close of the war, and in connection with the subject,
+he had stated that he should have remained there had he been supplied
+with sufficient capital to have enabled him to begin business.
+
+This was all; and I dismissed the swindled merchant with little
+encouragement as to the result of a chase for a thief who had got so
+much the advantage, or, rather, intimated to him that though I had no
+doubts of being able to eventually catch him, it would be rather a poor
+investment for the firm to expend the amount of money which might be
+necessary to effect his capture, unless, in looking into the matter
+further, I should be able to see opportunities for securing much better
+knowledge as to his present whereabouts, or clues which could be made to
+lead to them.
+
+With this not very cheering assurance, Mr. Kuhn returned to Cheyenne.
+
+Not hearing from the firm for several days, I finally dismissed the
+matter entirely from mind; but on arriving at the agency one morning, I
+received instructions from the Cheyenne firm to proceed in the matter,
+and with all expedition possible endeavor to cage the flown bird for
+them.
+
+I at once detailed William A. Pinkerton, my eldest son, and at present
+assistant superintendent of my Chicago agency, to proceed to Cheyenne,
+and look over the ground thoroughly there, and also, if necessary, to
+proceed along the line of the Union Pacific, and, after ascertaining who
+were Taylor's friends and companions, work up a trail through them,
+which would eventually bring him down.
+
+The latter course was not necessary to be followed, however, as on
+arriving at Cheyenne, with some little information gleaned from the
+firm, he was able to ascertain that a young lawyer there named La
+Grange, also originally from the South, had been a quite intimate friend
+of Taylor's--so much so, in fact, that La Grange had for the last six
+months regularly corresponded with the Captain's sister, who had been
+described to him as not only an exceedingly beautiful woman, but as also
+a lady possessed of unusual accomplishments and amiability.
+
+My son "cultivated" La Grange largely, but could secure but little
+information through him. He seemed to know nothing further concerning
+either Taylor or his family, save that he had incidentally met him along
+the line of the Union Pacific; they had naturally taken a sort of liking
+to each other, and in that way became friends in much the same manner
+that most friendships were made in that country. He further recollected
+that he had always directed his letters to a certain post-office box,
+instead of to a street number; but seemed perfectly mystified concerning
+the action of the brother. He had just returned from a three months'
+absence in Kentucky, and it was the first intimation he had had of the
+Captain's crime. La Grange also said that as he had been very busy, he
+had not written to Miss Lizzie (evidently referring to the sister), nor
+had he received any communication from her during that time. He had had
+a photograph of Harry, taken in full-dress uniform while stationed at
+Atlanta, which had been copied in Philadelphia, but a thorough search
+among his papers failed to reveal it.
+
+This was all that my son could secure, as La Grange, evidently
+suspecting that, in his surprise at Taylor's crime, he might say
+something to compromise himself and endanger Taylor or wound his
+beautiful sister, to whom he seemed greatly attached, positively refused
+to have anything further to say concerning the matter; and with what
+information he had, William returned to the hotel in a brown study,
+determined to take time to exhaust the material at Cheyenne before
+proceeding on the proposed trip along the Union Pacific.
+
+After summing up and arranging the points he had got hold of, he
+telegraphed me fully, adding his own impression that Taylor was in
+Texas, but expressing a doubt as to whether he had better proceed along
+the Union Pacific for more information, or go on to Philadelphia at
+once, and in some way secure information of the family as to their son's
+whereabouts.
+
+On the receipt of this telegram, which arrived in Chicago about noon, I
+at once resolved upon a little strategy, being myself satisfied that
+Taylor had proceeded, _viâ_ St. Louis and New Orleans into either Texas
+or Mexico, and was then engaged under his own or an assumed name, in
+some business agreeable to his taste, as formerly explained to Mr. Kuhn,
+and immediately telegraphed to my son:
+
+"Keep La Grange busied all day so he cannot write, or mail letters.
+Study La Grange's language and modes of expression. Get La Grange's and
+Taylor's handwriting, signatures, and Miss Taylor's address, and come
+next train."
+
+Agreeable to these instructions, he secured several letters from Taylor
+to Kuhn Brothers, concerning business matters, with the last one,
+containing the announcement that he would be in Cheyenne on the tenth of
+October with collections; and immediately sent by a messenger a
+courteous note to La Grange, desiring an outline of Taylor's life so far
+as he might feel justified in giving it, and requesting an answer, which
+was politely but firmly given in the negative over Adolph La Grange's
+own signature, which completed a portion of his work neatly.
+
+The balance was more difficult. He ordered a sleigh, and after settling
+his hotel bill, but reserving his room for the night, at once drove to
+La Grange's office, where he in person thanked him for his courteous
+letter, even if he did not feel justified in giving him the information
+desired. A little complimentary conversation ensued during which time my
+son's quick eyes noticed in the lawyer's waste-basket an envelope
+evidently discarded on account of its soiled appearance, addressed to
+"Miss Lizzie Taylor, Post-office Box ----, Philadelphia," which on the
+first opportunity he appropriated. The next move was to _prevent_ La
+Grange's mailing any letter, as it was evident he had written several,
+including one to Taylor's sister, which were only waiting to be mailed.
+
+Seeing that he had made a pleasant impression upon La Grange, who
+appreciated the courtesy of the call under the circumstances, and
+informing him that he had decided to make no further inquiries there,
+but was to proceed west on the following morning, he prevailed upon him
+to take a ride in his company about the city and its environs. In
+leaving his office, La Grange hesitated a moment as if deciding the
+propriety of taking the letters with him, or returning for them after
+the sleigh-ride; but evidently decided to do the latter, as he left
+them, much to my son's relief.
+
+The drive was prolonged as much as possible, and the outlying forts
+visited, where, having letters of introduction from myself to several
+army-officers stationed there, both he and his companion were so
+hospitably treated that the afternoon slipped away quickly, and the two
+returned to town evidently in high spirits. La Grange felt compelled to
+reciprocate as far as in his power, and billiards, with frequent drinks
+for the lawyer and a liberal supply of water for the detective, were in
+order until within a half hour of the eastern bound train time, when La
+Grange succumbed to an accumulation of good-fellowship, and on his own
+suggestion, as he "wash rising y'n'g 'torny y'know!" accepted the
+hospitalities of my son's room, at the Rawlins House, where he left him
+sweetly sleeping at a rate which would prevent the mailing of the
+letters he had left locked in his office for at least two days to come;
+as "rising young attorneys," as a rule, sober off in a carefully
+graduated diminishing scale of excesses of quite similar construction to
+the original.
+
+On the arrival of my son in Chicago, I immediately caused to be written
+a letter addressed to Miss Lizzie Taylor, at her post-office box in
+Philadelphia, of which the following is a copy:
+
+
+     "SHERMAN HOUSE, CHICAGO, Jan. 1868.
+
+     "MISS TAYLOR,
+
+     "MY DEAR FRIEND:--You know of my intended absence from
+     Cheyenne in the South. During that trip, I really never had
+     the time when I could write you so fully as I desired, and
+     even now I am only able to send you a few words. I am _en
+     route_ to Washington on business, and have now to ask you
+     to send the street and number of your father's house, even
+     if it is not a magnificent one, as you have told me, to my
+     address, at the Girard House, in your city, on receipt of
+     this, as I shall be in Washington but one day, and would
+     wish to see both you and your people without delay. I not
+     only greatly wish to see you for _selfish reasons_, which
+     our long and pleasant correspondence will suggest to you as
+     both reasonable and natural, but there are other good
+     reasons, which you all will readily understand when I tell
+     you that I met _him_ accidentally just before my return to
+     Cheyenne, and that I have a communication of a personal
+     nature to deliver. While not upholding him in the step he
+     has taken, I cannot forget that I am his friend, and he your
+     brother.
+
+     "In great haste,
+
+         "Your true friend,
+
+              "ADOLPH LA G----,
+
+     "P.S.--I leave here for the East this morning. Please answer
+     on immediate receipt.
+
+                                        A. L."
+
+
+
+This was posted on the eastern-bound train not an hour after my son's
+arrival from the West; and another note was written upon the back of an
+envelope which had passed through the mail, and had got a very much used
+appearance, and ran thus:
+
+
+     "FATHER OF LIZZIE:
+
+     "Treat Adolph well, you can trust him. Give him one of the
+     'photos' taken at Atlanta in my full-dress uniform; keep one
+     other of the same for yourselves; but destroy all the rest.
+     Have been so hurried and worried that I don't remember
+     whether I have said anything about photographs before. But
+     this is a matter of _imperative necessity_. Adolph will
+     explain how he met me.
+
+     "Good-by,
+
+     "H. ----"
+
+
+
+It was impossible to detect any difference between this handwriting and
+that of Captain Taylor's in his business correspondence to Kuhn
+Brothers; and, armed with this document, with the assistance of the
+epistolary self-introduction which had preceded it, I directed my son to
+leave for Philadelphia that evening, secure admission to Taylor's
+residence and the family's confidence, agreeable to the appointment made
+by mail, and thus not only secure the man's photograph, but other
+information that would be definite.
+
+On arrival at Philadelphia, he secured the services of an operative from
+my agency in that city, to follow any member of the Taylor family who
+might call for the letter, to their residence, in the event of an answer
+not being received at his hotel in due time from the one assumed to have
+been sent from the hotel in Chicago from La Grange, who found Taylor's
+home, an unpretentious house on Locust street, while my son remained at
+the hotel, fully expecting the coveted invitation to visit the Captain's
+beautiful sister, which arrived at his hotel only a half day after he
+did, and strongly urged him to call at his convenience.
+
+He was satisfied from this that our theory regarding his being in Texas,
+or Mexico, was correct; that the family had not the slightest suspicion
+of his identity, and that, wherever Captain Taylor might be,
+communication with his people had been very infrequent, and that, with
+what he would be able to invent after being received at Taylor's house,
+he could secure at least sufficient information to put him upon his
+son's trail. Not desiring to play upon their feelings and friendship as
+another person any longer than necessary, however, he sent word by a
+messenger, not daring to trust his own handwriting, that he would call
+that evening, though necessarily at a late hour; and, accordingly, that
+evening, about nine o'clock, found him at the door of a pleasant Locust
+street cottage, ringing for admission.
+
+A tall, handsome young woman greeted him at the door, and accordingly
+bade him enter, saying pleasantly, as she ushered him into the cozy
+little parlor, that she was Miss Lizzie Taylor, and presumed he was Mr.
+La Grange, with whom she had had so long and so pleasant a
+correspondence; and of whom "poor Harry," as she said with a shade of
+sadness and tenderness in her voice, had so often written, before he had
+made his terrible mistake, and become a wanderer.
+
+After hastily satisfying her that he was the genuine La Grange, and
+profusely apologizing for his not having written for so long a time
+previous to his arrival at Chicago, from Cheyenne, he took up the
+thread she had dropped, as quickly as possible, and said that he felt
+sure that Harry would retrieve himself soon, and return the money, as he
+had no bad habits, and everything would be all right again.
+
+"But yet, Mr. La Grange," she continued, "it makes me shudder whenever I
+think of all my brothers being away off there on the Rio Grande, among
+those terrible people!"
+
+"But, you must remember," he replied, encouragingly, "they are strong
+men, and can well defend themselves under any circumstances."
+
+"Harry is strong and brave, I know," answered Miss Taylor, rather
+admiringly; "but brother Robert is not fit for such a life. Why, he is
+but a boy yet."
+
+"Ah, a younger brother?" he thought, making a mental note of it, in
+order to assist in shaping his conversation after which he said aloud:
+"I almost forgot to give you this note;" and he took the piece of
+envelope out of his note-book, as if it had been sacredly guarded, and
+handed it to her.
+
+Miss Taylor read the hastily written lines with evident emotion; and
+after studying a moment, as if endeavoring to reconcile matters, while
+her face was being searchingly read by an experienced detective, she
+rose, and, apologizing to him for the absence of her father, who was in
+New York, on business, and of her mother, who was confined to her
+apartment, a confirmed invalid, she asked to be excused so as to show
+the note to her mother.
+
+The instant the door closed, my son had seized the album, which he had
+located during the preceding conversation; and rapidly turned its leaves
+to assure himself that he was not treading on dangerous ground. He found
+a half-a-dozen different styles of pictures of the Captain, including
+three of the copies taken in Philadelphia of the original Atlanta
+picture, and felt reassured beyond measure at the lucky turn things had
+taken. He would have abstracted one of these, but it was impossible, and
+had barely time to return the album to the table, and himself to his
+seat, when he heard the woman's step along the hall, and in a moment
+more she entered the room.
+
+
+III.
+
+Giving the door a little impulsive slam, as she closed it, Miss Taylor
+at once came to where my son was sitting upon the sofa, and seated
+herself beside him. She said that her mother was anxious beyond measure
+to learn how and where he had met Harry, how he was looking, and what he
+had said.
+
+The imagination and resources of the able detective are fully equal to
+those of the most brilliant newspaper reporters, and a pleasant and
+plausible fiction was invented, how he (as La Grange, of course), having
+taken a run from Louisville down to New Orleans, by boat, was just
+landing at the levee, when he suddenly came across Harry, who had
+hastily told him all; how great had been his transgression, how deeply
+he had regretted it; but that now he was situated in his business
+matters so that, if let alone, he would be able to return to Kuhn
+Brothers every dollar which he had taken, and have a fine business left;
+how it had been necessary for him to come to New Orleans on imperative
+business, and that he should not come east of the Mississippi again
+under any circumstances. He further said, that Harry seemed hopeful;
+that he had stated that his younger brother Robert was well and enjoying
+the frontier life; and that, further than that, he had no time or
+disposition to talk, as he was on the very eve of departure for Texas,
+only having time to write the little note concerning the photographs.
+
+Miss Taylor excused herself for a moment to convey the truthful
+intelligence to her anxious mother; and on her return suggested that
+they go through the album together at once, and attend to the
+photographs, an invitation which was accepted with unusual readiness.
+
+Every gentleman who has had the experience, and there are few who have
+not, know that looking over an album with a beautiful woman who has
+some interest in her companion, is a wonderfully pleasant diversion. In
+this instance it was doubly pleasant, for it meant success to my son,
+whose zeal is as untiring as my own when once on the trail of a
+criminal.
+
+"I wonder why," asked Miss Taylor, as if wondering as much about Mr. La
+Grange as about any other subject; "I wonder why Harry desires those
+photographs destroyed?"
+
+He was turning the leaves for her and, as La Grange, of course, had a
+perfect right to take plenty of time to explain the matter soothingly
+and sympathetically.
+
+"But do those horrid detectives track a man out and run him down, when,
+if he were let alone, he might recover from his misfortune, and right
+the wrong he has done?"
+
+Mr. La Grange remarked that he had heard that some of them were very
+much lacking in sentiment and sensibility, and would go right forward
+through the very fire itself to trace the whereabouts of a criminal; and
+all those little things helped, he could assure her.
+
+She began to see how it was, she said; but suddenly firing up, she shook
+her pretty fist at some imaginary person, exclaiming:
+
+"Oh, I could kill the man who would thus dog my brother Harry." And
+then, after a little April shower of tears, quite like any other woman's
+way of showing how very desperate they can be under certain
+circumstances, began slowly taking the Captain's pictures from the
+album, commenting upon them, and then handing them to the bogus La
+Grange to burn, who would occasionally step to the fire-place for that
+purpose, where he would quickly substitute miscellaneous business cards,
+which answered the purpose excellently.
+
+An hour or two was passed with Miss Taylor in conversation upon various
+topics which might lead the really estimable young lady to divulge all
+she knew about the Captain, or concerning his whereabouts and business,
+which was certainly not much.
+
+It appeared that, immediately after the embezzlement, and while at St.
+Louis, Taylor had telegraphed to his brother Robert to meet him at New
+Orleans at a certain time, as he was going into business in that
+section, and should need his services, for which he would be able to pay
+him handsomely; the brothers had met there and had proceeded to some
+other point; the Captain claiming that it would be injudicious to make
+that fact known, as he had also sent a full and complete confession to
+his parents of his embezzlement from Kuhn Brothers, which he had
+directed them to burn, and which he finished by requesting his family
+not to write to either himself or his brother for some time to come; or
+at least until he should indicate to them that it would be safe to do
+so; and under no circumstances to give any person an iota of
+information concerning himself or his brother.
+
+My son left Miss Taylor's hospitable home with a pang of regret for the
+deception which had seemed necessary in this case; for whatever may be
+the opinion of the public regarding the matter, a detective has often
+quite as large and compassionate a soul as men of other and apparently
+more high-toned professions.
+
+So long as intelligent crime is the result of a high standard of mental
+culture and a low standard of moral conscience--conditions which now
+exist and have for some years existed--intelligent minds must be trained
+to battle criminals with their own weapons; and these two questions, of
+speedy detection of crime and swift punishment of criminals will be
+found quite as essential to a preservation of law and society as lofty
+arguments or high moral dissertations on the right or wrong of the
+expediencies necessary to bring wrong-doers to immediate and certain
+justice.
+
+As soon as I had received a full telegraphic report of the success of
+the Philadelphia experiment, I directed him to proceed to Louisville,
+where he would be met by operative Keating, from Chicago, who would
+bring letters of introduction from myself to Colonel Wood, commanding
+the First Infantry at New Orleans; Captain White, chief of the detective
+force of that city; General Canby, commanding the Department of Texas,
+at Austin; Col. Hunt, Chief Quartermaster of the Department of Texas,
+and other army officers, requesting them to render my son and his
+assistant any aid in their power should the necessity for such
+assistance arise; the requisition from Governor Foulke, of Dakotah
+Territory, for Henry G. Taylor, upon Governor Pease, of Texas, and
+general instructions concerning his conduct of the search for the
+handsome captain after he had got beyond mail and telegraphic
+communication.
+
+I was sending him into a country which was at that time in many portions
+utterly unsafe for the securing of a criminal should the pursuer's
+mission become known, so as to allow the person desired time to apprise
+his friends of his danger, or give him even an opportunity to rally any
+number of acquaintances for defense; for the reason that, as Texas had
+become a sort of refuge for ruffians, they became clannish through the
+general peril of being pursued each experienced; and would, as a rule,
+on the slightest provocation, assist in the rescue of any person under
+arrest, not knowing how soon it might be their turn to cry for help; but
+I have invariably sent my sons into danger with the same expectation
+that they would do their duty regardless of consequences, as I have had
+when sending other men's sons into danger. Happily I have never mistaken
+their metal; and, in this instance, felt sure that I could rely upon him
+to exercise both discretion and intrepidity in exigencies to which his
+long experience and careful training have at all times made him equal.
+
+The two detectives met in Louisville, and at once proceeded to New
+Orleans, where they arrived early in the morning of the 7th of January,
+1868, and were driven to the St. Charles Hotel. No time was lost; and
+while my son presented his letters to different parties, and made
+cautious inquiries regarding the recent appearance in New Orleans of
+Taylor, Keating, in the character of a provincial merchant, investigated
+as far as possible the business houses dealing in stock, leather, or
+wool, as to whether any such person had made arrangement for
+consignments from the interior or seaport Texan cities. No trace of
+their man was found, however, until my son was able to get at the
+register of the St. Charles Hotel for the preceding three months, which
+was attended with some difficulty, on account of the crowded condition
+of things at that house; and any detective, or other expert, will
+understand how much time and patience are required to discover one
+signature from among ten thousand, when that one may be an assumed name,
+and perhaps five hundred of the ten thousand be so similar to the one
+sought, that a disinterested person could scarcely be convinced it was
+really not the person's handwriting desired; but after a good deal of
+trouble and searching, the names of "H. G. Taylor & clerk," were
+discovered on the last half line at the bottom of a page under date of
+November 30th, 1867, which, by constant wear and thumbing in turning
+pages, had been nearly defaced, but which, in his handwriting, beyond a
+doubt told the story of their presence.
+
+Further inquiry of the clerk on duty at that time, and with his memory
+refreshed by a glance at Taylor's photographs, developed the facts that
+he had certainly been at the St. Charles on the date shown by the
+register, and that he was accompanied by a young man about nineteen
+years of age, who was recognized as Taylor's clerk.
+
+The peculiar register then kept at the St. Charles Hotel in New Orleans
+was also instrumental in assisting the detectives. It gave the guest's
+name, residence, hour of arrival, and hour of departure, with name of
+conveyance at arrival and departure, in the following manner:
+
+    _H. G. Taylor and Clerk, | Mobile, | 12 m. | Ped.
+    2 Dec. | 7 a. m. | 'Bus._
+
+This told anybody curious about the matter that H. G. Taylor and clerk,
+assuming to reside in Mobile, arrived at the St. Charles Hotel, New
+Orleans, at noon on Saturday, the thirtieth day of November, 1867,
+either afoot or by some mode of conveyance unknown to the clerk of the
+house, and that they left the house in an omnibus at seven o'clock on
+the morning of the third day following.
+
+Naturally the next inquiries were directed to ascertaining to what boat
+or railroad lines omnibuses could be ordered at that hour of the
+morning; if to different ones, then to discover who had driven the
+particular omnibus which conveyed Taylor and his brother from the hotel;
+and then make an effort to learn to what point they had been conveyed.
+This, however, proved less difficult than had been feared; for it was
+found that on the morning in question the omnibus had gone from the
+hotel to but one point, and that was to the ferry connecting with
+Berwick Bay route, by the New Orleans and Opelousas Railroad and the
+Gulf, to Galveston, although a large number of passengers had been
+booked, and it was impossible to ascertain whether Taylor and his
+brother had actually gone that route or not, though everything was in
+favor of that presumption.
+
+The death of General Rosseau had caused quite a commotion in New
+Orleans, and it seemed a pretty hard matter to get anything further of a
+definite character in that place; and I therefore instructed my son and
+detective Keating to proceed slowly to Galveston, stopping at Brashear
+City, where Taylor might have diverged,--supposing he had taken that
+route with the other passengers from New Orleans,--and to particularly
+search passenger lists aboard any lines of boats, and all hotel
+registers, before arriving at Galveston, so as to have the work done
+thoroughly nearest the base of operation; as I knew that for any party
+to get on the wrong scent in that vast state, thinly settled as it was,
+with no means of quickly conveying needful intelligence, was to enter
+upon both a needless waste of money for my patrons, and an objectless
+and wearying struggle against insurmountable obstacles for my
+detectives, whom, whatever may be said to the contrary, I have never in
+a single instance needlessly or injudiciously exposed to privation or
+danger.
+
+In Brashear conductors of trains were applied to; the hotel and omnibus
+men were questioned, the postmaster was appealed to, and even the
+passenger-lists of the boats which had been in port, and to which they
+were able to gain access for a period of three months, had been searched
+in vain. Every trace of the man seemed lost; and I was appealed to for a
+decision as to whether they should proceed to Galveston by boat, with
+the presumption that Taylor had taken passage under an assumed name, or
+take a few days' trip up along the line of the New Orleans and Opelousas
+Railroad and seek for information of their man at different points
+through Central Louisiana.
+
+I decided on the former course, and they accordingly embarked from
+Brashear immediately after the receipt of my telegram of instructions,
+on the handsome steamer "Josephine," the only boat whose books they had
+had no opportunity of examining; and, having received my telegram but a
+few minutes before the steamer left, were obliged to do some lively
+running to reach it; for, in anticipation of a message from me to take
+that route, my son had directed Keating to settle the hotel bill, and
+with both valises in hand wait at a convenient corner, where, should
+William receive a dispatch from me of the character expected, within a
+certain time, they might yet make the boat. Everything transpiring as my
+son had hoped, they were just in time, after a lively run, to be hauled
+up the gang-plank by two stalwart negroes, and were soon steaming down
+the bay and thence out to sea.
+
+
+IV.
+
+As the two ascended to the cabin they were congratulated by the officers
+of the boat and many of the passengers on their graceful and expeditious
+boarding of the steamer; and being something of objects of interest on
+account of the little incident, they concluded not to lose the
+opportunity to blend the good feeling evoked into a thoroughly pleasant
+impression, and consequently took the shortest way to accomplish that
+desired end by at once walking up to the bar where the assembled
+gentlemen, to a man, apparently in compliance to general custom, seemed
+to understand that they had been invited before a word had been uttered
+by either of the detectives, so that when my son asked, "Gentlemen,
+won't you join us?" it was an entirely superfluous request; for on
+either side, behind, and extending a solid phalanx beyond, the
+"gentlemen" had already joined and were describing the particular liquor
+that in their minds would do honor to the occasion in the most lively
+and familiar manner possible, and interspersing their demands upon the
+leisurely bar-keeper with such remarks as "Gen'lemen had narrow 'scape;"
+"Gen'lemen made a right smart run of it;" "Gen'lemen not down from
+Norlens (New Orleans), reckon come down Opelousas route," and other
+similar comments; but invariably prefacing each and every remark with
+the stereotyped word "Gen'lemen," which men were, without exception,
+assumed to be in that country at that time, at least in conversation; as
+any neglect to preface a remark with the word laid one liable to become
+immediately engaged in a discussion regarding the propriety of the use
+of the term, behind navy revolvers, rifles, double-barreled shot-guns,
+or any other available pointed or forcible means of argument.
+
+After the thirst of the crowd, which upon a Gulf-coasting steamer is
+something terrible to contemplate, had been in a measure assuaged, my
+son excused himself, and with Keating repaired to the office, remarking
+to the clerk:
+
+"I presume you would like to transact a little business with us now?"
+
+"Any time to suit your convenience," returned the clerk, but getting at
+his books with an alacrity which showed that he would be a little more
+willing to attend to the matter of fares then than at any other time.
+
+William handed him an amount of money large enough to pay for both the
+fares of himself and Keating from Brashear to Galveston; and, while the
+clerk was making change, said, by way of getting into conversation with
+him, "I'm afraid we're on a fool's errand out here."
+
+The clerk counted out the change, inked his pen to take the names, and
+then elevating his eyebrows, although not speaking a word, plainly
+asked, "Ah, how's that?"
+
+"Well, you see," replied the detective, "we're hunting a man that's had
+right good luck."
+
+"He can't be in these parts," replied the clerk, with a slightly
+satirical smile. "Names?" he then asked.
+
+"James A. Hicks and Patrick Mallory."
+
+"Where from?"
+
+"Pittsburg."
+
+"Which is which?" asked the clerk, in a business tone of voice.
+
+"I am Hicks, and that pretty smart-looking Irishman by the baggage-room
+is Mallory," was the reply.
+
+"Your age and weight?" asked the clerk mechanically, at the same time
+looking at my son keenly, and getting the rest of his description at a
+glance.
+
+These questions were properly answered, and as the clerk was noting them
+he asked, "Might I ask what was the gentleman's good luck?"
+
+"Certainly; he has fallen heir to a coal mine in Pennsylvania, and we
+are endeavoring to hunt him up for the executors of the estate."
+
+"Ah?" said the clerk, driving away with his pen; "will you be so good as
+to ask Mr. Mallory to step this way?"
+
+My son stepped up to Keating and remarked aloud, "Mr. Mallory, Mr.
+Mallory, the clerk would like to see you;" and then as Keating stepped
+to his side, remarked as if for his better information, "He knows your
+name is Patrick Mallory and that we are from Pittsburg, hunting Taylor,
+so he can come home and enjoy the property the old man left him; but he
+wants your entire description."
+
+"Quite so," said the quick-witted Irishman, dryly.
+
+"You've got me, now," said Keating, winking familiarly at the clerk,
+"when we came over we went under; and so many of us was lost that those
+saved wasn't worth mendin' as to age, ye see; but concerning heft, why
+I'd not fear to say I'd turn an honest scale at a hundred an' sixty."
+
+The clerk smiled, but concluded not to ask Mr. Mallory from Pittsburg
+any more questions.
+
+As soon as he had made his notes, however, William told him that he had
+examined the lists of all other boats plying between Brashear and
+Galveston save those of the "Josephine," and requested him to look
+through them, concluding by describing Taylor, and stating that he might
+register either as H. G. Taylor and clerk, or under an assumed name, as
+he was somewhat erratic, and through family troubles, not necessary to
+explain, he had got into a habit of occasionally traveling _incognito_.
+
+The clerk readily complied with his request, scanning the pages closely,
+and repeating the name musingly as if endeavoring to recall where he had
+heard it. By the time he had got on with the examination of a few pages,
+William had selected a photograph of Taylor, and on showing it to the
+clerk the latter seemed to have a certain recollection of having seen
+him, but a very uncertain recollection as to where, or under what
+circumstances. He went on repeating the name, however, turning back the
+pages with his right hand and tracing the names back and forth with the
+index finger of his left hand, occasionally looking at the photograph as
+if to assist in forcing a definite recollection, but without any result
+for so long a time that Messrs. Hill and Mallory of Pittsburg became
+satisfied that their last hope before arriving at Galveston was gone,
+when suddenly the clerk carelessly placed the picture beside a certain
+name and in a manner very similar to a dry-goods clerk on securing a
+successful "match," in two pieces of cloth, quietly remarked:
+
+"Yes, can't be mistaken. There you are; I've got him."
+
+"Then _we've_ got him!" exclaimed my son, in the excess of his
+gratification, shaking the hand of Mr. Mallory, from Pittsburg.
+
+"It's a joy," said the latter, beaming.
+
+"Think of the immense property!" continued my son.
+
+"And the surprise to his friends!" murmured Keating.
+
+"The surprise to himself, I should say," interrupted the clerk.
+
+"Quite so," said Mr. Keating.
+
+It appeared that Taylor and his brother had missed one or two boats at
+Brashear from some cause, but had finally taken passage on the
+"Josephine," November 7th; and as the detectives had not been able to
+ascertain whether the "Josephine" had carried the fugitives or not, on
+account of her being belated by adverse weather, and was now returning
+to Galveston, after having had barely time to touch at Brashear, they
+had felt that perhaps they might be upon the wrong trail, which, with
+unknown adventures before them, had been peculiarly discouraging; so
+that now, when they ascertained that his apprehension was only a
+question of time and careful work, they could not repress their
+gratification.
+
+Nothing further worthy of note transpired on the voyage from Brashear to
+Galveston, save that the trip was a pretty rough one, and they finally
+arrived in the latter city, hopeful and encouraged, notwithstanding the
+unusually dismal weather, which seemed to consist of one disconnected
+but never-ending storm, the "oldest inhabitants" of the place contending
+with great earnestness that "it 'peared like's they'd never had nothin'
+like it befoah!"
+
+Arriving in Galveston early Sunday morning, they went to the Exchange
+Hotel, and after breakfast set about examining the hotel registers of
+the place, ascertaining that Taylor and brother had been in the city,
+stopped a day or two, and then, so far as could be learned, had gone on
+to Houston. They were satisfied he had made no special efforts to cover
+his tracks, although he had not made himself at all conspicuous, as the
+difficulty encountered in getting those who would be most likely to
+recollect him, to recollect him at all, clearly showed; and it was quite
+evident that he had not anticipated pursuit, at least of any nature
+which he could not easily compromise, and intended going into some
+legitimate business under his own name, and with his brother's
+assistance.
+
+Before he could be arrested in Texas, however, it would be necessary to
+secure Governor Pease's warrant, which obliged a long, tedious trip to
+Austin, the capital of the State; nearly the whole distance having to be
+done by stage, which at that time seemed a forbidding piece of work, as
+it had rained every day of the year, so far; and it might be a question
+of helping the stage through rather than being helped through by it.
+Besides this, according to my son's reports, which gave a true
+description of things in Texas at that time, everything beyond Houston
+had to be paid for in gold, as sectional sentiment and counterfeiting
+had pronounced a ban upon greenbacks, and not only in gold, but at
+exorbitant prices; hotel rates being five dollars per day; single meals
+from one to two dollars; railroad fares eight cents per mile, and stage
+rates nearly double that amount; with no assurance that you would ever
+reach a destination you had paid to be conveyed to; all attended by
+various kinds of danger, among which was the pleasant reflection that
+you might be called upon at any time to contribute to the benefit of
+that noble relic of chivalry, the Ku Klux Klan, who at that day were
+particularly busy in Texas.
+
+All of these pleasant considerations made the departure from Galveston
+for Austin, in a Pickwickian sense, unusually agreeable.
+
+At Houston they discovered from different persons, including the
+postmaster, that Taylor had been there, but had made inquiries about
+points further up country; and the general impression was that he had
+gone on, though at Brenham, the terminus of the railroad, where they
+arrived Monday evening, they could find no trace of him.
+
+The next morning, when my son arose and looked on the vast sea of
+mud,--a filthy, black earth below; a dirty, black sky above; with
+nothing but driving rain and wintry gusts between; while the
+lackadaisical Texans slouched about with their hands in their pockets,
+with only energy enough to procure tobacco or "licker;" their sallow
+faces, down-at-the-heels, snuff-dipping wives desolately appearing at
+the doors and windows, only to retire again with a woe-begone expression
+of suspended animation in their leathery faces,--he fully realized the
+force of the remark attributed to General Sheridan, and more expressive
+than polite: "If I owned Texas and hell, I would live in hell and sell
+Texas!"
+
+The stage was crowded, however, and the dreary conveyance splashed and
+crunched on until noon, when dinner was taken at Wilson's Ranche, a
+long, low, rambling, tumbledown structure, which, like its owner, who
+had at one time been a "General" of something, and now retained the
+thriving title out of compliment to his departed glory, had gone to a
+genteel decay with a lazy ease worthy of its master's copy. The dinner
+was one long to be remembered by the detectives, as it was their first
+genuine Texan dinner, and consisted merely of fat boiled pork, and hot
+bread of the consistence of putty cakes of the same dimensions, which,
+when broken open after a mighty effort, disclosed various articles of
+household furniture, such as clay pipes, old knife handles, and various
+other invoices, probably playfully dumped into the flour barrel by some
+one of the half-score of tow-headed, half-clad children, which the
+"General" and his buxom helpmeet had seen fit to provide for torturing
+another generation with rare Texan dinners at a dollar a plate.
+
+It was an all-day's labor getting to La Grange, but thirty-five miles
+from Brenham, where they arrived at ten o'clock, tired and exhausted
+from the day's banging about in the stage and out of it, for they were
+obliged to walk many times in order to rest the jaded horses so that
+they could get through to La Grange at all; but before retiring made all
+the inquiries necessary to develop the fact that their man had not been
+at that point.
+
+The next day, Wednesday, was rather more trying than the previous one.
+Two miles out of town the stage got "bogged," and the entire load of
+passengers were obliged to get out and walk through three miles of
+swamps, the stage finally sticking fast, necessitating prying it out
+with rails. After this Slough of Despond was passed, the Colorado river
+had to be forded three times, and then came a "dry run," which now, with
+every other ravine or depression, had became a "wet run," and was "a
+booming" as the drunken driver termed it between oaths. There was at
+least four feet of water in the dry run, and the horses balking, the
+buckskin argument was applied to them so forcibly that they gave a
+sudden start, and broke the pole off short, which further complicated
+matters. My son, being on the box, sprang to the assistance of the
+driver, and stepping down upon the stub of the pole, quickly unhitched
+the wheel horses, so that the stage could not be overturned, and then
+disengaged the head team, finally appropriating a heavy wheel horse,
+with which he rode back to Keating, who was perched upon a rear wheel to
+keep out of the water, which was rushing and seething below, sweeping
+through the bottom of the stage, and at every moment seeming to have
+lifted the vehicle preparatory to sweeping it away like feathers, and
+also holding on to the baggage, which he had got safely upon the roof of
+the stage; and, taking him aboard his improvised ferry, after securing
+the valises, rode to the muddy shore, forming with his companions about
+as fine a picture of despairing "carpet-baggers" as the South has ever
+on any occasion been able to produce. The bedraggled passengers
+ascertained that the next town, Webberville, was several miles distant,
+and that there was no house nearer, save on the other side of the
+rapidly rising stream; and as night had come on, the best thing that
+could be done was to penetrate the woods, build a rousing fire, and
+shiver and shiver through as long, wet and weary a night as was ever
+experienced.
+
+There was never a more longed-for morning than the next one, and the
+moment that the sickly light came feebly through the mist and rain, and
+straggled into the dense cottonwood trees, where the discouraged
+passengers had a sort of fervent out-doors prayer-meeting, they started
+forward for Webberville, hungry, drenched, and so benumbed as to be
+scarcely able to walk. It was five miles into town, but one mile of that
+distance stretched over a quagmire known and described in that section
+as "Hell's half-acre;" and the truthful inhabitants of Webberville
+related of this delectable ground that during the rainy season its
+powers of absorption were so great that it would even retain the
+gigantic Texan mosquito, should it happen to take a seat there.
+
+This bog was impassable to the travelers, who finally bartered with the
+owner of a hog wagon to be carried over the marsh for a silver half
+dollar each. This was far better than remaining on the other side, and
+they finally trudged into the town more dead than alive.
+
+Fortunately for the detectives, the brother of ex-Governor Lubbock, of
+Texas, was one of the party, and as they had all become so thoroughly
+acquainted, as common misery will quickly make travelers, he took my son
+and Keating to the residence of Colonel Banks, a merchant of
+Webberville, whose good wife never rested until she had provided the
+party with a splendid meal, something with which to wash it down, and
+beds which seemed to them all to have been composed of down.
+
+After they had a good rest, the passengers for Austin were got together,
+and explained the situation of things. The creek the other side of
+Webberville was a mighty river. The driver thought he could possibly get
+the stage across, but was certain he could not do so with any passengers
+or baggage to make it drag more heavily; but he thought that if once on
+the other side, they might get to Austin the same day. William was
+anxious to push ahead, and looking about town discovered a rather
+venturesome negro who owned a monstrous mule, and at once entered into
+negotiations with him for the transfer of the party and baggage, sink or
+swim. So when the stage arrived at the creek, the baggage was unloaded,
+and the stage successfully forded the stream. But as the water covered
+so broad an expanse, was so deep and rapid, and altogether presented
+such a forbidding appearance, the passengers refused to try the mule
+experiment unless William, who had proposed the mode of transfer, and
+had secured the novel ferry, which stood with the grinning negro upon
+its back ready for passengers, would first cross the Rubicon to
+demonstrate the convenience and safety of the passage. So, handing the
+captain one of the valises, he mounted the mule, which after a few
+whirls, a little "bucking," several suspicious sidewise movements, and a
+shouted "Ya-a-oop, da, Dani-el!--done quit dis heyah foolishness!"
+plunged into the current without further ceremony.
+
+The passengers saw that Dani-el and his master were up to a thing or two
+in that section of the country; and after seeing Keating cross the
+stream in safety also, they one by one ventured upon the transfer, which
+was finished without accident, but with a good deal of merriment; and
+the colored clown paid even beyond his contract price, the stage was
+enabled to go lumbering on to Austin, where it arrived at a late hour of
+the same day.
+
+
+V.
+
+Rain, drizzle and mist; mist, drizzle and rain. It seemed all that the
+country was capable of producing; and the same preface to the befogged
+condition of the English chancery courts used by Dickens, in his
+introduction to "Bleak House," with a few of the localisms expunged,
+would have fitly applied to the condition of things in Texas, which
+afterward culminated in a flood which swept everything before it.
+
+In Austin--though the seat of the State government and the headquarters
+of the military department of Texas, full of legislators, lobbyists,
+officers and soldiers, everything had the appearance of having been
+through a washing that had lasted an age, and had been prematurely wrung
+out to dry, but had been caught on the lines by an eternal rain day.
+Involuntarily, with the spatters and dashes of rain and the morning
+wind, Longfellow's "Rainy Day" came drifting into the mind, and the
+lines:
+
+    "The day is cold and dark and dreary;
+    It rains, and the wind is never weary;
+    The vine still clings to the mouldering wall,
+    While at very gust the dead leaves fall.
+        And the day is dark and dreary!"
+
+were never more appropriate than when applied to any portion of Texas
+during the months of January and February, 1868.
+
+The very first man my son met in the office of the hotel, the next
+morning, was a member of the Legislature from Besar county, who, hearing
+his inquiries of the clerk concerning Taylor, informed him that he had
+been introduced to him in San Antonio a few weeks previous; that he was
+in company with a much younger man whom he represented as his brother,
+and that he had ostensibly come to San Antonio to make some inquiries
+concerning the hide and wool trade; but whether with an idea of settling
+at that point, or whether he could yet be found in San Antonio, he was
+unable to state.
+
+In any event this was cheering news; for it assured my detectives that
+their long and weary search would not prove unavailing; and William
+directed Keating to make himself useful about the different hotels and
+hide and stock dealers,--as it is a detective's business to work all the
+time, and the slightest cessation of vigilance after the beginning of an
+operation might at the most unexpected moment cause the beginning of a
+series of circumstances eventually permitting a criminal's
+escape,--while he himself sought out General Potter, who escorted him to
+General Canby's headquarters, where he was most cordially received, and
+not only given an order for military aid, should it be required, but
+General Canby himself went with him to the capitol and introduced him to
+Governor Pease, vouching for the reliability of any statement made in
+connection with the business which had brought him so far from home; as,
+while I had charge of the secret service of the Government, during the
+war, with myself and sons had had an intimate acquaintance with, and
+personal friendship for him.
+
+Governor Pease frankly stated to William that the affidavits were rather
+weak, and that should some of the "shysters" of that state, who did a
+thriving business in _habeas corpus_ releases, get an inkling of his
+business and the nature of the papers, they might give him a deal of
+trouble, even if they did not get his man away from him eventually. He
+said he would make the requisition as strong as possible, however, and
+expressed his hope that the reputation for ingenuity in devising and
+executing expedients possessed by Pinkerton's men would be more than
+sustained in this instance; and General Canby terminated the interview
+by giving the document approval over his own signature.
+
+My son thanked them both for their kindness, and withdrew, only too
+anxious to get to where his man was before any information that he was
+being sought for should reach him, and either scare him beyond the Rio
+Grande, or enable him to act on the defensive, as only a man can act who
+has plenty of money, plenty of friends, and, as we already knew, a great
+plenty of bravery on his own account.
+
+Soon after he had returned to the hotel, Keating came in with undoubted
+information that Taylor had a permanent residence at or near Corpus
+Christi; that either he or his brother owned a sheep ranche near the
+coast, not far from that city, while the other dealt in hides and wool
+there; and that one or the other penetrated into the interior as far as
+San Antonio, soliciting consignments.
+
+My son at once concluded that it was the Captain who had done the
+dealing, as well as stealing, and whose money and business ability had
+been brought to bear upon the trading at Corpus Christi, and upon the
+ranche in the country near it; the brother, though probably entirely
+innocent of complicity in the robbery, or even a knowledge of the source
+from whence the money had come, only being used for a convenient
+repository for his ill-gotten funds in case of Kuhn Brothers following
+him before he was ready to meet them.
+
+He therefore decided to get through to Corpus Christi in the very
+shortest time in which the trip could be made _viâ_ New Braunfels, San
+Antonio, Victoria, and Port Lavaca, hoping that he might be able to pick
+him up along some portion of that route, as it was quite evident he made
+frequent trips in that direction; and, at whatever point he might be
+started, should he seem to be going much farther into the
+interior,--which would be improbable, as San Antonio at that time was
+quite a frontier city,--arrest him at once, and hurry him back to
+Galveston along the route he was already familiar with; but, should he
+be going toward the coast, to let him take his own course, keeping him
+well in hand until he had reached Corpus Christi or some other seaport
+city, and, waiting a favorable opportunity, arrest him and get him
+aboard a boat before he could recover from the surprise.
+
+Not a half hour before they left Austin, he fortunately met Judge Davis
+of Corpus Christi, who was there attending some political convention,
+and who gave him a letter to his law partner at home, should his
+services in any way be needed, as I had been of some service to him on a
+previous occasion; so that when my two detectives left Austin on the
+seventeenth of January, they felt perfectly satisfied of ultimate
+success, though the same terrible experiences as to staging were again
+encountered.
+
+It required the entire day to traverse the few miles between Austin and
+Blanco Creek, where they secured a sort of a supper; the Onion Creek and
+its branches having been waded and forded numberless times. At Manchell
+Springs, the stage pole being again broken, they were only able to
+proceed after improvising a tongue out of a sapling, chopped from the
+roadside with a very dull hatchet. At Blanco Springs a good rest was
+taken, and the driver, having the day's experience in his mind, objected
+to going further that night; but the detectives insisted that they had
+paid their money to be taken to a certain destination, and, as they had
+shown a disposition to more than earn their passage besides, no excuse
+for their detention should be offered.
+
+After a good deal of grumbling, fresh horses were got out, a new pole
+put in the stage, and the procession again took up its weary march over
+the then most horrible of roads, crossing the innumerable brooks and
+runs which now pushed torrents into York's Creek. All night long they
+slushed and splashed, and tramped and cursed; though the rain had ceased
+for a time, there was but little light from the sky, which seemed full
+of black heavy clouds ready to burst asunder, to again drench them and
+swell the torrents afresh. My son, Keating, and a man sent along from
+Blanco Creek, "took turns," trudging along ahead of the lead-team, and,
+with lanterns, picked out the way. Often they would be misled where the
+ground was so bad as to almost defy a passage over it, when the patient
+animals behind them, steaming from the toil of straining along with
+nothing but an empty coach, would stop, as if guided by a keener
+instinct, where they would quietly remain until the united search of the
+three men had discovered the road, when the intelligent creatures
+docilely plodded along again.
+
+And so, through seemingly bottomless quagmires; over corduroys, where
+the shaky ends of timbers, struck by a horse's hoof, would mercilessly
+splash those walking beside the useless vehicle, or, suddenly relieved
+from the weight of the ponderous wheel, would fly upwards to heave
+gallons of slime upon the coach; laboring around the bases of
+far-extending mounds of sandy loam; descending into unexpected and
+sometimes dangerous depressions, along creeks, and plunging into
+streams, where drift and changing, sandy bottoms always made it a
+question whether the coach could ever be got across; they marched only
+as Sherman taught soldiers to march, or as honest detectives will crowd
+all obstacles between themselves and their duty, and came with the gray
+of the morning to the beautiful, forest-shaded Guadaloupe.
+
+Fording this river without nearly the trouble presented at some of the
+petty runs and creeks which had been passed, they came to New Braunfels
+with the sun, which had shown itself for the first time since their
+arrival in Texas, and which also shone upon the first city which had
+shown any of that wide-awake "go-aheaditiveness" and thrift so common to
+nearly all northern cities.
+
+The reason that New Braunfels differed so materially from the ordinary
+Texan towns lay in the fact that it was almost exclusively settled by
+Germans; and it was a welcome sight to the detectives to be able to
+enter a place where, from suburb to center, up and down long,
+finely-shaded avenues, it was plain to be seen that the most had been
+made of everything.
+
+From the pleasantest cottage of the extreme suburb, and past the more
+pretentious residences,--every home being provided with an exterior
+bake-oven, the same as in Germany, Pennsylvania, or portions of
+Wisconsin and Minnesota, to the shops, stores, hotels and public
+buildings, every yard, in many instances, fenced with stone gleaned and
+cleaned from the soil, and, for that matter, every spot upon which the
+eye rested showed that thrift and not whisky-drinking ruled that place;
+and that fact alone entitles the little German city to respectable
+elevation from the obscurity which has heretofore surrounded it.
+
+As nothing at this point could be learned regarding Taylor, though
+leaving the town and its extraordinary attractions with some reluctance,
+they immediately proceeded to San Antonio, the roads to which place were
+quite passable, and arrived at that city Friday afternoon. I had
+telegraphed to Colonel Lee, of San Antonio, to hold himself in readiness
+to assist my son and Keating, on the score of personal friendship,
+whenever they might arrive there, not knowing, from the terrible
+condition of the roads, at what time it would be possible for them to
+reach that point, and he, being ignorant from what direction they might
+come, where they might stay, or under what name they might register, had
+caused an advertisement to be inserted in the San Antonio _Herald_, of
+which the following is a copy:
+
+     PERSONAL.--WHENEVER THE SON OF A. P., of Chicago, may arrive
+     in San Antonio, he will learn of something to his advantage
+     by calling upon Lieut.-Col. Lee, at the Mengler House.
+
+Keating's sharp eyes first saw the item at the supper table of the
+Mengler House, where they were stopping, and they both learned, by
+listening to the conversation about them, that the Colonel was sitting
+at the same table.
+
+After supper William made himself known to Colonel Lee without
+attracting attention, the latter kindly offering him any help needed,
+after which inquiries of a guarded character were instituted for the
+object of their search. The landlord of the Mengler House stated that
+Taylor had called upon him about three weeks before to inquire for
+letters; but as he was stopping elsewhere but little attention had been
+paid to him or his questions; all of which William had reason to believe
+absolutely true, on account of the strong corroborative testimony which
+would lie in the statement of any landlord that no civility was shown
+to a man who quartered at any hostelry save his own.
+
+The next morning he called upon Chief of Police, H. D. Bonnet, who
+extended every imaginable courtesy, went with him to the offices of the
+different stage-lines, and assisted in examining their lists for some
+time previous with a view to ascertaining what direction Taylor had
+taken when he left San Antonio; introduced him to the Mayor and Chief
+Marshal, and even went with him on an extended tour through the old
+Mexican quarter of the town; but no other information was secured save
+through the German landlady of a hotel, who was as positive as her
+limited knowledge of the English language would allow her to be, that
+Taylor had stopped at her house without registering at all, and had gone
+directly from San Antonio to Port Lavaca or Corpus Christi on horseback,
+which, after all, in the exceptional condition of the weather that year
+in Texas, seemed quite probable.
+
+It was evident nothing was to be gained by remaining any longer at San
+Antonio, and was quite as plain that all possible expedition should be
+used in getting on to the coast.
+
+As if the fates were ordained perverse, the moment the two left San
+Antonio a steady drenching rain again began to fall, and as the stage
+was crowded, the discomfort of those within could not very well be
+increased. About twelve miles from San Antonio the driver succeeded in
+tipping over the stage, and giving the occupants "an elegant mud varnish
+all over," as operative Keating aptly expressed it. The driver remarked
+that he was "going up the new road," but some of the more profane
+passengers swore that, if so, he was hunting it three feet under the old
+one. On arriving at Lavernia station the dismal announcement was made by
+the lean, long stage agent, who seemed to have never done anything from
+time immemorial save sit in the door of his tumbledown hovel to make
+dismal announcement that "the Cibolo (pronounced there 'C'uillou') is
+just a scootin' and a rippin' up its banks like a mad buffler bull!
+ye'll all be back to stay at my tavern all night."
+
+It was the contemplation of this man's pure cussedness, as he sat there
+doting on the big bills he would charge when the Cibolo should drive
+back a stage load of hungry travelers, that nerved them to push on at
+all hazards and attempt a crossing at some point where the Cibolo
+"scooted and ripped up its banks" with less ardor than across the
+regular route to Victoria; but on reaching Southerland Springs, seven
+miles distant, it was found that it would be necessary to wait until
+Thursday morning, when they might possibly make a passage, as the stream
+was running down to within something like ordinary bounds very fast.
+
+Thursday afternoon came before an attempt to ford the stream was made,
+when the driver agreed to land the passengers in the middle of the
+stream on an immense fallen tree, from which point they could reach the
+other side, when they might be able to get the empty stage across also.
+
+The trial was made, and was successful so far as landing the passengers
+was concerned, but while this was being done the wheels of the coach
+sank deeper and deeper into the mucky bed of the stream, and though but
+a few minutes had elapsed, the strange action of the water had caused
+deposits to form about the coach so rapidly that it became firmly
+imbedded, and could not be moved by the four horses attached. At this
+juncture an old farmer came along, who carried the evidences of some of
+his propensities strongly marked in his face, which was a thin one, like
+his conscience, but with bright tips on his cheek bones and as red a
+nose as ever the devil-artist in alcohol tipped with crimson. No
+importunities or amount of money could prevail on him to assist the
+discouraged travelers with his fine mule train; but a pint of good
+whiskey, to be delivered the moment the stage had been drawn from its
+peril, with a small drink by way of retainer, accomplished what would
+not have been done in any other manner, and set the travelers joyfully
+on their way again. They journeyed on at a snail's pace until one
+o'clock Friday morning, when they arrived at Kelly's ranche, kept by
+Bill Kelly, uncle of the "Taylor boys," notorious for their connection
+with the Ku Klux and various other gangs of villainous desperadoes.
+
+The family were unceremoniously awakened, and at once good-humoredly
+proceeded to provide the ravenous passengers with something to eat;
+after which they made a "shake-down" on the floor, into which substitute
+for a bed everybody turned, and slept late into the morning, awakening
+stiff in every joint and scarcely able for that day's journey, which,
+with its complement of accidents and delays, took them safely over
+Esteto creek and into Yorktown early in the evening, where the
+detectives secured certain information that Taylor had been in Corpus
+Christi the week previous, and was undoubtedly there at that time, as
+Texas by this time had become a net-work of resistless streams, almost
+impassible quagmires and far-reaching lagoons.
+
+
+VI.
+
+Late the next morning they left Yorktown, having taken on a passenger of
+no less importance than ex-Confederate Governor Owens, of Arizona. He
+was a pleasant, voluble old fellow, and my son at once fell in with his
+ways, and treated him so courteously that it perhaps averted a greater
+disaster than had at any previous time occurred.
+
+Governor Owens was largely engaged in the Rio Grande trade of supplying
+frontier points with provisions and merchandise, and was just on his way
+to Indianola, on the coast, where he was to meet his Mexican freighters,
+comprising thirty wagons and carts, of all characters and descriptions,
+driven by the inevitable lazy Greaser. Even as late as the same period,
+1867-8, a vast amount of freighting was done between St. Paul,
+Minnesota, and Fort Garry, Manitoba, in the famed Red River carts,
+driven by the inevitable, lazy half-breed.
+
+William, knowing the position held by Governor Owens during a portion of
+the war, and realizing that an ex-office-holder will never lose his
+tenderness for the political regime which made him titled, assumed to be
+a Mississippian, from Vicksburg, with an Irish acquaintance, on a trip
+of inspection through Texas, and, so far, terribly disappointed with the
+State.
+
+During those periods when, owing to the depth of the mud, the passengers
+were obliged to walk, they would fall behind or walk ahead of the stage,
+when they would chat pleasantly upon general subjects. On one of these
+occasions Governor Owens eyed his companion sharply a moment, and then
+asked:
+
+"Can I trust you, sir?"
+
+"Certainly."
+
+"On the word and honor of a gentleman?"
+
+"Yes, and an honest man, too," William answered.
+
+"I believe you; thank you. You know stages are robbed out this way?"
+
+"I do."
+
+"Did you ever see it done?"
+
+"No; nor have I any desire to be around on such an occasion," he
+replied, laughing.
+
+"I reckon you hadn't better, either," said the Governor earnestly. "It
+wouldn't make so much difference if they would do the work a trifle
+genteelly, in a gentlemanly way; but the fact is, we have low fellows
+along our Texas stage-lines. They have no regard for a man's family.
+Why," he continued, warmly, "they'll just pop out from behind the trees,
+or up through some clumps of bushes, ram a double barreled shot-gun,
+loaded to the muzzle with slugs and things, into the coach from both
+sides at once, and just blaze away--all that are not killed outright are
+scared to death. There's nothing fair about it!"
+
+William expressed his curiosity to know if the drivers were ever killed.
+
+"Drivers? Never, sir, never. Why, those ruffians are too smart for that.
+Let it be known that they have begun killing drivers, and there isn't a
+stage company in Texas that could send a coach past the first timber.
+They couldn't afford to kill stage-drivers, for the moment they began
+it, that would be the end of staging."
+
+My son expressed his thanks at learning so much of the business
+principles of these land pirates, and the old gentleman continued:
+
+"You see, it takes a peculiar kind of a driver for a Texas coach. You
+want one, first, that can drink right smart of whiskey, for the water
+isn't good along some of these branches. You want one that can swear a
+hoss's head square off, too. He's got to be a coward, or he would help
+put this robbing down; and yet, he has got to be rather brave to drive
+right along up to a spot where he knows he is to see his passengers
+butchered! and that," continued the Governor, earnestly, "is just what I
+want to talk to you about, as I feel sure that I can trust you."
+
+The Governor then explained to him that a certain member of the Ku Klux,
+whom he was sorry to say was too intimate with those roadside
+plunderers, had informed him that morning, just as he was leaving
+Yorktown, that preparations had been made to rob their stage at a point
+between Clinton and Mission Valley; and that he very much desired some
+organization among the passengers for defense, as he himself had upwards
+of thirty thousand dollars, to be paid out at Indianola, for goods, and
+to his freighters for wages.
+
+On the receipt of this alarming intelligence, my son took the
+responsibility of informing the rest of the passengers what might
+possibly be expected; and, as Governor Owens had six fine carbines,
+which he was also taking down to Indianola for the protection of his
+freighters on the Rio Grand, preparatory to any attack that might be
+made.
+
+About six miles from Mission Valley the stage route traversed a low
+piece of bottom-lands covered with timber, and a considerable growth of
+underbrush. A corduroy road had been built through the place, and as the
+coach was obliged to be driven slowly across it, the locality offered
+particularly fine inducements for a robbery of the character described
+by the Governor; so that the precaution was taken of walking along with
+the coach, three on either side, with carbines ready for instant use.
+
+Just before entering the timber, two men were seen prowling about, and,
+evidently fearing their actions might cause suspicion and frustrate the
+plan they had in view, made a great effort to appear to be two
+respectable hunters in search of only wild game; and, before leaving the
+timber at the other side, two more persons were seen, who, evidently,
+not having been given any signal, had come as near to the stage as they
+dared, to ascertain for themselves why their comrades had failed in
+their calculations; but skulked away after seeing the force which grimly
+trudged along, guarding the empty vehicle, into which the passengers
+were glad enough to climb when the danger was gone by, and be carried
+with sound bodies and whole pockets to the supper which had been some
+time in waiting when they reached Mission Valley.
+
+Dinner the next day was taken at Victoria, from which city William and
+Keating expected to be able to go by railroad to Port Lavaca, only
+twenty-eight miles distant. They were doomed to disappointment in this,
+as the railroad had been abandoned since the war, either the Union or
+Confederate soldiers having taken it up bodily and turned it upside
+down, like a gigantic furrow, from Victoria to the sea.
+
+After many years somebody had come along and turned it back; but to this
+day the steam-engine has never thundered over it again; the most that
+has ever been done having been to drag an occasional freight car over
+the road by the not peculiarly thrilling application of mule power; and
+so it was said a hand-car, worked by a gang of negroes, was used for
+transporting passengers, the trips being made back and forth whenever a
+load could be got, and not before.
+
+As they were obliged to remain for this new mode of conveyance, their
+time was entirely unoccupied, and they could not but have leisure to
+make something of a study of Texan life, as it then existed; and on
+Sunday afternoon were witnesses to one of those little episodes which
+sometimes make extremely lively certain periods that would otherwise
+remain humdrum and ordinary.
+
+The bar-room of the hotel had been crowded all day, and a good deal of
+liquor had been drunk, while there had also been a large amount of money
+lost and won over cards, so that there was that feverish, explosive
+condition of things which always follows large winnings or losses at
+games of chance, although there had as yet been no disturbance of a
+serious character.
+
+At one of the little gaming tables, John Foster, county clerk of
+Victoria County, and another person, named Lew Phillips, who had been
+one of the Andersonville prison-keepers during the war, but had drifted
+out to Victoria and had secured charge of a large livery-stable there,
+were engaged at a game of poker, when Foster was heard to quietly say:
+
+"See here, Lew Phillips, you stole that card!"
+
+"You're a liar!" was retorted, with an oath.
+
+The two men were up over the card-table in a twinkling, looking at each
+other, and both very white.
+
+"Apologize!" demanded Foster, still quiet, but with a terrible
+earnestness in his voice.
+
+"I don't do that sort of business, you white-livered coward!" shouted
+Phillips.
+
+Without another look or word, the two parted, one passing out one door
+and the other out of another, while the crowd in the hotel canvassed the
+matter as coolly as though there had been no difficulty worth
+mentioning, while a few quietly laid wagers on who would get the first
+shot.
+
+In about fifteen minutes more, Foster was seen returning with a
+double-barreled shot-gun, and Phillips, who had a wooden leg, came
+stumping up another street, with an immense navy revolver in his hand.
+It was noticeable that the space between the advancing men was made very
+clear, so that nothing should interfere with their sociability. In a
+moment more, Phillips had fired at Foster, and evidently hit him; for,
+as he was bringing his gun to his shoulder, his aim had been badly
+disturbed, and before he had time to fire, Phillips had fired again and
+wounded his man the second time. Foster now leaned against a porch
+column, desperately resolved to get a good aim,--his antagonist, all the
+while advancing, attempted to fire again, but missed this time, the cap
+refusing to communicate the deadly flash to the chamber of the
+revolver,--then there was a blinding flash from Foster's gun,
+accompanied by a thunderous report, and the two men fell almost
+instantaneously.
+
+Foster had discharged both barrels of his weapon, heavily loaded with
+buck-shot, at Phillips, the entire charge having entered his wooden leg,
+and sent him spinning to the ground, like the sudden jerk and whirl of a
+nearly spent top, the recoil of the gun also "kicking" Foster flat as a
+Tennessee "poor white's" corn pone.
+
+The "gentlemen" who had been looking on and quietly criticising the
+little by-play, now rushed forward and surrounded the combatants, the
+anxiety of each of whom was to be assured of the other's death; or, in
+case of his being alive, to have some one to be the immediate bearer of
+tender regards and profuse expressions of friendship; thus terminating
+satisfactorily to all parties what the chivalrous inhabitants of
+Victoria informed my detectives was called a "stag duel," the most
+common and effective method known for settling the little difficulties
+liable at any time to occur among gentlemen, the only conditions imposed
+by custom being that neither party shall offer to shoot in a crowded
+room, or be allowed to fire at his opponent unless he is also prepared,
+when other citizens who may be using the streets at those times withdraw
+from them as rapidly as consistent with the proprieties, when the
+occasion is immediately made interesting to the participants, who
+advance and fire upon each other as rapidly as a liberal practice in
+this and other "codes" of taking human life will permit.
+
+As the next sensation to a "stag duel" in Victoria was the arrival of
+the "train" from Lavaca, in the shape of the hand-car manned by four
+burly negroes, who with the original superintendent of the road had
+formed a soulless corporation with which nothing could compete, it was
+not long before the detectives had secured seats with four other
+passengers, making ten persons in all, to be conveyed twenty-eight miles
+on a broken-down hand-car over probably the most villainous excuse for a
+railroad ever known.
+
+The fare was six dollars in gold for each passenger, which might seem to
+have a shade of exorbitance about it when it was considered that the
+accommodations consisted of two very insecure seats, constructed over
+the wheels, upon each of which three persons might cling with a constant
+expectation of being jolted off by the unevenness of the road, or of
+falling off from sheer fatigue in endeavor to cling to the ramshackle
+boards beneath them.
+
+"All abo'd!" shouted the negro conductor, with all the style and unction
+of the diamond-pinned aristocrat of a New York Central train; and then,
+as the "train" started out of Victoria the passengers and the admiring
+lookers-on were greeted with the following song, tuned to the
+"Ra-ta-tat" of the wheels upon the rails, and sturdily sung, or chanted
+rather, by the jolly but powerful crew:
+
+    "Heave ho!
+    Away we go--
+      Winds may wait, or de winds may blow!
+    Heave ho!
+    Away we go--
+      For to cotch de gals at Lavac--o!"
+
+In the sense that this mode of traveling had the charm of novelty and
+the thrilling attraction of danger combined, it was a success. There was
+freshness and variety about it, too; for, whenever one of the negroes
+had "done gin out," the conductor would call for volunteers from among
+the passengers, and give the demand a peculiar emphasis by the remark,
+"Takes brawn 'n sinyew to pump dis hy'r train into 'vacca; 'n de' Lo'd
+never did make no men out o' cl'ar iron 'n steel!"
+
+The argument was so forcible that some one would work with the negroes
+while the "clean done gone" man and brother rested and meditated upon
+"catchin' the gals of 'vacca!" which the song brought out so feelingly.
+
+Besides this, new interest would be added to the excursion whenever the
+wind was favorable; for, stopping the car, a mast, to which a sort of
+"mutton-leg sail," as they termed it, would be attached; the conductor
+would brace himself and would lengthen or shorten the sail as was most
+judicious, and then the hand-car ship would speed along the billowy
+tract like a majestic thing of life for a mile or two, when the party
+were again forced into a realizing sense of the plodding nature of the
+means of transit, which, after all, at times became monotonous.
+
+On one of these occasions of momentary fair sailing and enthusiasm, they
+were also favored with a down grade of quite a stretch; and, as
+everybody was happy at the wonderful rate of speed acquired, while the
+negroes were singing snatches of songs in the gayest manner possible, a
+"spread" of the track let the car upon the ties, from which it leaped at
+one bound into the swamp, completely immersing several of its occupants
+in the muddy slime.
+
+No damage was done, however, as the spot where everything and everybody
+alighted was too soft to cause anything to be broken; and after righting
+the car, and repairing the disaster as much as possible, William and
+Keating safely arrived in Lavaca early in the afternoon, were at once
+driven to Indianola, where they cleaned up, including a most welcome
+bathing and shaving, at the Magnolia House; embarked on a little
+schooner carrying the government mail down the coast; were becalmed in
+Aranzas Bay, and late during the night of the twenty-seventh of January
+the light from a quaint seaport city danced along the waves of its
+beautiful harbor, and welcomed the worn-out but indefatigable detectives
+to Corpus Christi.
+
+
+VII.
+
+Going ashore, the two proceeded to a sort of hotel or boarding-house on
+the beach, where they found Judge Carpenter, formerly of Chicago, who
+had become district judge there, and who, on learning my son's name,
+inquired if he were not a relative of Allan Pinkerton the detective.
+
+He replied that he was very _distantly_ related, which was a literal
+truth at that time, when the Judge, claiming an acquaintance, proffered
+any assistance which might be desired, whatever his business. The
+courtesy was courteously accepted, but no questions were asked
+concerning Taylor.
+
+After breakfast the next morning, they strolled up-town with Judge
+Carpenter, when passing a Mr. Buckley's store, Keating, while catching
+step, took occasion to nudge my son, who carelessly looked into the
+place, as any stranger might, and there saw the object of his long
+search pleasantly chatting with one of the clerks; but they walked on
+quietly with the Judge as far as the post-office, when he kindly
+introduced them to another Mr. Taylor, the postmaster.
+
+After a few moments' pleasant conversation, William asked the postmaster
+if he could direct him to ex-Sheriff John McLane's residence. It proved
+to be but a block distant, but on inquiring there, it was ascertained
+that he was absent at his store, farther down-town. He was the only
+person in that city, besides Keating, whom my son felt that he could
+trust, as I had not only previously rendered him service, but also held
+him in the light of a friend; and he had already been requested by me to
+render him any service in his power, should William pass that way, so
+that he knew the first thing he should do was to go to him, explain his
+business fully and secure his immediate advice and assistance.
+
+Finding him, he told him that he did not feel justified in arresting
+Taylor unless the mail-boat in which he had arrived was, in some way,
+detained for an hour. McLane said he would attend to that, and brought
+Captain Reinhart to the store, but not telling him why the delay was
+desired, arranged for the same, and at once hunted up Sheriff Benson, to
+whom my son delivered the warrant and demanded the prisoner.
+
+Benson at first hesitated, expressing the utmost surprise, as Taylor was
+a fellow-boarder, and he could not realize, so he said, that he was
+other than a brave and chivalrous gentleman, and began to question the
+validity of the requisition, but William told him that there was the
+order of Governor Pease approved by General Canby, and that he did not
+propose to be dallied with or imposed upon in any manner.
+
+Seeing that my son had come too far and undergone too many hardships to
+be trifled with, he went with him to Buckley's store, where they found
+Taylor, who was given into the detectives' hands, though utterly
+astounded and completely unnerved at the idea that the strong hand of
+the law was upon him.
+
+In this condition, and before he could collect his scattered senses and
+decide to make a legal resistance, which would have caused my son a vast
+amount of trouble, if indeed it had not resulted in the liberation of
+the elegant swindler, he was placed on board the schooner.
+
+After they had left Corpus Christi behind, William began a system of
+soothing argument, with the end in view of convincing Taylor, who was
+now becoming nervous and restless, and evidently ashamed of being
+carried away so ingloriously, that it would be the best thing for
+himself, his brother, and even his people in Philadelphia, to go along
+quietly, without creating any disturbance, as, should he do so, he
+would treat him like a gentleman in every instance; but should he give
+him any trouble whatever he would be obliged to put him in irons, and
+not only treat him like a criminal, but would serve him roughly in every
+particular.
+
+Taylor saw that he was in my power, and that I had put two men after him
+who would have gone to Cape Horn for him, and that his only chance of
+escape lay in strategy.
+
+He had the perfect freedom of the boat, and, when he desired, chatted
+with the captain and the crew, who were not apprised by my son of the
+character of his new companion, and everything was done to make him
+comfortable.
+
+At first he kept entirely to himself, but of a sudden his manner changed
+entirely, and he became particularly pleasant, especially to the captain
+of the boat; and as they were nearing the little barren Saluria Island,
+at the entrance to Matagorda Bay, William accidentally overheard the
+captain say to Taylor, "The tide is high enough, and I will be able to
+run close to the island." This caused him to have no particular
+suspicion of Taylor, as the remark might equally apply to a hundred
+other subjects besides the one to which it did; but in a few moments
+after, he noticed the schooner, which had hugged the island pretty
+closely, now suddenly take a still closer tack, and rapidly neared the
+barren coast. Feeling alarmed lest the helmsman was not attending to
+his duty, my son yelled:
+
+"Captain, what under heaven do you mean? Don't you see that in another
+moment you'll have us beached?"
+
+He had scarcely uttered the words when Taylor was seen to spring into
+the waves, and then disappear, and the boat at the same moment stood off
+from the island, as if in obedience to the warning my son had given.
+
+The truth flashed into his mind in an instant: Here, after this hard,
+unremitting toil, the discomforts, the annoyances, the dangers,
+everything through which they had been obliged to pass, after their
+hopes for success, and after they had earned it--if two men ever had
+earned success--just when they were beginning to feel the pleasure of
+work well done, and be able to experience the genuine satisfaction it is
+to any man who is honest enough to acknowledge it, in securing the
+regard of the public for assisting in its protection, the commendation
+of one's employer for good sturdy care for his interests, and the
+self-respect one gains in doing one's duty, even if it has led him a
+hard life of it,--they were to be cheated and outwitted. Half crazed, my
+son, with anger and indignation, and a perfect flood of humiliating
+thoughts filled his brain in the first great question, "What was to be
+done?"
+
+His first impulse was to plunge in after him, and in pursuance of that
+impulse he had freed himself of his boots and coat, when, seeing Taylor
+rise to the surface and make but little headway against the tide, which
+was ebbing strongly, he call to the captain to round to, and began
+firing with considerable rapidity, so as to strike the water within a
+few feet of the man who was so unsuccessfully struggling against the
+tide, but whom he could not blame for making so brave and desperate an
+effort to free himself.
+
+He was provided with two magnificent English Trenter revolvers, which
+will carry a half-ounce ball a fourth of a mile with absolute accuracy;
+and as he could use it with great precision he could easily have killed
+the man in the water. Both the captain and Taylor were terribly scared,
+and as Taylor held up his hand, and yelled--"I surrender!" the balls
+were cutting into the water all about him savagely, and the captain
+shouted, "For God's sake, don't kill the man! Don't you see I'm rounding
+to?"
+
+Keating, who had been almost worn out from the Texas trip, had been
+sleeping in a bunk below, and who had been roused by William's firing
+and the strange motion of the schooner, now came on deck rather thinly
+clad, and the two detectives covered Taylor with their revolvers; while
+the captain, himself at the wheel, handled the schooner so that it was
+only necessary for him to keep himself above water in order to float
+with the tide against the side of the boat, when my son, rather too
+indignant to be particularly tender, grabbed him by the hair and his
+luxuriant whiskers, drew him aboard, and soundly kicked him into the
+cabin, where he began crying from excitement and fright, even going to
+such depths of discouragement that he begged for a revolver with which
+to kill himself, which being handed him by my son for that purpose, he
+very properly refused, and was put to bed for the purpose of drying his
+clothes like a truant school-boy.
+
+It was my son's intention to take the steamer at Indianola for Galveston
+immediately upon arriving at the former place; but on account of a heavy
+"Norther," which had blown all day Friday, the steamer had been obliged
+to put out to sea, and the party were consequently compelled to put up
+at the Magnolia House, and wait there until the following Monday; and it
+required all the detective's shrewdness to keep Taylor quiet, as he had
+learned from some source that the creation of Wyoming Territory, which
+occurred a short time before his capture, had caused Cheyenne to be a
+city of quite a different Territory than when the requisition was
+issued, which would have amounted to so grave a technical flaw that the
+requisition would not have held against a _habeas corpus_.
+
+Court had just set at the place, and Indianola was full of lawyers,
+hungry as vultures for just such a rich case; but by constant
+persuasions, partial promises, leading to a hope, at least, that a
+compromise might be effected at New Orleans, and dark hints of irons,
+and that, should his brother come on there and create any disturbance he
+would be immediately arrested as accessory both before and after the
+crime; with constant drives out into the country, rambles down the
+sea-shore, and every pretext known to the mind of the ingenious
+detective, everything was managed successfully; a receipt for nearly two
+thousand dollars in specie secured; the turning over of the money to
+Taylor's brother stopped; and Taylor himself taken to New Orleans
+without an attempt at rescue; and receiving a dispatch there from me to
+the effect that a compromise could not be for a moment considered, the
+party left that city Thursday, February 4th, arriving in Cheyenne six
+days later, my son accounting for his prisoner to the authorities into
+whose hands the case then passed; the last being seen of "Harry G.
+Taylor, the Man from Somewhere," being behind the bars of the
+guard-house at Fort Russell, where he had been placed for safe-keeping
+previous to his trial;--and I have related these facts, not so much to
+show any startling phase of crime, as to give the public a single
+illustration, out of thousands upon my records, of how men must overcome
+every known obstacle while leading the hard life of the detective.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Spy of the Rebellion, by Allan Pinkerton
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+    .poem span.i26     {display: block; margin-left: 13em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i36     {display: block; margin-left: 18em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i39     {display: block; margin-left: 20em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i40     {display: block; margin-left: 20em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i49     {display: block; margin-left: 25em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i5     {display: block; margin-left: 3em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i6     {display: block; margin-left: 3em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i8     {display: block; margin-left: 4em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+
+    </style>
+  </head>
+<body>
+
+
+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Spy of the Rebellion, by Allan Pinkerton
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Spy of the Rebellion
+       Being a True History of the Spy System of the United States
+              Army during the Late Rebellion,
+
+Author: Allan Pinkerton
+
+Release Date: January 15, 2011 [EBook #34973]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE SPY OF THE REBELLION ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell, Josephine Paolucci and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+<h1>THE SPY OF THE REBELLION</h1>
+
+<p><a name="Front" id="Front"></a></p>
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 703px;">
+<img src="images/illus001.jpg" width="703" height="375" alt="Frontispiece. P. 158.
+
+Allan Pinkerton and General McClellan in Private Consultation." title="" />
+<span class="caption">Frontispiece. P. 158.<br />
+
+Allan Pinkerton and General McClellan in Private Consultation.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h4>THE</h4>
+
+<h1>SPY OF THE REBELLION;</h1>
+
+<h4>BEING</h4>
+
+<h3>A TRUE HISTORY</h3>
+
+<h4>OF THE</h4>
+
+<h2>SPY SYSTEM OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY</h2>
+
+<h3>DURING THE LATE REBELLION.</h3>
+
+<h2>REVEALING MANY SECRETS OF THE WAR HITHERTO NOT MADE PUBLIC.</h2>
+
+<p class="center"><i>COMPILED FROM OFFICIAL REPORTS</i><br />
+
+PREPARED FOR<br />
+
+PRESIDENT LINCOLN, GENERAL McCLELLAN AND THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL.</p>
+
+<h3>BY</h3>
+
+<h2>ALLAN PINKERTON,</h2>
+
+<p class="center">
+WHO<br />
+<br />
+(UNDER THE NOM-DE-PLUME OF MAJOR E. J. ALLEN)<br />
+<br />
+WAS<br />
+<br />
+CHIEF OF THE UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE.<br />
+<br />
+<i>WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS.</i><br />
+<br />
+Introduction by Patrick Bass<br />
+<br />
+University of Nebraska Press<br />
+Lincoln and London<br />
+<br />
+Introduction copyright &copy; 1989 by the University of Nebraska Press<br />
+<br />
+All rights reserved<br />
+<br />
+Manufactured in the United States of America<br />
+<br />
+First Bison Book printing: 1989<br />
+<br />
+Most recent printing indicated by the last digit below:<br />
+<br />
+10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1<br />
+<br />
+Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data<br />
+Pinkerton, Allan, 1819-1884.<br />
+</p>
+
+<p>The spy of the rebellion: being a true history of the spy system of
+the United States Army during the late rebellion, revealing many
+secrets of the war hitherto not made public / by Allan Pinkerton:
+introduction by Patrick Bass.</p>
+
+<p>p. cm.</p>
+
+<p>"Compiled from official reports prepared for President Lincoln,
+General McClellan, and the provost-marshal-general."</p>
+
+<p>Reprint. Originally published: Hartford, Conn.: M. A. Winter &amp;
+Hatch, 1883.</p>
+
+<p>ISBN 0-8032-3686-7 (alk. paper) ISBN 0-8032-8722-4 (pbk.)</p>
+
+<p>
+1. United States&mdash;History&mdash;Civil War, 1861-1865&mdash;Secret service.<br />
+2. United States&mdash;History&mdash;Civil War, 1861-1865&mdash;Personal narratives.<br />
+3. Pinkerton, Allan, 1819-1884. I. Title.<br />
+E608.P65 1989<br />
+</p>
+
+<p>973.7'86&mdash;dc20 89-33081 CIP</p>
+
+<p>Reprinted from the 1883 edition published by M. A. Winter &amp; Hatch,
+Hartford, Connecticut. An appendix, "Rebel Forces before Richmond,"
+has been omitted from this Bison Book edition.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+
+
+<p>
+<i>Preface</i>                                                         <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_23'>23</a></span><br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER I.<br />
+<br />
+<span class="tocnum">PAGE</span><br />
+<br />
+<i>An Unwritten Page of History.&mdash;A Political Resum&eacute;.&mdash;Abraham Lincoln is Elected President.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_33'>33</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER II.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Opposition to Mr. Lincoln's Inauguration.&mdash;A Plot to Assassinate him.&mdash;The Journey from Springfield, Illinois.</i>         <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_45'>45</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span><i>CHAPTER III.<br />
+<br />
+The Conspirators at Work.&mdash;Detectives on their Trail.&mdash;Webster as a Soldier.</i> <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_58'>58</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER IV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>The Conspirators in Council.&mdash;My Operative Joins the Conspiracy.</i>        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_74'>74</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER V.<br />
+<br />
+<i>The Presidential Party Arrives in Philadelphia.&mdash;Independence Hall.&mdash;The Departure from Harrisburg.&mdash;Telegraph Wires Cut.&mdash;Through the Lines of Treason.&mdash;Safe Arrival at Washington.</i>     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_81'>81</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER VI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>My Connection with the Rebellion.&mdash;Timothy Webster Accepts a Mission.</i>            <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_104'>104</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER VII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster on his Way to the Capital.&mdash;Wrecked Trains and Broken Bridges.&mdash;An Adventure with a Cavalryman.&mdash;A Rebel Emissary.&mdash;President Lincoln and Timothy Webster.</i>       <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_114'>114</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span>CHAPTER VIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Timothy Webster in Washington.&mdash;The Return to Philadelphia.&mdash;I go to the Capital.&mdash;An Important Letter.</i>     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_131'>131</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER IX.<br />
+<br />
+<i>An Adventure in Pittsburg.&mdash;A Mob at Bay.&mdash;An Explanation.&mdash;Good Feeling Restored.</i>              <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_142'>142</a></span><br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER X.<br />
+<br />
+<i>General McClellan in Command of Ohio.&mdash;I am Engaged for the War.&mdash;The Secret Service.&mdash;A Consultation.&mdash;Webster Starts for Rebeldom.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_151'>151</a></span><br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster Fraternizes with the Rebel Officers.&mdash;A Secession Hat.&mdash;A Visit to a Rebel Camp.&mdash;"The Committee of Safety."&mdash;A Friendly Stranger.&mdash;A Warning.&mdash;The Escape.</i>          <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_168'>168</a></span><br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>I Take a Trip to the South.&mdash;Danger in Memphis.&mdash;A Timely Warning.&mdash;A Persistent Barber.&mdash;An Unfortunate Memory.&mdash;Return to Cincinnati.</i>        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_182'>182</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span>CHAPTER XIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>East and West Virginia.&mdash;Seceding from Secession.&mdash;My Scouts in Virginia.&mdash;A Rebel Captain Entertains "My Lord."&mdash;An Old Justice dines with Royalty.&mdash;A Lucky Adventure.&mdash;A Runaway Horse.&mdash;A Rescue.</i>       <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_203'>203</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XIV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>The Rebels Attempt to Occupy West Virginia.&mdash;General McClellan Ordered to Drive Them Out.&mdash;Early Battles.&mdash;The Federals Victorious.&mdash;West Virginia Freed from Rebel Soldiers.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_227'>227</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>General McClellan is Called to Washington, and Placed in Command of the Armies after the Battle of Bull Run.&mdash;The Secret Service Department.&mdash;Its Duties and Responsibilities.</i> <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_237'>237</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XVI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>A Female Traitor.&mdash;Suspicious Correspondence.&mdash;A Close Watch under Difficulties.&mdash;I am Arrested.&mdash;Exposure of the Treason of a Trusted Officer.&mdash;A Disgraced Captain.</i>         <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_250'>250</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span>CHAPTER XVII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Timothy Webster in Baltimore.&mdash;An Encounter with a Fire-eater.&mdash;Webster Defends Himself.&mdash;Treason Rampant in the Monumental City.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_271'>271</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XVIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster Makes a Journey to the South.&mdash;A Secret Organization.&mdash;The "Knights of Liberty."&mdash;Webster Becomes a Member.&mdash;A Sudden Intrusion of the Military.&mdash;The Conspiracy Broken Up.</i>    <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_283'>283</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XIX.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Suspicions in Washington.&mdash;"Uncle Gallus."&mdash;Property Searched.&mdash;A Rebel Family sent South.&mdash;Webster Starts for Richmond.</i>  <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_301'>301</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XX.<br />
+<br />
+<i>The Spy at Richmond.&mdash;Earthworks Around the Rebel Capital.&mdash;An Unexpected Meeting.&mdash;Pistols for Two.&mdash;A Reconciliation.&mdash;Safe Return to Washington.</i>    <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_314'>314</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span>CHAPTER XXI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Again in Baltimore.&mdash;A Warning.&mdash;The Spy is Arrested.&mdash;And Escapes.</i>       <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_326'>326</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster and Scobell.&mdash;A Negro as a Spy.&mdash;A Traitor Deserts from the Army.&mdash;He Carries Dispatches to the Rebels.&mdash;Which Fail of Their Destination.&mdash;An Attack in the Woods.&mdash;"The Loyal League."&mdash;Slaves as Patriots.</i>           <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_343'>343</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>A Negro Spy.&mdash;Passage on a Steam-Packet.&mdash;Lyrical Melodies.&mdash;Scobell Deserts the Ship.&mdash;His Tramps Through Rebeldom.</i>     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_358'>358</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXIV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>A Perilous Ride.&mdash;A Suspicious Peddler.&mdash;Uncle Gallus Again.&mdash;Scobell Investigating.&mdash;Doubts and Suspicions.</i>    <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_367'>367</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span>CHAPTER XXV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>The Journey Resumed.&mdash;A Midnight Pursuit.&mdash;A Brave Woman.&mdash;A Deadly Encounter.&mdash;Scobell Defends Himself.&mdash;Death of a Rebel Spy.</i>       <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_381'>381</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXVI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>A Woman's Discoveries.&mdash;An Infernal Machine.&mdash;The Shipping in Danger.&mdash;Discovery and Destruction of the Submarine Battery.</i>    <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_394'>394</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXVII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>"Stuttering Dave."&mdash;His Tramp Through the Rebel Lines.&mdash;An Ammunition Train.&mdash;"Dave's" Plan Succeeds in its Destruction.&mdash;A Man who Stuttered and "Had Fits."</i>        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_404'>404</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXVIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Another Trip to Richmond.&mdash;A Rebel General Taken In.&mdash;Curtis Makes Valuable Acquaintances.&mdash;"The Subterranean Headquarters."</i>    <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_414'>414</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span>CHAPTER XXIX.<br />
+<br />
+<i>A Virginia Home.&mdash;Unwelcome Visitors.&mdash;Mr. Harcourt Arrested and Released.&mdash;Dan McCowan makes Forcible Love to Mary Harcourt.&mdash;The Girl in Peril.&mdash;A Timely Rescue.&mdash;The Villain Punished.</i>   <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_429'>429</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXX.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Curtis Again on His Travels.&mdash;A Loving Episode.&mdash;Dan McCowan Again Turns up.&mdash;The Capture of Curtis.&mdash;A Fight for Life.&mdash;And Escape.&mdash;A Bit of Matrimony.</i>   <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_445'>445</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXXI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>McClellan and his Enemies.&mdash;The Peninsula Campaign.&mdash;The Rebel Forces Before Richmond.&mdash;The Union Forces Outnumbered by the Enemy, and their Commander Hampered by Superiors.&mdash;An Honest Opinion.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_457'>457</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXXII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster's Expedition.&mdash;His Gallantry.&mdash;A Stormy Passage.&mdash;A Mysterious Package.&mdash;Treason Discovered and Punished.</i>   <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_468'>468</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span>CHAPTER XXXIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Activity in Washington.&mdash;Webster's Journey Through the South.&mdash;His Return to the Capital.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_481'>481</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXXIV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster's Last Mission.&mdash;Anxiety at his Long Absence.&mdash;No Tidings of the Faithful Scout.&mdash;Operatives Sent in Search of Him.&mdash;Webster Ill in Richmond.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_485'>485</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXXV.<br />
+<br />
+<i>McClellan and the Government.&mdash;Lewis and Scully Arrested as Spies.&mdash;An Attempted Escape.&mdash;Trial and Conviction.&mdash;Condemned to Die.&mdash;Before the Gallows their Mouths are Opened.</i>         <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_498'>498</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXXVI.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Webster Arrested as a Spy.&mdash;A Woman's Devotion, and a Patriot's Heroism.&mdash;Webster is Convicted.&mdash;The Execution.&mdash;A Martyr's Grave.</i>     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_530'>530</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span>CHAPTER XXXVII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>The Defeat of General Pope at the Second Battle of Manassas.&mdash;McClellan Again Called to the Command.&mdash;The Battle of Antietam.&mdash;A Union Victory.&mdash;A Few Thoughts About the Union Commander.&mdash;McClellan's Removal from Command, and His Farewell Address.</i>     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_561'>561</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.<br />
+<br />
+<i>General Burnside in Command.&mdash;My Connection with the Secret Service Severed.&mdash;Reflections upon Important Events.&mdash;Conclusion.</i>      <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_579'>579</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<i>APPENDIX.</i>       <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_587'>587</a></span><br />
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn2.jpg" width="160" height="144" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.</h2>
+
+
+<p>
+<span class="tocnum">PAGE</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Allan Pinkerton and General McClellan in Private Consultation.</span>                  <span class="tocnum"><i><a href="#Front">Frontispiece</a></i></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">The Oath to Assassinate the President.</span>               <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_65'>65</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Swearing in of Howard.</span>                               <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_76'>76</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Lincoln Raising the Old Flag.</span>                        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_87'>87</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">The Departure for Washington.</span>                        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_94'>94</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Safe Arrival.</span>                                        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_98'>98</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Attempt to Capture Webster.</span>                         <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_146'>146</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">A Visit to a Rebel Camp.</span>                            <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_171'>171</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Timely Warning.</span>                                     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_195'>195</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">The Barber's Recognition.</span>                           <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_201'>201</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">An English Lord and a Rebel Captain.</span>                <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_215'>215</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Captured by the Guards.</span>                             <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_260'>260</a></span><br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span><br />
+<span class="smcap">An Encounter with a Fire-eater.</span>                     <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_277'>277</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">A Sudden Intrusion of the Military.</span>                 <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_299'>299</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">The Spy is Arrested.</span>                                <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_334'>334</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Escape of the Spy.</span>                                  <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_339'>339</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Scobell Engaged as Deck-hand on a Steamboat.</span>        <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_364'>364</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Death of a Rebel Spy.</span>                               <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_389'>389</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Timely Interruption to a Love Scene.</span>                <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_441'>441</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Webster's Gallant Bravery.</span>                          <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_474'>474</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Webster Discovers a Mysterious Package.</span>             <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_475'>475</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">The Prisoners Recaptured.</span>                           <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_522'>522</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Webster's Death Warrant.</span>                            <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_542'>542</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">A Narrow Escape.</span>                                    <span class="tocnum"><a href='#Page_569'>569</a></span><br />
+</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn4.jpg" width="448" height="193" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn5.jpg" width="448" height="160" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Nearly a score of years have passed since the occurrence of the events
+related in the following pages. The "Rebellion," with its bloody scenes,
+has ended, and the country is at peace. The grass is waving green and
+beautiful over many Southern fields that once ran with human blood, as
+the contending forces met in the deadly encounter. The birds are
+carolling sweetly in the air, which then was laden with the clarion
+notes of the trumpet; the fierce, wild yell of assaulting soldiery; the
+booming of cannon, and the groans of the wounded and dying. The
+merchant, the mechanic, and the husbandman have returned to the pursuits
+which they followed before the dark clouds of war had overshadowed this
+fair land, and they shouldered their muskets in defense of the Union.
+From the desolation and the ravages of war, the country has emerged into
+the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span> sunshine of abiding peace, and now, in the evening twilight, the
+gray-haired veterans gather around their family hearthstones to repeat
+the stories of bravery and devotion associated with those trying hours
+of their country's history.</p>
+
+<p>In the twilight of my days I have been tempted to the recitals which
+follow, and in relating my experiences as the Chief of the Secret
+Service of the Government during the Rebellion, I have been governed by
+a desire to acquaint the public with the movements of those brave men
+who rendered invaluable service to their country, although they never
+wore a uniform or carried a musket. Working quietly, and frequently
+under disguises, their assistance to the Union commanders was of
+incalculable advantage, and many acts of courage and daring were
+performed by these men which, until now, have never been revealed.
+Indeed, as to my own <i>nom-de-plume</i>, "E. J. Allen," many of the officers
+of the army and officials of the Government, with whom I was in constant
+communication, never knew me by any other name, and the majority of them
+are to this day in ignorance of the fact that E. J. Allen, late Chief of
+the Secret Service, and Allan Pinkerton are one and the same person.</p>
+
+<p>During the progress of the struggle, and the years<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> which have since
+elapsed, many of my old acquaintances, who held important positions in
+the army and in governmental departments, have passed away from earth.
+Some of them falling in the heat of battle, in the courageous discharge
+of duty, while others, passing through the fiery ordeal, have died amid
+the comforts and the charms of home.</p>
+
+<p>President Lincoln, Edwin M. Stanton, William H. Seward and Salmon P.
+Chase, all giants in their day, have departed from the sphere of their
+usefulness, and have gone to their long home. Soldiers and civilians,
+generals and privates, with whom I was connected, and their name is
+legion, have taken up their journey to "that bourne from whence no
+traveler e'er returns."</p>
+
+<p>In detailing the various events which follow, I have been careful to
+offer nothing but that which actually transpired. I have avoided giving
+expression to any thoughts or feelings of antagonism to the South,
+because the time for such utterances has passed. Indeed, except for the
+existence of slavery, I always cherished a warm affection for the
+Southern people. But this institution of human bondage always received
+my most earnest opposition. Believing it to be a curse to the American
+nation, and an evidence of barbarism, no efforts of mine were ever<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span>
+spared in behalf of the slave, and to-day I have not a single regret for
+the course I then pursued.</p>
+
+<p>Many times before the war, when I was associated with those
+philanthrophic spirits who controlled the so-called "Underground
+Railroad," I have assisted in securing safety and freedom for the
+fugitive slave, no matter at what hour, under what circumstances, or at
+what cost, the act was to be performed. John Brown, the white-haired
+abolitionist of Kansas fame, was my bosom friend; and more than one dark
+night has found us working earnestly together in behalf of the fleeing
+bondman, who was striving for his liberty. After his gallant effort at
+Harper's Ferry, and while he was confined in a Virginia prison, my
+efforts in his behalf were unceasing; and had it not been for the
+excessive watchfulness of those having him in charge, the pages of
+American history would never have been stained with a record of his
+execution. As it is, though his fate may have been in accordance with
+the decrees of the laws then existing, I can recall with all the old
+enthusiasm that I then experienced, the thundering effect of thousands
+of our brave "boys in blue," joining in that electric war cry, the
+refrain of which was:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"John Brown's body lies mouldering in the grave,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">But his soul goes marching along,"<br /></span>
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span></div></div>
+
+<p>while they hurried in solid phalanx to meet the enemy upon the field of
+battle.</p>
+
+<p>In the preliminary chapters, I have detailed with accuracy the facts
+connected with the conspiracy to assassinate Abraham Lincoln, when he
+was first elected to the Presidency. The part I took in discovering the
+existence of that plot and the efforts of my men in ferreting out the
+prime movers of that murderous compact, are told for the first time in
+these pages, and the correctness of their relation is undoubted; though
+in the dark days that followed, the bullet of the assassin removed the
+martyred President, while engaged in the fulfillment of his mission. I
+cannot repress a sense of pride in the fact, that at the commencement of
+his glorious career I had averted the blow that was aimed at his honest,
+manly heart.</p>
+
+<p>In the events which transpired during the years 1861 and 1862, I took an
+active part. From the early days of April until after the battle of
+Antietam had been fought and won, I was connected with the military
+operations of the government. In Washington I acted under the directions
+of the Secretaries of War, and Colonel Andrew Porter, the
+provost-marshal; and in the field, I was under the immediate direction
+of General George B. McClellan.</p>
+
+<p>My relations with the various departments were<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span> always of the most
+cordial and confidential character. To particularize in this matter is
+almost impossible; but I cannot refrain from mentioning, in the highest
+terms of respect and friendship, Colonel Thomas A. Scott of
+Pennsylvania. In the early days of the nation's peril, he occupied the
+position of Assistant Secretary of War. In him I always found a warm
+friend and advocate, and in many emergencies his prompt and intelligent
+action was most potent in accomplishing good results in that era of
+confusion, of doubt and hesitation.</p>
+
+<p>Of my service with the military department while in active duty, little
+needs to be said here. From the time of his commission by Governor
+Dennison of Ohio, to the day when he was relieved, after his splendid
+victory at Antietam, I followed the fortunes of General McClellan. Never
+doubting his ability or his loyalty&mdash;always possessing his confidence
+and esteem, I am at this time proud and honored in ranking him foremost
+among my invaluable friends. When secret enemies were endeavoring to
+prejudice the mind of the President against his chosen commander; when
+wily politicians were seeking to belittle him in the estimation of the
+people, and when jealous minded officers were ignorantly criticising his
+plans of campaign, General McClellan pursued<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span> his course with
+unflinching courage and with a devotion to his country unsurpassed by
+any who have succeeded him, and upon whose brows are entwined the
+laurels of the conqueror.</p>
+
+<p>His marvelous reorganization of the army, the enthusiasm with which his
+presence invariably inspired the soldiers under his command, and the
+grand battles which he fought against enemies in front and in rear, have
+all passed into history&mdash;and to-day the intelligent and unprejudiced
+reader finds in a calm and dispassionate review of his career, an ample
+and overwhelming justification of his course as a loyal and capable
+commander-in-chief.</p>
+
+<p>Self-constituted critics, whose avenues of information were limited and
+unreliable, have attempted to prove that the force opposed to General
+McClellan was much less than was really the case; and upon this
+hypothesis have been led into unjust and undeserved censure of the
+commanding general. From my own experience, I <i>know</i> to the contrary. My
+system of obtaining knowledge upon this point was so thorough and
+complete, my sources of information were so varied, that there could be
+no serious mistake in the estimates which I then made and reported to
+General McClellan. From every available field the facts were gleaned.
+From prisoners of war, contrabands, loyal<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span> Southerners, deserters,
+blockade-runners and from actual observations by trustworthy scouts, my
+estimates were made, and to-day I affirm as strongly as I then did, that
+the force opposed to General McClellan before Richmond approximated
+nearer to 200,000 men, than they did to the numerous estimates of
+irresponsible historians who have placed the strength of the rebel
+forces at that time below 100,000 men. In this connection I must refer
+also to the valuable assistance rendered both General McClellan and
+myself by that indefatigable Aid-de-camp Colonel Key. Though he no
+longer mingles with the things of earth, the memory of his devotion and
+his intelligent services to the cause of the Union is imperishable. No
+truer, braver man ever drew a sword than did this noble and efficient
+staff officer, now deceased.</p>
+
+<p>Of Timothy Webster, who so ably assisted me in my various and delicate
+duties, and whose life was sacrificed for the cause he held so dear, I
+have only words of warmest commendation. Brave, honest and intelligent,
+he entered into the contest to perform his whole duty, and right nobly
+did he fulfill his pledge. No danger was too great, no trust too
+responsible, no mission too delicate for him to attempt, and though
+executed as a spy in a Richmond prison, his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span> name shall ever be
+cherished with honor and friendship by those who knew his worth, and who
+appreciated the unswerving devotion of a loyal heart. No dishonor can
+ever attach to the memory of a patriot who died in the service of his
+country.</p>
+
+<p>The events narrated have all occurred. The record is a truthful one.
+Although not so complete as I could wish, they must serve the purpose
+for which they are intended. In the disastrous fire which swept over
+Chicago in 1871, my records were mainly destroyed, and to this fact must
+be attributed the failure to more elaborately detail the multitudinous
+operations of my men. With the able assistance of Mr. George H. Bangs,
+my efficient General Superintendent, "we did what we could," and the
+approbation of our commanding officers attest the efficiency of our
+efforts.</p>
+
+<p>After leaving the service, the conduct of the war passed into other
+hands. Other men were chosen to the command of the armies, and other
+sources of information were resorted to. Succeeding battles have been
+fought, defeats have been sustained, victories have been achieved, and
+the war is happily ended. The slave is free, and in the enjoyment of the
+rights of citizenship. The country is at peace, her prosperity is
+assured, and now that passion and prejudice have<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span> died away, and honest
+judgments are given of the events that have transpired, I leave to the
+impartial reader, and historian, the question whether the course I
+pursued, and the General whom I loved and faithfully served, are
+deserving of censure, or are entitled to the praises of a free and
+enlightened people.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+Allan Pinkerton.
+</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn5.jpg" width="448" height="160" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>THE SPY<br />
+OF<br />
+THE REBELLION.</h2>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<h3>"<i>An Unwritten Page of History."&mdash;A Political Resum&eacute;.&mdash;Mr. Lincoln is
+Elected President.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Many years have elapsed since the occurrence of the events which I am
+about to relate. Years that have been full of mighty import to the
+nation. A bitter, prolonged and bloody war has laid its desolating hands
+upon a once united country. For years the roar of cannon and the clash
+of steel reverberated through the bright valleys and the towering hills
+of the fruitful South. In those years when brother arose against his
+brother, when ties of kindred and association were broken asunder like
+frail reeds, glorious deeds were wrought and grand results have been
+accomplished. America has taught the world a lesson of bravery and
+endurance; the shackles<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> have been stricken from the slave; an error of
+a century has been crushed, and freedom is now no longer an empty name,
+but a beautiful and enduring realism.</p>
+
+<p>To-day peace spreads her broad, sheltering arms over a reunited and
+enlightened nation. The roll of the drum and the tramp of armed men are
+now no longer heard. North and South have again clasped hands in a
+renewal of friendship and in a perpetuity of union.</p>
+
+<p>But a short time ago a Republican President elected by but a slight
+majority of the voters of this great community, left his peaceful home
+in the West and journeyed to the capital of the nation, to take the oath
+of office and to assume the high duties of a chief magistrate. As he
+passed through the towns and cities upon his route a general plaudit of
+welcome was his greeting, even noted political foes joining in the
+demonstrations. His road was arched with banners and his path was strewn
+with flowers. Everywhere he found an enthusiasm of welcome, a universal
+prayer for success, and the triumphal train entered the capital amid the
+ovations of the populace, which reached almost a climax of patriotic and
+effervescing joy.</p>
+
+<p>Twenty years ago witnessed a different condition of affairs. The
+political horizon was dark and obscured. The low mutterings of the storm
+that was soon to sweep over our country, and to deluge our<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> fair land
+with fratricidal blood, were distinctly heard. Sectional differences
+were developing into widespread dissensions. Cherished institutions were
+threatened with dissolution, and political antagonism had aroused a
+contented people into a frenzy of hate.</p>
+
+<p>On the twenty-second of May, 1856, an American Senator was assaulted in
+the Senate-house by a political opponent for daring to give utterance to
+opinions that were hostile to the slave-holding interests of the South.
+Later in the same year a Republican candidate, with professed
+anti-slavery views, was nominated for the presidency, and although
+defeated, gave evidence of such political strength that Southern leaders
+became alarmed.</p>
+
+<p>At this time the Hon. Stephen A. Douglas was a prominent leader of the
+Democratic party, but through his opposition to what was known as the
+Lecompton Bill, he incurred the displeasure of his political friends of
+the South, who vainly endeavored to enact such legislation as would
+practically lead to his retirement from the party.</p>
+
+<p>In 1858 the famous contest between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A.
+Douglas for the United States Senatorship from Illinois took place, and
+during its progress absorbed public attention throughout the country.
+The two candidates indulged in open discussions of questions of public
+policy, which were remarkable for their brilliancy and for the force and
+vigor with which their different views were uttered.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> It was during this
+canvass that Mr. Lincoln made the forcible and revolutionizing
+declaration that: "<i>The Union cannot permanently endure half slave and
+half free.</i>" Mr. Lincoln was defeated, however, and Mr. Douglas was
+returned to the Senate, much against the wishes of those Democrats who
+desired the unlimited extension of the institution of Slavery.</p>
+
+<p>In the following year occurred the slave insurrection in Virginia, under
+the leadership of that bold abolitionist, John Brown. The movement was
+frustrated, however, and John Brown, after a judicial trial for his
+offense, was sentenced to be hung. Up to the day of his execution he
+remained firm in the belief that he had but performed his duty toward
+enslaved humanity, and he died avowing the justice of his cause and the
+hope of its ultimate success.</p>
+
+<p>All of these occurrences tended to engender a spirit of fierce
+opposition in the minds of the Southern leaders. The growing sentiment
+of abolitionism throughout the North, and the manifest disposition to
+prevent its increase or extension, aroused the advocates of Slavery to a
+degree of alarm, which led to the commission of many actions, both
+absurd and unjustifiable.</p>
+
+<p>The year of 1860 opened upon a scene of political agitation which
+threatened to disrupt long united associations, and to erect sectional
+barriers which appeared almost impossible to overcome.</p>
+
+<p>In April, 1860, the Democratic National Convention<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span> assembled in
+Charleston, South Carolina, for the purpose of nominating a candidate
+for the presidency. During its session loud and angry debates occurred,
+in which the Southern element endeavored to obtain a strong indorsement
+of the institution of Slavery, and of the right to carry slaves into the
+Territories of the United States. They were met by the more conservative
+portion of the party, who desired to leave the question to be decided by
+the States themselves. After a prolonged discussion the majority of the
+Southern States withdrew their delegates from the convention, and the
+remainder proceeded to ballot for a candidate of their choice.</p>
+
+<p>After a protracted sitting, during which several ballots were taken and
+no decided result obtained, the convention adjourned, to meet in the
+city of Baltimore on the eighteenth day of June succeeding. Stephen A.
+Douglas, of Illinois, received a large percentage of the votes that were
+cast, but failed to obtain a sufficient number to secure his nomination.</p>
+
+<p>The withdrawing delegates organized a rival convention, but, without
+transacting any business of a decisive character, also adjourned, to
+meet in Baltimore at a date nearly coincident with that of the regular
+body.</p>
+
+<p>On the nineteenth day of May, the Constitutional Union (being the old
+American) party held their convention in the city of Baltimore, and
+nominated John<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span> Bell, of Tennessee, for President, and Edward Everett,
+of Massachusetts, for the Vice-Presidency.</p>
+
+<p>The Republican Convention was held on the sixteenth day of May, in the
+city of Chicago, and upon the third ballot nominated Abraham Lincoln, of
+Illinois, for the office of President, and Hannibal Hamlin, of Maine,
+for the second office.</p>
+
+<p>This convention also adopted a platform very pronounced upon the subject
+of Slavery, and which was calculated to give but little encouragement to
+the extension or perpetuity of the slave-holding power.</p>
+
+<p>On the eighteenth day of June the regular Democratic Convention
+assembled, pursuant to adjournment, in the city of Baltimore, and named
+Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois, and Herschel V. Johnson, of Georgia, as
+their standard-bearers in the political conflict that was to ensue.</p>
+
+<p>On the twenty-eighth day of the same month the seceding delegates met in
+the same city, and after pronouncing their ultra views upon the question
+of Slavery, nominated John C. Breckinridge, of Kentucky (then the
+Vice-President of the country), and General Joseph Lane, of Oregon, as
+the candidates of their choice.</p>
+
+<p>The lines of battle were now drawn, and from that time until the
+election, in November, a fierce contest was waged between the opposing
+parties. Never before in the history of parties was a canvass conducted
+with more bitterness or with a greater<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span> amount of vituperation. The
+whole country was engrossed with the gigantic struggle. Business
+interests, questions of finance and of international import were all
+made subservient to the absorbing consideration of the election of a
+national President.</p>
+
+<p>The Southern "Fire-eaters," as they were called, fully realized their
+inability to elect the candidates they had named, but strove with all
+their power to prevent the success of the regular Democratic nominees,
+and when at last the day of election came, and the votes were counted,
+it was found that the Republican party had been victorious and that
+Abraham Lincoln had been elected.</p>
+
+<p>In many portions of the South this result was hailed with joyful
+enthusiasm. The anti-slavery proclivities of the successful party was
+instantly made a plausible pretext for secession and the withdrawal of
+the slave-holding States from the Union was boldly advocated.</p>
+
+<p>The same power that threatened in 1856, in the words of Governor Wise of
+Virginia: "That if Fremont had been elected, he would have marched at
+the head of twenty thousand men to Washington, and taken possession of
+the capital, preventing by force Fremont's inauguration at that
+place"&mdash;was again aroused, and an open opposition to the Republican
+inauguration was for a time considered.</p>
+
+<p>The absorbing and exciting question in the South was: "Would the South
+submit to a Black Republican<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> President and a Black Republican
+Congress?" and the answer to the question was a loud and decisive
+negative.</p>
+
+<p>Among the bolder advocates of secession the election of Mr. Lincoln was
+regarded with pleasure, and meetings were held in Charleston, rejoicing
+in the triumph of the Republican party. Secession and disunion were
+loudly advocated, and the slave oligarchy of South Carolina regarded
+this event as the opportunity to achieve her long-cherished purpose of
+breaking up the Union, and forming a new confederacy, founded upon the
+peculiar ideas of the South.</p>
+
+<p>Says Horace Greeley: "Men thronged the streets, talking, laughing,
+cheering, like mariners long becalmed upon a hateful, treacherous sea,
+when a sudden breeze had swiftly wafted them within sight of their
+looked for haven, or like a seedy prodigal, just raised to affluence by
+the death of some far-off, unknown relative, and whose sense of decency
+is not strong enough to repress his exultation."</p>
+
+<p>Open threats were made to withdraw at once from the Union, and these
+demonstrations seemed to find sympathy among other nations than our own,
+and soon foreign intrigue was hand and glove with domestic treason, in
+the attempt to sap the foundations of our government, and seeking
+peculiar advantages from its overthrow.</p>
+
+<p>It is unnecessary to detail the various phases of this great agitation,
+which, firing the Southern heart<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span> with the frenzy of disunion, finally
+led to the secession of the Southern States. Various compromises were
+attempted, but all failed of beneficial result. The "masterly
+inactivity" of the administration contributed in no small degree to the
+accomplishment of this object, and in the end the Southern Confederacy
+was organized and Jefferson Davis was elected as its President.</p>
+
+<p>The Palmetto waved over the custom-house and post-office at Charleston;
+government forts and arsenals were seized by the volunteers to the
+Southern cause, and on February 1, 1861, the Federal mint and
+custom-house at New Orleans were taken possession of by the
+secessionists.</p>
+
+<p>The removal of Major Anderson from Fort Moultrie to the more secure
+stronghold of Fort Sumter, in Charleston harbor, had been accomplished,
+and as yet no measures had been taken by the government to prevent
+further demonstrations of a warlike character on the part of the
+Southern Confederacy. The administration remained passive and inert,
+while every effort was being made to calm the public fears of
+hostilities, and the organization of an open revolt.</p>
+
+<p>The city of Baltimore was, at this time, a slave-holding city, and the
+spirit of Slavery was nowhere else more rampant and ferocious. The
+mercantile and social aristocracy of that city had been sedulously and
+persistently plied, by the conspirators for disunion, with artful and
+tempting suggestions of her future<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span> greatness and advancement as the
+chief city of the new government.</p>
+
+<p>If a Confederacy composed of the fifteen slave-holding States was
+organized, Baltimore, it was urged, would naturally be the chief city of
+the new Republic. In time it would become the rival of New York, and
+occupy to the Confederacy the same relations which New York does to the
+Union, and would be the great ship-building, shipping, importing and
+commercial emporium.</p>
+
+<p>These glittering prophecies had not been uttered without effect. The
+ambition of the aristocracy was aroused. Already they saw the ocean
+whitened with her sails, and the broad domain of Maryland adorned with
+the palaces reared from her ample and ever-expanding profits. Under
+these hallucinations, their minds were corrupted, and they seemed eager
+to rush into treason.</p>
+
+<p>Being a border State, Maryland occupied a position of particular
+importance. Emissaries were sent to her from South Carolina and
+elsewhere, and no effort was spared to secure her co-operation in these
+revolutionary movements. It is to be regretted that they were too
+successful, and the result was that the majority of the wealthier
+classes and those in office were soon in sympathy with the rebellion,
+and the spirit of domestic treason, for a time, swept like a tornado
+over the State.</p>
+
+<p>Added to the wealthier classes was the mob<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span> element of the city of
+Baltimore&mdash;reckless and unscrupulous, as mobs generally are&mdash;and this
+portion of her community were avowedly in full accord with the
+prospective movement, and ready to do the bidding of the slave power.
+Between these, however, there existed a great middle class, who were
+loyally and peacefully inclined. But this class, large as it was, had
+hitherto been divided in their political opinions, and had as yet
+arrived at no common and definite understanding with regard to the novel
+circumstances of the country and the events which seemed to be visibly
+impending.</p>
+
+<p>The government of the city of Baltimore was under the control of that
+branch of the Democracy who supported Breckinridge, and who had attained
+power under a popular cry for reform, and it was soon learned that these
+leaders were deep in the counsels of the secessionists.</p>
+
+<p>The newspaper press was no small factor of this excitement&mdash;their
+utterances had much to do in leading public opinion, and though their
+efforts "to fire the Southern heart," many were led to sanction the
+deeds of violence and outrage which were contemplated.</p>
+
+<p>Especial efforts had been made to render Mr. Lincoln personally odious
+and contemptible, and his election formed the pretexts of these reckless
+conspirators, who had long been plotting the overthrow of the Union. No
+falsehood was too gross, no statement<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> too exaggerated, to be used for
+that purpose, and so zealously did these misguided men labor in the
+cause of disunion, and so systematically concerted was their action,
+that the mass of the people of the slave States were made to believe
+that this pure, patient, humane, Christian statesman was a monster whose
+vices and passions made him odious, and whose political beliefs made him
+an object of just abhorrence.</p>
+
+<p>This was the condition of affairs at the dawning of the year 1861.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p044.jpg" width="336" height="358" alt="A COUNCIL OF WAR." title="" />
+<span class="caption">A COUNCIL OF WAR.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn6.jpg" width="448" height="120" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Opposition to Mr. Lincoln's Inauguration.&mdash;A Plot to Assassinate
+him.&mdash;The Journey from Springfield.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>With the opening of the new year, the political condition evinced
+alarming symptoms. As the day of the inauguration of the new President
+drew near, the excitement became intense. Loud threats were made that
+Mr. Lincoln should never be permitted to take the oath of office, and
+the hostility of the South manifested itself in such a manner as to
+excite the fears of those who desired the peaceful solution of the
+important question of continued union.</p>
+
+<p>The events about to be related have been for a long time shrouded in a
+veil of mystery. While many are aware that a plot existed at this time
+to assassinate the President-elect upon his contemplated journey to the
+capital, but few have any knowledge of the mode by which the conspiracy
+was detected, or the means employed to prevent the accomplishment of
+that murderous design.</p>
+
+<p>Considerations which affected the personal safety of those who actively
+participated in this detection, precluded a disclosure at the time, but
+that such a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span> conspiracy existed no doubt can be entertained. Now,
+however, that the dark clouds have passed away, and the bright sunshine
+of an enduring peace is throwing its beneficent rays over a united
+country, the truth may be disclosed, and a desire to peruse a hidden
+page of history may now be gratified.</p>
+
+<p>Early in the year 1861 I was at my headquarters in the city of Chicago,
+attending to the manifold duties of my profession. I had, of course,
+perused the daily journals which contained the reports of doings of the
+malcontents of the South, but in common with others, I entertained no
+serious fears of an open rebellion, and was disposed to regard the whole
+matter as of trivial importance. The same tones had been listened to
+before, and although the disunionists had hitherto never taken such
+aggressive steps, I was inclined to believe that with the incoming of
+the new administration, determined or conciliatory measures would be
+adopted, and that secession and rebellion would be either averted or
+summarily crushed.</p>
+
+<p>At this time I received a letter from Mr. Samuel H. Felton, the
+president of "The Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad,"
+requesting my presence in Philadelphia upon a matter of great
+importance. From his communication it appeared that rumors were afloat
+as to the intention of the roughs and secessionists of Maryland to
+injure the road of which he was the President. From what had already
+been learned, it was feared that their designs were to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span> prevent travel
+upon the road either by destroying the ferry-boats which then carried
+the trains across the Susquehanna river at Havre de Grace or by
+demolishing the railroad bridges over the Gunpowder river and other
+streams. This road was the great connecting link between the metropolis
+of the country and the capital of the nation, and it was of the utmost
+importance that no interruption should be permitted to the free
+communication between Washington and the great cities of the North and
+West.</p>
+
+<p>This letter at once aroused me to a realization of the danger that
+threatened the country, and I determined to render whatever assistance
+was in my power towards preventing the successful operation of these
+ill-advised and dangerous men.</p>
+
+<p>I lost no time, therefore, in making my arrangements, and soon after
+receiving Mr. Felton's communication, in company with four members of my
+force was upon the train speeding towards Philadelphia. Upon arriving in
+that city, I went directly to the office of Mr. Felton and obtained from
+him all the information he possessed of the movements and designs of the
+Maryland secessionists. I also had a consultation with Mr. H. F. Kenney,
+the superintendent of the road, with reference to a plan of operation
+which I proposed, and which was considered would result in obtaining the
+information so much to be desired.</p>
+
+<p>I resolved to locate my men at the various towns along the road,
+selecting such places where, it was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span> believed, disaffection existed.
+With a view, therefore, of acquiring the facts necessary for an
+intelligent prosecution of the inquiry, I took passage on one of the
+trains of the road, intending to see for myself how affairs stood, and
+to distribute my men in such a manner as to me seemed best.</p>
+
+<p>At the city of Wilmington, in Delaware, I found evidences of a great
+political excitement, but nothing that indicated a hostile disposition
+or which led me to believe that any danger was to be apprehended at this
+place. Nothing that savored of organization was apparent, and I was
+therefore compelled to look further for the existence of any antagonism
+to the railroad or any desire to prevent the running of their trains.</p>
+
+<p>At Perryville I found the same excitable condition of affairs, but
+nothing of a more aggressive character than at Wilmington. Men indulged
+in fierce arguments, in which both sides were forcibly represented, but
+aside from this I discovered no cause for apprehension, and no occasion
+for active detective work as yet.</p>
+
+<p>At Havre de Grace, however, the lines were more clearly drawn and the
+popular feeling much more bitter. It was at this point that the boats
+which carried the trains crossed the Susquehanna river, and where
+serious damage might be done to the company, should the ferries be
+destroyed. I therefore left one man at this place, with instructions to
+become acquainted<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span> with such men as he might, on observation, consider
+suspicious, and to endeavor to obtain from them, by association, a
+knowledge of their intentions.</p>
+
+<p>At Perrymansville, in Maryland, the feeling was considerably more
+intense. Under the influence of bad men the secession movement had
+gained many supporters and sympathizers. Loud threats were uttered
+against the railroad company, and it was boastfully asserted that "no
+d&mdash;d abolitionist should be allowed to pass through the town alive."</p>
+
+<p>I have always found it a truism that "a barking dog never bites," and
+although I had but little fear that these blatant talkers would perform
+any dangerous deeds, I considered it best to be fully posted as to their
+movements, in order to prevent a catastrophe, if possible.</p>
+
+<p>I accordingly directed Timothy Webster, a daring and discreet man upon
+my force, to locate himself at this point, and to carefully note
+everything that transpired which had any relation to attempted violence
+or a disposition to resort to aggressive measures.</p>
+
+<p>As I neared the city of Baltimore the opposition to the government and
+the sympathy with secession was manifestly more intense. At Magnolia,
+particularly, I observed a very dangerous feeling, and among men of all
+classes the general sentiment was in favor of resistance and force.
+Another operative, John Seaford, was accordingly left at this place,
+with instructions<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span> similar to those which had been given to the others.</p>
+
+<p>I then proceeded on to Baltimore, and there I found the greatest amount
+of excitement that I had yet experienced. I took quarters at the Howard
+House, and proceeded to inquire closely and carefully into the political
+situation. I soon found that the fears of the railroad officials were
+not wholly without foundation. The opposition to Mr. Lincoln's
+inauguration was most violent and bitter, and a few days' sojourn in
+this city convinced me that great danger was to be apprehended, and that
+the sentiment of disunion was far more widespread and deeply rooted than
+I had before imagined.</p>
+
+<p>The police force of the city was under the control of Marshal George P.
+Kane, and was almost entirely composed of men with disunion
+proclivities. Their leader was pronouncedly in favor of secession, and
+by his orders the broadest license was given to disorderly persons and
+to the dissemination of insurrectionary information. This individual was
+subsequently arrested, and, after a brief sojourn in Fort McHenry, fled
+in 1863 to the more congenial associations of Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>From the knowledge I gained of the situation in Baltimore, I resolved to
+establish my headquarters in that city. I accordingly engaged a building
+situated on South street, and in a position where I could receive prompt
+reports from all quarters of the metropolis.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> I also sent for an
+additional force of men, whom I distributed among the people of all
+grades and conditions of life. The building I had selected was admirably
+adapted for my purpose, and was so constructed that entrance could be
+gained to it from all four sides, through alleyways that led in from
+neighboring streets.</p>
+
+<p>Day by day, the reports of my men contained many important revelations
+of the designs of the opposition, and as a matter of additional
+precaution, I advised Mr. Felton to employ a small number of men to
+guard the various bridges and ferries, who could be warned in time to
+resist attack should such be made.</p>
+
+<p>The chief opposition seemed to be to the inauguration of President
+Lincoln, and the plan of the conspirators was to excite and exasperate
+the popular feeling against the President-elect to the utmost, and so
+successfully had this been done that a majority of the wealthier
+classes, with few exceptions&mdash;those in office&mdash;and the mob element in
+general were in full accord in their desire to prevent the inauguration
+from taking place.</p>
+
+<p>On the eleventh day of February, Mr. Lincoln, with a few of his personal
+friends, left his quiet home in Springfield to enter upon that
+tempestuous political career which eventually carried him to a martyr's
+grave. Among the party who accompanied the President were Norman B.
+Judd, Esq., Col. Ward<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span> H. Lamon, Judge Davis, Col. Sumner, a brave and
+impetuous officer, Major Hunter, Capt. John Pope, Col. Ellsworth, whose
+heroic death took place shortly afterwards, and John G. Nicolay, the
+President's private secretary.</p>
+
+<p>As the President was about leaving his home, the people turned out en
+masse to bid him farewell, and to them Mr. Lincoln addressed the
+following pathetic words of parting:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"My Friends: No one who has never been placed in a like
+position can understand my feelings at this hour, nor the
+oppressive sadness I feel at this parting. For more than a
+quarter of a century I have lived among you, and during all
+that time I have received nothing but kindness at your
+hands. Here I have lived from youth until now I am an old
+man; here the most sacred ties of earth were assumed; here
+all my children were born, and here one of them lies buried.
+To you, dear friends, I owe all that I have, and all that I
+am. All the strange checkered past seems now to crowd upon
+my mind. To-day I leave you. I go to assume a task more
+difficult than that which devolved upon Washington. Unless
+the great God who assisted him shall be with me and aid me,
+I must fail; but if the same Omniscient Mind and Almighty
+Arm that directed and protected him shall guide and support
+me, I shall not fail&mdash;I shall succeed. Let us all pray that
+the God of our fathers may not forsake us now. To Him I
+commend you all. Permit me to ask that with equal sincerity
+and faith you will invoke His wisdom and guidance for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span> me.
+With these few words I must leave you, for how long I know
+not. Friends, one and all, I must bid you an affectionate
+farewell."</p></div>
+
+<p>How touchingly simple and earnest seem these words. A strange and almost
+weird presentiment of grief and suffering give his utterances a pathos
+that becomes profoundly impressive when linked with subsequent events.
+How prophetic too&mdash;full of tears and fraught with the prescience of a
+future terrible and bloody war&mdash;they bear yet an echo like that of the
+voice that sounded in the ear of Halleck's dying hero&mdash;for surely in
+their tones are heard the thanks of millions yet to be. How more than
+prophetic they seemed when, four years later, "a funeral train, covered
+with the emblems of splendid mourning, rolled into the same city,
+bearing a corpse whose obsequies were being celebrated in every part of
+the civilized world."</p>
+
+<p>From Springfield the passage was a perfect continuous ovation. Cities
+and towns, villages and hamlets, vied with each other in testifying
+their devotion to Union and their determination to uphold the chief
+magistrate in the great trial before him. Immense crowds surrounded the
+stations at which the special train halted, and in the cities of
+Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, Pittsburg, Cleveland, Erie, Buffalo,
+Albany, New York, Trenton, Newark, Philadelphia and Harrisburg, public
+demonstrations of an imposing character were given in his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> honor, and
+vast concourses of people assembled to greet him. Everywhere he was
+received and honored as the chief of a free people, and in reply to
+complimentary addresses which he day by day received, the President
+endeavored to utter cheering words, and indicated a disbelief in any
+bloody issue of our domestic complications.</p>
+
+<p>On the day prior to the departure of Mr. Lincoln from his home, I
+received a letter from the master mechanic of the railroad, of which the
+following is an extract:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"I am informed that a son of a distinguished citizen of
+Maryland said that he had taken an oath with others to
+assassinate Mr. Lincoln before he gets to Washington, and
+they may attempt to do it while he is passing over our road.
+I think you had better look after this man, if possible.
+This information is perfectly reliable. I have nothing more
+to say at this time, but will try to see you in a few days."</p></div>
+
+<p>This communication was confirmatory of reports of an indefinite
+character which had reached me prior to this, and the information was
+far too important to be disregarded. I determined, therefore, to probe
+the matter to the bottom, and obtaining the authority of Mr. Felton for
+such action, I immediately set about the discovery of the existence of
+the conspiracy and the intention of its organization, and then, if
+coolness, courage and skill could save the life of Mr. Lincoln, and
+prevent the revolution which would inevitably<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> follow his violent death,
+I felt sure of accomplishing it.</p>
+
+<p>My plans were soon perfected, and they were to have several of my men,
+together with myself, announced as residents of Charleston and New
+Orleans, and by assuming to be secessionists of the most ultra type, to
+secure entrance into their secret societies and military organizations,
+and thus become possessed of their secret designs. In looking over the
+qualifications of the members of my corps I found two men admirably
+adapted to the object I had in view. They were both young and both fully
+able to assume and successfully carry out the character of a
+hot-blooded, fiery secessionist.</p>
+
+<p>One of these men, whom I shall call Joseph Howard, was a young man of
+fine personal appearance, and of insinuating manners. He was of French
+descent, and in his youth had been carefully educated for a Jesuit
+priest, but finding the vocation distasteful to him, he had abandoned
+it. Added to his collegiate studies, he possessed the advantage of
+extensive foreign travel, and the ability to speak, with great facility,
+several foreign languages. He had a thorough knowledge of the South, its
+localities, prejudices, customs and leading men, which had been derived
+from several years residence in New Orleans and other Southern cities,
+and was gifted with the power of adaptation to persons whom they wish to
+influence, so popularly attributed to the Jesuits.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Howard was instructed to assume the character of an extreme
+secessionist, to obtain quarters at one of the first-class hotels, and
+register his name, with residence at New Orleans. This was done because
+he was well acquainted with the city, having resided there for a long
+time, and was consequently enabled to talk familiarly of prominent
+individuals of that city whom he had met.</p>
+
+<p>The other man whom I selected for this important work was Timothy
+Webster. He was a man of great physical strength and endurance, skilled
+in all athletic sports, and a good shot. Possessed of a strong will and
+a courage that knew no fear, he was the very man to operate upon the
+middle and lower classes who composed the disunion element.</p>
+
+<p>His subsequent career as a Union spy&mdash;one of the most perilous and
+thankless positions&mdash;and his ignominious death at Richmond, at the hands
+of the rebels, have passed into history, but no historian will ever
+relate the thousand perils through which he passed in the service of his
+country; of his boldness and ingenuity in acquiring information that was
+of incalculable value to the Union officers, nor of his wonderful
+fertility of invention, which frequently enabled him to escape from
+dangers which would have appalled a less brave or less devoted man.
+Arrested at last, he was condemned as a spy, and on the thirtieth day of
+April, 1862, he was executed in the City of Richmond, by order of
+Jefferson Davis. Even then he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> would have succeeded in effecting a
+well-devised plan of escape, had he not been rendered incapable of
+movement by reason of a prostrating sickness. His name is unknown to
+fame, but fewer hearts beat truer to the Union, and fewer arms performed
+more devoted service in its cause, and a record of his daring and
+romantic adventures as a Union spy, would certainly equal, if not
+surpass, those of the Harvey Birch of Cooper.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long before I received undoubted evidence of the existence of
+a systematized organization whose avowed object was to assist the
+rebellious States, but which was in reality formed to compass the death
+of the President, and thus accomplish the separation of the States. I
+learned also that a branch of this conspiracy existed at Perrymansville,
+under the guise of a company of cavalry, who met frequently and drilled
+regularly. Leaving Harwood to operate in Baltimore with the others, I
+dispatched Timothy Webster back to Perrymansville, and in twenty-four
+hours thereafter he had enrolled himself as a member of the company, and
+was recognized as a hail fellow among his rebel associates.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn4.jpg" width="448" height="193" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn7.jpg" width="448" height="148" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Conspirators at Work.&mdash;Detectives on Their Trail.&mdash;Webster as a
+Soldier.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Every day reports would be brought to me from the numerous men I had
+detailed along the line of the railroad, and regularly on alternate days
+I would make the journey from Baltimore to Philadelphia for consultation
+with the officers of the company.</p>
+
+<p>At every visit which I made to the suspected localities, I could not
+fail to notice an increase in the excitement and the indications of a
+disposition to open revolt became more evident. Everywhere the ruling
+principle seemed to be opposition to the new administration and a
+decided inclination to aid the Confederacy. As the daily papers, which
+chronicled the events which occurred upon the journey of Mr. Lincoln
+towards Washington, or the desperate movements of the Southern
+ringleaders, were perused by the people, or were read aloud in tavern or
+store, they would be greeted by alternate expressions of hate and
+malignity for the abolitionist and wild cheers for the rebellion.</p>
+
+<p>This feeling, too, was largely increased by the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span> visits which prominent
+villagers would make to Baltimore, and who, upon their return, would
+relate marvelous stories of what they had seen and heard of the courage,
+the unity and the determination of the Southern people. Everything
+calculated to inflame the popular mind was seized upon, and the
+wonderful spirit of invention which these men evinced was simply
+astonishing. As a consequence, the ignorant residents of these villages
+and towns, having no authoritative information of their own, relied
+implicitly upon the exaggerated statements and untruthful reports of
+their leaders, and were kept in a condition of excitement that made them
+ready tools of their unscrupulous and better-informed managers. As far
+as could be learned, however, no definite plan of action had been
+arranged, and no public outbreak had as yet occurred.</p>
+
+<p>Barnum's Hotel, in Baltimore, appeared to be the favorite resort of the
+Southern element. The visitors from all portions of the South located at
+this house, and in the evenings the corridors and parlors would be
+thronged by the tall, lank forms of the long-haired gentlemen who
+represented the aristocracy of the slave-holding interests. Their
+conversations were loud and unrestrained, and any one bold enough or
+sufficiently indiscreet to venture an opinion contrary to the
+righteousness of their cause, would soon find himself in an unenviable
+position and frequently the subject of violence.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As this hotel was so largely patronized by the so-called "Fire-eaters,"
+I instructed Howard to go there in order to secure quarters and to
+ingratiate himself with these extremists. It was not long after this,
+that, joining a company of gentlemen who were loudly declaiming against
+the ruling powers of the country, he entered into their discussion, and
+by blatant expressions of the most rebellious nature, he was warmly
+welcomed by the coterie and instantly made one of their number.</p>
+
+<p>Hailing as he did from New Orleans, his residence was a ready passport
+to their favor and confidence, and his fine personal appearance,
+gentlemanly address and the fervor of his utterances soon won the favor
+of those with whom he associated. To a general inquiry he stated that
+private affairs of a financial nature required his presence in
+Baltimore, but as his acquaintance with the trustworthy emissaries of
+rebeldom increased, he quietly insinuated that affairs of a national
+character were far more dear to him than individual interests or private
+concerns.</p>
+
+<p>By continued intercourse with these men, he greatly increased the circle
+of his acquaintances, and soon became a welcome guest at the residences
+of many of the first families of that refined and aristocratic city.
+Here his accomplishments appeared to the best advantage. His romantic
+disposition and the ease of his manner captivated many of the
+susceptible<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> hearts of the beautiful Baltimore belles, whose eyes grew
+brighter in his presence, and who listened enraptured to the poetic
+utterances which were whispered into their ears under the witching spell
+of music and moonlit nature.</p>
+
+<p>He gradually neared the circle of which Marshal George P. Kane appeared
+to be the leader, and in a short time he had succeeded in entirely
+winning his confidence, and from this gentleman Howard acquired many
+important items of information. The entire police force of the
+city&mdash;officers and men&mdash;were in full sympathy with the rebellion, and it
+became apparent to him that a strict watch was kept over every man who
+expressed Northern opinions, or who was not identified with the cause
+which they had espoused.</p>
+
+<p>To all of these arrangements Howard signified his hearty indorsement,
+and by every means in his power he sought to convince the leaders of his
+full sympathy with their efforts and his resolve to take a leading part
+in the struggle that seemed to be impending.</p>
+
+<p>Accepting the invitation of Mr. Kane, he one evening accompanied that
+gentleman to a meeting of one of the secret societies that then existed,
+the first one he had succeeded in gaining entrance to. Arriving at the
+place of assembly, he was surprised at the many familiar faces which
+greeted him. Men whose aristocratic doors had opened to his entrance and
+whose social positions were unquestioned; young<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span> men who traced their
+lineage through several generations, and whose wealth and intelligence
+gave them a social status of no ordinary character, were found in full
+accord and upon perfect equality with tradesmen, artificers, and even
+with those whose vocation was decidedly doubtful, and some of whom had
+heard the key of a prison lock turned upon them for offenses committed
+in days gone by.</p>
+
+<p>The leader and President of this society was a Captain Fernandina, who
+was known as one of the most active of the conspirators. This individual
+at one time occupied the exalted position of a barber at Barnum's Hotel,
+but treason and conspiracy had elevated him to the station of a military
+captain whose orders were to be obeyed, and a leader whose mandates
+compelled respect. He was an Italian or of Italian descent, and having
+lived in the South for a number of years he was thoroughly impressed
+with the idea of Southern wrongs, and that the election of Mr. Lincoln
+was an outrage which must not be tamely submitted to by the high-toned
+and chivalrous people of the South.</p>
+
+<p>He was an enthusiast and fanatic, a dangerous man in any crisis, and
+particularly so in the one now impending, which threatened a civil war
+and all its direful consequences. Educated with Italian ideas and
+possessed of the temperament of his people, he openly justified the use
+of the stiletto, and fiercely advocated assassination as the means of
+preventing the President-elect<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span> from taking his seat in the executive
+chair. He was also the captain of a military company which drilled
+regularly and whose members were believed to fully indorse the views of
+their chief.</p>
+
+<p>At this meeting Fernandina delivered an address which, for its
+treasonable nature and its violent opposition to all laws, human or
+divine, has scarcely a parallel. He boldly advocated the doctrine of
+State rights; he fiercely denounced the party who had succeeded in
+obtaining power; he inveighed in violent language against the policy of
+the so-called abolitionists, and his arraignment of Mr. Lincoln was most
+vile and repulsive. As these words fell from his lips the excitement
+became intense. Faces were eagerly turned towards him, eyes glistened
+with the fires of hate, and hands were clenched as though each one
+present was imbued with the same feelings which animated their
+sanguinary leader.</p>
+
+<p>As he proceeded, overcome by the violence of his emotions, he drew from
+his breast a long, glittering knife, and waving it aloft, exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"This hireling Lincoln shall never, never be President. My life is of no
+consequence in a cause like this, and I am willing to give it for his.
+As Orsini gave his life for Italy, I am ready to die for the rights of
+the South and to crush out the abolitionist."</p>
+
+<p>As he stood before them, his black eyes flashing with excitement, his
+sallow face pale and colorless and his long hair brushed fiercely back
+from his low<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> forehead, he seemed a fitting representative of so
+desperate a cause, and his influence over the assemblage was wonderful
+to behold. Loud cheers and wild clapping of hands greeted his
+utterances, and all seemed in perfect accord with his declared
+intentions.</p>
+
+<p>There could be no mistaking the fact, that the object of these men was
+dangerous, and that they had fully determined to oppose and prevent the
+inauguration of Mr. Lincoln, but the exact plan of operation had not as
+yet been agreed upon.</p>
+
+<p>Upon these facts being conveyed to me by Howard on the following
+morning, I resolved to interview this desperate leader of the conspiracy
+myself, and endeavor to learn from him further particulars of their
+movements and designs.</p>
+
+<p>In the immediate vicinity of Barnum's Hotel at that time there was a
+famous restaurant, popularly known as "Guy's," and this place was much
+frequented by the secessionists who were in the city. Fernandina spent
+much of his time there, either in drinking or in consultation with his
+numerous political friends, who all seemed to regard him as an important
+personage, and one who was eventually to perform giant service in the
+cause.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 716px;">
+<img src="images/illus002.jpg" width="716" height="375" alt="&quot;He must die, and if necessary we will die together!&quot;
+P. 65" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;He must die, and if necessary we will die together!&quot;
+P. 65</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Howard having effecting an introduction to Fernandina, and convinced him
+of his devotion to the interests of the South, I experienced no
+difficulty in obtaining the desired interview. About three o'clock on
+the following afternoon Howard and myself carelessly entered the saloon,
+and were gratified to perceive that Fernandina was also there,
+accompanied by several members of the military company which he
+commanded. Walking directly up to these gentlemen, Howard introduced me
+as a resident of Georgia, who was an earnest worker in the cause of
+secession, and whose sympathy and discretion could be implicitly relied
+upon.</p>
+
+<p>Fernandina cordially grasped my hand, and we all retired to a private
+saloon, where, after ordering the necessary drinks and cigars, the
+conversation became general, and to me, absorbingly interesting.</p>
+
+<p>The question of assassinating the President was freely discussed, and
+Captain Fernandina expressed himself vehemently in its favor.</p>
+
+<p>Some one in the party remarked:</p>
+
+<p>"Are there no other means of saving the South except by assassination?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," replied Fernandina; "as well might you attempt to move the
+Washington Monument yonder with your breath, as to change our purpose.
+He must die&mdash;and die he shall. And," he continued, turning to Captain
+Trichot, a fellow-conspirator who stood near, "if necessary, we will die
+together."</p>
+
+<p>"There seems to be no other way," interposed Howard, "and while
+bloodshed is to be regretted, it will be done in a noble cause."</p>
+
+<p>Fernandina gazed approvingly at Howard, and then added:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, the cause is a noble one, and on that day every captain will prove
+himself a hero. With the first shot the chief traitor, Lincoln, will
+die, then all Maryland will be with us, and the South will be forever
+free."</p>
+
+<p>"But," said I, "have all the plans been matured, and are there no fears
+of failure? A misstep in so important a direction would be fatal to the
+South and ought to be well considered."</p>
+
+<p>"Our plans are fully arranged," answered the Captain, "and they cannot
+fail; and," he added, with a wicked gleam in his eyes&mdash;"if I alone must
+strike the blow, I shall not hesitate or shrink from the task. Lincoln
+shall certainly not depart from this city alive."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," added Captain Trichot, "it is determined that this G&mdash;d d&mdash;d
+Lincoln shall never pass through here alive, and no d&mdash;d abolitionist
+shall ever set foot upon Southern soil except to find a grave."</p>
+
+<p>"But about the authorities"&mdash;I asked&mdash;"is there no danger to be
+apprehended from them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no," said the Captain, assuringly, "they are all with us. I have
+seen Col. Kane, the Chief Marshal of Police, and he is all right. In a
+week from to-day the North shall want another President, for Lincoln
+will be a corpse."</p>
+
+<p>All the company gave approving responses to these threats, with but one
+exception, and he remained silent, with a doubtful, troubled expression<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span>
+upon his face. This young man was one of the fast "bloods" of the city,
+who proudly wore upon his breast a gold Palmetto badge, and who was a
+Lieutenant in the Palmetto Guards, a secret military organization of
+Baltimore, and I determined to select this man for the purpose of
+obtaining the information I so much desired; and as the company shortly
+afterwards broke up, Howard and myself accompanied Lieutenant Hill from
+the saloon.</p>
+
+<p>Hill soon proved a pliant tool in our hands. Being of a weak nature and
+having been reared in the lap of luxury, he had entered into this
+movement more from a temporary burst of enthusiasm and because it was
+fashionable, than from any other cause. Now that matters began to assume
+such a warlike attitude, he was inclined to hesitate before the affair
+had gone too far, but still he seemed to be enamored with the glory of
+the undertaking.</p>
+
+<p>By my directions Howard, the ardent secessionist from Louisiana, and
+Hill, of the Palmetto Guards, became bosom friends and inseparable
+companions. They drank together, and visited theaters and places of
+amusement in each other's company.</p>
+
+<p>By reason of his high social position Hill was enabled to introduce his
+friend to the leading families and into the most aristocratic clubs and
+societies of which the city boasted, and Howard made many valuable
+acquaintances through the influence of this rebellious scion of
+Baltimore aristocracy.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Finally the young man was induced to open to his companion the secrets
+of the plot to assassinate the President. It was evident, however, that
+Hill was playing his part in the conspiracy with great reluctance, and
+one day he said to Howard:</p>
+
+<p>"What a pity it is that this glorious Union must be destroyed all on
+account of that monster Lincoln." From Hill it was learned that the
+plans of the conspirators were first to excite and exasperate the
+popular feeling against Mr. Lincoln to the utmost, and thus far this had
+been successfully accompanied. From the published programme Mr. Lincoln
+was to reach Baltimore from Harrisburg by the Northern Central Railroad
+on the twenty-third day of February, now but a few days distant. He
+would, therefore, reach the city about the middle of the day. A vast
+crowd would meet him at the Calvert street depot, at which point it was
+expected that he would enter an open carriage and ride nearly half a
+mile to the Washington depot. Here it was arranged that but a small
+force of policemen should be stationed, and as the President arrived a
+disturbance would be created which would attract the attention of these
+guardians of the peace, and this accomplished, it would be an easy task
+for a determined man to shoot the President, and, aided by his
+companions, succeed in making his escape.</p>
+
+<p>Agents of the conspirators had been dispatched to all the principal
+Northern cities, to watch the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span> movements of the presidential party, and
+ready to telegraph to Baltimore any change of route or delay in arrival.
+A cipher had been agreed upon between them, so that the conspirators
+could communicate with each other without the possibility of detection,
+and everything seemed to be satisfactorily arranged except to depute one
+of their number to commit the fatal deed. This was to be determined by
+ballot, and as yet no one knew upon whom might devolve the bloody task.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, the idea of assassination was preying heavily upon the mind
+of the Lieutenant of the Palmetto Guards; he grew sad and melancholy,
+and plunged still deeper into dissipation. Howard had now become a
+necessity to him and they were scarcely ever separated. Under the
+influence of the master spirit, the disposition of Hill underwent
+wonderful changes. At times, he would be thoughtful and morose, and then
+would suddenly break out into enthusiastic rhapsodies. His sleep became
+tormented with dreams in which he saw himself the martyr to a glorious
+cause and the savior of his country.</p>
+
+<p>At such times he would address himself to Howard, in the most
+extravagant language.</p>
+
+<p>"I am destined to die," said he one day, "shrouded with glory. I shall
+immortalize myself by plunging a knife into Lincoln's heart."</p>
+
+<p>Howard endeavored to calm his transports, but without avail. Raising
+himself to his full height, he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span> exclaimed: "Rome had her Brutus, why
+should not we? I swear to you, Howard, if it falls to me I will kill
+Lincoln before he reaches the Washington depot, not that I love Lincoln
+less, but my country more."</p>
+
+<p>As the day drew nearer for the arrival of the President, he became more
+nervous and excited, and would more frequently indulge in extravagant
+expressions, which would have been regarded as absurd, but for the fact
+that he was but one of a large number of fanatics, who seriously
+entertained the same ideas of murder, and his expressions but the reflex
+of others, more determined.</p>
+
+<p>Timothy Webster was still at Perrymansville, and by this time had fully
+identified himself with the rebel cause, and the company of cavalry of
+which he was a member. On several occasions he had given undoubted
+indications of his loyalty and devotion to the South, and was generally
+looked upon as a man who could be trusted. He became quite intimate with
+the officers of the company, and succeeded in gaining their entire
+confidence. As yet, however, he had learned but little of the important
+movement which we believed was in contemplation, as all conversations
+upon that subject appeared to be between the officers of the company, at
+their secret meetings, to which he had not been able as yet to gain an
+entrance.</p>
+
+<p>At length one morning, after the usual daily drill,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span> and when the
+company had been dismissed, the Captain addressed Webster and requested
+him to be present at his house that evening, as he desired to consult
+with him upon important affairs, at the same time cautioning him to say
+nothing to any one concerning the matter.</p>
+
+<p>Promptly at the time appointed Webster presented himself at the
+residence of the Captain, and was ushered into a room upon the upper
+floor, where there were several men already assembled. The curtains had
+been drawn close, and heavy quilts had been hung over the windows, which
+effectually prevented any one from the outside from discovering a light
+in the room. On his entrance he was introduced to the gentlemen present,
+three of whom were unknown to him, who were members of the secret league
+from Baltimore, and who were evidently impressed with the solemnity and
+importance of their undertaking. They greeted Webster cordially,
+however, and made room for him at the table around which they were
+sitting.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes satisfied Webster as to the nature of the meeting, and
+that it was a conclave of the conspirators, who had met to discuss a
+plan of action. Intensely eager as he was to acquire all possible
+information, he was obliged to restrain his impetuosity and to listen
+calmly to the developments that were made. From what transpired that
+evening there could be no doubt of the desperation of the men engaged<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span>
+in the conspiracy, or of the widespread interest which was taken in
+their movements.</p>
+
+<p>The plans for the assassination of the President had been fully matured,
+and only needed the selection of the person to perform the deed, in
+order to carry them into effect. In the meantime, however, other
+important measures required attention and consideration. If the affair
+stopped simply with the assassination of the President, but little, if
+any, good would be accomplished. The North would rise as one man to
+avenge the death of their leader, and they would only hasten a disaster
+they were anxious to avoid. It was necessary, therefore, that the work
+should be thoroughly done, and the plan suggested was as follows:</p>
+
+<p>As soon as the deed had been accomplished in Baltimore, the news was to
+be telegraphed along the line of the road, and immediately upon the
+reception of this intelligence the telegraph wires were to be cut, the
+railroad bridges destroyed and the tracks torn up, in order to prevent
+for some time any information being conveyed to the cities of the North,
+or the passage of any Northern men towards the capital.</p>
+
+<p>Wild as the scheme was, it found instant favor with the reckless men
+assembled together, and all signified their hearty assent to the
+propositions and offered their aid in successfully carrying them out.
+Among the most earnest in their protestations was Timothy Webster, and
+as he announced his intention<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span> to perform his duty in the affair he was
+warmly congratulated.</p>
+
+<p>Matters were evidently getting warm, and but little time was left for
+action.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p073.jpg" width="336" height="359" alt="&quot;WARMING UP.&quot;" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;WARMING UP.&quot;</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Conspirators in Council.&mdash;My Operative Joins the Conspiracy.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>I had already written to Mr. Norman B. Judd as the party reached
+Cincinnati, informing him that I had reason to believe that there was a
+plot on foot to murder the President on his passage through Baltimore,
+and promising to advise him further as the party progressed eastward.</p>
+
+<p>This information Mr. Judd did not divulge to any one, fearing to
+occasion undue anxiety or unnecessary alarm, and knowing that I was upon
+the ground and could be depended upon to act at the proper time.</p>
+
+<p>When the party reached Buffalo another note from me awaited Mr. Judd,
+informing him of the accumulation of evidence, but conveying no
+particulars. The party were now journeying towards New York city, and I
+determined to learn all that there was to learn before many hours.</p>
+
+<p>Previous to this, in addition to the men engaged in Baltimore, I had
+sent for Mrs. Kate Warne, the lady superintendent of my agency. This
+lady had arrived several days before, and had already made<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span> remarkable
+progress in cultivating the acquaintance of the wives and daughters of
+the conspirators.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Warne was eminently fitted for this task. Of rather a commanding
+person, with clear-cut, expressive features, and with an ease of manner
+that was quite captivating at times, she was calculated to make a
+favorable impression at once. She was of Northern birth, but in order to
+vouch for her Southern opinions, she represented herself as from
+Montgomery, Alabama, a locality with which she was perfectly familiar,
+from her connection with the detection of the robbery of the Adams
+Express Company, at that place. Her experience in that case, which is
+fully detailed in "The Expressman and the Detective," fully qualified
+her for the task of representing herself as a resident of the South.</p>
+
+<p>She was a brilliant conversationalist when so disposed, and could be
+quite vivacious, but she also understood that rarer quality in
+womankind, the art of being silent.</p>
+
+<p>The information she received was invaluable, but as yet the meetings of
+the chief conspirators had not been entered. Mrs. Warne displayed upon
+her breast, as did many of the ladies of Baltimore, the black and white
+cockade, which had been temporarily adopted as the emblem of secession,
+and many hints were dropped in her presence which found their way to my
+ears, and were of great benefit to me.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As I have said, the Presidential party were in Buffalo, and I had
+resolved upon prompt and decisive measures to discover the inward
+workings of the conspirators. Accordingly I obtained an interview with
+Howard, and gave him such instructions as I deemed necessary under the
+circumstances. He was to insist upon Hill taking him to the meeting at
+which the ballots were to be drawn, and where he, too, would have an
+opportunity to immortalize himself, and then, that being accomplished,
+the rest would be easy and all further danger would be over.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, that day Howard broached the matter to Hill in a manner
+which convinced him of his earnestness, and the young Lieutenant
+promised his utmost efforts to secure his admission. At five o'clock in
+the afternoon they again met, and Hill joyfully informed his companion
+that his request had been granted, and that, upon his vouching for the
+fidelity of his friend, he had succeeded in obtaining permission for him
+to enter their society.</p>
+
+<p>That evening Howard accompanied his friend Hill to the rendezvous of the
+league, and as they entered the darkened chamber, they found many of the
+conspirators already assembled. The members were strangely silent, and
+an ominous awe seemed to pervade the entire assembly. About twenty men
+comprised the number, but many entered afterward. After a few
+preliminary movements, Howard was conducted to the station of the
+President of the assembly and duly sworn, the members gathering around
+him in a circle as this was being done.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 696px;">
+<img src="images/illus003.jpg" width="696" height="375" alt="&quot;Howard was conducted to the station of the President,
+and duly sworn.&quot; P. 76." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Howard was conducted to the station of the President,
+and duly sworn.&quot; P. 76.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Having passed through the required formula, Howard was warmly taken by
+the hand by his associates, many of whom he had met in the polite
+circles of society. After quiet had been restored, the President, who
+was none other than Captain Fernandina, arose, and in a dramatic manner
+detailed the particulars of the plot.</p>
+
+<p>It had been fully determined that the assassination should take place at
+the Calvert street depot. A vast crowd of secessionists were to assemble
+at that place to await the arrival of the train with Mr. Lincoln. They
+would appear early and fill the narrow streets and passages immediately
+surrounding it. No attempt at secrecy was made of the fact that the
+Marshal of Police was conversant with their plans, and that he would
+detail but a small force of policemen to attend the arrival, and
+nominally clear and protect a passage for Mr. Lincoln and his suite. Nor
+was the fact disguised that these policemen were in active sympathy with
+the movement. George P. Kane's animus was fully shown when he was
+subsequently arrested by General Banks, and afterwards became an officer
+in the rebel army.</p>
+
+<p>When the train entered the depot, and Mr. Lincoln attempted to pass
+through the narrow passage leading to the streets, a party already
+delegated were to engage in a conflict on the outside, and then the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span>
+policemen were to rush away to quell the disturbance. At this
+moment&mdash;the police being entirely withdrawn&mdash;Mr. Lincoln would find
+himself surrounded by a dense, excited and hostile crowd, all hustling
+and jamming against him, and then the fatal blow was to be struck.</p>
+
+<p>A swift steamer was to be stationed in Chesapeake Bay, with a boat
+awaiting upon the shore, ready to take the assassin on board as soon as
+the deed was done, and convey him to a Southern port, where he would be
+received with acclamations of joy and honored as a hero.</p>
+
+<p>The question to be decided this evening was: "Who should do the deed?"
+"Who should assume the task of liberating the nation of the foul
+presence of the abolitionist leader?" For this purpose the meeting had
+been called to-night, and to-night the important decision was to be
+reached.</p>
+
+<p>It was finally determined that ballots should be prepared and placed in
+a box arranged for that purpose, and that the person who drew a <i>red</i>
+ballot should perform the duty of assassination.</p>
+
+<p>In order that none should know who drew the fatal ballot, except he who
+did so, the room was rendered still darker, and every one was pledged to
+secrecy as to the color of the ballot he drew. The leaders, however, had
+determined that their plans should not fail, and doubting the courage of
+some of their number, instead of placing but <i>one red ballot</i> in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span> the
+box, they placed <i>eight</i> of the designated color, and these eight
+ballots were drawn&mdash;each man who drew them believing that upon him, his
+courage, strength and devotion, depended the cause of the South&mdash;each
+supposing that he alone was charged with the execution of the deed.</p>
+
+<p>After the ballots had been drawn the President again addressed the
+assembly. He violently assailed the enemies of the South, and in glowing
+words pointed out the glory that awaited the man who would prove himself
+the hero upon this great occasion, and finally, amid much restrained
+enthusiasm, the meeting adjourned, and their duties had thus far been
+accomplished.</p>
+
+<p>My time for action had now arrived; my plans had been perfected and I
+resolved to act at once. Taking Mrs. Warne with me I reached New York
+city on the same day that the presidential party arrived there, and
+leaving Mrs. Warne to perfect arrangements, I proceeded at once to
+Philadelphia. That evening Mrs. Warne repaired to the Astor House and
+requested an interview with Mr. Judd. Her request being granted, Mrs.
+Warne informed that gentleman, that, fearing to trust the mail in so
+important a matter, she had been delegated by me to arrange for a
+personal interview, at which all the proofs relating to the conspiracy
+could be submitted to him. It was suggested that immediately after the
+arrival of the party in Philadelphia, I should inform Mr. Judd of my
+plans<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span> for an interview, and that he would be governed accordingly.</p>
+
+<p>While they were conversing, Col. E. S. Sandford, President of the
+American Telegraph Company, called, and was introduced by Mrs. Warne to
+Mr. Judd. This gentleman had been made fully acquainted with what I had
+learned, and had promised all the assistance within his power, and he
+accordingly tendered to Mr. Judd his own personal service and the
+unlimited use of the telegraph lines under his control, for any
+communications he might desire to make.</p>
+
+<p>On arriving at Philadelphia, I proceeded directly to the office of Mr.
+Felton, and acquainted him with all the information I had received, of
+the designs of the conspirators with regard to Mr. Lincoln, and of their
+intention to destroy the railroad should their plot be successful. The
+situation was truly alarming, and cautious measures were absolutely
+necessary. It was therefore resolved to obtain an interview with Mr.
+Lincoln, submit the facts to him, and be governed by his suggestions,
+whatever they might be.</p>
+
+<p>This interview took place on the 20th day of February, and Mr. Lincoln
+was expected to arrive on the following day. Great preparations had been
+made for his reception, and the military, of which Philadelphia was
+justly proud, were to escort the President-elect from the depot to the
+Continental Hotel, where quarters had been engaged for him, and where he
+would receive the congratulations of the people.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn8.jpg" width="448" height="86" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Presidential Party arrives in Philadelphia.&mdash;Independence
+Hall.&mdash;The Departure from Harrisburg.&mdash;Telegraph wires Cut.&mdash;Through the
+Lines of Treason and Safe Arrival at Washington.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The twenty-first dawned bright and sunny, and the streets were alive
+with the eager populace, all anxious to do honor to the new President,
+and to witness the scenes attendant upon his reception. In due time the
+train containing the party arrived, and after an informal welcome they
+took carriages, and, escorted by the troops, the procession took up the
+line of march for the hotel. Vast crowds lined the sidewalks and the
+enthusiasm of the people was unbounded. The President graciously
+acknowledged their courtesies as he passed along. On each side of the
+carriage in which Mr. Lincoln was seated, accompanied by Mr. Judd, was a
+file of policemen, whose duty it was to prevent the mass of people from
+pressing too closely to the vehicle. As the procession reached the
+corner of Broad and Chestnut streets, a young man approached the file of
+policemen and endeavored to attract the attention of the occupants of
+the carriage. Finding this impossible, he boldly plunged through<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> the
+ranks of the officers, and coming to the side of the carriage, he handed
+to Mr. Judd a slip of paper, on which was written:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"<i>St. Louis Hotel, ask for J. H. Hutchinson.</i>"<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>This young man was Mr. George H. Burns, an attach&eacute; of the American
+Telegraph Company and confidential agent of E. S. Sandford, Esq., who
+acted as my messenger, and who afterwards distinguished himself for his
+courage and daring in the rebellion. It is needless to add that J. H.
+Hutchinson was the name I had assumed in registering at the hotel, in
+order to avoid any suspicion or curiosity in case any emissary of the
+conspirators should ascertain my real name and thus be warned of the
+discovery of their scheme.</p>
+
+<p>Shortly after the arrival of Mr. Lincoln at the Continental, Mr. Judd
+was announced at the St. Louis Hotel as desiring to see me. Mr. Felton
+was with me at the time, and in a few minutes Mr. Judd made his
+appearance. More than an hour was occupied in going over the proofs
+which I produced of the existence of the conspiracy, at the end of which
+time Mr. Judd expressed himself fully convinced that the plot was a
+reality, and that prompt measures were required to secure the safety of
+the President.</p>
+
+<p>"My advice is," said I, after I had succeeded in convincing Mr. Judd
+that my information was reliable,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> "that Mr. Lincoln shall proceed to
+Washington this evening by the eleven o'clock train, and then once safe
+at the capital, General Scott and his soldiery will afford him ample
+protection."</p>
+
+<p>"I fear very much that Mr. Lincoln will not accede to this," replied Mr.
+Judd; "but as the President is an old acquaintance and friend of yours
+and has had occasion before this to test your reliability and prudence,
+suppose you accompany me to the Continental Hotel, and we can then lay
+this information before him in person and abide by his decision."</p>
+
+<p>This idea was at once adopted and we proceeded to the hotel. Here we
+found the entrances blocked up by a surging multitude which effectually
+prevented our admission, and we were obliged to enter by the rear of the
+building through a door used by the servants.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching the room occupied by Mr. Judd that gentleman summoned Mr.
+Nicolay, the President's private secretary, and dispatched him with a
+note requesting the presence of Mr. Lincoln upon a matter of urgent
+importance.</p>
+
+<p>The President at that time was in one of the large parlors surrounded by
+a number of ladies and gentlemen, all eager to extend to him the
+hospitalities of the city and to express their good wishes for the
+success of his administration. Upon receiving the message, however, he
+at once excused himself, and forcing his way through the crowd came
+directly to us.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Up to this time Mr. Lincoln had been kept in entire ignorance of any
+threatened danger, and as he listened to the facts that were now
+presented to him, a shade of sadness fell upon his face. He seemed loth
+to credit the statement, and could scarce believe it possible that such
+a conspiracy could exist. Slowly he went over the points presented,
+questioning me minutely the while, but at length finding it impossible
+to discredit the truthfulness of what I stated to him, he yielded a
+reluctant credence to the facts.</p>
+
+<p>After he had been fully made acquainted with the startling disclosures,
+Mr. Judd submitted to him the plan proposed by me, that he should leave
+Philadelphia for Washington that evening.</p>
+
+<p>"But," added Mr. Judd, "the proofs that have just been laid before you
+cannot be published, as it will involve the lives of several devoted men
+now on Mr. Pinkerton's force, especially that of Timothy Webster, who is
+now serving in a rebel cavalry company under drill at Perrymansville in
+Maryland."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Lincoln at once acknowledged the correctness of this view, but
+appeared at a loss as to what course to pursue.</p>
+
+<p>"You will therefore perceive"&mdash;continued Mr. Judd&mdash;"that if you follow
+the course suggested&mdash;that of proceeding to Washington to-night&mdash;you
+will necessarily be subjected to the scoffs and sneers of your enemies,
+and the disapproval of your friends who cannot<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> be made to believe in
+the existence of so desperate a plot."</p>
+
+<p>"I fully appreciate these suggestions," replied Mr. Lincoln, "and I can
+stand anything that is necessary, but," he added rising to his feet, "I
+cannot go to-night. I have promised to raise the flag over Independence
+Hall to-morrow morning, and to visit the legislature at Harrisburg in
+the afternoon&mdash;beyond that I have no engagements. Any plan that may be
+adopted that will enable me to fulfill these promises I will accede to,
+and you can inform me what is concluded upon to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>Saying which Mr. Lincoln left the room and joined the people in the
+parlor. During the entire interview, he had not evinced the slightest
+evidence of agitation or fear. Calm and self-possessed, his only
+sentiments appeared to be those of profound regret, that the Southern
+sympathizers could be so far led away by the excitement of the hour, as
+to consider his death a necessity for the furtherance of their cause.</p>
+
+<p>From his manner, it was deemed useless to attempt to induce him to alter
+his mind, and after a few minutes' further conversation, which was
+participated in by Mr. Sandford, who had entered the room, I left for
+the purpose of finding Thomas A. Scott, Esq., the Vice-President of the
+Pennsylvania Central Railroad, in order to make arrangements for the
+carrying out of a plan which had occurred to me, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span> which would enable
+Mr. Lincoln to fulfill his engagements.</p>
+
+<p>I was unable, however, to find Mr. Scott, but succeeded in reaching Mr.
+G. C. Franciscus, the general manager of the road, and at twelve o'clock
+that night, in company with that gentleman and Mr. Sandford, we called
+again upon Mr. Judd.</p>
+
+<p>At this meeting a full discussion of the entire matter was had between
+us, and after all possible contingencies had been considered, the
+following programme was agreed upon.</p>
+
+<p>After the formal reception at Harrisburg had taken place, a special
+train, consisting of a baggage-car and one passenger-coach, should leave
+there at six o'clock <span class="smcap">P. M.</span> to carry Mr. Lincoln and one companion back
+to Philadelphia; this train was to be under the immediate control of Mr.
+Franciscus and Mr. Enoch Lewis, the general superintendent. In order to
+avoid the possibility of accident, the track was to be cleared of
+everything between Harrisburg and Philadelphia from half-past five
+o'clock until after the passage of the special train. Mr. Felton was to
+detain the eleven o'clock <span class="smcap">P. M.</span> Baltimore train until the arrival of the
+special train from Harrisburg, Mrs. Warne in the meantime engaging
+berths in the sleeping-car bound for Baltimore.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 715px;">
+<img src="images/illus004.jpg" width="715" height="375" alt="&quot;Mr. Lincoln raising the flag on Independence Hall.&quot; P.
+87" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Mr. Lincoln raising the flag on Independence Hall.&quot; P.
+87</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>I was to remain in Philadelphia in order that no accident might occur in
+conveying the President from one depot to another, and Mr. Judd was to
+manage the affair at Harrisburg. Everything that could be suggested in
+relation to this matter was fully considered, and having at length
+perfected our plans, the party separated at half-past four o'clock in
+the morning, fully prepared to carry out the programme agreed upon.</p>
+
+<p>At six o'clock on the morning of the 22d, a vast concourse of people
+assembled in front of Independence Hall on Chestnut street, and at
+precisely the hour appointed, Mr. Lincoln made his appearance. With his
+own hands he drew to the top of the staff surmounting the edifice a
+beautiful new American flag, and as its Stripes and Stars floated out
+gracefully to the breeze, the air was rent with the shouts of the
+multitude and the music of the band.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Lincoln's speech upon this occasion was the most impressive and
+characteristic of any which he had delivered upon his journey to the
+capital, while a tinge of sadness pervaded his remarks, never noticed
+before, and which were occasioned no doubt by the revelations of the
+preceding night. He gave a most eloquent expression to the emotions and
+associations which were suggested by the day and by the historic old
+hall where he then stood. He declared that all his political sentiments
+were drawn from the inspired utterances of those who had sat within the
+walls of that ancient edifice.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span> He alluded most feelingly to the dangers
+and toils and sufferings of those who had adopted and made good the
+Declaration of Independence&mdash;a declaration which gave promise that "in
+due time the weight would be lifted from the shoulders of all men."
+Conscious of the dangers that threatened his country, and feeling also
+that those dangers originated in opposition to the principles enunciated
+in the Declaration of Independence, knowing that his own life was even
+then threatened because of his devotion to liberty, and that his way to
+the national capital was beset by assassins, he did not hesitate to
+declare boldly and fearlessly "that he would rather be assassinated on
+the spot than surrender those principles" so dear to him.</p>
+
+<p>After these proceedings, Mr. Lincoln was driven back to the Continental
+Hotel, and sending for Mr. Judd, he introduced him to Mr. Frederick H.
+Seward, a son of the late William H. Seward, who was in the room with
+the President. Mr. Lincoln then informed Mr. Judd that Mr. Seward had
+been sent from Washington by his father and General Scott to warn him of
+the danger of passing through Baltimore, and to urge him to come direct
+to Washington.</p>
+
+<p>From whom this information was originally obtained did not appear, but
+the facts were deemed of sufficient moment to be brought to the ears of
+the President, and hence Mr. Seward's visit to Philadelphia. Mr. Lincoln
+evinced no further hesitancy in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span> the matter, and signified his readiness
+to do whatever was required of him. Mr. Judd then directed Mr. Seward to
+inform his father that all had been arranged, and that, so far as human
+foresight could predict, Mr. Lincoln would be in Washington before the
+evening of the following day, and cautioned him to preserve the utmost
+secrecy in regard to the matter. No particulars were given and none were
+asked.</p>
+
+<p>At the time appointed Mr. Lincoln started for Harrisburg, and I busied
+myself with the preparations that were necessary to successfully carry
+our plans into operation. From reports which I received from Baltimore,
+the excitement in that city had grown more intense, and the arrival of
+the President was awaited with the most feverish impatience. The common
+and accepted belief was that Mr. Lincoln would journey from Harrisburg
+to Baltimore over the Northern Central Railroad, and the plans of the
+conspirators were arranged accordingly.</p>
+
+<p>It became a matter of the utmost importance, therefore, that no
+intimation of our movements should reach that city. I had no doubt but
+that trusty agents of the conspirators were following the presidential
+party, and after the absence of Mr. Lincoln had been discovered, the
+telegraph would be put into active operation to apprise the movers of
+this scheme of the change that had been made. To effectually prevent
+this I determined that the telegraph wires which connected Harrisburg
+with her neighboring<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span> cities should be so "fixed" as to render
+communication impossible.</p>
+
+<p>To arrange this matter Capt. Burns was sent to the office of the
+American Telegraph Company, and obtaining from Mr. H. E. Thayer, the
+manager of the company, a competent and trustworthy man for the purpose,
+departed for Harrisburg, in order to carry out the proposed measures.
+Mr. Thayer, in the meantime, was to remain in the office during the
+night, in order to intercept any dispatches that might be sent over the
+wires from any point between Harrisburg and Baltimore, and to
+immediately deliver any messages that might be sent to me.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. W. P. Westervelt, the superintendent, and Mr. Andrew Wynne, the
+line-man of the telegraph company, were delegated to Harrisburg to "fix"
+the wires leading from that place in such a manner as to prevent any
+communication from passing over them, and to report to Capt. Burns upon
+their arrival.</p>
+
+<p>After the train containing Mr. Lincoln and his party had left
+Philadelphia, Mr. Judd sought the first favorable opportunity of
+conversing with Mr. Lincoln alone, and fully detailed to him the plan
+that had been agreed upon, all of which met with the hearty approval of
+the President, who signified a cheerful willingness to adapt himself to
+the novel circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>It was evident, from the manner of several of the gentlemen of the
+party, that they suspected something was transpiring of which they had
+not been advised,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span> but they all very judiciously refrained from asking
+any questions. Mr. Judd, however, who felt the responsibility of his
+position, finally suggested to Mr. Lincoln the propriety and
+advisability of informing them of what had taken place, and of
+consulting with them upon the proper carrying out of the contemplated
+journey. To this Mr. Lincoln yielded a ready assent, adding, with an
+amused smile:</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose they will laugh at us, Judd, but I think you had better get
+them together."</p>
+
+<p>It was therefore arranged that after the reception at the State House
+had taken place, and before they sat down to dinner, the matter should
+be fully laid before the following gentlemen of the party: Judge David
+Davis, Col. Sumner, Major David Hunter, Capt. John Pope and Ward H.
+Lamon, Esq.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Lincoln arrived at Harrisburg at noon, and was introduced to the
+people from the balcony of the Jones House, where an address was
+delivered by Gov. Andrew G. Curtin, whose fame became widespread during
+the dark days of the rebellion that followed, as the "War Governor of
+Pennsylvania." From the hotel the party proceeded to the House of
+Representatives, where he was welcomed by the Speaker, to which he
+replied in a few well-chosen words.</p>
+
+<p>After a short time spent in congratulations and hand-shaking they
+returned to the hotel, and the gentlemen who have been previously named
+were invited (in company with the Governor) to confer with the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span>
+President in the parlor. At this meeting the information of the
+discovery of the plot to assassinate the President was laid before them,
+and also the details of the proposed journey to Washington. After the
+matter had been fully explained, a great diversity of opinion manifested
+itself among the gentlemen present, and some warm discussion was
+indulged in. Finally, Judge Davis, who had expressed no opinion upon the
+subject as yet, addressed the President, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Mr. Lincoln, what is your own judgment upon this matter?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have thought over this matter considerably since I went over the
+ground with Mr. Pinkerton last night," answered Mr. Lincoln, "and the
+appearance of Mr. Frederick Seward, with warning from another source,
+confirms my belief in Mr. Pinkerton's statement; therefore, unless there
+are some other reasons than a fear of ridicule, I am disposed to carry
+out Mr. Judd's plan."</p>
+
+<p>Judge Davis turned to the others, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"That settles the matter, gentlemen."</p>
+
+<p>"So be it," exclaimed Col. Sumner. "It is against my judgment, but I
+have undertaken to go to Washington with Mr. Lincoln, and I shall do
+it."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Judd endeavored in vain to convince the gallant old soldier that
+every additional person only added to the risk, but the fiery spirit of
+the veteran was aroused and debate was useless.</p>
+
+<p>Having arranged the matter thus satisfactorily<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> the party, at about four
+o'clock in the afternoon, repaired to the dining-room for dinner.</p>
+
+<p>All the preliminaries had now been successfully arranged. The special
+train, ostensibly to take the officers of the railroad company back to
+Philadelphia, was waiting upon a side track just outside of the town.
+The telegraph operators had performed their work admirably. Walking out
+of the city nearly two miles, Mr. Wynne climbed the poles and placing
+fine copper ground wires upon the regular lines, the city was soon
+entirely isolated from her neighbors. No message could possibly be sent
+from Harrisburg, and the capital of Pennsylvania was cut off temporarily
+from the rest of the world.</p>
+
+<p>The preparations in Philadelphia had also been fully made. Mrs. Warne
+had succeeded in engaging the rear half of a sleeping-car for the
+accommodation of her invalid brother, and that portion of the car was to
+be entirely separated from the rest by a curtain, so arranged that no
+one in the forward part of the car would be aware of the occupants of
+the same coach.</p>
+
+<p>In order to detain the Baltimore train until the arrival of Mr. Lincoln,
+the conductor was directed not to start his train until he received
+personal instructions to that effect from Mr. H. F. Kinney, the
+superintendent, who would hand him an important parcel, which President
+Felton desired should be delivered early on the following morning to Mr.
+E. J. Allen at Willard's Hotel, in Washington. (E. J.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span> Allen was the
+nom-de-plume I generally used when on detective operations.)</p>
+
+<p>At a quarter to six o'clock everything was in readiness. A carriage was
+in waiting at the side entrance of the hotel, and the entire party were
+still at the table. A message was delivered to the President by Mr.
+Nicolay, and upon receiving it, he immediately arose, and, accompanied
+by Mr. Curtin, Mr. Lamon and Mr. Judd, he left the dining-room. Mr.
+Lincoln exchanged his dinner dress for a traveling suit, and soon
+returned with a shawl upon his arm and a soft felt hat protruding from
+his coat pocket.</p>
+
+<p>The halls, stairways and pavement were filled with a mass of people,
+who, seeing the President in company with the Governor, at once imagined
+that they were going to the executive mansion, where a reception was to
+be held in the evening.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Judd whispered to Mr. Lamon to proceed in advance, adding:</p>
+
+<p>"As soon as Mr. Lincoln is in the carriage, drive off."</p>
+
+<p>As the party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin, and Mr. Lamon,
+entered the carriage, Col. Sumner attempted to follow them, but Mr. Judd
+gently put his hand upon the old gentleman's shoulder, and as he turned
+quickly around to inquire what was wanted, the carriage was driven
+rapidly away.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 704px;">
+<img src="images/illus005.jpg" width="704" height="375" alt="&quot;The party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin
+and Mr. Lamon, entered the carriage.&quot; P. 94." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;The party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin
+and Mr. Lamon, entered the carriage.&quot; P. 94.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Thus far everything had passed off admirably, and in a short time Mr.
+Lincoln was upon the special train, accompanied only by Mr. Lamon and
+the railroad officials, and speeding along toward Philadelphia.</p>
+
+<p>Without accident the party arrived at the Quaker City shortly after ten
+o'clock, where I was waiting with a carriage, in company with Mr.
+Kinney. Without a word Mr. Lincoln, Mr. Lamon and myself entered the
+vehicle, while Mr. Kinney seated himself alongside of the driver, and we
+proceeded directly to the depot of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and
+Baltimore Railroad.</p>
+
+<p>Driving up to the sidewalk on Carpenter street, and in the shadow of a
+tall fence, the carriage was stopped and the party alighted. As we
+approached the train, Mrs. Warne came forward, and, familiarly greeting
+the President as her brother, we entered the sleeping-car by the rear
+door without unnecessary delay, and without any one being aware of the
+distinguished passenger who had arrived.</p>
+
+<p>A carefully inclosed package, which resembled a formidable official
+document, but which contained only some neatly folded daily papers, was
+placed in the hands of the unsuspecting conductor&mdash;the whistle sounded,
+and soon the train was in motion, whirling on towards the capital of the
+nation.</p>
+
+<p>So carefully had all our movements been conducted, that no one in
+Philadelphia saw Mr. Lincoln enter the car, and no one on the train,
+except his own immediate party&mdash;not even the conductor, knew of his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span>
+presence, and the President, feeling fatigued from the labors and the
+journeys of the day, at once retired to his berth.</p>
+
+<p>In order to prevent the possibility of accident, I had arranged with my
+men a series of signals along the road. It was barely possible that the
+work of destroying the railroad might be attempted by some reckless
+individuals, or that a suspicion of our movements might be entertained
+by the conspirators, and therefore, the utmost caution must be observed.</p>
+
+<p>As the train approached Havre de Grace, I went to the rear platform of
+the car, and as the train passed on a bright light flashed suddenly upon
+my gaze and was as quickly extinguished, and then I knew that thus far
+all was well.</p>
+
+<p>From this point all the way to Baltimore, at every bridge-crossing these
+lights flashed, and their rays carried the comforting assurance "All's
+Well!"</p>
+
+<p>We reached Baltimore at about half-past three o'clock in the morning,
+and as the train rumbled into the depot an officer of the road entered
+the car and whispered in my ear the welcome words "All's Well!"</p>
+
+<p>The city was in profound repose as we passed through. Darkness and
+silence reigned over all. Perhaps, at this moment, however, the reckless
+conspirators were astir perfecting their plans for a tragedy as infamous
+as any which has ever disgraced a free country&mdash;perhaps even now the
+holders of the <i>red</i> ballots were nerving themselves for their part in
+the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span> dreadful work, or were tossing restlessly upon sleepless couches.</p>
+
+<p>Be that as it may, our presence in Baltimore was entirely unsuspected,
+and as the sleeping-car in which we were, was drawn by horses through
+the streets from the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore depot, until
+we reached the Washington station, no sign of life was apparent in the
+great slumbering city. At the depot, however, a number of people were
+gathered, awaiting the arrival and departure of the various trains, and
+here the usual bustle and activity were manifested.</p>
+
+<p>We were compelled to remain here fully two hours, owing to the detention
+of the train from the West, and during that time, Mr. Lincoln remained
+quietly in his berth, joking with rare good humor with those around him.</p>
+
+<p>Ever and anon some snatches of rebel harmony would reach our ears, as
+they were rather discordantly sung by the waiting passengers in and
+around the depot. "My Maryland" and "Dixie" appeared to be the
+favorites, and once, after an intoxicated individual had roared through
+one stanza of the latter song, Mr. Lincoln turned quietly and rather
+sadly to me and said:</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt there will be a great time in Dixie by and by."</p>
+
+<p>How prophetic his words were, the succeeding years too fully proved.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>At length the train arrived and we proceeded on our way, arriving in
+Washington about six o'clock in the morning. Mr. Lincoln wrapped his
+traveling shawl about his shoulders, and in company with Mr. Lamon,
+started to leave the car. I followed close behind, and on the platform
+found two of my men awaiting our arrival. A great many people were
+gathered about the depot, but Mr. Lincoln entirely escaped recognition,
+until as we were about leaving the depot, Mr. Washburne, of Illinois,
+came up and cordially shook him by the hand.</p>
+
+<p>The surprise of this gentleman was unbounded, and many of those standing
+around, observing his movements, and the tall form of Mr. Lincoln
+exciting curiosity, I feared that danger might result in case he was
+recognized at this time. I accordingly went up to them hurriedly, and
+pressing between them whispered rather loudly:</p>
+
+<p>"No talking here!"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Washburne gazed inquiringly at me, and was about to resent my
+interference, when Mr. Lincoln interposed:</p>
+
+<p>"That is Mr. Pinkerton, and everything is all right."</p>
+
+<p>Thus satisfied, Mr. Washburne quickly led the way to a carriage in
+waiting outside, where we met Mr. Seward, who warmly greeted the
+President, and then the party were rapidly driven down Pennsylvania
+Avenue to Willard's Hotel&mdash;I following closely behind them with my men,
+in another vehicle.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 703px;">
+<img src="images/illus006.jpg" width="703" height="375" alt="&quot;The safe arrival at Washington.&quot; P. 98." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;The safe arrival at Washington.&quot; P. 98.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>On his arrival at the hotel Mr. Lincoln was warmly greeted by his
+friends, who were rejoiced at his safe arrival, and leaving him in the
+hands of those whose fealty was undoubted, I withdrew, and engaged
+temporary quarters at another hotel.</p>
+
+<p>During the forenoon I received a note from Mr. Lincoln requesting an
+interview, and received his warm expressions of thankfulness for the
+part I had performed in securing his safety, after which, finding that
+my object had been fully accomplished, I took the train and returned to
+Baltimore.</p>
+
+<p>Here I found the utmost excitement prevailing. The news of the safe
+arrival of Mr. Lincoln had already reached there, and a general
+sentiment of rage and disappointment pervaded the entire circle of
+conspirators and secessionists. I lost no time in securing an interview
+with Howard, and learned from him the particulars attendant upon the
+discovery that Mr. Lincoln had outwitted his enemies and was now safely
+quartered in Washington. Finding that their plans had been discovered,
+and fearing that the vengeance of the government would overtake them,
+the leading conspirators had suddenly disappeared. All their courage and
+bravado was gone, and now, like the miserable cowards that they were,
+they had sought safety in flight.</p>
+
+<p>A curious episode occurred at Harrisburg immediately<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> after the
+departure of Mr. Lincoln from that city. Two newspaper correspondents
+connected with prominent New York journals had accompanied the party
+from Springfield, and had faithfully noted the incidents which had
+occurred upon the journey. As soon as the train which carried Mr.
+Lincoln away from Harrisburg was on its way, a gentlemanly individual,
+<i>well-known to me</i>, went to the room occupied by these journalists, and
+found them engaged in preparations to witness the further proceedings of
+the presidential party.</p>
+
+<p>The visitor quickly informed the gentlemen that Mr. Lincoln had left the
+city and was now flying over the road in the direction of Washington,
+which he would no doubt reach in the morning. This was the signal for
+renewed activity, and both gentlemen hastily arose, and, grasping their
+hats, started for the door. Their visitor however, was too quick for
+them, and standing before the door with a revolver in each hand, he
+addressed them: "You cannot leave this room, gentlemen, without my
+permission!"</p>
+
+<p>"What does this mean?" inquired one of the surprised gentlemen, blinking
+through his spectacles.</p>
+
+<p>"It means that you cannot leave this room until the safety of Mr.
+Lincoln justifies it," calmly replied the other.</p>
+
+<p>"I want to telegraph to the <i>Herald</i>," said the second
+correspondent&mdash;"what is the use of obtaining news if we cannot utilize
+it?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You cannot utilize anything at present, gentlemen. The telegraph will
+not be of any service to you, for the wires are all down, and Harrisburg
+will be separated from the rest of the world for some hours yet."</p>
+
+<p>"When do you propose to let us out?" humbly asked one.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'll tell you, gentlemen. If you will sit down calmly, and bide
+your time and mine, I will make matters interesting for you, by
+informing you all about this flank movement on the Baltimoreans."</p>
+
+<p>Their indignation and fright subsided at once, and they quietly sat
+down. Refreshments were sent for, and soon the nimble pencils of the
+reporters were rapidly jotting down as much of the information as was
+deemed advisable to be made public at that time. After they had heard
+all, they prepared their dispatches for New York, both correspondents
+writing long and interesting accounts of the affair.</p>
+
+<p>When daylight dawned, and the gladsome tidings had been received that
+Mr. Lincoln was safe, these knights of the quill were liberated, and,
+rushing to the telegraph offices, which were now in running order again,
+the news was transmitted to New York and in less than an hour the types
+were being set which would convey to the public the startling news of
+the discovered conspiracy, and the manner in which the conspirators had
+been outwitted.</p>
+
+<p>As the later train arrived at Baltimore, I went to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span> the depot and found
+the remaining members of the President's party, who also brought Mrs.
+Lincoln with them.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Judd was jubilant at the success of the adventure, but Col. Sumner
+had not yet recovered his good humor. I have no doubt, however, that Mr.
+Lincoln succeeded in placating his irascible friend, and I know that in
+the bloody scenes which followed Col. Sumner bore an honorable and
+courageous part.</p>
+
+<p>Thus ends the narration of this important episode in one of the most
+interesting epochs of the country's history, and a truthful record has
+been given. Exaggerated stories and unauthorized statements have been
+freely made with regard to this journey of Mr. Lincoln. The caricaturist
+has attempted to throw ridicule upon the great man who now sleeps in a
+martyr's grave. A silly story of his being disguised in a Scotch cap and
+plaid obtained a temporary currency, but the fact remains that Mr.
+Lincoln, as a gentleman, and in the company of gentlemen, successfully
+passed through the camp of the conspirators and reached in safety the
+capital of the country.</p>
+
+<p>Now the war is ended. Peace reigns throughout the borders of the great
+Republic. And when, during the last dying throes of the rebellion, this
+great man was stricken down by the hand of an assassin, North and South
+alike united in lamenting<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> his death, and in execrating the damnable
+deed and its reckless perpetrators.</p>
+
+<p>I had informed Mr. Lincoln in Philadelphia that I would answer with my
+life for his safe arrival in Washington, and I had redeemed my pledge.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p103.jpg" width="336" height="345" alt="A CAMP SONG." title="" />
+<span class="caption">A CAMP SONG.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>My Connection with the Rebellion.&mdash;Timothy Webster Accepts a Mission.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>My connection with the "Great Rebellion" of 1861 began almost from the
+inception of that gigantic struggle. During the days that intervened
+between the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln and the memorable 12th day
+of April, 1861, treason was busy in the South, and secession resolved
+itself into an accomplished fact. Scarcely had the reverberating tones
+of the guns upon the batteries in Charleston Harbor died away upon the
+air, than I was called into the service of the military branch of the
+government. At that time I was engaged in the energetic practice of my
+profession as a detective, which, large as it was, and constantly
+increasing, required a personal supervision, which absorbed my undivided
+attention. When, however, it became evident that a conflict was
+unavoidable, I soon found my services were needed, and putting aside all
+considerations of a private or business nature, I yielded a ready and
+cheerful response to the call, and during my connection with what was
+afterwards known as<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span> the secret service of the government, I rendered
+every assistance that lay in my power to further the cause of union, and
+to serve the country of my adoption.</p>
+
+<p>The month of April, 1861, was an important one in the history of the
+country. Whatever fears and apprehensions had filled the minds of the
+Northern people as to the solution of the great political questions then
+pending, a resort to arms had, until that time, been regarded as not
+likely to occur. A people who had been reared amid the blessings of a
+long and undisturbed peace, and whose lives, under this benign
+influence, had been prosperous and happy, they were almost entirely
+unprepared for a serious contest or a warlike struggle. Many times
+before the political horizon had grown dark and threatening, but the
+storm had subsided almost instantly, under that wise yielding of
+obedience to law and to the will of majorities, which it was hoped would
+now exercise its power for the preservation and continuance of amity.</p>
+
+<p>When, therefore, on the 12th of April, the attack upon Fort Sumter in
+Charleston Harbor was made, the Northern people were almost startled by
+surprise. Though entirely unprepared for such an event, it was clearly
+demonstrated to all that war could now no longer be honorably avoided.
+It was now too late to inquire into original causes of the contest; it
+remained only for the loyal heart to resent the insult to a nation's
+flag, and to sustain the government in upholding its constitution<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span> and
+in enforcing its laws. This act fired the patriotic heart and solidified
+the patriotic ranks, and, with the crumbling of the walls upon Fort
+Sumter, were shattered all the hopes previously entertained of a
+peaceful solution of the problems which were then before the country. I
+have very little doubt that the assault upon Fort Sumter was ordered by
+the rebel government, under the fallacious hope and groundless belief
+that it would not provoke immediate or widespread civil war. The
+Southern leaders were well aware of the fact that the frontier could not
+be entirely stripped of regulars, and assuming, or pretending to, that
+the existing laws contained no provision authorizing a call of the
+militia, they inferred that it would be difficult for the new
+administration to obtain at once legislation of a coercive character.
+Then, too, they relied, in a great measure, upon a friendly feeling
+toward the South from their late political associates in the North; but
+in this their reckoning was at fault, and the roar of Beauregard's guns
+in Charleston Harbor cleared up the political horizon as if by magic.</p>
+
+<p>There could no longer be any doubt as to the position and intentions of
+the Confederates. Seven disloyal States, with all their machinery of a
+separate government, stood behind those batteries, and the cool
+deliberation of the assault gave evidence of plan, of purpose and of
+confidence. What had been<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> believed to be a mere conspiracy for the
+gaining of certain political ends, now gave way to a revolution, which
+menaced the perpetuity of the government and which required the armed
+force of the government to combat and subdue.</p>
+
+<p>The news of the assault upon Sumter reached Washington on Saturday, the
+13th day of April, and on the following day, Sunday though it was,
+President Lincoln assembled his Cabinet to discuss the duty of the hour,
+and on Monday morning a proclamation was issued, calling forth an army
+of seventy-five thousand men, for objects entirely lawful and
+constitutional.</p>
+
+<p>The effect of this proclamation upon the people of the North was almost
+electrical, and the heart of the whole nation throbbed with its
+patriotic emotions as that of a single individual. The general sentiment
+appeared to be in entire accord with the utterance of Stephen A.
+Douglas, a live-long Democrat, that "every man must be for the United
+States, or against it; there can be no neutrals in this war&mdash;only
+patriots and traitors." More than double the number of men that were
+required tendered their services, and before the lapse of forty-eight
+hours armed companies and regiments of volunteers were in motion toward
+the expected border of conflict. Nor was there exhibited that division
+of Northern sentiment that had been so boastfully predicted by the
+Southern leaders, and all men, of every belief, Democrats and
+Republicans,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span> Conservatives and Radicals, natives and foreigners, from
+Maine to Oregon, responded to the call, and came to the defense of the
+constitution, the government and the Union.</p>
+
+<p>At this time the position of Maryland was rather a precarious one. There
+could be no doubt that the Unionists were greatly in the majority, but
+it was also true that there was a large and influential minority of her
+people in favor of secession. Here, as elsewhere, conspiracy had been at
+work for months, and many of the prominent political leaders were in
+full accord with the rebel government. The legislature was believed to
+be unreliable, and treason had obtained so firm a foothold in the
+populous city of Baltimore, that a secret recruiting office was sending
+enlisted men to Charleston. The venomous germ of treason, once planted,
+grew in magnitude and virulence, until it finally culminated in the
+infamous riot of April 19th, when the blood of the citizen soldiery of
+Massachusetts was first shed in defense of the Union. A spirit of
+opposition to the passage of Northern troops through the city, on their
+way to the seat of government, had been engendered among the "rough"
+element of Baltimore, and the excitement reached its climax upon the
+arrival of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment, which was the first to
+answer the call for troops. When their presence became known the
+traitorous element could no longer be restrained, and while the men were
+passing quietly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span> through the city, on their way from one railroad
+station to another, they were murderously attacked by a reckless,
+howling mob, which resulted in bloodshed and carnage, and some of the
+most fiendish outrages were perpetrated that ever blackened a page of
+American history.</p>
+
+<p>The crowning act of disloyalty, and one which threatened the most
+serious consequences to the government, was committed about midnight of
+the same day. A secret order was issued by the mayor and police officers
+to burn the nearest bridges on the railroads leading into Baltimore from
+the free States, and parties, under the command of the police
+authorities were dispatched to execute the order.</p>
+
+<p>Before daylight the following morning, the bridges at Melvale, Relay
+House and Cockeysville, on the Harrisburg road and over the Bush and
+Gunpowder rivers and Harris Creek, were completely destroyed by fire,
+thus effectually severing railroad communication with the North. The
+telegraph wires leading to and from the capital were also cut,
+completely shutting off Washington, and the government from the loyal
+Northern States. These acts, committed by the orders of the very men who
+that morning had risked their lives in defending the soldiers of the
+Union, are sufficient to show the rapid and overmastering influence of
+revolutionary madness.</p>
+
+<p>Of course, the news of these outrages spread far and wide over the
+country, and while they aroused<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span> universal indignation, they
+nevertheless were the occasion of grave fears for the safety of the
+capital.</p>
+
+<p>It was on the 21st of April, two days after the occurrence of these
+events that my services were required. Several gentlemen of prominence
+in Chicago, intimate friends of President Lincoln, and men of influence
+and intelligence in the State, desired to communicate with the President
+upon questions connected with the existing condition of affairs, and
+applied to me for the purpose of having letters and dispatches conveyed
+directly to Washington by the hands of a trusty messenger.</p>
+
+<p>I at once accepted the duty, and selected a man for its performance.
+Experience proved that I was not mistaken in my selection, and as the
+messenger chosen for this duty is to bear an important part in the
+event, which I am about to relate, a description of him will at once
+acquaint the reader with his personal appearance.</p>
+
+<p>He was a tall, broad-shouldered, good-looking man of about forty years
+of age. In height he was about five feet ten inches; his brown hair,
+which was brushed carelessly back from a broad, high forehead,
+surmounted a face of a character to at once attract attention.</p>
+
+<p>There was such a decided mixture of sternness and amiability, of innate
+force and gentle feelings, of frankness and resolution stamped upon his
+features,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span> that he instinctively impressed the beholder at a glance.</p>
+
+<p>The deep gray eyes could twinkle and sparkle with good humor, or they
+would grow dark and menacing, and seem to flash under the influence of
+anger. The mouth, almost concealed by the heavy brown mustaches which he
+wore, and the square, firm chin evinced a firmness that was
+unmistakable. His nose, large and well-formed, and the prominent cheek
+bones all seemed in perfect harmony with the bold spirit which leaped
+from the eyes, and the strong will that lurked about the set lips. In
+figure, he was rather stout, but his shoulders were so broad, his feet
+and hands so shapely, and the lithe limbs so well formed, that he did
+not appear of as full habit as he really was. A casual observer on
+meeting this man would almost immediately and insensibly be impressed
+with the conviction that he was a man who could be trusted; that any
+duty devolving upon him would be sacredly kept; and as he stood before
+me on this sunny afternoon in April, I felt that I could implicitly rely
+upon him in any emergency in which he might be placed, and to perform
+any service for which he might be selected.</p>
+
+<p>This man was Timothy Webster, a faithful officer, a true friend, and an
+ardent patriot.</p>
+
+<p>I had known this man for years. He had been in my employ for a long
+time, and had been engaged upon operations of a varied and diverse
+nature, consequently<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span> I knew precisely what his capabilities were, and
+how entirely he could be trusted. Though not a man of great
+enlightenment, he was gifted with a large amount of natural shrewdness,
+which enabled him to successfully meet any emergency which might arise.
+From his association with people in the various walks of life, he had
+acquired that habit of easy adaptation which made him appear, and feel,
+perfectly at home in almost any society, whether in the drawing-room or
+the tavern, in the marts of trade, or laboring at the plow.</p>
+
+<p>From my knowledge of Timothy Webster, and my confidence in his wisdom
+and reliability, I had chosen him to be the bearer of the dispatches to
+Mr. Lincoln. I therefore called him into my office and explained to him
+the nature of the duties he was to perform, the possible dangers he
+would encounter, and the importance of the trust that was to be reposed
+in him, and when I had concluded, I asked:</p>
+
+<p>"Timothy, knowing what you do of the task before you, will you undertake
+its performance?"</p>
+
+<p>"I understand all perfectly," he replied, drawing himself up to his full
+height, while his eyes flashed with a patriotic fire, "I know that my
+country demands my services, and that, if it shall cost me my life, I am
+ready to perform my full duty."</p>
+
+<p>The preparations for his departure did not occupy a very long time; the
+services of Miss Kate Warne, my female superintendent, were requested,
+and in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span> a few minutes the important dispatches, some twelve in number,
+were securely sewed between the linings of his coat collar, and in the
+body of his waistcoat, and Timothy Webster was on his way to the capital
+of the country.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p113.jpg" width="336" height="364" alt="A COLORED CONTRABAND" title="" />
+<span class="caption">A COLORED CONTRABAND</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn9.jpg" width="448" height="90" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster on his Way to the Capital.&mdash;Wrecked Trains and Broken
+Bridges.&mdash;An Adventure with a Cavalryman.&mdash;Rebel Emissary.&mdash;President
+Lincoln and Timothy Webster.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Everywhere along the route the greatest excitement prevailed, and the
+people were in a state of wildest commotion. A rumor had spread
+throughout the country that the government, indignant at the riotous
+conduct of the Baltimoreans, had ordered the guns of Fort McHenry to
+fire upon the city, that the bombardment was now going on, and that half
+the town was reduced to ashes. This rumor was false, as Webster learned
+on arriving in Philadelphia, although even in the staid old Quaker City
+there was manifest a degree of excitement scarcely to be expected in a
+community so sedate and easy-going as Philadelphians usually are.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving the train at Philadelphia, Webster made his way through the
+crowded streets to the center of the city. He deemed it best to take
+counsel with some of the railroad and express officials, with whom he
+was very well acquainted, by reason of his connection with the discovery
+of the conspiracy to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span> assassinate President Lincoln in Baltimore in the
+month of February immediately preceding.</p>
+
+<p>At that time Webster had been enrolled as a member of a volunteer
+company of cavalry at Perrymansville, in Maryland, and, gaining the
+confidence of his officers, had assisted in discovering the plans of the
+conspirators, and partly through his efforts, I had been successful in
+frustrating their murderous designs. This operation had brought him in
+close association with several gentlemen who were connected with the
+railroad and express companies, whose travel lay between Philadelphia
+and the now riotous and isolated city of Baltimore. As he was walking
+leisurely down Chestnut street he was accosted by Mr. Dunn, a gentleman
+who was connected with a leading express company in the city, and who
+was now upon his return from a visit to the Philadelphia, Wilmington and
+Baltimore depot. After an interchange of salutations, Webster inquired
+of Mr. Dunn the condition of affairs in and around Baltimore.</p>
+
+<p>"Very bad, indeed," replied that gentleman; "the bridges are all down,
+and the tracks have been torn up all along the road from Perrysville to
+Baltimore. The telegraph-wires have been cut, and no communications have
+been received from Baltimore or Washington except through couriers. The
+roads are guarded with soldiery, whose sympathies are with the
+rebellion, and it is almost impossible for any one who cannot identify
+himself as a Southern<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span> man to pass the guards who are stationed along
+the highways."</p>
+
+<p>"It does not look very favorable for my reaching Washington to-morrow,
+then?" said Webster, inquiringly.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir. I am afraid that you will find it difficult, if not dangerous,
+to attempt such a journey, particularly by the way of Baltimore; and
+perhaps you had better delay your departure until it can be more safely
+accomplished," said Mr. Dunn.</p>
+
+<p>"It may be as you say," replied Webster, "but I left Chicago for
+Washington, and my line of travel was laid out through Baltimore. I will
+obey my orders to the letter, and I will arrive in Washington to-morrow
+night, or lose my life in attempting it!"</p>
+
+<p>"I see that you are determined to go," said Mr. Dunn, "and further
+argument would be of no avail; but I assure you, that you cannot travel
+further by rail than Perrysville; you may succeed in getting across the
+river to Havre de Grace, but after that you will have to rely entirely
+upon yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Never fear for me," replied Webster, with a smile, "I will get through
+all right, I feel confident. I will have but little time now to catch
+the train, Mr. Dunn, and if you will be kind enough to telegraph to Mr.
+Pinkerton according to my directions, I will esteem it a great favor."</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, Webster; anything I can do for you, or Mr. Pinkerton, will
+be done cheerfully."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Writing out a message, informing me of his arrival in Philadelphia and
+of his intentions, he requested Mr. Dunn to forward the same, and then,
+bidding that gentleman good-bye, he made his way to the Baltimore depot,
+and was soon on the road to that city.</p>
+
+<p>As the train went speeding along upon its journey, Webster had ample
+time for the consideration of his plans. He was pretty well acquainted
+with the country between Havre de Grace and Baltimore, and had no fear
+of losing his way, even if the journey must be made by foot. He was
+impressed, however, with the necessity of using the utmost caution.
+While he did not fear for his own personal safety&mdash;for fear was an
+element entirely unknown to him&mdash;he realized the importance of his
+mission too well to rashly imperil its success by any useless exposure,
+or unnecessary risk. To reach Washington, however, he was determined,
+and to accomplish that object no danger would be too great, no hardship
+too severe. He nevertheless felt that he must rely solely upon himself,
+that he would have no one to advise him, and his own discretion and
+wisdom would have to be depended upon under all circumstances. Arriving
+at the Perrysville station, he found that the train could go no further,
+and that, to reach Havre de Grace, upon the opposite side of the
+Susquehanna River, the passengers would be required to take small boats
+and be rowed over, after which each man must make his way as best he
+could.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As the boat touched the land Webster sprang ashore, and, going directly
+to the hotel, inquired for the landlord. He found that gentleman engaged
+in earnest conversation with an individual who at once instinctively
+awakened the suspicions of my operative. This gentleman was a tall,
+fine-looking man, with the erect carriage and self-reliant air of the
+soldier, but there was something in the nervousness of his manner, and
+in the furtive glances of his eyes, which convinced Webster that he was
+concealing something and would bear watching.</p>
+
+<p>Approaching the spot where the two men were conversing, Webster at once
+addressed the landlord in a hearty manner. "Landlord, I must get to
+Baltimore to-day. How am I going to do it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not know," replied the hotel-keeper, "this gentleman is anxious to
+do the same thing, but I am afraid I cannot help either of you."</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman thus referred to turned to Webster, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I am very anxious to get through. I am a bearer of dispatches to
+the British Consul at Washington, and it is of the utmost importance
+that they should be delivered at once."</p>
+
+<p>While he was speaking a man drove up to the front of the hotel with a
+fine, strong team of horses attached to a covered road wagon, and
+throwing the reins across the back of his horses, leaped lightly to the
+ground.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Here is a man who can help you," said the landlord, as the new-comer
+entered the room; and then he called out:</p>
+
+<p>"Harris, come here!"</p>
+
+<p>The driver of the team came over to where the three men were standing,
+and the landlord at once made known to him the wishes of Webster and the
+messenger of the British Consul.</p>
+
+<p>"Harris, these gentlemen want to get to Baltimore to-day. Do you think
+you can manage it for them?"</p>
+
+<p>The man addressed as Harris gazed at Webster and his companion in a
+scrutinizing manner, and finally, apparently satisfied with his
+investigation, signified his willingness to make the attempt, provided
+the price he demanded, which was fifty dollars, was agreed to.</p>
+
+<p>Both men assented to the payment of the sum named, and after dinner had
+been partaken of, the two men took their seats in the vehicle, the
+driver cracked his whip, and they were upon their way.</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot promise to take you through to Baltimore," remarked the
+driver, after they had started; "I was stopped twice on the road
+yesterday, and I may not be able to pass the guards to-day."</p>
+
+<p>"Do the best you can," said Webster, good-naturedly, "and we will take
+the risk of a safe arrival."</p>
+
+<p>Webster then turned to his companion, who had remained silent and
+watchful ever since they had set<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span> out, and endeavored to engage him in
+conversation. The bearer of dispatches, however, was very little
+inclined to be sociable, and Webster had great difficulty in breaking
+through the reserve which he resolved to maintain.</p>
+
+<p>The further they journeyed, the more Webster became convinced that this
+man was not what he assumed to be, but he vailed his suspicions
+carefully, and appeared as frank and cordial in his manner as though
+they were brothers.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing worthy of note transpired upon the route until the party arrived
+at the outskirts of Perrymansville, which had been the scene of
+Webster's first experience in military service, and where, a few months
+before, he had been a member of a company of cavalry. They were trotting
+along quietly, and as the day was balmy and bright the ride was quite an
+enjoyable one, and for a moment the detective forgot the grave duties
+which he had undertaken and the dangers that might surround him, and
+gave himself up to the full enjoyment of the scenes around him. His
+pleasant reflections were short-lived, however, for just as they were
+entering the town they saw a mounted cavalryman approaching, who, as he
+reached the carriage, commanded them to halt.</p>
+
+<p>The driver suddenly pulled up his horses, and then the soldier, in a
+tone of authority: "Who are you, and where are you going?"</p>
+
+<p>"We are residents of Baltimore," answered Webster,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> not at all dismayed
+by the stern appearance and manner of his soldierly interlocutor, "and
+we are endeavoring to get home."</p>
+
+<p>"You will have to go with me," replied the soldier, decisively, "you
+can't go any further without permission."</p>
+
+<p>Here was a detention as unwelcome as it was unexpected, but Webster had
+recognized the uniform worn by the soldier as that of the very company
+of cavalry he had previously been a member of, and a duplicate of one in
+which he had previously arrayed himself. The man who had accosted him,
+however, was unknown to him, and he could, therefore, do nothing but
+submit quietly to his orders and await a favorable operation of
+circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>As Webster glanced casually at his companion, the British messenger, he
+was surprised at the change which was apparent in the expression of his
+features. Instead of the calm, dignified air of watchful repose which he
+had observed before, his face had grown pale, and there was such an
+unmistakable evidence of fear about the man, that Webster's suspicions
+were confirmed, and come what might he resolved to ascertain the nature
+of his business before they parted company.</p>
+
+<p>They had traveled but a short distance under the escort of their guard
+when they met another man dressed in a similar uniform, and evidently a
+member of the same company, and as Webster gazed at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> new-comer he
+experienced a sensation of relief and joy, for in him he recognized an
+old companion in arms.</p>
+
+<p>As this man approached nearer, Webster called out from the carriage, in
+a cheery voice:</p>
+
+<p>"Hello, Taylor! how are you?"</p>
+
+<p>Thus suddenly accosted, the soldier rode up to the vehicle, and after a
+momentary glance at the features of the detective, he reached forth his
+hand and cordially saluted him.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Webster, how do you do? The boys said you would not come back, now
+that the war had commenced, but I knew better, and I am glad to see
+you."</p>
+
+<p>The face of the reputed Englishman cleared in an instant, as he found
+that his companion was among friends, and this effect was not lost upon
+Webster, who had been furtively observing him. He turned his attention,
+however, to the soldier who had addressed him.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes," he replied, "I have come back; and my friend here and I are
+anxious to get to Baltimore as soon as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"That will be all right," said the soldier; and then, turning to his
+comrade, he said: "These men are all right, you will permit them to
+pass."</p>
+
+<p>After a few minutes spent in a pleasant conversation, the soldier handed
+to Webster a pass which would prevent further interruption to their
+journey,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> and with a mutual pull at a flask with which Webster had
+provided himself before starting, the parties separated, and they
+proceeded on their way.</p>
+
+<p>This little incident produced a marked change in the demeanor of
+Webster's companion, and on being informed that the soldiers were
+Southerners, and not Federals, he seemed quite relieved.</p>
+
+<p>By the time they were approaching the suburbs of Baltimore the stranger
+had grown exceedingly communicative, and upon Webster hinting to him
+that he also was engaged in the cause of the South, he without
+hesitation informed my operative that he was similarly employed, and
+that he was at present carrying dispatches to prominent Southern
+sympathizers then residing in Washington.</p>
+
+<p>As he communicated this important item of information Webster grasped
+him warmly by the hand, and greeted him as a fellow-patriot, after
+which, with rare good humor, they cemented their acquaintance and
+confidence with a friendly draught from the spirit bottle.</p>
+
+<p>Several times on their journey they were halted by the guards along the
+roads, but the talismanic pass obtained at Perrymansville avoided all
+questioning, and gained for the travelers a safe passage to their
+destination. Arriving safely at the outskirts of Baltimore, the two men
+left the carriage, and walking a short distance, they entered a street
+car, and were driven to a retired hotel, where Webster had frequently<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span>
+stopped when in the city on former occasions. Here they engaged quarters
+for the night, and Webster's companion had by this time formed such an
+attachment for his fellow-traveler that communicating rooms were
+engaged, and after partaking of a hearty repast, the two men lighted
+their cigars and strolled out through the city.</p>
+
+<p>There were still many evidences of the riotous affrays which had but
+lately taken place. The people were in a feverish state of excitement,
+the drinking saloons and the corridors of the hotels were filled with
+crowds of excited men, each of whom seemed to vie with the other in
+giving loud expressions of their opinions, and of denouncing the attempt
+of the government to transport armed troops through the streets of a
+peaceful city. Ever mindful of the important duty devolving upon him,
+Webster wisely forebore to engage in any conversation with those whom he
+met, and among the number of the most outspoken of the Southern
+sympathizers were many whom he had previously met, and to whom he was
+known as an adherent of the South. At an early hour he and his newly
+found companion returned to their hotel, and shortly afterward retired
+for the night.</p>
+
+<p>Arising early on the following morning, they found the same difficulty
+was to be encountered that had been successfully overcome at the
+commencement of their journey. The railroads between Baltimore<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span> and
+Washington had also been torn up, so as to render the running of the
+trains an impossibility. This fact necessitated the procuring of a team
+that would convey them to the capital; but this time Webster's
+acquaintance with the proprietors of the hotel, and several of the
+permanent guests of the house, enabled them without difficulty or delay
+to secure a pair of horses and a road wagon, with a trusty driver, who
+guaranteed to carry them to Washington for the same amount which had
+been paid upon the other portion of their journey, and at an early hour
+they were upon the road to the seat of government.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime Webster had been seriously considering his course of action
+with regard to his fellow-passenger. That he was an agent of the
+Confederacy he had already admitted, and that he was the bearer of
+dispatches to prominent sympathizers with the South who were now living
+in Washington, was also well known to the detective. How, therefore, to
+arrange his plans, so that these papers would be intercepted and the
+ambassador detained without arousing his suspicion? It must be
+accomplished so that no delay should result to his own journey, as he
+had resolved that his dispatches must be delivered that day. Just before
+starting out an idea occurred to him, and requesting the driver to wait
+a few minutes, as he had forgotten something in his room, he re-entered
+the hotel, and going to the room they had occupied the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> evening before,
+he hurriedly wrote a note which he folded up and placed in his pocket.
+The note was as follows:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"<span class="smcap">To Whom it may Concern</span>:<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"My companion is an emissary of the Confederacy, carrying
+dispatches to Southern sympathizers in Washington. Apprehend
+him, but do so discreetly and without compromising me.</p>
+
+<p class="right">T. W."</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>He then descended the stairs, and entering the wagon, they were driven
+away towards Washington. The day was exceedingly warm, and the horses,
+unused to long journeys, early began to show signs of weakness, but they
+kept on without incident, save an occasional question from a passer-by
+as to their destination, and about noon arrived at a hotel known as the
+"Twelve-Mile House," so called from its being located at that distance
+from Washington.</p>
+
+<p>Here the party halted for dinner, and while engaged at their repast
+Webster noticed at an opposite table a friend of years ago, who wore the
+uniform of a Lieutenant of infantry. Fortunately, however, the officer
+did not appear to recognize him, and during the progress of the dinner
+Webster kept his face hidden as much as possible from his new-found
+friend. As the Lieutenant ceased eating and arose from the table,
+Webster, who also had about completed the bill of fare, arose, and
+excusing himself to the driver and his companion, passed out into the
+hallway and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> met the officer face to face. Cordial greetings were
+interchanged, and in a few minutes Webster had detailed to his friend
+the circumstances attending his meeting with the so-called British
+messenger, and his suspicions concerning them. It was not long before a
+plan had been arranged for the carrying out of the project of arresting
+the pseudo Englishman without occasioning the slightest suspicion to
+fall upon Timothy Webster, and shortly afterwards the Lieutenant mounted
+his horse and rode off in the direction of Washington.</p>
+
+<p>After smoking their after-dinner cigars, Webster and his companion again
+resumed their journey. By this time they had become thoroughly
+acquainted, and they enlivened their drive with many a pleasing anecdote
+of experience or of invention, until they came in sight of Washington
+city. Here a difficulty awaited them, apparently unexpected by both
+travelers. A Lieutenant at the head of eight men emerged from a house by
+the wayside, and in a voice of authority directed the driver to stop his
+horses, after which he advanced to the vehicle and saluted the occupants
+with the utmost courtesy, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, I am sorry to discommode you, but I have orders to intercept
+all persons entering the city, and hold them until they can
+satisfactorily account for themselves. You will be kind enough to
+consider yourselves under arrest and follow me."</p>
+
+<p>Blank astonishment was depicted on the countenances<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span> of both Webster and
+his companion, but realizing that to parley would be useless, the two
+men dismounted and followed the lieutenant and his men into the
+building, which proved to be a military guard-house.</p>
+
+<p>Here they were separated and conducted to different apartments, where
+they were securely locked in, Webster's companion standing outside of
+the door of the room in which Webster was placed, and after witnessing
+the operation which confined Webster a prisoner, he was conducted to the
+room assigned to him, and the key was turned upon him.</p>
+
+<p>In a few minutes afterwards Webster was quietly released by the
+Lieutenant who had effected his arrest, and who was none other than the
+friend to whom he had given the information. In less than half an hour
+thereafter my detective was ascending the steps of the White House,
+inquiring for his Excellency, the President of the United States.</p>
+
+<p>Having also been provided with a letter to the President's private
+secretary, Mr. Nicolay, Webster was soon ushered into the presence of
+Mr. Lincoln, to whom he made known the nature of his business, and
+taking off his coat and vest, he removed the dispatches and letters, and
+handed them to the President, who had been silently watching his
+movements with a great deal of amused interest.</p>
+
+<p>"You have brought quite a mail with you, Mr. Webster," said the
+President, "more, perhaps, than<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> it would be quite safe to attempt to
+carry another time."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," replied Webster. "I don't think I would like to carry so
+much through Baltimore another time."</p>
+
+<p>The President carefully looked over the papers he had just received, and
+finding that they required more consideration than could be given to
+them at that time, he turned to Webster and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Webster, I have a Cabinet conference this evening, and I will not
+be able to give these matters my attention until to-morrow. Come to me
+at ten o'clock and I will see you at that time."</p>
+
+<p>Again thanking the detective for the service he had so successfully
+rendered, he bade him good evening, and Webster sought his hotel,
+thoroughly exhausted with his journey, and soon after he was sound
+asleep.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, on repairing to the White House, he was at once
+admitted, and the President greeted him with marked evidences of
+cordiality.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Webster, you have rendered the country an invaluable service. The
+bearer of dispatches who was arrested last evening by your efforts,
+proved, as you suspected, to be an emissary of the South, and the
+letters found upon him disclose a state of affairs here in Washington
+quite alarming. Several prominent families here are discovered to be in
+regular communication with the Southern leaders, and are<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> furnishing
+them with every item of information. Until this time we had only a
+suspicion of this, but suspicion has now resolved itself into a
+certainty. You have performed your duty well, and before many days there
+will be an account demanded of some of these people which they are far
+from expecting."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to be of any service," replied Webster; "and I have done
+nothing more than my duty. If you have any further commands for me, Mr.
+President, I am ready to obey them."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said the President; "take these telegrams, and when you
+have reached a point where communication is possible, send them to
+General McClellan, at Columbus, Ohio; they are important and must be
+sent without delay. Also telegraph to Mr. Pinkerton to come to
+Washington at once; his services are, I think, greatly needed by the
+government at this time."</p>
+
+<p>Rolling up the papers which he received, Webster placed them in the
+center of a hollow cane, which he carried; then, replacing the handle,
+and promising to attend faithfully to the duties assigned him, he left
+the executive mansion.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn10.jpg" width="160" height="109" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn11.jpg" width="448" height="121" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Timothy Webster in Washington.&mdash;The Return to Philadelphia.&mdash;I go to
+the Capital.&mdash;An Important Letter.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>After leaving the White House, Timothy Webster went immediately in quest
+of a conveyance that would enable him to reach Baltimore without
+unnecessary delay. He expected to encounter greater difficulties in
+obtaining what he desired here in Washington than he had met with in
+Baltimore, for the reason that in the capital he was a comparative
+stranger, while in the latter city he had numerous friends, who believed
+him to be in sympathy with the Confederacy, and whose assistance he
+could rely upon on that account. His only hope, therefore, lay in his
+being able to find some friendly Baltimorean, upon whose influence he
+could depend to procure him a mode of conveyance for his return. Having
+arrived late on the preceding evening and being terribly fatigued by the
+journey he had made, Webster had retired almost immediately after he
+reached his hotel, and consequently he was surprised at the busy scenes
+which greeted him now. The capital was swarming with soldiers and
+civilians. Regiments continually arriving and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> were being assigned to
+quarters and positions around the city, and the streets were filled with
+eager and excited multitudes. The position which Maryland had assumed
+was vehemently discussed everywhere, and the riotous conduct of the
+Baltimoreans was loudly denounced by Northern men, and secretly
+applauded by those whose sympathies were with the cause of the South.
+The prompt action of General Butler, with his regiment of Massachusetts
+soldiers, who followed quickly after the sixth, in going by boat
+directly to Annapolis, in order to reach Washington without hindrance or
+delay, and his patriotic and determined response to those in authority,
+who sought to induce him to change his plans for reaching the capital,
+were everywhere warmly commended. There could be no doubt that the North
+was thoroughly aroused, and were dreadfully in earnest in their
+determination to suppress a rebellion which they believed to be
+causeless, unlawful and threatening the future of a great country.</p>
+
+<p>As Webster walked along Pennsylvania Avenue, carefully scanning the
+faces of every one he met in the hope of discovering some one whom he
+knew and who might be of service to him, he recognized the driver who
+had brought him from Baltimore on the day before, and who started in
+astonishment at finding the man whom he had last seen a prisoner in the
+hands of United States troops now walking the streets free and
+unattended. This man was accompanied by<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span> three others, with two of whom
+Webster was slightly acquainted, and he at once advanced toward them and
+greeted them cordially.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Webster, is that you?" inquired the foremost of the party, a
+well-known "sympathizer" of the name of John Maull. "We heard you had
+been taken prisoner&mdash;how did you get out so soon?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is easily accounted for," said Webster, with a laugh; "I was
+simply arrested on suspicion, and when they could find nothing about me
+that was at all suspicious, they were compelled to let me go."</p>
+
+<p>"This country is coming upon strange times," remarked a sallow-faced
+Baltimorean who boasted of having been one of the most prominent of the
+rioters a few days before, "when a man can be arrested in this way and
+have no means of redress."</p>
+
+<p>"That is very true," replied Webster, "but we will have a decided change
+before long, or I am very much mistaken. 'Uncle Jeff' means business,
+and there will be long faces in Washington before many days."</p>
+
+<p>"Give me your hand, old boy," exclaimed Maull heartily, "you are of the
+right stripe; but don't talk so loud; let us go around the corner to a
+quiet little place where we can talk without danger."</p>
+
+<p>The party repaired to a drinking saloon, in a retired neighborhood, and
+on entering it they were greeted warmly by several parties who were
+standing before the bar. Webster was immediately introduced<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span> to these
+gentlemen, and it was not long before he had firmly established himself
+in their good opinions as a devoted friend of the South.</p>
+
+<p>The conversation soon became general, and the most extravagant ideas
+were expressed with regard to the wonderful achievements that were
+expected of the Southern soldiers, and no doubt was entertained that the
+Yankees, as they called the Northern men, would be quickly vanquished by
+the chivalrous armies of the "Sunny South."</p>
+
+<p>To all of these suggestions Webster yielded a ready assent, and not one
+among the number was more pronounced in his belief in the needs of the
+Southern cause than was my trusty operative, who, in the cane he
+flourished so conspicuously, carried important dispatches from the
+President of the United States to a General in command of Northern
+soldiers.</p>
+
+<p>All the time, however, he was growing very restive under the enforced
+delay in his journey, and seeking a favorable opportunity during a lull
+in the conversation, he turned to the driver of the wagon and inquired
+of him when he was going to return to Baltimore.</p>
+
+<p>"Not for a day or two, at least," replied the man.</p>
+
+<p>"That is very bad," said Webster. "I must get there this evening; it is
+of the utmost importance that I should do so."</p>
+
+<p>At this one of the party approached Webster and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span> informed him that he
+was going back that day and had engaged a conveyance for that purpose,
+and as there was room enough for two, he would be most happy to have his
+company. Webster at once accepted the invitation, and having thus
+relieved his anxiety upon the point of reaching Baltimore, he joined
+heartily in the conversation that was going on around him. No one, to
+have heard him, would doubt for a moment his loyalty to the South, or
+his firm belief in the eventual triumph of her armies.</p>
+
+<p>After remaining in the saloon for some time, Webster noticed that the
+men were becoming intoxicated, and fearing that they would become noisy
+and probably get into trouble, he suggested to the gentleman with whom
+he was to drive to Baltimore the propriety of leaving the rest to their
+enjoyment while they arranged matters for their departure. His advice
+was at once accepted, and the two men bade their associates farewell and
+repaired to the hotel, where they had their dinner, and about two
+o'clock they were upon their journey. Webster's fears were proven to be
+well-founded, for as they were passing the locality where they had spent
+the morning, they saw their former companions between a file of
+soldiers, and there was little doubt that they had allowed their
+libations to overcome their judgments, and that they would be allowed to
+recover their reason in a guard-house.</p>
+
+<p>The journey was made without event, the carriage<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span> and driver being
+apparently very well known along the route, and Webster arrived in
+Baltimore late that evening. He was desirous of pushing on without
+delay, as it was important that the dispatches which he carried should
+be forwarded at once, and he therefore went immediately to the hotel he
+had occupied when he first arrived in the city. Requesting the landlord
+to use his best efforts to procure him a conveyance to Havre de Grace,
+he sat down to his supper, and did ample justice to a plenteous repast.
+When he had finished the landlord entered the room and informed him that
+he had succeeded in providing a team for his service, but that grave
+doubts were entertained whether he would succeed in reaching his
+destination. Expressing his willingness to assume any responsibility of
+that kind, Webster bade his entertainer good-bye, and entering the
+wagon, he started upon his midnight journey to Havre de Grace.</p>
+
+<p>Again fortune favored him, and although repeatedly halted, he was able
+to give such a straightforward account of himself that they were allowed
+to proceed, and he arrived in Havre de Grace in time for breakfast.
+Crossing the river, he went directly to the headquarters of Colonel
+Dare, who was in charge of the Union troops at Perrysville, and
+requested that officer to forward the telegram to General McClellan at
+once. This the Colonel promised to do, and in a few minutes the
+important message was flying<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span> over the wires to its destination at
+Columbus, Ohio, and the President's request for my appearance at
+Washington followed soon after, and was received by me in due time.</p>
+
+<p>Recognizing the importance of the call, I lost no time in answering the
+dispatch of Mr. Lincoln, and started at once on my journey to
+Washington, accompanied only by a trusty member of my force. Before
+leaving I left orders that should I fail to meet with Webster upon the
+way he should be directed to await my return in the city of Pittsburg.</p>
+
+<p>On my arrival at Perrysville I found that a mode of communication had
+been hurriedly established with Washington, by means of a boat which
+sailed down the Chesapeake Bay and landed their passengers at Annapolis,
+from which point the railroad travel to Washington was uninterrupted.</p>
+
+<p>Arriving at the capital I found a condition of affairs at once peculiar
+and embarrassing, and the city contained a strange admixture of
+humanity, both patriotic and dangerous. Here were gathered the rulers of
+the nation and those who were seeking its destruction. The streets were
+filled with soldiers, armed and eager for the fray; officers and
+orderlies were seen galloping from place to place; the tramp of armed
+men was heard on every side, and strains of martial music filled the
+air. Here, too, lurked the secret enemy, who was conveying beyond the
+lines the coveted information of every movement made or contemplated.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span>
+Men who formerly occupied places of dignity, power and trust were now
+regarded as objects of suspicion, whose loyalty was impeached and whose
+actions it was necessary to watch. Aristocratic ladies, who had
+previously opened the doors of their luxurious residences to those high
+in office and who had hospitably entertained the dignitaries of the
+land, were now believed to be in sympathy with the attempt to overthrow
+the country, and engaged in clandestine correspondence with Southern
+leaders. The criminal classes poured in from all quarters, and almost
+every avenue of society was penetrated by these lawless and unscrupulous
+hordes. An adequate idea can be formed of the transformation which had
+been effected within a few short weeks in this city of national
+government.</p>
+
+<p>On the day following my arrival I wended my way to the White House and
+sought an interview with the President. Around the executive mansion
+everything was in a state of activity and bustle. Messengers were
+running frantically hither and thither; officers in uniform were
+gathered in clusters, engaged in animated discussions of contemplated
+military operations; department clerks were bustling about, and added to
+these was a crowd of visitors, all anxious, like myself, to obtain an
+interview with the Chief Executive.</p>
+
+<p>I was not required to wait an unusual length of time, and I was soon
+ushered into the presence of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> Mr. Lincoln, who greeted me cordially and
+introduced me to the several members of the Cabinet who were engaged
+with him. I was at once informed that the object in sending for me was
+that the authorities had for some time entertained the idea of
+organizing a secret-service department of the government, with the view
+of ascertaining the social, political and patriotic status of the
+numerous suspected persons in and around the city. As yet, no definite
+plans had been adopted, and I was requested to detail my views upon the
+subject, in order that the matter might be intelligently considered, and
+such action taken as would lead to definite and satisfactory results. I
+accordingly stated to them the ideas which I entertained upon the
+subject, as fully and concisely as I was able to do at the time, and,
+after I had concluded, I took my departure, with the understanding that
+I would receive further communications from them in a few days.</p>
+
+<p>It was very evident to me, however, that in the confusion and excitement
+which were necessarily incident to the novel and perplexing condition of
+affairs then existing, that anything approaching to a systematized
+organization or operation would be for a time impossible. The necessity
+for war had come so suddenly upon a peaceful community that there had
+been as yet but little time for thorough preparation or system. The
+raising of a large army, with all the various contingencies of
+uniforming, arming<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span> and drilling; the furnishing of supplies, and the
+assigning of quarters, were occupying the attention of the rulers of the
+government, and I felt confident that I would be required to wait a
+longer time than I could then conveniently spare from my business, ere I
+would be favored with any definite instructions from those in authority.
+This opinion was fully confirmed, after several unsuccessful attempts to
+obtain satisfying particulars from the heads of several of the
+departments, and leaving my address with the secretary of the President,
+I returned to Philadelphia.</p>
+
+<p>I had directed, prior to leaving Chicago, that all important
+communications addressed to me should be forwarded to that city, and on
+my arrival there I found a number of letters which required immediate
+attention.</p>
+
+<p>Among the number was the following, which had been somewhat delayed in
+its transmission.</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i36">"<span class="smcap">Columbus, Ohio</span>,<br /></span>
+<span class="i39">April 24, 1861.<br /></span>
+<span class="i1">"<span class="smcap">Allan Pinkerton</span>, Esq.,<br /></span>
+<span class="i12">"Dear Sir:&mdash;<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"I wish to see you with the least possible delay, to make
+arrangements with you of an important nature. I will be
+either here or in Cincinnati for the next few days&mdash;here
+to-morrow&mdash;Cincinnati next day. In this city you will find
+me at the Capitol, at Cincinnati at my residence.</p>
+
+<p>"If you telegraph me, better use your first name<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span> alone. Let
+no one know that you come to see me, and keep as quiet as
+possible.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i1">"Very truly yours,<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i8">"<span class="smcap">Geo. B. McClellan</span>,<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i2">"Maj. Gen'l Comd'g Ohio Vols.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+</div>
+
+<p>This letter at once decided me. Anxious as I was to serve the country in
+this, the hour of her need, I sought the first opportunity for active
+duty that presented itself, and I left Philadelphia at once, in order to
+comply with the instructions contained in this message of Gen.
+McClellan.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p141.jpg" width="336" height="370" alt="STORMING A FORT." title="" />
+<span class="caption">STORMING A FORT.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn12.jpg" width="448" height="102" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>An Adventure in Pittsburg.&mdash;A Mob at Bay.&mdash;An
+Explanation.&mdash;Good-feeling Restored.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Several influences operated in my mind to induce me to respond at once
+to this letter, and some of them of a directly personal nature. I had
+been acquainted with General McClellan for a long time before this, and
+had been intimately associated with him while engaged upon various
+important operations connected with the Illinois Central and the Ohio
+and Mississippi Railroads, of the latter of which he was then president.
+From the friendship and esteem I entertained for him growing out of my
+relations with him in those matters, both as an individual and as an
+executive officer, I felt the more anxious to enter into his service,
+now that he had assumed the command of a military department, and was
+about to take an active part in the impending struggle.</p>
+
+<p>At Philadelphia I ascertained that Timothy Webster had already departed
+for Pittsburg, according to previous instructions, and hastily
+telegraphing to the General that I would instantly respond to his letter
+in person, I took the first train leading westward and was soon upon my
+way.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Timothy Webster, meanwhile, had proceeded on his journey from
+Perrysville, and arrived without accident or adventure in Philadelphia.
+He immediately repaired to the office of Mr. Dunn, who informed him that
+he had just received a dispatch for him from Chicago. Webster hastily
+opened the message and found my directions for him to await my return at
+the city of Pittsburg. Remaining in the Quaker City until the following
+day, he took the western train and in due time arrived at his
+destination. On inquiring at the telegraph office in Pittsburg he
+received another message to the same effect as the first one, and he
+therefore engaged quarters at a hotel, patiently awaiting my coming. On
+the second day after his arrival in the Smoky City, which was Sunday, he
+again went to the telegraph office, where he received information that I
+would probably arrive there in the course of that day.</p>
+
+<p>Returning to the hotel, Webster entered the bar-room, and while he was
+being attended to two men came in, apparently engaged in excited
+conversation. They advanced to the bar and requested drinks. The
+excitement in the city, attendant upon the news from Baltimore, had not
+abated in the least since Webster had passed through several days
+before, and these two men were discussing the action of the government
+in regard to this matter. One of them, an excitable, empty-headed
+fellow, was cursing the President and General Scott, in very loud tones
+and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span> in unmeasured terms, for not burning the city of Baltimore to
+ashes, and thus teaching the rebels a lesson they would be apt to
+remember. The remonstrances of his friend seemed only to excite him
+still more, and Webster, feeling desirous of avoiding any controversy at
+that time, started to leave the saloon, when the angry disputant turned
+to him, and arrogantly demanded his opinion of the matter.</p>
+
+<p>"I think," said Webster, "that the President and General Scott
+understand their duties much better than I can inform them, and I
+suppose they do not wish to destroy the property of many who are true to
+the government."</p>
+
+<p>"That is all nonsense," replied the other, sharply, "there is not a
+single Union man in the whole city."</p>
+
+<p>"I think you are mistaken," said Webster, coolly. "I am sure there are
+thousands of them there."</p>
+
+<p>This answer seemed to infuriate the man, and striding up to Webster, he
+asked, with an air of impertinence:</p>
+
+<p>"Are you a Southern man?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir, I was born in New York," was the reply.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name?" impudently demanded the fellow.</p>
+
+<p>"You will find my name upon the register of the hotel, if you desire it,
+and as I do not wish to have any further controversy with you, I bid you
+good morning," replied Webster, still remaining cool and unruffled.</p>
+
+<p>By this time a crowd of about twenty men had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span> gathered about them, and
+as Webster turned to leave the room, one of them demanded to know the
+contents of the telegram he had just received.</p>
+
+<p>This demand, added to the previous suggestion that Webster was a
+Southern man, was sufficient to excite the entire crowd, who had been
+living upon excitement for more than a week, and they began to press
+around him in a threatening manner, one of them calling out:</p>
+
+<p>"I believe he is a d&mdash;d spy; let us see what he has got!"</p>
+
+<p>Webster broke loose from those nearest to him, and retreating backwards
+toward the door, exclaimed, in a determined voice:</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, I am no spy, and if any of you attempt to trouble me
+further, some of you will assuredly get hurt!"</p>
+
+<p>At this the crowd grew boisterous and violent, and several called out,
+"Hang him!" "Hang the spy!" while some of them made a rush toward where
+he stood.</p>
+
+<p>Drawing his revolver, Webster faced his angry assailants, who drew back
+involuntarily when they saw that he was both well armed and undismayed.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, we have had enough of this nonsense. You can talk about
+hanging me, and perhaps there are enough of you to do it, but, by God,
+the first one that attempts to put his hands upon me is a dead man!"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Matters began to look serious. It seemed evident that these excited
+people were determined to resort to violence, and that there would be
+bloodshed in consequence. Webster, whose relations with the government
+were of so intensely loyal a character, was filled with regret at having
+allowed himself to become a party to a conversation which would lead to
+such serious consequences. He was resolved, however, to maintain his
+position. To show signs of weakness, therefore, would be dangerous, if
+not fatal, to him, and he stood bravely in front of the angry mob, who
+had drawn back at the sight of the revolver which was leveled so
+menacingly at them.</p>
+
+<p>Only for a moment, however, did the crowd stand awed and irresolute&mdash;one
+moment of silence, in which every man appeared to be deciding for
+himself his course of action. Then one tall, stalwart man stepped from
+their midst, and waving his hand toward his companions, he cried out:</p>
+
+<p>"Come on, he is only one against twenty, and we will take him dead, or
+alive!"</p>
+
+<p>The crowd took a few steps in advance, and Webster had braced himself to
+receive their attack, when suddenly, close beside him stood a form, and
+a loud voice called out:</p>
+
+<p>"Stop, gentlemen, where you are! This man is no traitor, and I will
+defend him with my life!" and the muzzles of two revolvers ranged
+themselves beside that presented by the suspected, but undismayed
+detective.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 731px;">
+<img src="images/illus007.jpg" width="731" height="375" alt="&quot;Stop, Gentlemen, where you are.&quot; P. 146." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Stop, Gentlemen, where you are.&quot; P. 146.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Involuntarily the crowd stood still at this unexpected arrival of
+reinforcements, and Webster, who had recognized the voice, looked up in
+surprise and relief at this unlooked-for, though timely, assistance.</p>
+
+<p>I had arrived just in the nick of time, and I was resolved to defend my
+undaunted operative to the last.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment the proprietor of the hotel entered the saloon, and in a
+calm voice and quiet manner attempted to subdue the angry feelings of
+the bystanders.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," said he, "there need be no trouble about this matter; Mr.
+Webster can fully explain his position, and I think the best plan would
+be for you all to repair to the office of the mayor, where any
+explanation can be given."</p>
+
+<p>"I am perfectly willing to do that," said I; "I know this man, and will
+answer for him under any circumstances; we will accompany you to the
+office of the mayor at once, and I think I can convince him that he is
+no spy."</p>
+
+<p>This proposition was eagerly accepted by some, and reluctantly by
+others, and finally the entire party marched out of the hotel on their
+way to the office of the chief magistrate of the city; Webster and
+myself walking together.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The crowd increased as we went on, and frequent calls were still made to
+"hang the traitor," but no further attempts were made to molest us, and
+we reached the office without any event of a troublesome nature
+occurring.</p>
+
+<p>The noise of the crowd attracted the attention of the chief of police,
+who, during the temporary absence of the mayor, was in charge of affairs
+of this nature, and he came to the door to ascertain the occasion of the
+tumult.</p>
+
+<p>As the crowd, with Webster and myself in the van, reached the steps
+which led up to the municipal office, I at once recognized the chief of
+police, having been connected with him some time before in the detection
+of some burglars from the city of Pittsburg, and that officer was not
+slow to identify me as the detective, who had frequently enabled him to
+secure the desperate criminals whom the law had at various times
+pursued.</p>
+
+<p>As we reached the platform where the officer was standing, I stretched
+forth my hand, which the chief cordially grasped.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Mr. Pinkerton, what are you doing here?" inquired the chief, with
+some surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"I have come to defend one of my men, whom these people insist upon
+hanging as a rebel spy, but who is loyal to the core," I answered,
+laughingly.</p>
+
+<p>"I will take care of that," replied the chief, "and your word is
+sufficient for me," at the same time extending<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span> his disengaged hand and
+warmly greeting Webster, who stood beside me.</p>
+
+<p>As the crowd noticed the evident acquaintance and good-feeling that
+existed between the reputed spy and their chief of police, they drew
+back instinctively, while some of them looked as if they were not
+insensible to a feeling of shame. The chief realized the state of
+affairs at once, and turning to the now crestfallen and subdued
+gathering, he addressed them:</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, I will be responsible for the loyalty and integrity of these
+gentlemen, and you will instantly disperse."</p>
+
+<p>The leaders of this assault on Webster looked terribly ashamed of
+themselves when they found how ridiculously they had been acting, and as
+the door of the chief's office closed on our retreating figures, they
+slowly and silently retired.</p>
+
+<p>In an hour afterwards, when Webster and I returned to the hotel, we
+found the gentlemen who a short time before were anxious to hang him,
+awaiting our arrival, and we received from them their heartfelt
+apologies for their hasty and inconsiderate conduct, all of which were
+received with a spirit of good nature that won the regards of all
+present, and when the time of our departure arrived, they accompanied us
+to the depot in a body, and cheered us lustily as the train slowly moved
+away.</p>
+
+<p>Thus an adventure, which promised to be very<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> serious in its results,
+terminated in a manner satisfactory to all, and Webster and myself,
+instead of being lynched by a Pittsburg mob, departed in safety on our
+journey, and arrived in Cincinnati upon the following day, prepared to
+receive from General McClellan such instructions as were deemed
+necessary by him for the furtherance of the cause in which he was
+engaged.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p150.jpg" width="336" height="362" alt="BETRAYED BY HIS BOOTS." title="" />
+<span class="caption">BETRAYED BY HIS BOOTS.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn7.jpg" width="448" height="148" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>General McClellan in Command of Ohio.&mdash;I am Engaged for the War.&mdash;The
+Secret Service.&mdash;A Consultation.&mdash;Webster starts for Rebeldom.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>At the outbreak of the rebellion many difficulties were encountered
+which the people and their leaders were ill-prepared to surmount, and
+many expedients were resorted to in order to equip and officer the
+troops as they arrived. The State of Ohio, the militia of which General
+McClellan had been called upon to command by Governor Dennison, was no
+exception to this rule; but that gentleman realized the importance of
+calling some one to the command of the volunteers, upon whose knowledge,
+judgment and experience he could place implicit reliance. He therefore
+turned to Captain McClellan, who was a graduate of West Point, and had
+been a captain in the regular army, but who had for some years past been
+devoting himself to the management of a prominent railroad enterprise in
+the State.</p>
+
+<p>The Governor at once sent a communication to the general government,
+requesting that McClellan should be restored to his old rank in the
+army, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> that the duty of organizing the Ohio volunteers should be
+assigned to him. To this request no answer was received, and it was
+afterwards learned that the Governor's letter, owing to the interruption
+of communications with Washington from all points, had not reached its
+destination. Failing, therefore, to receive any reply from the general
+government, and being thus forced to rely upon his own resources,
+Governor Dennison at once summoned McClellan to Columbus, where the
+latter applied himself earnestly to the work of organizing the numerous
+volunteer regiments which offered their services to the country. The
+State laws were changed in such a manner as to allow the Governor to
+select commanding officers for these volunteers outside of the members
+of the State militia, and very soon afterward the Ohio troops were
+commanded by thoroughly competent men, who had made military movements
+the subject of scientific study.</p>
+
+<p>On the third day of May a "Department of the Ohio" was formed,
+consisting of the combined forces of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, and
+this department, by order of General Scott, was placed under the command
+of General McClellan.</p>
+
+<p>The Ohio troops, as they arrived, were mainly located at Camp Dennison,
+which was situated in a valley about sixteen miles northwesterly from
+the city of Cincinnati. This was the largest and the chief camp in the
+State, and here the volunteers received that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> thorough instruction and
+training so essential in preparing for the rigors of war.</p>
+
+<p>As I have stated, my personal acquaintance with George B. McClellan had,
+from its earliest incipiency, been of the most agreeable and amicable
+nature, and when I called at his house in Ludlow street, as I did
+immediately upon my arrival in Cincinnati, I was received with genuine
+cordiality. After we were closeted together I explained fully to him the
+character of the business that had called me to Washington, and how the
+complication of affairs at the seat of government necessitated so much
+delay that I had found it imperative upon me to leave without arriving
+at any definite understanding with the President.</p>
+
+<p>The General had already been advised of his elevation in rank, and among
+other things desired to consult with me in relation to his affairs at
+the War Department.</p>
+
+<p>I need not stop to give the details of that interview. His object in
+sending for me was to secure my aid and co-operation in the organization
+of a secret service for his department, and finding me more than willing
+to do all in my power to help along the cause of the Union, he
+immediately laid before me all his plans.</p>
+
+<p>Our business was settled. It arranged that I should assume full
+management and control of this new branch of the service, and that I
+should at once enter upon the discharge of the multifarious duties<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span>
+attending so responsible a position. The General then informed me that
+he would write to General Scott for permission to organize this
+department under his own personal supervision; and he also agreed to
+submit the project to Governor Dennison, of Ohio, with a request to that
+gentleman to solicit the co-operation of the Governors of Illinois,
+Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, in sustaining the organization.</p>
+
+<p>To this arrangement I gave a ready assent, and we then entered upon the
+discussion of affairs requiring immediate attention. Several measures,
+more or less important, had suggested themselves to my mind while the
+General was talking, and in the course of the conversation which
+followed, I presented them for his consideration. It was a relief to me
+to find that at the outset there was no clash of opinion between us, and
+I felt confident that there was not likely to be any in the future.</p>
+
+<p>For several days my time was principally taken up in private
+consultations with General McClellan, in laying out a line of
+operations, by which I was to assist in making arrangements for bringing
+my own force into active duty at the earliest possible hour. I rented a
+suite of rooms and fitted up an office in Cincinnati, where I called
+about me some of the most capable and trustworthy detectives in my
+employ, and impressed upon them the great importance of the tasks that
+were about to be imposed upon them.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The general informed me that he would like observations made within the
+rebel lines, and I resolved to at once send some scouts into the
+disaffected region lying south of us, for the purpose of obtaining
+information concerning the numbers, equipments, movements and intentions
+of the enemy, as well as to ascertain the general feeling of the
+Southern people in regard to the war. I fully realized the delicacy of
+this business, and the necessity of conducting it with the greatest
+care, caution and secrecy. None but good, true, reliable men could be
+detailed for such service, and knowing this, I made my selections
+accordingly; my thoughts reverting first of all to Timothy Webster.</p>
+
+<p>Within six hours after the commander had expressed his wishes to me,
+Timothy Webster was on his way to Louisville, with instructions to
+proceed southward from that city to Memphis, stopping at Bowling Green
+and Clarkesville on the way.</p>
+
+<p>In Webster's case it was not necessary to devote much time to
+instructions, except as to his line of travel, for he was a man who
+understood the whole meaning of a mission like this, and one who would
+perform his duty with that faithfulness and ability by which he had
+fairly earned the confidence I now reposed in him.</p>
+
+<p>Within a few days I also sent out other scouts, singly and in pairs, on
+the different routes that had been carefully prepared for them, and in a
+short time<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> quite a number of my best operatives were engaged upon more
+or less difficult and dangerous tasks, all tending to the same end.</p>
+
+<p>In organizing and controlling this secret service, I endeavored to
+conceal my own individual identity so far as my friends and the public
+were concerned. The new field of usefulness into which I had ventured
+was designed to be a secret one in every respect, and for obvious
+reasons I was induced to lay aside the name of Allan Pinkerton&mdash;a name
+so well known that it had grown to be a sort of synonym for detective. I
+accordingly adopted the less suggestive one of E. J. Allen; a <i>nom de
+guerre</i> which I retained during the entire period of my connection with
+the war. This precautionary measure was first proposed by the General
+himself, and in assenting to it I carried out his views as well as my
+own. This ruse to conceal my identity was a successful one. My true name
+was known only to General McClellan, and those of my force who were in
+my employ before the breaking out of the rebellion, and by them it was
+sacredly kept. Indeed, I doubt if McClellan has ever divulged it to this
+day, if I may judge by the frequent occurrence of such incidents as the
+following:</p>
+
+<p>A short time since, while on a visit to my New York agency, I chanced to
+meet one of my old army friends, General Fitz-John Porter. He recognized
+me, gave me a hearty greeting, and proceeded to address me as Major
+Allen, after the custom of by-gone<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span> days. I permitted the conversation
+to go on for some time, and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"Are you not aware, General, that the name of E. J. Allen, which I used
+during the war, was a fictitious one?"</p>
+
+<p>He looked at me, as if to satisfy himself that I was not jesting, and
+then exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"Fictitious! You are not in earnest, Major?"</p>
+
+<p>I assured him that I was never more so.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I never suspected such a thing. What, then, is your true name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Allan Pinkerton," I replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Allan Pinkerton!" he ejaculated.</p>
+
+<p>His astonishment knew no bounds, and he declared it was the first
+intimation he had ever had that Allan Pinkerton and Major Allen were one
+and the same person.</p>
+
+<p>It was on the thirteenth of May that Timothy Webster left Cincinnati on
+his trip southward. He arrived at Louisville, Ky., late in the night,
+and remained there until the following day, when he pursued his course
+into the heart of that self-satisfied State which only desired to be
+"let alone."</p>
+
+<p>It is not my purpose to give in detail all the events of Webster's
+journey, as there was much that would only prove tedious at this late
+day, though at that time regarded as of the utmost importance to the
+country. Shrewd, wide-awake, and keen as a blood-hound on the scent, he
+allowed nothing to escape<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> him, but quietly jotted down every item of
+intelligence that could possibly be of advantage to the Union army, and
+picked up many important points, which would have escaped the notice of
+a man of less detective experience and ability.</p>
+
+<p>He stopped a day or two at Bowling Green, Ky., and then proceeded on to
+Clarkesville, Tenn. He made friends of all he met, and cleverly
+ingratiated himself into the good graces of those whom he believed might
+be of service to him. He was a "Hail, fellow! well met," "A prince of
+good fellows," a genial, jovial, convivial spirit, with an inexhaustible
+fund of anecdote and amusing reminiscences, and a wonderful faculty for
+making everybody like him. He partook of soldiers' fare in the rebel
+camp, shook hands warmly with raw recruits, joked and laughed with petty
+officers, became familiar with colonels and captains, and talked
+profoundly with brigadier-generals. He was apparently an enthusiastic
+and determined rebel, and in a few cunningly-worded sentences he would
+rouse the stagnant blood of his hearers till it fairly boiled with
+virtuous indignation against Yankees in general, and "Abe Linkin" in
+particular.</p>
+
+<p>Webster's talent in sustaining a <i>role</i> of this kind amounted to
+positive genius, and it was this that forced me to admire the man as
+sincerely as I prized his services. Naturally, he was of a quiet,
+reserved disposition, seldom speaking unless spoken to, and never
+betraying emotion or excitement under any<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> pressure of circumstances.
+His face always wore that calm, imperturbable expression denoting a
+well-balanced mind and a thorough self-control, while the immobile
+countenance and close-set lips showed that he was naturally as
+inscrutable as the Sphinx. Many of his associates were of the opinion
+that he was cold and unfeeling, but <i>I</i> knew there could be no greater
+mistake than this; <i>I</i> knew that a manlier, nobler heart never existed
+than that which beat within the broad breast of Timothy Webster; and I
+knew that, reserved and modest as he was, he was never wanting in
+courtesy, never derelict in his duty, never behind his fellows in acts
+of kindness and mercy.</p>
+
+<p>It was when he was detailed for such operations as the one in question
+that his disposition underwent a complete metamorphosis. Then his
+reserve vanished, and he became the chatty, entertaining boon companion,
+the hero of the card-table, the story-teller of the bar-room, or the
+lion of the social gathering, as the exigencies of the case might
+require. He could go into a strange place and in one day surround
+himself with warm friends, who would end by telling him all he desired
+to know. In a life-time of varied detective experience, I have never met
+one who could more readily and agreeably adapt himself to circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>Webster represented himself as a resident of Baltimore, and gave graphic
+accounts of the recent troubles in that city; of the unpleasant position
+in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span> which the "friends of the cause" were placed by the proximity and
+oppression of Northern troops, and of the outraged feelings of the
+populace when the "Lincoln hirelings" marched through the streets of the
+Monumental City. His eyes seemed to flash with indignation during the
+recital, and it would have been difficult indeed to induce his audience
+to believe that he was acting a part, or that his heart was not with the
+South.</p>
+
+<p>On the morning of his departure from Clarkesville quite a number of
+soldiers and citizens, who had become attached to him during his brief
+sojourn with them, accompanied him to the depot, shook him warmly by the
+hand at parting, and earnestly wished him God-speed. He told them all
+that he hoped to see them again soon, and waved them a smiling adieu
+from the platform of the car, as the train whirled him away toward
+Memphis.</p>
+
+<p>As the train stopped on the east bank of the Tennessee river, and the
+passengers swarmed out of the cars, Webster noticed a man take the
+conductor aside and engage in earnest conversation with him for a few
+moments. This man was a dark-complexioned, sharp-visaged, long-haired
+individual, clad in civilian's garb, and wearing a broad-brimmed hat.
+There was an air of mystery about him which attracted more than a
+passing glance from the scout, and caused the latter to keep an eye on
+him thereafter.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The passengers were obliged to cross the river in a ferry-boat. The
+train going south was in waiting on the other side, and its conductor
+stood on the bank alone, making entries in his memorandum-book. As soon
+as the boat touched the land the man with the long hair and
+broad-brimmed hat sprang ashore and approached the conductor, to whom he
+began to talk in the same hurried, nervous manner that he had done to
+the one on the other side. As the time for starting approached, the
+mysterious stranger and the conductor walked toward the train together,
+conversing excitedly as they went.</p>
+
+<p>"There's something up," thought Webster, as he boarded the train.
+"Perhaps that fellow is on the look-out for new-comers like myself; but
+we'll see whether he is sharp enough to catch a weasel asleep."</p>
+
+<p>For the first twenty miles after leaving the Tennessee river, the road
+lay through an uncultivated region of swamps and heavy timber. At every
+station along the route uniformed men, heavy guns, car-loads of muskets
+and ammunition were seen, indicating general and active preparations for
+war, while the secession flag was flying in the breeze, and the music of
+fife and drum was frequently borne to the ear. At Humboldt, where the
+train arrived at four o'clock in the afternoon, they were delayed for
+some time, and Webster improved the opportunity to look around him and
+to procure his dinner. The man with the broad-brimmed hat seated himself
+almost opposite<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span> Webster at table, who noticed that his restless,
+inquisitive eyes were kept busy scrutinizing every face that came within
+range of his vision. He did not address himself to any one during the
+progress of the repast, and after hurriedly satisfying his own appetite,
+he walked out upon the platform of the depot, where he stood intently
+watching the other passengers as they returned to the train.</p>
+
+<p>Webster, as he crossed the platform, instinctively felt that those
+searching eyes were riveted upon him as if they would pierce him
+through, but he did not evince the slightest degree of trepidation or
+uneasiness under the ordeal. Assuming an air of quiet unconsciousness,
+he sauntered past the man without seeming to notice him, and entered the
+smoking-car, coolly lighted a cigar, drew a Nashville newspaper from his
+pocket, and settled himself to his reading. He saw no more of the
+mysterious stranger during the remainder of the journey, but on
+alighting from the train at the Memphis depot, the first object that met
+his gaze was the wearer of the broad-brimmed hat.</p>
+
+<p>Arriving in Memphis at nine o'clock in the evening, Webster went
+directly to the Worsham House, where he intended to stay while in the
+city. While registering his name he observed a military officer in full
+uniform standing at his elbow, watching him closely as he wrote. Several
+other new arrivals placed their signatures after Webster, and he then
+noticed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span> that the officer was engaged in making a copy of names and
+addresses on a piece of paper.</p>
+
+<p>While watching this proceeding, his attention was distracted by some one
+hastily entering the hotel office. It was his mysterious
+fellow-traveler, who, stepping into the center of the room, glanced
+quickly around, apparently looking for some particular face. The search
+was evidently successful, for, walking up to one of the men who had just
+arrived on the train from the North, he tapped him on the shoulder and
+beckoned him.</p>
+
+<p>After a few moments' conversation, during which the new-comer appeared
+to be both surprised and frightened, the two left the hotel together and
+walked up the street arm in arm.</p>
+
+<p>Two citizens who were lounging near the door had been interested
+spectators of this incident, and Webster heard one of them inquire:</p>
+
+<p>"What does that mean?"</p>
+
+<p>"It means that the stranger is under arrest," replied his companion.</p>
+
+<p>"Under arrest? And who is the man who arrested him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, he is a member of the safety committee."</p>
+
+<p>"But what crime has the stranger committed, that he should thus be taken
+into custody?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing, perhaps; but the fact that he is a stranger from the North, is
+sufficient to mark him as an object of suspicion."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Isn't that a little severe?"</p>
+
+<p>"Severe? It's a necessity in these times. For my part, I am in for
+hanging every Northern man who comes here, unless he can give the most
+satisfactory proof that he is not a spy."</p>
+
+<p>The rest of the conversation did not reach Webster's ear, and, being
+much fatigued by his day's journey, he soon retired, to seek that much
+needed rest which slumber only could afford.</p>
+
+<p>He rose at an early hour in the morning, feeling much refreshed. On
+entering the dining-room he found it crowded with guests, the majority
+of whom wore the uniform and shoulder-straps of Confederate officers.
+The conversation around the table was upon the all-absorbing theme which
+at that time was uppermost in every mind, and the scout was both amused
+and edified by what he heard. He did not long remain a silent listener,
+but taking his cue at the proper moment he entered easily and naturally
+into the conversation himself, and his pleasing address and intelligent
+observations commanded at once the respectful attention of those around
+him.</p>
+
+<p>After breakfast Webster determined to ascertain whether or not he was
+under the surveillance of the vigilance committee, and he accordingly
+left the hotel, and wended his way toward the post-office.</p>
+
+<p>He had not proceeded far when he noticed a man who appeared to be
+following him on the opposite side of the street. Desiring to satisfy
+himself upon<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span> this point he walked on for several blocks, and then
+dropped into a saloon. Remaining there a sufficient length of time for
+the man to pass from view, in case he did not stop in his onward course,
+he emerged from the saloon and retraced his steps toward the hotel. As
+he did so he noticed the stranger on the other side of the street,
+dogging him as before. This left no doubt in his mind that he was being
+shadowed, and he resolved to be guarded in his movements, to refrain
+from writing any reports or making any notes that could possibly betray
+him. He returned to the office and bar-room of the Worsham Hotel, and
+spent an hour or two reading and smoking. While thus occupied, three
+military officers entered and stood near the bar engaged in animated
+conversation. Webster sauntered toward them, and heard one of the
+trio&mdash;a man whom the others addressed as "Doctor"&mdash;remark emphatically:</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, gentlemen, that is a true principle. It will not do to let a man
+set foot on Kentucky soil until the Northern troops disregard the
+neutrality of that State."</p>
+
+<p>Catching the drift of the conversation, Webster stepped forward and
+said:</p>
+
+<p>"I beg pardon, sir; will you permit me to ask one question?"</p>
+
+<p>The three officers turned toward him, with expressions of mild surprise
+in their faces, and the Doctor replied:</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, sir; certainly."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Do you suppose," added Webster, "that Kentucky will allow the Northern
+army to march through the State without showing fight?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not by a jug-full," was the prompt response. "The moment the Northern
+army crosses the Ohio river, Kentucky will rise in arms and take sides
+with the South."</p>
+
+<p>"If she doesn't," said Webster, with much apparent warmth, "she will
+prove herself unworthy of the respect of any true Southern men!"</p>
+
+<p>The Doctor's face brightened up, and he laid his hand approvingly on the
+scout's shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>"May I ask where you are from?"</p>
+
+<p>"I was born in Kentucky and reared in Maryland," was the quiet reply,
+"and I am now direct from Baltimore."</p>
+
+<p>"Baltimore!" ejaculated the whole trio in chorus; and the next moment
+were all shaking hands in the most vigorous fashion.</p>
+
+<p>"Baltimore!" repeated the Doctor, his face red with his recent exertion.
+"My friend, we are always glad to meet a Baltimorean, for we know there
+is many a true man in that city who would help us if he could. May I ask
+your name, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Webster&mdash;Timothy Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"A devilish good name. Mine is Burton. My friends all call me Doctor
+Burton. Allow me to introduce you to Colonel Dalgetty and to Captain
+Stanley of the Arkansas Rifles."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The introduction was cordially acknowledged on both sides, and Webster
+then said:</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, I was about to call for a drink when I heard you speak of
+Kentucky. I am happy to know that there is still hopes for that State.
+Will you drink her health with me?"</p>
+
+<p>And in the clinking of the glasses, and the quaffing of their favorite
+beverages, the new link of friendship was forged.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p167.jpg" width="336" height="339" alt="RUN DOWN BY CAVALRY." title="" />
+<span class="caption">RUN DOWN BY CAVALRY.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster Fraternizes with the Rebel Officers.&mdash;A Secession Hat.&mdash;A Visit
+to a Rebel Camp.&mdash;"The Committee of Safety."&mdash;A Friendly Stranger.&mdash;A
+Warning.&mdash;The Escape.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Webster's new friends were men whom he believed he could use to good
+advantage, and he determined to improve the chance that had thrown him
+in contact with them. He found them not only very well informed, but
+disposed to be communicative, and he therefore applied the "pumping"
+process with all the skill at his command. He experienced no difficulty
+in making this mode of operation effectual, for these officers were
+exceedingly willing to air their knowledge for the benefit of their
+Baltimore friend, and enjoyed his frequent expressions of agreeable
+surprise at the extent of the preparations made by the people of the
+South to defend their rights.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Burton was the most conspicuous one of the group, from his very
+pompousness. He wore a superfluity of gorgeous gold lace on his uniform,
+and assumed the dignity of a major-general. He was a flabby-faced,
+bulbous-eyed individual, with a wonderful stomach for harboring liquor,
+and that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> unceasing flow of spirits arising from a magnified sense of
+his own importance. It was evident, even upon a short acquaintance, that
+the doctor found his chief entertainment in listening to himself talk, a
+species of recreation in which he indulged with great regularity,
+sharing the pleasure with as many others as would grant him a hearing.</p>
+
+<p>In Webster he found an attentive auditor, which so flattered his vanity
+that he at once formed a strong attachment for my operative, and placed
+himself on familiar and confidential terms with him.</p>
+
+<p>"Webster, we've got to do some hard fighting in these parts, and that
+before we are many days older," said the Doctor, with a wise shake of
+the head.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you are right," conceded the scout. "We must fight it out. From
+what you have told me, however, I am sure the Lincoln troops will find
+you fully prepared to give them a warm reception here."</p>
+
+<p>"That they will, sir; that they will!" was the emphatic rejoinder. "We
+have one full regiment and four or five companies besides, at Camp
+Rector, and General Pillow has thirty-seven hundred men at the camp in
+the rear of Fort Harris, which is a little above us on this side of the
+river. We expect to move with him, and if there is an attack made upon
+us every man in the town will instantly become a soldier."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you arms enough for all of them?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Arms? Let the Yankees count on our not having arms, and they will meet
+with a surprise party. In two hours' notice we can have from eight to
+ten thousand men ready to march."</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt of it, Doctor; but how do you expect to get two hours'
+notice?"</p>
+
+<p>"Lord bless you, Webster, we have men watching the movements of the
+Yankees at Cairo, and the minute they make a move we are notified. Then
+our signal gun is fired, and every man is mustered."</p>
+
+<p>"A good arrangement, truly," said the detective quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"You look as if you could do some hard fighting yourself, Mr. Webster,"
+remarked Colonel Dalgetty.</p>
+
+<p>The detective smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"I have been fighting against great odds for the past two months in
+Baltimore. The last battle I fought was to get away from there with my
+life."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and we are confounded glad to receive you here," exclaimed the
+enthusiastic Doctor, shaking Webster by the hand for the twentieth time.
+"Come, gentlemen, we must have another drink. Step up and nominate your
+'pizen.'"</p>
+
+<p>The glasses were filled, and some one proposed the toast: "Death to the
+Yankees!" Under his breath, however, the detective muttered, "Confusion
+to the rebels!" and drained his glass. The toast was no sooner drank
+than Lieutenant Stanley, who was evidently beginning to feel the
+influence of the liquor he had drank, took off his uniform hat and put
+it on Webster's head.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 728px;">
+<img src="images/illus008.jpg" width="728" height="375" alt="&quot;Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself
+perfectly at home!&quot; P. 171." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself
+perfectly at home!&quot; P. 171.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me, Mr. Webster," he said, "I merely wish to see how you look in
+one of our hats." Then stepping back, he added: "By the gods, nothing
+could be more becoming! My dear fellow, you must have one by all means,
+if you stay among us."</p>
+
+<p>Webster endeavored laughingly to object, but they all refused to accept
+"no" for an answer. So, finding it impossible to resist, he went with
+them to a neighboring hat store.</p>
+
+<p>"Fit a hat to Mr. Webster's head&mdash;a hat just like mine," said Dr.
+Burton, to the proprietor; then turning to the scout, he added: "We will
+have you a cord and tassel of blue, as that will show that you are true
+to the cause, although you do not belong to the military."</p>
+
+<p>The hatter produced a secession chapeau of the kind and size required,
+and Webster at once put it on, much to the delight of the Doctor, who
+slapped Webster familiarly on the shoulder, with the exclamation:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself at home!"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly at home," echoed Colonel Dalgetty.</p>
+
+<p>"Henceforward you are one of us," put in the Lieutenant.</p>
+
+<p>Webster thanked them cordially for their kindness,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span> and promised to wear
+it in preference to any other. As they stepped outside of the store,
+however, all thoughts of the new hat were temporarily driven from his
+mind, for, standing on the sidewalk, within a few yards of the store
+door, and looking directly at him, was the identical individual whom he
+had noticed on the train, who had arrested the Northern stranger the
+night before.</p>
+
+<p>The gaze which this vigilant agent of the safety committee now bent upon
+Webster was full of dark suspicion, but after one swift glance at him
+the detective turned away with an air of perfect composure and
+unconcern, and walked off between his companions. To say that he felt
+some uneasiness at this evidence that he was still being closely
+followed, would be only to tell the truth. His first impulse was to
+speak to his companions about it, but a second thought decided him not
+to mention the matter to any one, nor to betray by word or act that he
+had the slightest hint of a suspicion that he was being watched.</p>
+
+<p>The three officers introduced Webster to a large number of soldiers and
+citizens, and before the day was over he had quite an extended circle of
+acquaintance in Memphis. Dr. Burton, who had conceived a fancy for him,
+as sudden as it was pronounced, assumed a sort of paternal control over
+Webster, hovering about him with an air of protection and solicitude,
+and drawing the scout's arm through his when they walked together.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>That afternoon, Webster, desiring to be alone for awhile, hired one of
+the hackmen at the door of the hotel to drive him three or four miles
+into the country. He went down the river road, and as it was a beautiful
+day, he enjoyed himself admiring the picturesque scenery along the way.</p>
+
+<p>Just below the town, on the bank of the river, he found a small
+encampment of soldiers with a battery, who were on the lookout for boats
+coming up the river, and during his ride he saw several encampments of
+the same nature. After spending several hours inspecting the
+fortifications along the river, Webster returned to the hotel, which he
+reached about dark.</p>
+
+<p>The next day Doctor Burton and several of his military friends sought
+out the detective, and urged him to go with them to Camp Rector.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, I am at your service," said Webster, earnestly. "I think I
+would enjoy a visit to your camp to-day above all things."</p>
+
+<p>They went to the levee, and at ten o'clock were on the boat, steaming up
+the river toward Mound City, where Camp Rector was located.</p>
+
+<p>A distance of some six or seven miles, passing on their way up, various
+objects of interest, among them Fort Harris, which was merely an
+embankment thrown up, to answer the purpose. Arriving at Mound City, the
+party disembarked and walked to the hotel. After dinner the party
+visited the camp-ground, a distance of about one-fourth of a mile from
+the hotel,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span> and here Dr. Burton and the other officers took much pride
+in showing Webster around. They talked volubly about the unexampled
+bravery of the Confederate soldier; had much to say on the subject of
+Southern chivalry as opposed to Northern braggadocio; told how well they
+were prepared to meet the onslaught of the enemy; and found a special
+delight in exhibiting to the visitor a portion of General Bragg's
+artillery, which they had in the camp.</p>
+
+<p>After that they seated themselves around a table in one of the larger
+tents, to rest and enjoy the grateful shade, as it was a warm and sunny
+afternoon. While engaged in the most bombastic utterances of their
+prowess, and of the wonderful exploits that might be expected of the
+Southern army, their conversation was interrupted by a shadow falling
+across the strip of sunlight that streamed in through the opening of the
+tent. Every one around the table glanced up, and there at the entrance
+stood the man with the broad-brimmed hat! The intruder did not tarry a
+moment, but turned and walked away. Evidently he had stopped only to
+look in; but in that single instant he had shot a keen, and apparently
+satisfactory, glance at Timothy Webster, which was fortunately not
+observed by any one save the detective himself.</p>
+
+<p>"That fellow is one of the safety committee," said Dr. Burton, filling
+his glass.</p>
+
+<p>"He appears to be looking for some one," remarked Lieutenant Stanley.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Reckon he is," answered the Doctor. "He's always looking for some one.
+And, by-the-bye, those chaps are doing a heap of good for the cause just
+now. A Northern man stands no show for his life in these parts if the
+safety committee spots him. They hang 'em on suspicion."</p>
+
+<p>"That's right," said Webster, coolly. "I believe in hanging every
+Northern man that comes prowling around. They don't deserve a trial, for
+they have no right here anyway."</p>
+
+<p>But cool and collected as Webster outwardly appeared, it must be
+admitted that he was inwardly ill at ease. There was now no longer the
+shadow of a doubt in his mind that this long-haired agent of the safety
+committee was following him and watching his every movement, and that
+any attempt on his part to return to the North would betray him and
+cause his arrest.</p>
+
+<p>"The only reason I have not already been arrested," mused the scout, "is
+because they are not sure whether I came from the North or not. They
+merely <i>suspect</i>, and are watching me to see if I undertake to return
+northward. Such an act would confirm their suspicions, and I would be
+arrested and probably put to death as a spy. It stands me in hand to
+give them the slip before I take the back track."</p>
+
+<p>After spending a very pleasant day at the camp, he returned to Memphis
+on the latest boat that night, informing Dr. Burton that he was going to
+Chattanooga<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> to look up a brother whom he had not seen in twelve years.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll come back?" said the Doctor, as he wrung his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, certainly," was the cheerful response. "I'll be with you again
+before long."</p>
+
+<p>Colonel Gaines, of the artillery, who heard this conversation, now
+grasped the scout's hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Webster, you'd make a good soldier," he said, bluntly. "Hang me if I
+wouldn't like to have you on my force."</p>
+
+<p>Webster smiled good-naturedly.</p>
+
+<p>"I have some family business to attend to before I could think of
+entering the army. After that I may remind you of your remark."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," said the Colonel, "any time that you are ready, come; I
+will make room for you."</p>
+
+<p>On his way down the river Webster found, to his relief, that the man
+with the broad-brimmed hat was not aboard the boats. He now had a hope
+of being able to give his shadow the slip by leaving Memphis on early
+train in the morning.</p>
+
+<p>Arriving in sight of their destination, the passengers on the ferry-boat
+were surprised to see that the levee was crowded with people. Shortly
+after, they learned that this unusual gathering was caused by the
+capture of the steamboat "Prince of Wales" by the rebels.</p>
+
+<p>Webster went to the Worsham Hotel, where he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span> spent the night, and at
+five o'clock in the morning, after making a few preparations, and
+dispatching an early breakfast, he repaired to the depot. Arriving there
+he looked carefully about on all sides, but saw no one who seemed to
+take any interest in his movements. "So far, so good," he muttered, as
+he boarded the train; and the next minute he was leaving the scene of
+his most recent exploits with the speed of the wind.</p>
+
+<p>He was himself too shrewd and cunning to feel absolutely sure that he
+was not followed. His own experience in the art of "shadowing" told him
+he had not yet escaped the vigilant eyes of the safety committee, but he
+resolved to elude them if it was possible to do so.</p>
+
+<p>Innumerable troops were being transported at this time, and the train
+was crowded with soldiers. Webster amused himself by making the
+acquaintance of the officers, and skillfully drawing on their fund of
+information, until the train arrived at Grand Junction, where he decided
+to change cars for Jackson, Tennessee.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, he abandoned the Chattanooga cars and boarded the
+north-bound train, which was in waiting at the junction, and again he
+was whirled away across the verdure-clad country, this time toward the
+"land of the free." But no sooner was the train well under way than
+something which came under Webster's observation removed from his mind
+all<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span> doubt as to whether he would be permitted to pursue his journey
+unmolested. He occupied a seat in the forward part of the car, and on
+turning carelessly away from the window after gazing out upon the
+landscape for awhile, he was somewhat surprised at seeing an individual
+standing on the front platform of the car, looking in through the glass
+door.</p>
+
+<p>It was a person whose face and figure had already become quite familiar
+to him, being no other than the man who had so persistently followed him
+for the past few days.</p>
+
+<p>"He seems determined not to let me get away," thought the scout; but
+neither in his face nor manner did he betray any of the disappointment
+he felt.</p>
+
+<p>He noticed that his pursuer was not alone this time, but was accompanied
+by another person&mdash;an ill-looking man of herculean proportions&mdash;with
+whom he conversed in an earnest, confidential way.</p>
+
+<p>When the train arrived at Jackson, Webster stepped out upon the platform
+of the depot, and the two agents of the safety committee did the same.
+The conductor stood near by, and Webster spoke to him in a tone which he
+meant his shadows to hear, asking:</p>
+
+<p>"How soon will there be a train for Humboldt?"</p>
+
+<p>"In twenty minutes," replied the conductor.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know anything about the hotels there?" inquired the scout. "I've
+got to stop two or three days in the town, and it's a strange place to
+me."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The conductor recommended him to a good house convenient to the depot,
+and thanking him for the information, Webster turned away. He had spoken
+in a tone that he knew must have been distinctly heard by his enemies,
+and he hoped this bit of stratagem would have the desired effect.</p>
+
+<p>He boarded the train for Humboldt, and the brace of shadows promptly
+followed him, taking seats in the same car.</p>
+
+<p>While the train was speeding on its way, Webster was aroused from a
+reverie by the voice of a woman saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, sir; may I occupy a portion of this seat?"</p>
+
+<p>He looked up; a tall, very respectable looking lady was standing in the
+aisle, and he saw in an instant that she was the person who had
+addressed him.</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, madam, certainly;" he replied; and quickly made room for
+her.</p>
+
+<p>She sat down beside him, and then, to his great surprise, she began to
+talk to him in a low, earnest tone, without once turning her face toward
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"You are going to Humboldt?" she inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"I am," he answered, surprised at the question.</p>
+
+<p>"You are a Northern man?"</p>
+
+<p>"Madam!" A suspicion flashed, lightning-like, across his mind.</p>
+
+<p>"Believe me, I am not an enemy," the lady went<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span> on, "I have been sitting
+in the rear part of this car I heard two men talking, and have reason to
+believe they were speaking about you. They said they would stop at the
+same hotel with you in Humboldt, and keep a close watch over you, and if
+you attempt to go northward they will arrest you, take you back to
+Memphis, and deal with you as they would with any Northern spy. I advise
+you to be very careful, sir, for your life depends upon it."</p>
+
+<p>The train by this time was approaching Humboldt, and the lady arose and
+disappeared before the astonished detective could tender his thanks for
+the warning. She was destined to remain an utter stranger to him for all
+time to come, for he never heard of her afterwards. As they entered the
+depot, Webster passed out at the rear end of the car, and he noticed,
+with a smile of satisfaction, that his attendant shadows were making
+their way out at the front. As he stepped from the car he noticed a pile
+of baggage near him, and quickly stepping behind this, he watched the
+movements of the two men. Apparently fully satisfied that their game
+would be safely bagged at the hotel, they left the depot and walked
+rapidly away in the direction of the public-house. His ruse worked to a
+charm. A violent shower happened to be passing over at this time, and it
+was only natural for the two "safety" men to suppose that Webster had
+stopped to seek shelter in the depot for a few minutes.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The express train from Memphis was soon due, and as it came dashing in
+"on time," Webster jumped aboard, and was on his way toward Louisville,
+smiling in his sleeve as he thought of those two crafty foxes, whose
+cunning had overreached themselves, patiently awaiting his arrival at
+the hotel in Humboldt.</p>
+
+<p>Before crossing the Kentucky line, Webster put his rebel hat out of
+sight, and once more donned the one he had worn from the North.</p>
+
+<p>The remainder of his journey was made without incident, and in due time
+he arrived in Cincinnati, and reported to me.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p181.jpg" width="336" height="349" alt="A HOT LUNCH." title="" />
+<span class="caption">A HOT LUNCH.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>I take a Trip to the South.&mdash;Danger in Memphis.&mdash;A Timely Warning.&mdash;A
+Persistent Barber.&mdash;An Unfortunate Memory.&mdash;Return to Cincinnati.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Timothy Webster had scarcely departed upon his trip to Memphis, when I
+was summoned for consultation with General McClellan. Upon repairing to
+his office, which I did immediately on receiving his message, I found
+him awaiting my arrival, and in a few minutes I was informed of his
+wishes. He was desirous of ascertaining, as definitely as possible, the
+general feeling of the people residing South of the Ohio river, in
+Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana, and requested that
+measures be at once taken to carry out his purposes.</p>
+
+<p>It was essentially necessary at the outset to become acquainted with all
+the facts that might be of importance hereafter, and no time offered
+such opportunities for investigations of this nature as the present,
+while the war movement was in its incipiency, and before the lines
+between the opposing forces had been so closely drawn as to render
+traveling in the disaffected district unsafe, if not utterly impossible.</p>
+
+<p>As this mission was of a character that required<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span> coolness and tact, as
+well as courage, and as most of my men had been detailed for duties in
+other sections of the rebellious country, I concluded to make the
+journey myself, and at once stated my intention to the General, who
+received it with every evidence of satisfaction and approval.</p>
+
+<p>"The very thing I should have proposed, Major," said he; "and if you
+will undertake this matter, I have no fears of a failure, and every
+confidence in obtaining important developments."</p>
+
+<p>My action had been prompted by two impelling reasons. The first was the
+absence of the men whom I had thus far engaged, and who, as I have
+before stated, had been detailed upon missions of investigations in
+various parts of the South and West, and the other was a desire to see
+for myself the actual condition of affairs as they existed at that time.
+I have invariably found that a personal knowledge is far more
+satisfactory than that gleamed from others, and whenever it was
+possible, I have endeavored to acquire my information by such means.
+Another advantage to be derived from a personal observation was that I
+would be necessarily forced to rely in many matters to which it would be
+impossible for me to devote my personal attention.</p>
+
+<p>Having arranged everything to my satisfaction, in order that my absence
+would occasion no disarrangement in the proper conduct of the
+investigations already commenced, I left my office in the charge of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> Mr.
+George H. Bangs, my general superintendent, and started upon my journey,
+intending to be as rapid in my movements as circumstances would permit,
+and to return at as early a date as I could, consistently with the
+proper performance of the duties intrusted to me.</p>
+
+<p>My first objective point was the city of Louisville, in Kentucky. The
+position of this State at the present time was a peculiar one. Her
+Governor, if not a Southern conspirator, was, if his own language was to
+be relied upon, both in opinion and expectation, a disunionist. He had
+at first remonstrated against the action of the Cotton States, but after
+that action had been taken, he was unqualifiedly opposed to coercing
+them back to obedience, and in addition to this, he had endeavored to
+excite his own people to a resistance to the principles and policy of
+the party in power.</p>
+
+<p>The people, however, did not sustain his views, and while the popular
+sentiment was deeply pro-slavery, and while her commerce bound her
+strongly to the South, the patriotic example and teachings of Henry Clay
+had impressed upon them a reverence and love for Union higher and purer
+than any mere pressing interests or selfish advantage.</p>
+
+<p>At Louisville, therefore, I found a degree of excitement prevailing that
+was naturally to be expected from the unsettled condition of public
+affairs. The Governor had refused to comply with the President's<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span> call
+for troops, and the State had been in a state of hopeless bewilderment
+and conflict of opinion in consequence. A strong minority, arrogating to
+themselves an undue importance, were endeavoring, by self-assertion and
+misapplied zeal, to carry the State into the secession fold, but thus
+far they had made no substantial progress against an overwhelming
+undercurrent of Union sentiment. Failing in this, their energies were
+now devoted to an effort to place the State in a neutral attitude, which
+would prevent her from taking a decided stand upon the question of
+supporting the Union. Thus far they had been temporarily successful, and
+on the 16th day of May the house of representatives passed resolutions
+declaring that Kentucky "should during the contest occupy the position
+of strict neutrality."</p>
+
+<p>This was the existing condition of affairs when I arrived in Louisville,
+and which I found prevalent throughout all the sections of the State I
+passed.</p>
+
+<p>Representing myself as a Southern man, a resident of Georgia, I had no
+difficulty in engaging in conversation with the prominent men of both
+elements, and I decided then, from my own observations, that Kentucky
+would not cast her fortunes with the South, but that, after the bubble
+of unnatural excitement had burst and expended itself, the loyal heart
+would be touched, and "Old Kaintuck" would eventually keep step to the
+music of the Union. Results proved that I was not mistaken, and not many
+weeks<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span> elapsed before Union camps were established within her domain,
+and the broad-shouldered Kentuckians were swearing allegiance to the old
+flag, and, shouldering their muskets, entered into the contest with a
+determination to support the government.</p>
+
+<p>Passing on undisturbed, but everywhere on the alert, and making copious
+notes of everything that transpired, that I considered at all material
+to the furtherance of the loyal cause, I reached Bowling Green.</p>
+
+<p>At this place I found a very decided Union sentiment, the Stars and
+Stripes were floating from the various buildings, and the Union men were
+largely in the majority. There was one great cause for disquietude,
+however, which was very manifest even to a casual observer. Many
+residents of Bowling Green and the vicinity were slave owners, and the
+impression had become general throughout the negro communities that the
+opening of the war naturally and inevitably involved their freedom, an
+opinion, however, without sure foundation, at that time, but which was
+eventually to be justified by subsequent events. The slaves had heard
+their masters discussing the various questions which naturally grew out
+of a conflict of this chance character, and in which it was generally
+admitted, that emancipation must follow the commencement and continuance
+of hostilities between the two sections. It was not surprising
+therefore, that this opinion should spread among the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span> entire colored
+element, or that it should be greedily accepted by these down-trodden
+blacks as the harbinger of a freedom for which they had been praying. In
+conversation with one of the leading men of Bowling Green, I was
+thoroughly impressed with the importance of this phase of circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Allen," said he, "you have no idea of the danger we are
+apprehending from the blacks. We know that the moment that Lincoln sends
+his abolition soldiers among our niggers, they will break out and murder
+all before them. Why, sir," continued he, "we cannot sleep sound at
+nights for fear of the niggers. They think Lincoln is going to set them
+free."</p>
+
+<p>"Why," I interrupted, "what can they know about Lincoln?"</p>
+
+<p>"They know too much about him," he replied; "there has been so much talk
+about this matter all through the State, that the niggers know as much
+about it as we do."</p>
+
+<p>"You should not talk before your niggers; it is not safe, and I never do
+it." As I never owned a negro this was perfectly true.</p>
+
+<p>"I know we should not, but it is too late now; they know as much as we
+do, and too much for our safety or peace of mind. Why, sir, we are
+compelled to mount guard at nights ourselves for mutual protection, and
+though there has been no outbreak as yet, and I believe that this is the
+only thing that keeps them in check."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"It would be a good plan," said I, anxious to preserve my reputation as
+a Southern pro-slavery man, "to take all the men and boys over fifteen
+years of age and sell them South."</p>
+
+<p>"That's the devil of it," he replied, "we cannot do that; it was tried
+only last week, and a nigger that I was offered $1,500 for last year, I
+could not sell at any price."</p>
+
+<p>Already, it seemed, the fruits of the slavery agitation were being made
+apparent. The very institution for which these misguided men were
+periling their lives, and sacrificing their fortunes, was threatened
+with demolition; and the slaves who had so long and so often felt the
+lash of their masters, were now becoming a source of fear to the very
+men who had heretofore held them in such utter subjection.</p>
+
+<p>This state of affairs I found to be prevalent all over the country which
+I visited. Bright visions of freedom danced before the eyes of the
+slaves, and they awaited anxiously the dawning of the day, when the
+coming of the soldiers of the North would strike from their limbs the
+shackles they had worn so long. In the after years of this bloody
+struggle, many deeds of self-sacrifice were performed by these slaves,
+when, resisting the dazzling opportunities to obtain their coveted
+liberty, they cast their lot with the families of their old masters,
+whose male members were fighting to continue their bondage. Many cases
+could be cited where, but for the faithful labors and devotion<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span> of the
+despised slave, the families of many of the proud aristocrats would have
+starved. But the faithful heart of the negro ever beat warmly for those
+whom he had served so long, and disregarding the tempting allurements of
+freedom, he devoted himself to the service and to the maintenance of
+those who had regarded him as so much merchandise, or simply as a beast
+of burden.</p>
+
+<p>At Bowling Green I purchased a splendid bay horse, whose swiftness and
+powers of endurance I felt assured could be relied upon, intending to
+make the rest of my journey on horseback. By this means I would be the
+better able to control my movements than if I were compelled to depend
+upon the railroads for transportation. I would also be enabled to stop
+at any place where I might find the necessity, or a favorable
+opportunity for observation. I had no cause to regret the purchase I had
+made, for right nobly did the spirited animal which I had selected
+perform the arduous duties that were imposed upon him. Day after day he
+would be urged forward, and under his flying feet the distance sped away
+almost imperceptibly, and each morning found my charger rested and
+refreshed, and ready for the day's journey, be the weather fair or foul,
+or the roads easy or rugged.</p>
+
+<p>I reached Nashville, Tennessee, in due season, and resolved to devote
+several days to my investigations. Here the disunion element was more
+united and outspoken,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> but even here, I detected evidences of a Union
+sentiment which was none the less profound, because of the danger which
+its utterances would have incurred. There could be no doubt that this
+State had resolved to cast her fortunes with the confederacy, and the
+rebel General Pillow had been for some time engaged in fortifying the
+city of Memphis. At Nashville I met a number of officers of the rebel
+army, all of whom were full of enthusiasm, and whose bombastic
+utterances in view of the eventual results, seem at this time almost too
+absurd to be repeated. Here also I came in contact with an army surgeon,
+whose head was full of wild <i>Quixotic</i> schemes for destroying the
+Northern armies by other processes than that of legitimate warfare. One
+of his plans I remember was to fill a commissary wagon with whisky, in
+which had been previously mixed a generous quantity of strychnine. The
+wagon was then to be broken and abandoned and left upon the road so as
+to fall into the hands of the Union soldiers. Of course, the liquor
+would be consumed by the finders, and the valiant Doctor, with evident
+satisfaction to himself, but to the equally evident disgust of his
+companions, loudly vaunted his death-dealing and barbarous scheme. This
+brave warrior, however, I learned afterward, had fled in terror at the
+first fire, and was afterwards dishonorably dismissed from the service
+he was so well calculated to disgrace. So far as I was afterward able to
+learn, this grand project<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> for wholesale slaughter, of the valorous
+Doctor, received no sympathy or support from his more honorable
+associates, and the soldiers were enabled to drink their whiskey
+untainted with any other poisonous influences than is naturally a part
+of its composition.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving Nashville, I spurred on in the direction of Memphis, and in due
+time reached the city, which now presented a far different aspect than
+when I visited it only a few years before. Then the country was at
+peace. The war cloud had not burst with all its fury over a happy land,
+and the people were quietly pursuing their avocations. I was engaged in
+a detective operation which required my presence in the city, and had
+been in consultation with some of the express company's officials, for
+whom I was attempting to discover the perpetrators of a robbery of one
+of their safes. Turning a corner I came upon a scene that stirred my
+feelings to the utmost.</p>
+
+<p>It was the market square, and the merchandise disposed of were human
+beings. There was the auction-block and the slave-pen. Men, women and
+children were being knocked down to the highest bidder. Wives were sold
+away from their husbands, and children from their parents. Old and young
+were submitted to the vulgar speculators in flesh and blood, and their
+value was approximated by their apparent age, strength and
+healthfulness. My blood boiled in my veins as I witnessed, for the first
+time,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span> the heart-rendering scenes which I had only heard or read of
+before. The cold cruelty of the buyers and abject misery of the sold,
+filled me with a spirit of opposition to this vile traffic that gave me
+renewed strength to fulfill my duty as an active abolitionist, and to
+labor earnestly in the cause of emancipation. I shall never forget the
+events of that day, and I can recall the feeling of intense satisfaction
+which I experienced on my second visit, when even then, I could see the
+dawning of that liberty for which I had labored, and I knew that the day
+of emancipation could not be far distant. Then the fair fame of
+independent America would no longer be blackened by the pressure of the
+slave or the master, but all men under the protection of the starry
+banner would be free and equal under the law.</p>
+
+<p>Now the streets were filled with soldiers, some of them fully armed and
+equipped, and others provided with but ordinary clothing, and furnished
+with such inefficient arms as they had brought with them from their
+homes. A most motley gathering they were, and their awkward and
+irregular evolutions at this time gave but little promise of the
+splendid army of which they were destined in the near future to form so
+important a part. The work of fortifying the city had been progressing
+in earnest; earthworks had been thrown up all along the banks of the
+Mississippi, and batteries were already in position, whose guns frowned
+threateningly upon the river.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Here to be known or suspected as a Union man was to merit certain death,
+and to advocate any theory of compromise between the two sections was to
+be exiled from the city. Here rebeldom was rampant and defiant, and I
+had some difficulty in evading the suspicions of the watchful and alert
+Southron, who regarded all strange civilians with doubtful scrutiny, and
+whose "committee of safety" were ever on the <i>qui vive</i> to detect those
+whose actions savored in the least of a leaning towards the North.
+Fearlessly, however, I mingled with these men, and as I lost no
+opportunity in pronouncing my views upon the righteousness of the cause
+of secession, and of my belief in its certain triumph, I obtained a
+ready passport to the favor and confidence of the most prominent of
+their leaders. I talked unreservedly with the private soldier and the
+general officer, with the merchant and the citizen, and by all was
+regarded as a stanch Southern man, whose interests and sympathies were
+wedded to rebellion.</p>
+
+<p>General Pillow was in command at this point, and almost every citizen
+was enrolled as a soldier, whose services would be cheerfully and
+promptly rendered whenever the call should be made upon them.</p>
+
+<p>Even this redoubtable chieftain was not proof against my blandishments,
+and he little dreamed when on one occasion he quietly sipped his brandy
+and water with me, that he was giving valuable information to his sworn
+foe, and one to whom every<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span> idea gained was an advantage to the
+government he was attempting to destroy.</p>
+
+<p>It is needless to relate the valuable items of information which I was
+enabled to glean upon this journey&mdash;information which in later days was
+of vast importance to the Union commanders, but which at this time would
+only burden a narrative of the events which they so ably assisted to
+successful results.</p>
+
+<p>Here, as in many other places, I found that my best source of
+information was the colored men, who were employed in various capacities
+of a military nature which entailed hard labor. The slaves, without
+reserve, were sent by their masters to perform the manual labor of
+building earthworks and fortifications, in driving the teams and in
+transporting cannon and ammunition, and, led by my natural and
+deep-seated regard for these sable bondsmen, I mingled freely with them,
+and found them ever ready to answer questions and to furnish me with
+every fact which I desired to possess.</p>
+
+<p>Here and there I found an unassuming white man whose heart was still
+with the cause of the Union, but whose active sympathy could not at this
+time be of service to the country, as he dared not utter a voice in
+defense of his opinions. From all these sources, however, I was
+successful in posting myself fully in regard to the movements and
+intentions of the rebel authorities and officers, and, as I believed,
+had also succeeded in concealing my identity.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 709px;">
+<img src="images/illus009.jpg" width="709" height="375" alt="&quot;Fo&#39; God, Massa Allen, ye&#39;ll be a dead man in de
+mo&#39;nin&#39;!&quot; P. 195." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Fo&#39; God, Massa Allen, ye&#39;ll be a dead man in de
+mo&#39;nin&#39;!&quot; P. 195.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>On the third evening of my sojourn in Memphis, however, my dreams of
+fancied security were suddenly dispelled, and I was brought face to face
+with the reality of danger.</p>
+
+<p>I had retired early to my room, according to my general custom, and had
+scarcely been seated when I was disturbed by a faint but quick and
+distinct knocking at my door. I arose hastily, as it was something
+unusual for me to receive visitors after I had retired, and throwing
+open the door, I was somewhat surprised to see, standing before me, in a
+state of unmistakable excitement, the colored porter of the hotel.</p>
+
+<p>Before I had time to question him, he sprang into the room and closed
+the door behind him. His countenance evinced a degree of terror that
+immediately filled me with alarm. His eyes were fixed wildly upon me,
+his lips were quivering, and his knees trembled under him, as though
+unable to sustain the weight of his body. Indeed, so frightened was he,
+that he appeared to be struggling forcibly to do so.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter, Jem?" I inquired, in as calm a tone as I could
+assume, and with a view of reassuring him. "What has happened to
+frighten you so?"</p>
+
+<p>"'Fore God, Massa Allen," ejaculated the black, succeeding by a great
+effort in finding his voice, "you done can't sleep in this housn
+to-night, ef ye do, ye'll be a dead man before morning."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As may be imagined, this information was not of a very agreeable nature,
+indefinite as it was; I felt assured that my informant could be relied
+on that something had occurred to endanger my safety, and I became
+impatient to learn what he knew.</p>
+
+<p>"Out with it, Jem," said I, "and let me know what it is all about." I
+spoke cheerfully and confidently, and the coolness of my manner had the
+effect of restoring the equilibrium of my sable friend, and, recovering
+himself with an effort, he began to explain:</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you what it is, Massa Allen, and I'se gwan to tell it mighty
+quick. Ye see, de General hab got a lot of spies up de river at Cairo, a
+watching of the Linkum sogers, and one o' dem fellows jes came in as you
+were going up stairs. De berry minit dat he seed you he said to de man
+what was wid him, 'Dat man is 'spicious; I seed him in Cincinnati two
+weeks ago, and he ain't down here for no good,' and he started right off
+for de General, to tell him all about it. I kem right up heah, massa,
+and you must git away as fast as ye can."</p>
+
+<p>This was too important to be ignored. I had no desire to be captured at
+that time, and I had no doubt of the correctness of the porter's story.
+I resolved to act at once upon the suggestion, and to make good my
+escape before it was too late. My admonitory friend was fearfully in
+earnest about getting me away, and he quickly volunteered to procure<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span> my
+horse, which I had quartered in close proximity to the hotel, and to
+furnish me with a guide who would see me safely through the lines and
+outside of the city. Bidding Jem make all possible haste in his
+movements, I gathered together my few belongings, and in a few minutes I
+descended the stairs and made my exit through the rear of the house.
+Through the faithfulness of Jem, and the careful guidance of the
+watchful negro he had provided me with, I was soon riding away from
+threatened danger and ere morning broke I had proceeded far upon my way.
+How much service these faithful blacks had been to me, I did not fully
+learn until some time afterwards, when I was informed by Timothy
+Webster, who arrived in Memphis following my departure, and who thus
+learned the full particulars of the exhausting pursuit of one of
+Lincoln's spies, who had mysteriously disappeared from the chief hotel,
+while a guard was being detailed to effect his arrest.</p>
+
+<p>I met the faithful Jem several years later, when he had worked his way
+as a refugee from his native State and entered the Union lines in
+Virginia, and he was soon afterwards attached to my force, where he
+proved his devotion in a manner that was quite convincing. My faithful
+steed, who had become thoroughly rested after his long journey, bore me
+safely through this danger, and in due time I entered the State of
+Mississippi. Here rebellion and disunion were the order of the day, and
+a widespread determination<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span> existed to fight the cause of the South to
+the bitter end. Stopping one night at Grenada, I pushed on my way to
+Jackson, and here I resolved to remain a day or two, in order to make a
+thorough investigation of the place and its surroundings.</p>
+
+<p>Putting up my horse, I engaged quarters for myself at the principal
+hotel in the city, and feeling very much fatigued with my long journey,
+I retired early to my room and passed a long night in refreshing sleep.</p>
+
+<p>In the morning I arose about five o'clock, as is my general custom. I
+was feeling in excellent health and spirits; my journey had thus far
+been fully as successful as I could have desired; and safely concealed
+about my person I had items of value that would amply repay me for the
+fatigues I had undergone and the dangers I had passed. I had plans of
+the roads, a description of the country, a pretty correct estimate of
+the troops and their various locations and conditions, and altogether I
+felt very well satisfied with myself and with the results of my mission.</p>
+
+<p>As I descended the stairs, I noticed a fine soldierly officer standing
+in the doorway, and after bidding him a hearty good-morning, I invited
+him to accompany me to the saloon of the hotel, where we mutually
+indulged in a decoction as is the universal custom in Southern cities.
+After I had obtained my breakfast, it occurred to me that, before
+attempting any active measures for the day, I owed it to myself to
+procure the services of a barber for a much-needed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> shave. I had been
+traveling for a number of days, and my face had been a stranger to a
+razor for a long time, and I concluded I would be more presentable if I
+consulted a tonsorial artist.</p>
+
+<p>This was an unfortunate idea, and I soon had occasion to regret having
+entertained it for a moment. I would have been far more contented if I
+had bestowed no thoughts upon my grizzled beard, and allowed nature to
+take its course with my hirsute appendage.</p>
+
+<p>Entirely unconscious, however, of what was in store for me, I entered
+the well-fitted saloon of the hotel, and patiently waited my turn to
+submit myself to the deft fingers of the knight of the razor.</p>
+
+<p>In response to the universal and well-understood call of "next!" I took
+my seat in the luxuriously upholstered chair, and in a few minutes my
+face was covered with the foamy lather applied by the dapper little
+German into whose hands I had fallen.</p>
+
+<p>I noticed when I sat down that the man wore a puzzled and speculative
+look, as though he was struggling with some vexing lapse of memory, and
+as he drew the keen edge of the razor across my face, his eyes were
+fixed intensely upon my features. His manner annoyed me considerably,
+and I was at a loss to account for his strange demeanor. Whatever ideas
+I may have entertained with regard to this singular action were,
+however, soon set at rest, only to give place to a feeling of unrestful
+anger.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He had just cleared one side of my face of its stubby growth of hair,
+when a smile irradiated his face, and with a look of self-satisfied
+recognition and pride, he addressed me:</p>
+
+<p>"Vy, how do you do, Mr. Bingerdon?"</p>
+
+<p>Had a thunderbolt fallen at my feet I could not have been more perfectly
+amazed, and for a moment I could scarcely tell whether I was afoot or on
+horseback. I devoutly wished that I was anywhere than with this Dutch
+barber, whose memory was so uncomfortably retentive.</p>
+
+<p>I had been too accustomed to sudden surprises, however, to lose my
+self-control, and I replied to him, with an unmoved face and as stern a
+voice as I could command:</p>
+
+<p>"I am not Mr. Bingerdon, and I don't know the man."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh yes, your name is Bingerdon, and you leev in Geecago."</p>
+
+<p>The face of the German was so good-natured, and he appeared quite
+delighted at recognizing me, but for myself I was feeling very
+uncomfortable indeed. I did not know the man, nor what he knew of me. I
+knew, however, that he was perfectly right about my identity, and I knew
+also that it would be very dangerous for his knowledge to become
+general.</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you I don't know the man you are speaking of," said I, sternly.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 721px;">
+<img src="images/illus010.jpg" width="721" height="375" alt="&quot;If you say another word to me, I&#39;ll whip you on the
+spot.&quot; P. 201." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;If you say another word to me, I&#39;ll whip you on the
+spot.&quot; P. 201.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Oy, Mr. Bingerdon," he replied, in a grieved tone, "I know you well.
+Don't you mind me shaving you in the Sherman House in Geecago, you was a
+customer of mine."</p>
+
+<p>The pertinacity of the man was simply exasperating, and fearing that his
+memory would be likely to get me into trouble, as several people were
+listening to our conversation, I resolved to end the difficulty at once.
+Jerking the towel from around my neck and wiping the lather from the
+unshaved portion of my face, I leapt from the chair, exclaiming angrily:</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you I know nothing of you Mr. Bingerdon, or any other d&mdash;&mdash;d
+Yankee abolitionist, and if you say another word to me upon this
+subject, I'll whip you on the spot!"</p>
+
+<p>The barber presented a most ridiculous appearance; he was utterly
+frightened at my manner, and yet so convinced was he that I was the man
+he took me for, that he appeared more amazed at my denial, than at my
+threats of violence.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, the occupants of the saloon began to crowd around us, and
+several came in from the adjoining rooms. Turning to them with
+well-simulated anger, I told them the story I had invented; I lived near
+Augusta, Georgia; never was in Chicago, did not know Mr. Pinkerton or
+any of his gang. Then I denounced the discomfited barber in round terms,
+and finished by inviting the entire crowd to take a drink with me.</p>
+
+<p>This they all did with alacrity, and by the time<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span> they had drained their
+glasses, every one of the party were strong adherents of mine. We then
+returned to the barber-shop, and so thoroughly was the crowd convinced
+of my truthfulness, that they were eager to punish the innocent occasion
+of my anger. One impetuous individual wanted to hang him on sight, and
+his proposition was received with general favor; but finding I had
+succeeded in evading detection for myself, I interfered in the poor
+fellow's behalf and he was finally let off.</p>
+
+<p>After another drink all round I managed to get away from the party, and
+it was not long before I was upon my horse, and traveling away from the
+possibility of a recurrence of such an accidental discovery. I procured
+a razor and shaving materials, and performed that operation for myself,
+as I did not care to excite curiosity by exhibiting my half-shaved face
+to any more inquisitive barbers.</p>
+
+<p>A few miles outside of the town I sold my horse, and concluding that I
+had obtained as much information as was desirable at that time, and as I
+had already been absent from headquarters longer than I had intended, I
+made my way back to Cincinnati by a circuitous route, and reached there
+in safety, well pleased with my work, and quite rejoiced to find that
+General McClellan was fully satisfied with what I had learned.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn9.jpg" width="448" height="90" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>East and West Virginia.&mdash;Seceding from Secession.&mdash;My Scouts in
+Virginia.&mdash;A Rebel Captain Entertains "My Lord."&mdash;An old Justice Dines
+with Royalty.&mdash;A Lucky Adventure.&mdash;A Runaway Horse.&mdash;A Rescue.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>At this time the condition of affairs in the State of Virginia&mdash;the "Old
+Dominion," as it was generally denominated&mdash;presented a most perplexing
+and vexatious problem. The antagonistic position of the two sections of
+that state demanded early consideration and prompt action on the part of
+the Federal Government, both in protecting the loyal people in the
+Western section, and of preserving their territory to the Union cause.
+Within the borders of this commonwealth there existed two elements,
+directly opposed to each other, and both equally pronounced in the
+declaration of their political opinions. The lines of demarkation
+between these diverse communities were the Allegheny Mountains, which
+extended through the very middle of the state, from north-east to
+south-west, and divided her territory into two divisions, slightly
+unequal in size, but evidently different in topographical features and
+personal characteristics.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>From the nature of its earlier settlement, and by reason of climate,
+soil and situation, Eastern Virginia remained the region of large
+plantations, with a heavy slave population, and of profitable
+agriculture, especially in the production of tobacco. West Virginia, on
+the contrary, having been first settled by hunters, pioneers, lumbermen
+and miners, possessed little in common with her more wealthy and
+aristocratic neighbors beyond the mountains. They made their homes in
+the wilds of the woods, and among the rocky formations, under which was
+hidden the wealth they were seeking to develop, and in time this western
+country became the seat of a busy manufacturing industry, with a
+diversified agriculture for local consumption, while the east was
+largely given up to the production of great staples for export. As a
+natural result, the population and wealth of the eastern portion, which
+was thus made to stand in the relation of a mere tributary province to
+her grasping neighbor, who selfishly absorbed the general taxes for
+local advantage.</p>
+
+<p>The slave interest also entered largely into the creation and
+continuance of this antagonistic feeling. According to a census, which
+had been recently taken, it was ascertained that Eastern Virginia held
+but a few thousands. It was not a matter of surprise, therefore that
+secessionism should be rampant in the east, and that a Union sentiment
+should almost universally prevail in the west. As the institution<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span> of
+slavery was more or less the cause of the war, here, as in other parts
+of the South, secession reared its most formidable front where the slave
+interest predominated, and treason was more alert in the centers of
+accumulated wealth and family pride, whose foundations were laid by the
+suffering and the toil of the African bondsmen. The war had been waged
+to defend the "Divine institution," and it was scarcely to be expected
+that such a cause would be valiantly championed by men whose
+self-reliance and personal independence had endeared to them the rights
+of free and honorable manhood.</p>
+
+<p>When the Convention of Virginia met to consider the question of
+secession, the slave-holding dignitaries were somewhat startled by the
+logical, but novel, declaration of one of the western members, that "the
+right of revolution can be exercised as well by a portion of the
+citizens of a State against their State government, as it can be
+exercised by the whole people of a State against their Federal
+Government." This was followed by another, more pointed and
+revolutionary, "that any change in the relation Virginia now sustains to
+the Federal Government, against the wishes of even a respectable
+minority of her people, would be sufficient to justify them in changing
+their relation to the State government by separating themselves from
+that section of the State that had thus wantonly disregarded their
+interests and defied their will."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The convention, however, denying the pertinency of this logic, passed
+its secret ordinance of secession on the 17th day of April, and within a
+week popular movements were on foot in the various towns and counties of
+Western Virginia, to effect a division of the State. The people united
+in a unanimous protest against the efforts of the slave-holding
+aristocrats to carry them into a cotton confederacy, and a determination
+to "secede from secession," was manifested everywhere. The loyal
+determination was rapidly followed by popular organization, an appeal
+for assistance was made to the government at Washington, who promised
+them countenance and support, and on the 13th day of May, delegates from
+twenty-five counties of West Virginia met at Wheeling, to devise such
+action as would enable them to fully and finally repudiate the
+treasonable revolt of East Virginia.</p>
+
+<p>Many circumstances favored their position. The state of Ohio,
+immediately adjoining, was organizing her military force of volunteers,
+and Western Virginia was, not long after, attached to the department of
+the Ohio under command of General McClellan. The blockade of Washington,
+and other events, had operated to keep the Western troops on the Ohio
+line, and the Unionists of West Virginia found a protecting military
+force at once in their immediate vicinity, with a commanding officer who
+was instructed to give them every encouragement and support.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, Governor Letcher, of Virginia, ignoring<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span> the attitude assumed
+by the people of the West, had issued his proclamation calling for the
+organization of the state militia, and including Western Virginia in the
+call. Prompted by a spirit of arrogance or over-confidence, he at an
+early day dispatched officers to that locality to collect and organize
+the militia of Western Virginia. Owing to the sparsity of the
+population, and the hilly and mountainous situation of the country,
+there were but two principal localities or lines of travel, where a
+concentration of forces could be best effected&mdash;one of these being the
+line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and the other the valley of the
+Great Kanawha river. In these districts Governor Letcher sent his
+recruiting agents, but they soon returned reports of a very discouraging
+character. The rebel emissaries found the feeling very bitter: that
+Union organizations existed in most of the counties, and that while
+fragments of rebel companies were here and there springing up, it was
+very evident that no local force sufficient to hold the country, would
+respond to the Confederate appeal, while the close proximity of Union
+forces at several points along the Ohio, pointed to a short tenure of
+Confederate authority.</p>
+
+<p>This information was not at all cheering to the rebel Governor of the
+State, and he determined to maintain his authority in the disaffected
+districts with armed forces from the eastern portion of the State. To
+accomplish this, he detailed a few available companies<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span> from Staunton to
+march toward Beverly, from which point they could menace and overawe the
+town of Grafton, the junction of the main stem of the Baltimore and Ohio
+Railroad, with its branches extending to Parkersburg and Wheeling. The
+inhabitants showed more alacrity, however, to take up arms for the
+government than for Governor Letcher or General Lee. A Union Western
+Virginia regiment, under the command of Colonel Kelley, began to gather
+recruits rapidly at Wheeling, while the rebel camps between Beverly and
+Grafton were comparatively deserted, and Colonel Porterfield, who had
+been sent under orders of Governor Letcher, found his efforts at
+recruiting decidedly unsuccessful.</p>
+
+<p>On the 23rd day of May the State voted upon the ordinance of secession,
+and East Virginia, under complete military domination, accepted the
+ordinance, while West Virginia, comparatively free, voted to reject the
+idea of secession.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after the result was ascertained, the rebel troops became
+aggressive, and Colonel Porterfield dispatched several of his companies
+to burn the bridge on the Baltimore &amp; Ohio Railroad.</p>
+
+<p>The appearance of these troops was quickly brought to the notice of the
+Federal authorities at Washington. On the 24th day of May the Secretary
+of War and General Scott telegraphed this information to General
+McClellan, and inquired "whether its influence could not be
+counteracted." General McClellan<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span> at once replied in the affirmative,
+and this was the sole order he received from Washington regarding a
+campaign in Virginia.</p>
+
+<p>On the 26th, the General ordered two regiments to cross the river at
+Wheeling, and two others at Parkersburg. They were to move forward
+simultaneously by the branch railroads from each of these points to
+their junction at Grafton. The burnt bridges were restored in their
+passage, and after a most brilliant strategic movement, Porterfield was
+completely surprised, and the rebels were forced to disperse, in utter
+rout and confusion.</p>
+
+<p>This complete success of the first dash at the enemy had the most
+inspiriting effect upon the Union troops, and also encouraged and
+fortified the Western Virginia unionists, in their determination to
+break away from the East and to form a new State. This movement was
+successfully accomplished, and early in July they elected two United
+States senators, who were admitted to, and took part in the national
+legislature.</p>
+
+<p>Governor Pierpont, who was head of this provisional State government,
+organized at Wheeling, made a formal application to the United States
+for aid to suppress the rebellion and protect the people against
+domestic violence. General McClellan, in furtherance of this object,
+ordered additional forces into the State from his department.</p>
+
+<p>In order to act intelligently in the matter, it was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span> necessary that some
+definite information should be derived respecting the country which was
+now to be protected, and from which it was necessary the invading rebels
+should be driven. For this purpose the General desired that I should
+dispatch several of my men, who, by assuming various and unsuspicious
+characters, would be able to travel over the country, obtain a correct
+idea of its topography, ascertain the exact position and designs of the
+secessionists.</p>
+
+<p>For this duty I selected a man named Price Lewis, who had just returned
+from a trip to the South, and whom I had reason to be satisfied was
+equal to the task. I resolved, therefore, that he should be one of the
+party to make this journey, together with several others who were
+delegated for the same purpose. In order to afford variety to the
+professions of my operatives, and because of his fitness for the
+character, I decided that Price Lewis should represent himself as an
+Englishman traveling for pleasure, believing that he would thus escape a
+close scrutiny or a rigid examination, should he, by any accident, fall
+into the hands of the rebels.</p>
+
+<p>Procuring a comfortable-looking road-wagon and a pair of strong gray
+horses, which were both substantial-looking and good roadsters, I
+stocked the vehicle with such articles of necessity and luxury as would
+enable them to subsist themselves if necessary, and at the same time
+give the appearance of truth to such professions as the sight-seeing
+Englishman<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span> might feel authorized to make. I provided him also with a
+number of English certificates of various kinds, and I also supplied him
+with English money which could be readily exchanged for such currency
+that would best suit his purposes in the several localities which he
+would be required to visit.</p>
+
+<p>Lewis wore a full beard, and this was trimmed in the most approved
+English fashion, and when fully equipped for his journey he presented
+the appearance of a thorough well-to-do Englishman, who might even be
+suspected of having "blue blood" in his veins. In order that he might
+the more fully sustain the new character he was about to assume, and to
+give an added dignity to his position, I concluded to send with him a
+member of my force who would act in the capacity of coachman, groom and
+body servant, as occasion should demand. The man whom I selected for
+this role was a jolly, good-natured, and fearless Yankee named Samuel
+Bridgeman, a quick, sharp-witted young man, who had been in my
+employment some time, and who had on several occasions proved himself
+worthy of trust and confidence in matters that required tact as well as
+boldness, and good sense as well as keen wit.</p>
+
+<p>Calling Sam into my office, I explained to him fully the nature of the
+duties he would be required to perform, and when I had concluded I saw
+by the merry twinkle in his eyes, and from the readiness with which he
+caught at my suggestions, that he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span> thoroughly understood and had decided
+to carry out his part of the programme to the very letter.</p>
+
+<p>In addition to these, I arranged a route for two other men of my force.
+They were to travel through the valley of the Great Kanawha river, and
+to observe carefully everything that came under their notice, which
+might be of importance in perfecting a military campaign, in case the
+rebels should attempt hostile measures, or that General McClellan might
+find it necessary to promptly clear that portion of Virginia from the
+presence of secession troops. These two men were to travel ostensibly as
+farm laborers, and their verdant appearance was made to fully conform to
+such avocations.</p>
+
+<p>Everything being in readiness, the two parties were started, and we will
+follow their movements separately, as they were to travel by different
+routes.</p>
+
+<p>Price Lewis, the pseudo Englishman, and Sam Bridgeman, who made quite a
+smart-looking valet in his new costume, transferred their horses, wagon
+and stores on board the trim little steamer "Cricket," at Cincinnati,
+intending to travel along the Ohio River, and effect a landing at
+Guyandotte, in Western Virginia, at which point they were to disembark
+and pursue their journey overland through the country.</p>
+
+<p>I accompanied Lewis to the wharf, and after everything had been
+satisfactorily arranged, I bade him good-bye, and the little steamer
+sailed away up the river.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>There were the usual number of miscellaneous passengers upon the boat,
+and added to these were a number of Union officers, who had been
+dispatched upon various missions throughout that portion of the State of
+Ohio. These men left the steamer as their points of destination were
+reached, and after they had departed, several of the passengers who had
+hitherto remained silent, became very talkative. They began in a
+cautious manner to express their opinions, with a view of eliciting some
+knowledge of the sympathies of their fellow-travelers in the important
+struggle that was now impending. Lewis had maintained a quiet, dignified
+reserve, which, while it did not forbid any friendly approaches from his
+fellow-passengers, at the same time rendered them more respectful, and
+prevented undue familiarity. Sam Bridgeman contributed materially to
+this result; his deference to "my lord" was very natural, and the
+respect with which he received his commands convinced the passengers at
+once that the English-looking gentleman was a man of some importance.</p>
+
+<p>The passengers all appeared to be Union men, and while they expressed
+their regrets that the war had commenced, they regarded their separation
+from Eastern Virginia, with undisguised satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>At midnight, on the second evening, the boat landed at Guyandotte, and
+Samuel, with a great deal of importance, attended to the transfer of his
+master and the equipage from the boat to the wharf. Here they<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span> found a
+number of men in uniform, who were ascertained to be representatives of
+the "Home Guard," and in a few minutes Bridgeman had secured the
+services of two of them, to assist him in safely landing their effects.
+This being satisfactorily accomplished, he, apparently in a sly manner,
+treated them to a drop of good whisky, which formed part of the stores
+they had been provided with. Stopping at the hotel over night, they
+continued their journey on the following morning. They drove leisurely
+along, and at about ten o'clock they stopped at a farm-house to rest
+their horses. They remained here until nearly three o'clock in the
+afternoon, conversing with the old farmer, who seemed to be much pained
+at the condition of affairs, but who had two sons who had joined the
+rebel army. They renewed their journey in the afternoon, and in about
+two hours reached the little village of Colemouth, where there was a
+rebel encampment. On passing this they were halted by the guard, who
+inquired their business and destination. Lewis told him he was an
+Englishman, accompanied only by his servant, and that he was traveling
+through the country for pleasure. The guard informed them that he could
+not let them pass, and asked Lewis to go with him to the Captain's
+headquarters, which was located in a large stone house, a few hundred
+yards distant. My operative willingly consented, and leaving Sam in
+charge of his carriage, he accompanied the soldier to the officer's
+quarters. He was ushered into a large and well-furnished apartment on
+the second floor, and in a few minutes the Captain came in.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 723px;">
+<img src="images/illus011.jpg" width="723" height="375" alt="An English Lord and a Rebel Captain. P. 215." title="" />
+<span class="caption">An English Lord and a Rebel Captain. P. 215.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He greeted my operative pleasantly, and informed him that he regretted
+the necessity of detaining him, but orders had to be obeyed. Lewis
+related in substance what he had already stated to the guard, which
+statement the Captain unhesitatingly received, and after a pleasant
+conversation, he invited the detective to accept the hospitality of the
+camp.</p>
+
+<p>An English gentleman traveling for pleasure was not to be treated with
+discourtesy, and upon Lewis' accepting of his invitation, a soldier was
+dispatched to bring the horses and carriage and their impatient driver
+into camp.</p>
+
+<p>Supper was ordered, and in a short time the Captain and his guest were
+discussing a repast which was far more appetizing than soldiers' fare
+usually is. During the meal Sam stood behind the chair of Lewis, and
+awaited upon him in the most approved fashion, replying invariably with
+a deferential,</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>After full justice had been done to the repast, Price directed Bridgeman
+to bring in from the carriage a couple of bottles of champagne, and by
+the time the hour of retiring had arrived the detective had succeeded in
+impressing his entertainer with a very exalted opinion of his rank and
+standing when at home.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Lewis, being an Englishman by birth, was very well posted about English
+affairs, and he entertained his host with several very well invented
+anecdotes of the Crimea, in which he was supposed to have taken an
+active part, and his intimacy with Lord Raglan, the commander of the
+British army, gained for him the unbounded admiration and respect of the
+doughty Captain.</p>
+
+<p>From this officer Lewis learned that there were a number of troops in
+Charleston, but a few miles distant, and that General Wise, who was then
+in command, had arrived there that day.</p>
+
+<p>After a refreshing sleep and a bounteous breakfast, Lewis informed the
+Captain that he would continue his journey toward Charleston, and
+endeavor to obtain an interview with General Wise. The Captain cordially
+recommended him to do so, and furnished him with passports which would
+carry him without question or delay upon the road. As they were about
+taking their leave the Captain put into Lewis' hands an unsealed letter,
+at the same time remarking with great earnestness:</p>
+
+<p>"My lord, I beg of you to accept the inclosed letter of introduction to
+General Wise; as I am personally acquainted with him, this letter may be
+of some service to you, and I should be only too happy if it will be
+so."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," replied Lewis, "but you have been far too kind already, and
+believe me I shall<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span> always recall my entertainment at your hands with
+pleasure."</p>
+
+<p>The valiant Captain was not aware that he had been furnishing very
+valuable information to his gentlemanly visitor, and that while he was
+unsuspectingly answering his well-directed questions, his servant, the
+quiet Sam Bridgeman, was unobservedly making notes of all that he heard
+in relation to the situation of affairs and with regard to the probable
+movements of the rebel troops.</p>
+
+<p>A rather ridiculous incident occurred to our two travelers after leaving
+the camp. They had proceeded but a short distance upon their way, when
+one of the horses they were driving cast a shoe, which made it necessary
+for them to stop at a little village and secure the services of a
+blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>Driving up to the hotel, Lewis alighted from the wagon, while Bridgeman
+drove to the blacksmith-shop in order to have his horse attended to. As
+Lewis ascended the steps of the hotel he noticed a tall, rather
+commanding-looking gentleman seated upon the porch, who was evidently
+scrutinizing his appearance, very carefully. The stranger was a man
+about sixty years of age, but remarkably well preserved, and the lines
+on his face scarcely gave but little indication of his years. There was
+an air of seeming importance about him which impressed Lewis with the
+fact that he must be one of the dignitaries<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span> of the place, and as he
+approached him he very politely raised his hat and saluted him.</p>
+
+<p>The old gentleman returned the salutation with an inquiring gaze, and
+Lewis, in order to pave the way to his acquaintance, invited him to
+partake of a drink, which was cordially accepted. In a few minutes,
+under its influence, the two men were conversing with all the freedom of
+old friends.</p>
+
+<p>Lewis ascertained that his companion was a justice of the peace, an
+office of some importance in that locality, and that the old gentleman
+was disposed to give to his judicial position all the dignity which a
+personal appreciation of his standing demanded. In a quiet manner, Lewis
+at once gave the justice to understand his appreciating the honor he had
+received in meeting him, and by a few well-administered flatteries,
+succeeded in completely winning the kind regards of the old gentleman.
+Their pleasant conversation was progressing with very favorable success,
+when Sam Bridgeman drove up with the team, having succeeded in finding a
+smithy and in having the lost shoe replaced.</p>
+
+<p>With a deferential, semi-military salute, he addressed Lewis:</p>
+
+<p>"We are all ready, my lord." At the mention of the title the old fellow
+jumped to his feet in blank amazement, and in the most obsequious
+manner, and with an air of humility, that, compared with his bombastic
+tone of a few moments before, was perfectly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span> ridiculous. Jerking off his
+hat and placing it under his left arm, he advanced, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"If my lord would do me the honor to accept my poor hospitality, I would
+only be too happy to have the pleasure of his company for dinner; my
+house is only a short distance off, on the road to Charleston, and will
+detain you no longer than to rest and feed your horses, and partake of a
+true Southern meal."</p>
+
+<p>Lewis hesitated a moment, and then remembering that he had represented
+himself as traveling purely for pleasure, he did not see how he could
+avoid accepting his kind invitation.</p>
+
+<p>"I have heard, sir, of the hospitable character of the Southern
+gentlemen, and I assure you I shall be most happy to avail myself of
+your kindness."</p>
+
+<p>The old Justice could not conceal his pleasure at the prospect of
+entertaining a "live lord" in his own house, and with evident delight he
+accepted a seat in Lewis' carriage. He directed the way to his dwelling,
+which stood back from the road, surrounded by a grove of lofty pines,
+and then invited his guest within; intrusting the care of the team to
+the care of Sam and one of the servants, they entered the house, and
+were soon engaged in discussing the situation of affairs, both North and
+South. Lewis informed the old Justice that his name was Henry Tracy, of
+Oxford, England, and that his object was to reach Charleston, but that
+he was not aware that the country was so unsettled,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span> or he would not
+have ventured on this trip. He then related his adventure of the day
+before, and commented favorably on the gentlemanly bearing of the
+Captain, and the manner in which he had been treated. They indulged in
+pleasant conversation, on various topics, until dinner was announced.</p>
+
+<p>When they had done justice to an excellent repast, they repaired to a
+shaded porch in the rear of the house, and Lewis instructed Sam to bring
+out a bottle of champagne and a bottle of brandy. These, as already
+intimated, had been labeled with foreign wrappers, so that the deception
+was complete. The brandy was a very ordinary article, and the wine of an
+inferior quality, but the old gentlemen went into ecstasies over it, and
+under its mellowing influence, he became familiar and confidential, and
+gave to my shrewd operative much valuable information. Finally the
+justice grew profusely demonstrative, and leaning across the table, he
+said:</p>
+
+<p>"My lord, I have never tasted such brandy as you carry in all my life, I
+have a couple of warm friends outside whom I have taken the liberty to
+send for, and whom I know will be delighted to see you, and still more
+pleased to taste this excellent liquor."</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly," replied Lewis, "bring them in; I shall be happy to meet
+them."</p>
+
+<p>Lewis supposed, of course, that the two men whom he had referred were
+planters and neighbors, but imagine his surprise when the justice
+returned,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span> accompanied by the blacksmith and cobbler of the village.</p>
+
+<p>After being introduced to "my Lord Tracy," Lewis invited them to take a
+glass with them, and with evident pleasure, yet with visible
+embarrassment, they accepted the invitation and seated themselves at the
+table.</p>
+
+<p>It was now that the old gentleman grew loquacious; he was loud and
+profuse in his praises of the brandy; he asserted again and again, that
+it had never been his good fortune to taste such liquor, in which
+encomiums the blacksmith and cobbler heartily joined. As the afternoon
+wore away, and the present supply was exhausted, Sam was dispatched
+after another bottle, and the social meeting continued until evening.
+Lewis was careful as to the amount he drank, and intensely enjoyed the
+whole affair. The idea of the blacksmith and cobbler hobnobbing with an
+English lord, struck him as being so ridiculously funny, that he laughed
+again and again at the absurdity of the situation. Often during the
+evening he laughed immoderately, at what they supposed their own jokes
+and wit, when he was really thinking of the ridiculous comedy in which
+he was playing the leading part. When the hour for retiring arrived, the
+old man begged as a special favor that he would be allowed to keep one
+of the empty bottles, as a memento of the occasion of his lordship's
+dining with him, and to remind him of the pleasure he had enjoyed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span> of
+drinking some rare old imported brandy (made in Cincinnati). The
+blacksmith and cobbler also looked so longingly at the empty bottles
+before them, that Lewis could scarcely refrain from laughing heartily,
+as he graciously complied with their request for a souvenir of the
+occasion. The evident satisfaction with which they appropriated a bottle
+apiece, as they started for home, and their hearty thanks as they bid
+him good-night, was heartily echoed by the old justice, who carefully
+laid his bottle away as a sacred relic of a never-to-be-forgotten event.</p>
+
+<p>While the party were enjoying themselves on the porch, Sam Bridgeman had
+been using his time well among the servants, and had gleaned much
+valuable information from them. They remained over night with the old
+gentleman, and on the following morning, after bidding him a kind
+farewell, they started on their journey. Lewis did not forget, however,
+before leaving, to take a parting glass with his host, who seemed very
+reluctant to have them depart. They continued on their way towards
+Charleston, traveling but slowly, as the roads were heavy from the
+recent rains. About noon they arrived at a farm-house, to which they had
+been recommended by their host of the night before. Here they stopped
+for dinner, and after refreshing themselves, they again went on. The
+afternoon was warm and pleasant, and their journey lay through a
+beautiful stretch of country. Driving quietly along, they beguiled the
+time admiring<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span> the beautiful scenery spread before them, and in pleasant
+converse. Their enjoyment was, however, suddenly interrupted by the
+sound of loud voices and the clattering of horses' hoofs immediately
+behind him. Quickly turning around, the cause of this unusual excitement
+was at once apparent. A fine black horse, covered with foam, was tearing
+down the turnpike at break-neck speed, and evidently running away. Upon
+his back was seated a young lady, who bravely held her seat, and who was
+vainly attempting to restrain the unmanageable animal. Some distance
+behind were a party of ladies and gentlemen on horseback, all spurring
+their horses to the utmost, as if with the intention of overtaking the
+flying steed in front of them. Intense fear was depicted upon the
+countenances of those in the rear, and not without reason, for the
+situation of the young lady was dangerous indeed.</p>
+
+<p>Quick as a flash, my operatives realized the situation of affairs, and
+the necessity for prompt action. Without uttering a word, Sam Bridgeman
+turned his horses directly across the road, intending by that means to
+stop the mad course of the fiery charger approaching them. As he did so,
+Lewis sprang from the wagon, and with the utmost coolness advanced to
+meet the approaching horse. On came the frightened animal at a speed
+that threatened every moment to hurl the brave girl from her seat, until
+he approached nearly to the point at which my operatives had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span> stationed
+themselves, and then, evidently perceiving the obstructions in his path,
+he momentarily slackened pace. In that instant Lewis sprang forward, and
+grasping the bridle firmly with a strong hand, he forced the frightened
+animal back upon his haunches. The danger was passed. The horse, feeling
+the iron grip upon the bridle, and recognizing the voice of authority,
+stood still and trembling in every joint, his reeking sides heaving, and
+his eyes flashing fire. The young lady, with a sudden revulsion of
+feeling, fell back in the saddle, and would have fallen but that Sam
+Bridgeman, hastening to the relief of his companion, was fortunately in
+time to catch the fainting figure in his arms. Extricating her quickly
+from the saddle, he set her gently on the ground, and as he did so the
+fair head fell forward on his shoulder, and she lost consciousness.</p>
+
+<p>By this time Lewis had succeeded in quieting the excited animal, and had
+fastened him to a tree by the wayside, and as he turned to the
+assistance of Bridgeman, the companions of the unconscious girl rode up.
+Hastily dismounting, they rushed to her aid, and in a few minutes, under
+their ministrations, the dark eyes were opened, and the girl gazed
+wonderingly around.</p>
+
+<p>After being assisted to her feet, she gratefully expressed her
+thankfulness to the men who had probably saved her life, in which she
+was warmly joined by the remainder of the party.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Sam Bridgeman received these grateful expressions with an air of modest
+confusion, which was indeed laughable, and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"It ain't no use thanking me, Miss, it was my lord here, that stopped
+the animal."</p>
+
+<p>At the words "my lord," a look of curiosity came over the faces of the
+new-comers, and Lewis stepped gracefully forward and introduced himself.</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad, ladies and gentlemen, to have been of service to this young
+lady, and permit me to introduce myself as Henry Tracy, of Oxford,
+England, now traveling in America."</p>
+
+<p>The three gentlemen who were of the riding party grasped the hand of
+their new-made English acquaintance, and in a few words introduced him
+to the ladies who accompanied them, all of whom were seemingly delighted
+to make the acquaintance of a gentleman who had been addressed by his
+servant as "my lord."</p>
+
+<p>This adventure proved to be a most fortunate one for my two operatives.
+The gentlemen, upon introducing themselves, were discovered to be
+connected with the rebel army, and to be recruiting officers sent by
+Governor Letcher to organize such rebel volunteers as were to be
+gathered in Western Virginia. By them Lewis was cordially invited to
+join their company to Charleston, which he as cordially accepted.
+Suggesting that as the young lady, who had scarcely recovered from the
+accident, might not feel able to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span> ride her horse into town, he politely
+offered her a seat in his carriage, which offer was gratefully accepted,
+and attaching the runaway horse to the rear of the vehicle, the party
+proceeded on their way to Charleston, at which point they arrived
+without further event or accident.</p>
+
+<p>The young lady whom Lewis had so providentially rescued was the only
+daughter of Judge Beveridge, one of the wealthiest and most influential
+men in the State, and upon conducting her to her home, the detective was
+received with the warmest emotions by the overjoyed father. Lewis was
+pressed to make the house of the Judge his home during his stay, but
+gratefully declining the invitation, he took up his quarters at the
+hotel, where he could more readily extend his acquaintance, and where
+his movements would be more free.</p>
+
+<p>The young officers whom he had met upon the road had their quarters at
+the hotel at which Lewis had stopped, and under their friendly guidance
+no one thought of questioning his truthfulness, or impeaching his
+professions.</p>
+
+<p>By this means he was enabled to acquire a wonderful amount of
+information, both of value and importance to the cause of the North, all
+of which was duly reported to me at headquarters, and by me communicated
+directly to General McClellan.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn11.jpg" width="448" height="121" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Rebels Attempt to Occupy West Virginia.&mdash;General McClellan Ordered
+to Drive them Out.&mdash;Early Battle.&mdash;The Federals Victorious.&mdash;West
+Virginia Freed from Rebel Soldiers.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Recognizing the importance of holding West Virginia, and of preventing
+the Union forces from penetrating through the mountains in the direction
+of Staunton, the rebel authorities had sent two new commanders into that
+region. Ex-Governor Wise was dispatched to the Kanawha Valley, and
+General Garnett, formerly a Major in the Federal army, was sent to
+Beverly to attempt to gather up and reorganize the remnants of Colonel
+Porterfield's scattered command, and to adopt immediate measures to
+reinforce them.</p>
+
+<p>General Wise having been assigned to the Kanawha Valley, was expected to
+arrive at Charleston on the day following the appearance of my
+operatives, and the city was in a state of subdued excitement in
+anticipation of his coming.</p>
+
+<p>In the evening, Lewis, in company with the officers whom he had met in
+the morning, proceeded to the residence of Judge Beveridge, where he was
+cordially received<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span> by that gentleman and his charming daughter, who had
+now thoroughly recovered from the effects of her dangerous ride. With
+rare grace she greeted my operative, and her expressions of thankfulness
+were couched in such delicate language, that the pretended Englishman
+felt a strange fluttering in his breast, which was as novel to him as it
+was delicious. He passed a very delightful evening, and by his knowledge
+of English affairs, and his unqualified approval of the cause of the
+South, added to the fact that he was believed to be a gentleman of rank
+and fortune, he succeeded in materially increasing the high opinion
+which had previously been entertained regarding him.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning General Wise arrived, and his appearance was hailed
+with delight by the disunion element of the city, while those whose
+sympathies were with the North looked with apprehension and disfavor
+upon the demonstrations that were being made in his honor.</p>
+
+<p>At the first opportune moment, Price Lewis, with the assistance of his
+new-found friends, the rebel officers, succeeded in obtaining an
+introduction to the ancient-looking individual whose career had been
+marked by such exciting events, and who was so prominent a figure in the
+tragedy that was now being enacted. He was a small, intelligent-looking
+man, whose age appeared to be nearly seventy years, and whose emaciated
+appearance gave every token that he had not long to live. His eyes shone
+with the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span> brilliancy of youth, and the fires of ambition seemed to be
+burning brightly in his breast. Perhaps no other man in the South had
+contributed in so great a degree to hasten the folly of secession, and
+certainly none rejoiced more heartily at its final realization.</p>
+
+<p>By his eloquence, and the magnetic power of his presence, he had led the
+ignorant classes of the State to firm belief in the justice of his
+cause, and by his teachings he had imbued them with a firm conviction
+that they were acting for their own best interests, and for the
+furtherance of the Southern supremacy and success.</p>
+
+<p>Stern and determined, he allowed nothing to stand between him and the
+accomplishment of his purposes. But a few months before, he had ordered
+the execution of John Brown, who, with a mere handful of men, had
+attempted to strike a blow in behalf of the slave. This ardent
+abolitionist attacked and captured Harper's Ferry, a government arsenal,
+by overpowering the men who were stationed at that place, but the
+authorities had been called upon, and then, yielding to superior
+numbers, he was compelled to surrender. In this encounter the majority
+of his men were slain, and John Brown, with six of his associates, was
+taken prisoner. This occurred on the 16th day of October, 1859, and on
+the 22d day of December, after a hurried trial, the prisoners were
+ordered by Governor Wise to be publicly hanged. The sentence was duly
+carried into effect, and the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span> action of John Brown was used by the
+secession advocates to inflame the minds of the Southern people against
+the North. Now that secession had become an established fact, it was a
+matter of question whether the leaders of the Southern cause would not,
+in the end, strike a far more forcible blow in favor of the emancipation
+of the slave, than did the impetuous old man who gave up his life at the
+behest of the Southern leaders.</p>
+
+<p>The General had been previously informed of the presence of Lewis in the
+hotel, and of his adventure on the day previous, consequently, when he
+was presented to the new commander, he was received with warm
+cordiality. The General inquired particularly into his history, and his
+present movements, all of which were replied to by Lewis in a dignified
+and satisfactory manner. Under the influence of Lewis' good-nature the
+General became social and familiar, and invited him to dine with him in
+his apartments.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving no opportunity that offered, the detective took advantage of
+every available suggestion, and the result was he became fully posted
+upon everything that was of importance, and was enabled to render such
+an account of his labors as was satisfactory in the extreme. Sam
+Bridgeman, too, had not been idle, but mingling freely with the
+soldiers, he had succeeded in learning much of the conditions of the
+country that was of immense advantage in the after events of the
+campaign in Western Virginia.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>They remained in Charleston about eight days, and then, taking leave of
+the many friends they had made, they made their way safely back to
+Cincinnati and reported. The other two men whom I had dispatched upon
+the same mission traveled by rail across the State of Ohio and reached
+the West Virginia line at Point Pleasant. Here they began their
+investigations, and passing unquestioned they roamed through the
+country, passing eastward as far as Lynchburg. Thence, they made a
+detour to the South, and journeyed as far as Chattanooga and Nashville,
+in Tennessee, and thence to Louisville, Ky. Throughout their entire
+pilgrimage they were ever on the alert to acquire knowledge, and the
+immense amount of information which they gathered would only prove
+tedious to both myself and the reader. It is enough to say that they
+performed their duty in a manner creditable to themselves and valuable
+to the cause they represented, and I will simply summarize the
+situation.</p>
+
+<p>General Garnett had posted himself in the pass at Laurel Hill, with an
+additional force at Beverly, while another detachment, under Col.
+Pegram, had established himself in the pass at Rich Mountain. Here he
+had intended to fortify himself and to await a favorable opportunity for
+breaking the railroad. He found affairs upon his arrival in a miserable
+condition; the troops were disorganized and without discipline, arms or
+ammunition, and General Lee immediately sent him re-enforcements.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>This was the condition of affairs, when, early in July, General
+McClellan resolved to take the offensive and drive the rebels from West
+Virginia. In this campaign he received material aid and assistance from
+that brave officer General Rosecrans, who by superhuman exertions
+penetrated the pathless forest cutting and climbing his way to the very
+crest of Rich Mountain.</p>
+
+<p>This movement, difficult as it was, to the South of the rebels, was a
+complete surprise to the enemy, who was expecting their arrival from the
+North.</p>
+
+<p>They made a gallant resistance, however, but the Union forces had such
+an advantage that the contest was quickly decided. The rebel forces were
+driven from their breast-works and were compelled to take refuge in
+thickets or the mountains. Their confusion was deplorable, and their
+defeat unmistakable.</p>
+
+<p>This victory placed the enemy in a very precarious position. McClellan
+was in his front and Rosecrans in secure possession of the road behind
+him, and Pegram, realizing the danger that threatened him, returned to
+his camp and, hastily spiking his guns, he abandoned all his stores and
+equipments, and endeavored to escape by marching northward along the
+mountain, intending, if possible, to join Garnett at Laurel Hill.</p>
+
+<p>For the time being, he was successful in eluding the Federal commanders,
+and after a most laborious march of eighteen hours, found himself within
+three<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span> miles of Leedsville. Here he was doomed to disappointment, for he
+learned that Garnett had also retreated, and that a strong Union column
+was in close pursuit. Thus he was again caught between two Union armies,
+and despairing of effecting his escape, he sent a proposal to General
+McClellan, offering a total surrender of his command. The Union General
+accepted the proposition, and on the following day the half-famished
+rebel fugitives laid down their arms and became prisoners of war, only
+too glad to receive once more comfortable quarters and hunger-appeasing
+rations.</p>
+
+<p>The fugitives who had escaped from the battle of Rich Mountain carried
+the news of that disaster to Beverly, and to General Garnett, at Laurel
+Hill, and an immediate retreat was ordered. But he was closely pressed
+by the advancing Union armies, and when General Garnett reached
+Leedsville, he heard that General McClellan was at Beverly, thus cutting
+off effectually his further passage southward. He now resolved upon the
+desperate attempt of turning to the North and reaching St. George and
+West Union by a rough and difficult mountain road, during which his
+troops naturally became very much scattered and disorganized. Although
+he was nearly fifteen hours in advance of his pursuers, they gained
+rapidly upon him, and notwithstanding every effort was made by the
+rebels to impede his progress by felling trees in the narrow mountain
+defiles, the Union advance<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span> overtook the rebel wagon-train at Carrick's
+Ford, one of the crossings of Cheat River, about twenty-six miles
+north-west of Laurel Hill. Here Garnett resolved to risk an encounter,
+and facing about his troops, he took a position on a favorable and
+precipitous elevation on the river bank, and planting his guns so as to
+command the ford and the approaching road, he prepared to defend his
+retreat. A brisk engagement at once ensued, and after a sharp contest
+the rebel lines broke and fled, abandoning one of their guns.</p>
+
+<p>Retreat and pursuit were once more commenced, and at the next ford, a
+quarter of a mile further on, during a desultory skirmish fire between
+small parties of sharpshooters, General Garnett was killed. Here the
+Federal pursuit was discontinued, and the rebels left in the hands of
+the victors their entire baggage train, one gun, two stands of colors
+and fifty prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>Estimated according to mere numbers, these battles of Rich Mountain and
+Carrick's Ford appear somewhat insignificant in contrast with the great
+battles of the rebellion, which occurred during the succeeding three
+years. Hundreds of engagements of greater magnitude, and attended with
+much more serious loss of life, followed these encounters, and decided
+the mighty problem of Northern success, but this early skirmish with the
+rebels on Rich Mountain, and this rout of Garnett's rear-guard at
+Carrick's Ford, were<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> speedily followed by great political and military
+results, which exercised a powerful influence upon the after-conduct of
+the war. They closed a campaign, dispersed a rebel army, which had for a
+long time been harassing a State whose sympathies were with the Union,
+and they permanently pushed back the military frontier to the borders of
+rebellious territory. Now, is it too much to say that the brilliant
+success which attended this first aggressive movement of General
+McClellan had a marked effect upon the public mind? That they gave a
+general impression of his military skill is not to be doubted, and he
+was from that time the hero of the hour. Certain it is that a train of
+circumstances started from these achievements which eventually led to
+his being called to Washington after the reverses at Manassas and Bull
+Run, and made him, on the first day of November following, the
+General-in-Chief of all the armies of the United States.</p>
+
+<p>It is not necessary for me to follow the subsequent operations in West
+Virginia, as my duties were connected with General McClellan and his
+campaigns in that district ended with the death of General Garnett and
+the dispersion of his army. About a week afterwards he was called to a
+new field of duty at Washington city, and it is not my purpose to touch
+upon events in which I took no part. It is enough to say that, with
+somewhat fluctuating changes, the rebels were gradually forced back from
+the Great<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> Kanawha Valley, and the eventual result left West Virginia in
+possession of the Federal troops, her own inherent loyalty having
+contributed largely in producing this condition. The Union sentiment of
+the people was everywhere made manifest, and the new State government
+was consolidated and heartily sustained, ending in her ultimate
+admission as a separate member of the Federal Union in June, 1863.</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn4.jpg" width="448" height="193" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn8.jpg" width="448" height="86" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>General McClellan is called to Washington and placed in Command of the
+Armies, after the Battle of Bull Run.&mdash;The Secret Service
+Department.&mdash;Its Duties and Responsibilities.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>As I am not attempting to write a history of the Civil War, but merely
+relating, as best I can, the leading incidents connected with my labors
+in the secret service, I shall not dwell upon the details of the
+military movements of the war, except as they are necessarily connected
+with my own movements. It is necessary, however, to make cursory mention
+of that remarkable chain of circumstances which followed General
+McClellan's campaign in West Virginia, resulting in entire and
+unexpected change of circumstances to him, and a consequent enlargement
+of my own field of operations. Therefore, without pausing to describe
+the various movements and enterprises in West Virginia during the
+remainder of the year 1861, or detailing the campaign of the three
+months' volunteers under General Patterson, and their bloodless victory
+at Harper's Ferry, I will pass on to other scenes and events which lead
+directly to the turning-point in my story.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Patriotism in the North was excited to such a pitch that the people were
+impatient of delay, and eager to strike a decisive blow&mdash;a blow that
+would at once annihilate treason and wipe out the insult to a nation's
+flag, and maintain a nation's honor. The resounding echoes of the rebel
+guns that had done their work of destruction on Sumter's walls, were
+still vibrating in the air.</p>
+
+<p>The Confederate seat of government had been transferred from Montgomery
+to Richmond, immediately after Virginia's indorsement of the secession
+ordinance, and this enthronement of rebellion so close to the very
+stronghold of freedom, caused patriotic resentment to blaze up with
+fresh intensity.</p>
+
+<p>In the month of June a determined movement against Manassas was resolved
+upon at Washington.</p>
+
+<p>As a preliminary step to the advancement upon the rebel capital, General
+Scott gave Patterson orders to offer Johnston battle, or detain him in
+the Shenandoah Valley by other demonstrations, in order that his army
+might not unite with Beauregard's and defeat the movement. But Patterson
+failed to perform the task assigned to him, and his failure lost to the
+Union cause the first great battle of the war.</p>
+
+<p>General Beauregard was in possession of Manassas with six thousand men,
+and this force was being very materially increased by the arrival of
+reinforcements from time to time; but notwithstanding this<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span> fact, it was
+believed that every chance of success would be provided for by the
+strength of the Union army at the capital, if only Johnston could be
+held in check for a few days.</p>
+
+<p>Delay in starting this expedition against the enemy's works was
+unavoidable, and it was not until the afternoon of the 16th of July that
+the march of McDowell's army commenced. Even then the progress was
+painfully slow, owing to inexperience and lack of discipline on the part
+of the troops.</p>
+
+<p>Manassas Junction was defended by about two thousand rebels, with
+fourteen or fifteen heavy guns, while at Bull Run, some three miles east
+of Manassas, was stationed Beauregard's main army, over twenty thousand
+strong, posted at the various fords of the stream, in a line fully eight
+miles long. McDowell, as a strategic movement to conceal his real
+purpose, directed his march upon Centreville, at which place Tyler's
+Division arrived on the morning of July 18th, to find that it had been
+evacuated by the rebels, who were all behind Bull Run. From Centreville,
+which is situated on a hill, Tyler and his men had a view of the whole
+valley spread out before them, with Manassas on the high plateau beyond.
+It has been hinted that Tyler was inspired with over confidence by the
+utter absence of opposition to his advance, and was thus betrayed into
+the indiscretion of a further advance and an experimental assault. This
+provoked a skirmish, which speedly culminated in the battle of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span>
+Blackburn's Ford, the result of which was much loss and demoralization.</p>
+
+<p>Two more days elapsed before the great fight occurred. Those two days
+were occupied by the engineers in efforts to find an unfortified ford
+over Bull Run, which was accomplished in time to permit McDowell to call
+his officers together on Saturday night, and announce to them his plan
+of battle for the following day. This brought the main contest on
+Sunday, July 21st, and before daylight on the morning of that eventful
+day, both armies were up and astir, each intending to take the
+initiative. There was much unnecessary confusion and delay, mingled with
+undue excitement and impetuosity, showing that everything was raw and
+awkward on both sides. Perhaps no troops ever engaged in warfare with as
+little knowledge of the privations, hardships and dangers of
+soldier-life, as did the Union and Confederate armies on this bloody
+field.</p>
+
+<p>The day passed; the shades of evening fell, and the battle of Bull Run
+had been fought and lost! Victory had perched itself on the rebel
+banners, and the Union army was in full retreat towards Washington. The
+engagement had been well contested, and fought with equal courage and
+persistence by both sides, and the result was quite as unexpected to the
+Confederates as to the Federals.</p>
+
+<p>But Johnston had not been kept out of the fray, as it was calculated he
+would be. His army had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span> been permitted to arrive on the battle-field in
+the nick of time to take a decisive part in the famous conflict, and to
+turn the fortunes of the day at a moment when the signs of victory were
+all in favor of the Federal troops. Totally unconscious of the fact that
+they had been fighting Johnston all day, the Union soldiers had not once
+lost confidence in themselves, and fully believed that they must win;
+but when a fresh assault from a new quarter convinced them that
+Johnston's forces had arrived, the realization and acknowledgment of
+coming defeat pervaded the whole army, and the quick instinct of retreat
+was aroused. They believed that success had now become hopeless, and
+nothing could change this belief, or check or control the impulse of
+flight, once started. The day was lost; the evidence of a great disaster
+became suddenly overwhelming to the non-combatants in the rear; the
+retreating brigades, and the nearer approach of cannonade and musketry
+soon confirmed the worst fears of a terrible defeat and a hot pursuit;
+and then began that insane scramble and stampede for safety.</p>
+
+<p>The sights and scenes encountered on the way to Fairfax Court-House will
+never be effaced from the memory of those who witnessed it. The story of
+that memorable retreat has been told over and over again; of the mad
+flight of civilians, in carriages and on horseback, lashing their steeds
+to the top of their speed; of soldiers of all regiments mingled
+confusedly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span> together, some in complete uniform, others stripped of
+everything but trousers, shirts and shoes, and all foot-sore, haggard
+and half-starved; of arms, clothing and other valuables abandoned, that
+the progress of the runaways might not be impeded by such incumbrances;
+of vehicles, and even ambulances, bearing wounded men, left standing in
+the road, while the frightened teamsters rode away like the wind, on
+horses unhitched or cut out of their harness; of army wagons emptied of
+their loads and filled with stragglers, thundering along the crowded
+highway; of the dash and clatter of artillery carriages; of confusion,
+panic, demoralization and headlong hurry everywhere along the route.</p>
+
+<p>By midnight, mounted officers and civilians began to arrive in
+Washington; but not until the next day, when the rain was pouring down
+in torrents&mdash;that dreadful, drenching rain that continued for thirty-six
+hours, with but slight intermission&mdash;did the poor, hungry, fagged-out
+soldiers commence straggling in. That they were promptly and properly
+fed by the people, rich and poor, who threw open their doors and gave
+what they could to alleviate the suffering of these brave but
+unfortunate men, speaks volumes for the unselfish generosity of the
+loyal families of the capital during that period.</p>
+
+<p>It was while this discouraging state of affairs existed that General
+McClellan was called to Washington, to assume control of the lately
+defeated troops,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span> General Rosecrans having succeeded him in the command
+of the Army of the West. Considering his recent success in West
+Virginia, and the military skill and judgment there displayed by him, it
+is but natural that McClellan should have been selected to re-create the
+army, which was destined to defend the Capital for the next three years.</p>
+
+<p>His arrival in Washington, on the 27th of July, was hailed with genuine
+delight by officers and citizens, for at that date he held the esteem
+and confidence and admiration of all loyal people. It was an immense
+responsibility which devolved upon him, but he accepted it cheerfully,
+and took up his task with that energy, tact and perseverance which
+precluded all possibility of failure. When first called to the command,
+he found a mere collection of regiments, undisciplined, undrilled and
+dispirited, cowering on the banks of the Potomac, and with only such
+material to work upon, he soon organized, equipped, and trained with
+rare skill, that grand body of troops, which he afterwards led in the
+campaign of the Peninsula.</p>
+
+<p>The war was but just commenced, at a time when most people thought it
+would be over. The "ninety days" theory was completely exploded. Those
+who had flattered themselves that the conflict would be "sharp and
+short"&mdash;that a single victorious and glorious campaign would crush the
+rebellion&mdash;were now undeceived. My own hopes had controlled my judgment
+on this subject, and made me visionary. I had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span> hoped for myself to be
+able speedily to return to congenial pursuits and my domestic circle,
+and that a speedy collapse of their frenzy would save the Southern
+people from the inevitable ruin which must result from a protracted war.
+I had hoped for my country, that the spectacle she now presented to the
+world&mdash;exciting the derision of her enemies, and the melancholy pity of
+her friends&mdash;would soon be changed by the "returning good sense of the
+people," as it was so easily and egotistically phrased by many
+individuals at that time. Above all, I had hoped for the oppressed and
+shackled race of the South, that the downfall of slavery would be early
+accomplished, and their freedom permanently established. Being myself an
+old line abolitionist, and by no means the least active or energetic of
+those who had controlled and operated the famous "underground railroad,"
+I had the Anti-Slavery cause very much at heart, and would never have
+been satisfied until that gigantic curse was effectually removed.</p>
+
+<p>Indeed, during the whole time that I labored for the cause of the Union,
+the dearest object I had in view was the abolition of the most cruel
+system of oppression that ever cursed any people&mdash;an oppression long ago
+so justly characterized by John Wesley as "the sum of all villainy"&mdash;in
+comparison with which Egyptian bondage appeared simply burdensome. All
+these hopes were dissipated by the results of the late campaign. The war
+had developed into a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span> reality to estimate. "The Federal Union&mdash;it must
+and shall be preserved!" was the sentiment that now prevailed, and all
+realized that the time for doubt and hesitation had gone by.</p>
+
+<p>There was no mistaking the duty of every loyal heart&mdash;the Republic must
+be saved at whatever cost.</p>
+
+<p>As I have previously stated, my connection with General McClellan was
+not interrupted by this change in his position. By my own preference, as
+well as at his request, I accompanied him to Washington, and cast my lot
+with those who were rallying there to protect and defend the government
+of the United States.</p>
+
+<p>Among the first things the General did, after being assigned to the
+command of the troops around that city, was to organize a secret service
+force, under my management and control. I was to have such strength of
+force as I might require; my headquarters were for the time located in
+Washington. It was arranged that whenever the army moved I was to go
+forward with the General, so that I might always be in close
+communication with him. My corps was to be continually occupied in
+procuring, from all possible sources, information regarding the
+strength, positions and movements of the enemy. All spies,
+"contrabands," deserters, refugees and prisoners of war, coming into our
+lines from the front, were to be carefully examined by me, and their
+statements taken in writing.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>This was the first real organization of the secret service. How much
+benefit was rendered to the country by this branch of the army will
+probably never be known&mdash;the destruction of nearly all my papers in the
+great fire of Chicago preventing their full publication&mdash;but that our
+operations were of immense practical value to the Union commander is a
+fact attested to by every one connected with the leading movements of
+our forces.</p>
+
+<p>It was about this time that the city of Washington was placed under
+martial law&mdash;a measure deemed necessary to correct the serious evils
+which existed, and to restore order in the city. Colonel Andrew Porter,
+of the Sixteenth United States Infantry, was appointed Provost-Marshal,
+and under his command was placed all the available infantry, a battery,
+and a squadron of cavalry. In addition to these, the assistance of a
+detective police force was deemed indispensable, and in answering this
+requirement I found work enough to keep myself and entire corps busy
+during our stay in Washington. A better understanding of my position and
+the nature of my duties at this time may be gained from the following
+extracts from a letter which I addressed to General McClellan when the
+organization of this department was yet in its incipiency.</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+
+<p>"General:</p>
+
+<p>"In accordance with your expressed desire, I beg leave to
+submit to you my views with regard to the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span> duties of my
+detective police force, should the services of the same be
+required by the government.</p>
+
+<p>"In order to promote the efficiency of such a force, it is
+highly necessary that its existence should be known to as
+few persons as possible. It is an admitted and self-evident
+fact that the movements of the various departments of the
+government, civil and military, are closely watched, and it
+is beyond a doubt that from some source the rebels have
+received early, and to them, valuable notice of the intended
+actions of the government. I am also led to believe that the
+rebels have spies who are in the employment of this
+government, or who possess facilities for acquiring
+information from the civil and military authorities, or
+bureaus, and that this information is imparted to others,
+and transmitted, within a very short time, to the rebel
+government. Many of the parties thus leagued with the enemy
+are said to be persons of wealth and position.</p>
+
+<p>"In operating with my detective force, I shall endeavor to
+test all suspected persons in various ways. I shall seek
+access to their houses, clubs, and places of resort,
+managing that among the members of my force shall be
+ostensible representatives of every grade of society, from
+the highest to the most menial. Some shall have the <i>entree</i>
+to the gilded salon of the suspected aristocratic traitors,
+and be their honored guests, while others will act in the
+capacity of valets, or domestics of various kinds, and try
+the efficacy of such relations with the household to gain
+evidence. Other suspected ones will be tracked by the
+'shadow' detective, who will follow their every foot-step,
+and note their every action.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I also propose to employ a division of my force for the
+discovery of any secret traitorous organization which may be
+in existence; and if any such society is discovered, I will
+have my operatives become members of the same, with a view
+to ascertaining the means employed in transmitting messages
+through the lines, and also for the purpose of learning, if
+possible, the plans of the rebels. All strangers arriving in
+the city, whose associations or acts may lay them open to
+suspicion, will be subjected to a strict surveillance.</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>"Another and more dangerous feature of the service
+contemplated to be rendered to the government by my
+detectives, is that of entering the rebel lines, and
+endeavoring to obtain accurate information of the nature of
+their defences, the number of troops under their command at
+various points, etc.</p>
+
+<p>"In order to give efficiency to this movement, operations
+should be commenced in Baltimore as well as at Washington.</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>"Considering the amount of labor to be done and the
+necessity of immediate action on my part, in case these
+plans are to be carried out, I purpose concentrating my
+entire detective force of <i>both sexes</i> into this work.</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>"The amount of force necessary to carry out such an
+undertaking as I have indicated, will necessarily be very
+large, and the assumption of disguises and characters by my
+operatives, will be a very important item in itself," etc.,
+etc., etc.</p></div>
+
+<p>My views were carried out just as they were set<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span> forth in this letter,
+and I was soon hard at work in my efforts to "regulate" the District of
+Columbia. It was too true that a great majority of the local police were
+disloyal, and could not be depended upon to faithfully discharge their
+duties to the government that employed them; therefore, in addition to
+my other work, I exerted myself to the utmost in aiding the municipal
+authorities to reorganize and discipline the police of the district.</p>
+
+<p>Many personal incidents worthy of note occurred during this period, but
+there was one which I recall at this moment with a laugh at my own
+expense&mdash;an incident in which I was reluctantly compelled to occupy the
+wrong side of a guard-house over night, and instead of capturing a
+prisoner became a prisoner myself.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p249.jpg" width="336" height="373" alt="GUARD-HOUSE PRISONERS." title="" />
+<span class="caption">GUARD-HOUSE PRISONERS.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn7.jpg" width="448" height="148" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>A Female Traitor.&mdash;Suspicious Correspondence.&mdash;A Close Watch under
+Difficulties.&mdash;I am Arrested.&mdash;Exposure of the Treason of a Trusted
+Officer.&mdash;A Disgraced Captain.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>During the earlier stages of the rebellion, a number of Southern
+sympathizers were domiciled in the city of Washington, and among the
+number were many ladies of refinement and wealth, from the South, who
+had been leaders of fashion and of society in the brilliant days of
+previous administrations. Many of these ladies were extremely
+fascinating in their manners, and being gifted with great personal
+beauty and with rare conversational qualities, they had gathered around
+them a brilliant circle of acquaintances, to whom they dispensed regal
+hospitalities and most delicate courtesies.</p>
+
+<p>When the war broke out, these ladies thoroughly identified themselves
+with the cause of the South, and upon all occasions were unreserved in
+the expression of opinions favorable to the rebels, and of fervent
+hopefulness for the eventual success of the disunionists. But little
+attention was paid to these <i>grand dames</i> of the old regime, as it was
+not deemed possible<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> that any danger could result from the utterances of
+non-combatant females, nor was it considered chivalrous that resolute
+measures should be adopted toward those of the weaker sex.</p>
+
+<p>That this policy was a mistaken one was soon fully proved, and when it
+was discovered that these fine ladies were secretly giving information
+to the enemy, it was deemed of great importance that such means should
+be adopted as would prevent their treasonable actions from being made
+valuable to the opponents of the government, and who were seeking its
+overthrow.</p>
+
+<p>From information received from reliable sources, it was shown that the
+rebel authorities were as fully conversant with the plans of the Union
+commanders as they were themselves. That they knew of the position of
+every regiment and brigade, and the contemplated movements of the
+commanders, and the time of proposed action, far in advance of any
+publicity being given to them, and when the utmost secrecy was the only
+true passport to victory. Indeed, it was openly boasted that the secret
+information given to the rebel generals had been mainly the cause of the
+defeat of our armies at Bull Run and Manassas.</p>
+
+<p>Upon these facts being fully proven, the government resolved to
+effectually prevent a continuance of these practices, and that if they
+were persisted in, the guilty parties should either be confined or
+exiled to the more congenial climate of Dixie.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>My department was in its infancy when the event occurred which I am
+about to relate. I had secured a house in Washington, and had gathered
+around me a number of resolute, trustworthy men and discreet women, who
+were devoted to the cause of their country, but were scarcely in such a
+condition as to move properly or with any systematized regularity. I had
+not been many days in the city when one afternoon I was called upon by
+the Hon. Thomas A. Scott, of Pennsylvania, who was then acting as the
+Assistant-Secretary of War, who desired my services in watching a lady
+whose movements had excited suspicion, and who, it was believed, was
+engaged in corresponding with the rebel authorities, and furnishing them
+with much valuable information.</p>
+
+<p>This lady was Mrs. Rose Greenhow, a Southern woman of pronounced rebel
+proclivities, and who had been unsparing in her denunciation of the
+"Abolition North," and who had openly declared that "instead of loving
+and worshiping the old flag of the Stars and Stripes," she saw "in it
+only the symbol of murder, plunder, oppression and shame." Mrs. Greenhow
+had occupied a prominent position in the social circles of the capital,
+and was personally acquainted with all of the leading men of the
+country, many of whom had partaken of her hospitality and had enjoyed a
+social intercourse that was both pleasurable and fascinating.</p>
+
+<p>She had now become an avowed hater of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> Union, and it was feared,
+from her previous association with officers in the army, that she was
+using her talents in procuring information from them which would be
+immediately communicated to the rebel government at Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>The residence of Mrs. Greenhow was situated at the corner of Thirteenth
+and I streets&mdash;quite a fashionable quarter of the city, and within a
+short distance of the White House. The building, while not at all
+imposing in appearance, was large, roomy, and was furnished with every
+consideration for wealth and tasteful refinement. It was a two-story and
+basement brick building, the parlors of which were elevated several feet
+above the ground, and entrance was obtained by ascending a flight of
+steps in the center of the edifice. This lady was a widow, her husband
+having died some years before, and being possessed of considerable
+means, and mingling with the highest circles of Washington society, her
+home was the resort of most of the prominent people of the city.</p>
+
+<p>The instructions of the Secretary of War were, that a strict watch
+should be kept upon this house, and that every person entering or
+leaving the same should come under the close surveillance of my men, who
+should endeavor to ascertain who they were, and if they attempted in any
+manner to communicate with any suspicious persons. I was to report to
+him daily, and to continue my espionage until I received definite<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span> and
+official orders for its discontinuance. My further instructions were,
+that in case any of the visitors of Mrs. Greenhow should attempt to pass
+the lines of our troops, they should be arrested at once, and a rigorous
+search of their persons instituted, in order that nothing should be
+allowed to pass through without a thorough examination by the Secretary
+of War or Mr. Scott.</p>
+
+<p>After the departure of the Secretary I took with me two of my men, and
+proceeded to the vicinity of the residence of Mrs. Greenhow. I was then
+quite a stranger in Washington, and localities were not as familiar to
+me as they afterward became, and I therefore preferred to reconnoiter by
+daylight, to depending upon a survey after nightfall.</p>
+
+<p>The entire day had been dark, gloomy and threatening; clouds had been
+gathering in the heavens, and everything indicated the imminence of a
+severe storm. As I left my headquarters, a slight shower of rain was
+falling, which I knew was but the precursor of a storm more violent. On
+arriving at the designated locality I found everything to be as they had
+already been described to me. The inside shutters to the windows were
+closed, and no sign was apparent that the house was occupied, and after
+carefully noting the situation and the exposed condition of the
+premises, I left the two men within a convenient distance of the place,
+and returned for the additional aid which I thought might be needed.
+Selecting three of my most discreet<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span> men, I again repaired to the scene
+of operations. We had not proceeded far, when the storm burst upon us in
+all its fury. The wind blew strong and chill, and the rain fell in
+deluging torrents. Umbrellas were a useless commodity, and, unprotected,
+we were compelled to breast the elements, which now were warring with
+terrible violence.</p>
+
+<p>Arriving at Mrs. Greenhow's, under cover of the darkness I posted my men
+in such positions as I thought would be most advantageous for our
+purpose, and then calling in the two whom I had left there during the
+afternoon, I approached to within a short distance of the house. The
+darkness and storm, while decidedly uncomfortable, were of some benefit
+to us, as but few people were abroad, and these paid no attention to
+passing events, seeming to be only too anxious to reach their
+destination and to escape the pitiless rain.</p>
+
+<p>The blinds at the windows were still closed, but a light was observed in
+two rooms upon the parlor floor, and I knew that the house was occupied.
+Of course I could see nothing within, as my view was entirely obstructed
+by the closed blinds, and, at length, becoming impatient at this
+unprofitable and unsatisfactory waiting, I determined to obtain a
+glimpse, at least, of the interior, and to ascertain, if possible, some
+knowledge of its occupants.</p>
+
+<p>The parlor windows, through which the lights were gleaming, were too
+high from the ground to permit<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span> me to see within, and summoning the two
+men who were awaiting instructions I made use of their strong, broad
+shoulders in a manner quite novel to me, and quite ludicrous, no doubt,
+to a passer-by who did not understand the situation.</p>
+
+<p>Ranging the two men side by side under the broad windows in front of the
+house, I removed my boots and was soon standing upon their shoulders and
+elevated sufficiently high to enable me to accomplish the object I had
+in view. I was now on a level with the windows, and noiselessly raising
+the sash and turning the slats of the blinds I obtained a full view of
+the interior of the room. The furniture was rich and luxurious, valuable
+pictures hung upon the walls, and several pieces of statuary and various
+articles of artistic ornamentation were arranged about the apartment,
+but to my disappointment, it was unoccupied.</p>
+
+<p>I was about to give expression to my chagrin at this discovery, when a
+warning "Sh!" from one of my sturdy supporters induced me to be silent.
+Some one was approaching the house, and hastily clambering down from my
+perch, we hid ourselves under the stoop which led up to the front door.
+Scarcely had we ensconced ourselves in this convenient shelter when we
+heard the footsteps of the new-comer, and to our satisfaction, he
+stopped in front of the house, and ascending the steps rang the bell and
+in a short time was admitted.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>By this time we were drenched to the skin&mdash;the rain had fallen in
+copious showers and during all the time we had been exposed to its
+dampening influences&mdash;but paying but little heed to this, we again took
+our position in front of the window, and I was soon remounted upon the
+shoulders of my operatives, prepared to take notes of what transpired.</p>
+
+<p>As the visitor entered the parlor and seated himself awaiting the
+appearance of the lady of the house, I immediately recognized him as an
+officer of the regular army, whom I had met that day for the first time.
+He was a Captain of infantry and was in command of one of the stations
+of the Provost-Marshal, and not desiring to divulge the real name of the
+gentleman, who has since died, I will call him Captain Ellison.</p>
+
+<p>He was a tall, handsome man of a commanding figure and about forty years
+of age. He had removed his cloak, and as he sat there in his blue
+uniform, and in the full glare of the gaslight, he looked a veritable
+ideal soldier. As I watched him closely, however, I noticed that there
+was a troubled, restless look upon his face; he appeared ill at ease and
+shifted nervously upon his chair, as though impatient for the entrance
+of his hostess. In a few moments Mrs. Greenhow entered and cordially
+greeted her visitor, who acknowledged her salutations with a courtly
+bow, while his face lighted up with pleasure as he gazed upon her.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Just at this moment I again received a warning from my supporters, and
+hastily jumping to the ground, we hid ourselves until the pedestrians
+had passed out of sight and hearing. When I resumed my station the
+Captain and Mrs. Greenhow were seated at a table in the rear part of the
+room, and their conversation was carried on in such low tones that, in
+consequence of the storm that was still raging, I could not catch but
+fragmentary sentences. At last, however, accustoming myself to the
+noise, I heard enough to convince me that this trusted officer was then
+and there engaged in betraying his country, and furnishing to his
+treasonably-inclined companion such information regarding the
+disposition of our troops as he possessed.</p>
+
+<p>Presently, he took from an inner pocket of his coat a map which, as he
+held it up before the light, I imagined that I could identify as a plan
+of the fortifications in and around Washington, and which also
+designated a contemplated plan of attack.</p>
+
+<p>My blood boiled with indignation as I witnessed this scene, and I longed
+to rush into the room and strangle the miscreant where he sat, but I
+dared not utter a word, and was compelled to stand by, with the rain
+pouring down upon me, and silently witness this traitorous proceeding.</p>
+
+<p>After watching their movements for some time, during which they would
+frequently refer to the map before them, as though pointing out
+particular points<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span> or positions, I was again compelled to hide myself
+under the shelter of the convenient stoop, and when I resumed my
+position the room was empty. The delectable couple had disappeared. I
+waited impatiently for more than an hour, taking occasional glimpses
+into the room and watching for their re-appearance. At the end of that
+time they re-entered the parlor arm in arm, and again took their seats.</p>
+
+<p>Again came the warning voice, and again I hastily descended, and as the
+retreating figures disappeared in the distance, I could hear the front
+door open and the step of the traitor Captain above me.</p>
+
+<p>With a whispered good-night, and something that sounded very much like a
+kiss, he descended the steps, and then, without paying any attention to
+the fact that I was without shoes, I started in pursuit of him, and
+through the blinding mist and pelting storms kept him in view as he
+rapidly walked away. It was then about half-past twelve o'clock, and the
+storm evinced no sign of a discontinuance.</p>
+
+<p>I was not sufficiently acquainted with the city at that time to tell in
+what direction he was going, but I determined to ascertain his
+destination before I left him. I was compelled to keep pretty close to
+him, owing to the darkness of the night, and several times I was afraid
+that he would hear the footsteps of the man who accompanied me&mdash;mine I
+was confident would not be detected as, in my drenched stockings, I
+crept along as stealthily as a cat. Twice, I imagined<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span> that he turned
+around as though suspecting he was followed, but as he did not stop I
+reassured myself and plodded on. I could not, however, disabuse my mind
+of the fear that I had been seen, I could not relax my vigilance, and I
+resolved to take my chances of discovery. I knew who my man was, at all
+events, and now I must ascertain where he was going.</p>
+
+<p>As we reached the corner of Pennsylvania avenue and Fifteenth street I
+imagined that I saw a revolver glistening in his hand, but it was too
+dark for me to determine that fact with any degree of certainty. At this
+point he passed a guard on duty, and quickly passed into a building
+immediately in advance of me.</p>
+
+<p>This movement was so unexpected, that I had no time to turn back, and I
+was so close to him that it would have been very unwise to have done so,
+but I was more surprised when, as I reached the building into which the
+Captain had disappeared, I was suddenly confronted by four armed
+soldiers, who rushed suddenly out upon me, with fixed bayonets pointed
+at my breast.</p>
+
+<p>"Halt, or I fire!" called out the officer of the guard.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 724px;">
+<img src="images/illus012.jpg" width="724" height="375" alt="&quot;Halt, or I fire!&quot; P. 260." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Halt, or I fire!&quot; P. 260.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Realizing that an attempt at resistance or escape would be both foolish
+and useless, I attempted to make an explanation. All to no purpose,
+however. I informed them that I had been out late and had lost my way,
+but they refused to listen, and ordered my companion and myself to march
+at once into the guard-house. I endeavored to make the best of my
+misfortune, and entering the building we seated ourselves and awaited
+developments.</p>
+
+<p>After waiting for about half an hour, I was informed that my presence
+was required by the Captain; and the guard conducted me up-stairs to his
+room. As I entered, I found myself face to face with Captain Ellison,
+who was pacing excitedly up and down the floor; stopping immediately in
+front of me, he glared fiercely at me for some minutes without uttering
+a word.</p>
+
+<p>I was a sorry figure to look at, and as I surveyed my weather-soaked and
+mud-stained garments, and my bare feet, I could scarcely repress a
+laugh, although I was deeply angered at the sudden and unexpected turn
+affairs had taken.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name?" imperatively inquired the Captain, after he had
+fully recovered himself, and had taken his seat at a table which stood
+in the room.</p>
+
+<p>"E. J. Allen," I replied.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your business?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have nothing further to say," I coolly replied, "and I decline to
+answer any further questions."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said the Captain, "so you are not going to speak. Very well, sir,
+we will see what time will bring forth."</p>
+
+<p>He endeavored to impress me with his importance and played restlessly
+with the handles of two revolvers<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span> that lay before him on the table, but
+I saw too plainly through his bravado, and I knew that the scoundrel was
+really alarmed.</p>
+
+<p>Finding that he could not compel me to answer his questions, he turned
+to the sergeant and ordered:</p>
+
+<p>"Take this man to the guard-house, but allow no one whatever to converse
+with him; we will attend further to his case in the morning."</p>
+
+<p>I made a profound bow to the discomfited officer as I departed, to which
+he replied with an oath, and then I was conducted down-stairs and placed
+among the other prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>I found myself in a mixed and incongruous assembly indeed. Most of my
+fellow-prisoners were stupidly drunk, and lay about the floor like logs;
+others were laughing and singing, while some were indulging in wild
+threats against the men who arrested them. Here I found my companion,
+who, representing himself as a Southern man had already become
+acquainted with two secessionists, who were laughing and talking about
+what they would have to tell when they obtained their release. He soon
+ingratiated himself with these men, and before daylight had obtained
+from them a revelation of certain matters that subsequently proved of
+great value to us in our operations.</p>
+
+<p>As for myself, my feelings can better be imagined than described.
+Inwardly chafing against the unfortunate<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span> and disagreeable position in
+which I found myself, I was deeply concerned regarding the situation of
+affairs at the residence of Mrs. Greenhow. I had given no definite
+orders to my men, and they would be doubtful as to what course to pursue
+until they heard from me, and here was I a prisoner in the hands of the
+man against whom I had grave charges to prefer, and whom I had detected
+in treasonable correspondence. Added to this, my wet garments and the
+cold atmosphere of the room in which I was confined, affected me with a
+degree of chilliness that was distressing in the utmost. I shook like an
+aspen, and my teeth for a time chattered like castanets. It may be
+imagined that the hilarity of my fellow-prisoners had but little charm
+for me, until at length one of the guards very kindly brought me a
+blanket and an overcoat, which I wrapped about me, and soon began to
+feel more comfortable.</p>
+
+<p>Despite the aggravating circumstances under which I suffered, I could
+not refrain from smiling at the ridiculous appearance I must have
+presented as I stood before the irate Captain who had caused my arrest.
+My hat was battered down over my face, and my clothing was spattered
+with mud from head to foot, and were dripping with water as I stood
+there. One might more readily imagine that I had been fished out of the
+Potomac than that I was the chief of the secret service of the
+government, in the performance of duty.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>By the Captain's orders I was prevented from conversing with my
+fellow-prisoners, so I turned my attention to the guard. My chief desire
+was to apprise Mr. Scott of my captivity, as early as possible, in order
+that my release could be effected without unnecessary delay, and I
+therefore applied myself to the entertainment of my jailer.</p>
+
+<p>The soldier who had charge of me I soon found to be a jolly,
+kind-hearted fellow, and I amused him immensely by relating some
+ridiculous anecdotes which I had heard, and before the time came for him
+to be relieved I had entirely won his favor.</p>
+
+<p>Seizing a favorable opportunity I asked him if he would deliver a note
+for me after his time for standing guard had expired, at the same time
+offering to repay him for his trouble. To this he readily assented, and
+by the dim light afforded us I managed to scribble a few hasty lines to
+the Assistant Secretary of War, informing him of my imprisonment, and
+requesting him to order my release as soon as possible, and in a manner
+which would not excite the suspicion of Captain Ellison.</p>
+
+<p>At about six o'clock the guards were changed, and my messenger departed
+upon his mission. He was fortunate enough to find the servants of Mr.
+Scott astir, and informing them that his message was of extreme public
+importance, he had it delivered to the Secretary in his chamber at once.
+At seven o'clock the guard returned, and coming to the door,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span> he
+conversed a few minutes with the soldier who had succeeded him, when I
+called out:</p>
+
+<p>"How is the weather outside?"</p>
+
+<p>"All right, sir!" replied the man, with a sly wink, and then I knew that
+my note had been safely delivered, and my liberation simply a question
+of time.</p>
+
+<p>At about half-past eight o'clock the sergeant of the guard came to the
+door with a paper in his hand, and called out:</p>
+
+<p>"E. J. Allen and William Ascot!"</p>
+
+<p>Ascot was the name of my operative who had been arrested with me, and
+with whom I had not exchanged a word since I had been imprisoned. We
+responded to our names, and following the sergeant, were again taken to
+the room occupied by Captain Ellison.</p>
+
+<p>"The Secretary of War has been informed of your arrest, and you will be
+conducted to him at once, and then we shall see whether you will remain
+silent any longer."</p>
+
+<p>The manner of the Captain was imperious and commanding, and I laughed to
+myself as I thought of the possible result of our interview with the
+Secretary. The Captain led the way, and in the company of four soldiers,
+we left the place, arriving in a few minutes at the residence of Mr.
+Scott. He was awaiting our arrival, and as we entered the room he
+ordered the guard to release me, and directed me to accompany him to his
+room. I followed him immediately,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span> and as the door closed behind us, he
+burst into a hearty laugh at my uncouth and unkempt appearance. I was a
+sorry spectacle indeed, and as I surveyed myself in the mirror, I joined
+in his merriment, for a more realistic picture of a "drowned rat" I
+never beheld.</p>
+
+<p>I at once detailed what had transpired on the preceding night, and as I
+related the interview which I had witnessed between Captain Ellison and
+Mrs. Greenhow, his brow became clouded, and starting to his feet, he
+paced the room rapidly and excitedly.</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Greenhow must be attended to. She is becoming a dangerous
+character. You will therefore maintain your watch upon her, and should
+she be detected in attempting to convey any information outside of the
+lines, she must be arrested at once. And now we will attend to Captain
+Ellison."</p>
+
+<p>Tapping a bell which stood upon his table, he ordered:</p>
+
+<p>"Request Captain Ellison to come here."</p>
+
+<p>As the Captain made his appearance, he seemed to be very ill at ease,
+and gazed searchingly at Mr. Scott and myself, as though he suspected
+something was wrong.</p>
+
+<p>"Captain," said Mr. Scott, addressing him, "will you give me the
+particulars of the arrest of this man?" pointing to me.</p>
+
+<p>The Captain answered that he had gone to visit some friends, who resided
+in the outskirts of the city,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span> in the evening, and on returning at a
+late hour, he had noticed that he was being followed, and supposing me
+to be a foot-pad or a burglar, had ordered my arrest.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you see any one last evening who is inimical to the cause of the
+government?"</p>
+
+<p>The Captain became flushed and nervous under this direct question. He
+darted a quick glance at me, and after hesitating for some moments he
+answered in a faltering voice:</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I have seen no person of that character."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you quite sure of that?" sternly inquired Mr. Scott.</p>
+
+<p>"I am, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, Captain, you will please consider yourself under arrest,
+and you will at once surrender your sword to Captain Mehaffy."</p>
+
+<p>The Captain was completely unmanned as these words fell from the lips of
+the Secretary, and sinking into a chair, he buried his face in his
+hands, seemingly overcome by his emotions.</p>
+
+<p>But little remains to be told. Captain Ellison was arrested, and a
+search among his effects discovered sufficient evidence to prove that he
+was engaged in furnishing information to the enemy, and he was confined
+for more than a year in Fort McHenry. He was finally released but broken
+in spirit and in health, and fully realizing the disgrace<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span> he had
+brought upon himself, he died shortly afterward.</p>
+
+<p>After leaving the residence of Mr. Scott, I took a carriage and went
+directly to my headquarters, and dispatched new men to relieve those who
+had been on duty all night, and who had been so anxious for my safety
+that they had sent several times to make inquiries, and who were unable
+to account for my absence. They had, I was rejoiced to learn, taken care
+to recover my shoes, which I was afraid would be found by some one
+connected with the house, and thus lead to the suspicion that the
+premises were the object of espionage.</p>
+
+<p>We continued our watching of the premises, and during its continuance a
+number of prominent gentlemen were received by the fascinating widow,
+and among the number were several earnest and sincere Senators and
+Representatives, whose loyalty was above question, and who were,
+perhaps, in entire ignorance of the lady's true character.</p>
+
+<p>Almost every evening one particular individual was observed to call at
+the house, and his visits invariably were of long duration. He was
+therefore made the object of especial attention by me, and in a short
+time I succeeded in learning his true character, and the nature of the
+business which he followed. Ostensibly an attorney, I ascertained that
+he was undoubtedly engaged in the vocation of a Southern spy, and that
+he had a number of men and women under him by whom<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span> the information was
+forwarded to the rebel authorities. This gentleman, therefore, found
+himself, in a very few days, a prisoner of war.</p>
+
+<p>About eight days after this, orders were given for the arrest of Mrs.
+Greenhow herself. She was confined in her own house, and all her papers
+were seized and handed over to the custody of the Department of War. The
+intention of the government was to treat her as humanely and
+considerately as possible, but disdaining all offers of kindness or
+courtesy, the lady was discovered on several occasions attempting to
+send messages to her rebel friends, and finally her removal to the Old
+Capitol prison was ordered, and she was conveyed there, where she was
+imprisoned for several months. After this she was conveyed across the
+lines, and reached in safety the rebel capital, where she was greeted by
+the more congenial spirits of rebeldom.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Greenhow afterwards went to Europe, in some trustworthy capacity
+for the Confederacy, and while there was noted for her bitter animosity
+to the Union, and her vituperation of Northern men and measures, but
+retribution may be said to have followed her, and some time subsequent
+to this, having returned again to the South, she made her way to
+Charleston, S. C., from thence she took passage upon a blockade-runner,
+upon some secret mission for the Confederacy. Her person was loaded down
+with gold, which was packed in a belt close to her body. After passing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span>
+Fort Sumter, a severe storm arose, and the little vessel began to pitch
+and roll in the angry waters, which swept in huge waves over her deck.
+Mrs. Greenhow was, I was since informed, washed over-board, and the
+weight upon her person carried her down and she was lost. No trace of
+her was ever afterwards discovered.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p270.jpg" width="336" height="336" alt="A FEMALE SPY." title="" />
+<span class="caption">A FEMALE SPY.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Timothy Webster in Baltimore.&mdash;An Encounter with a Fire-eater.&mdash;Webster
+Defends Himself.&mdash;Treason Rampant in the Monumental City.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The city of Baltimore at this time was also under military rule. It was
+garrisoned by United States troops, commanded successively by Butler,
+Banks and Dix, for the purpose of enforcing respect and obedience to the
+laws, and of presenting any violations of order within its limits, by
+the malignant and traitorous element of the people. Marshal Kane, the
+Chief of Police, as well as the active members of the police
+commissioners, were arrested and held in custody at Fort McHenry,
+because of the alleged encouragement and protection which were given to
+those unlawful combinations of men who were secretly aiding in numerous
+ways the people at war with the government. General Banks appointed a
+Provost-Marshal for the proper execution of the laws, in conjunction
+with the subordinate officers of the police department. This condition
+of things was of course a direct result of the great riot of the 19th of
+April, and the intention was to curb those mutinous spirits, whose
+passions otherwise would<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span> have led them into committing all sorts of
+crimes and outrages against the government. Notwithstanding these
+measures, however, the disturbing element was not by any means passive
+and inert, although appearances may have warranted such a conclusion.
+Secret bands of conspirators were still in existence, and were working
+assiduously for the advancement of the Southern cause.</p>
+
+<p>By direction of General McClellan, I sent several of my best operatives
+to Baltimore, chief among whom was Timothy Webster, with whom the others
+were to co-operate whenever their assistance were required by him. The
+principal object in this was to enable Webster to associate with the
+secessionists of that city, and by becoming familiar and popular with
+them, to pave his way for an early trip into the rebel lines.</p>
+
+<p>During his residence in Baltimore he was directed to represent himself
+as a gentleman of means and leisure, and to enable him the better to
+carry out this idea, I provided him with a span of fine horses and a
+carriage, for his own pleasure. He made his home at Miller's Hotel,
+lived in good style, and in his own irresistible way he set about
+establishing himself in the good graces of a large number of people, of
+that class whose confidence it was desirable to obtain. This task was
+made comparatively easy by the fact that he already had numerous
+acquaintances in the city, who introduced him about with great
+enthusiasm,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span> representing him to be&mdash;as they really believed he was&mdash;a
+gentleman whose whole heart and soul was in the cause of the South.
+Thus, by easy stages, he soon reached the distinction of being the
+center and principal figure of an admiring crowd. Before a week had
+elapsed he had become a quietly-recognized leader in the clique with
+which he associated, and soon regarded as a man of superior judgment and
+power in all matters relating to political and state affairs.</p>
+
+<p>During fair weather he would frequently drive out with one or more of
+his friends, and his handsome equipage became well known on the streets,
+and at the race-course. He was introduced into the houses of many warm
+sympathizers with the South, and by his agreeable and fascinating
+manners he became a favorite with the female members of the family.
+Through all, he was apparently an earnest and consistent advocate of
+Southern rights, never overdoing the matter by any exhibition of
+strained excitement or loud avowals, but always conversing on the
+subject with an air of calm conviction, using the strongest arguments he
+could invent in support of his pretended views. In compliance with the
+request of many of his Southern friends, he and John Scully, another of
+my operatives, went to a photograph gallery one day and had their
+pictures taken, holding a large Confederate flag between them, while
+Webster wore the rebel hat which the doughty Dr. Burton had presented to
+him in Memphis.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>During all this time Webster was gathering information from every
+quarter concerning the secret plots and movements of the disloyal
+citizens, and promptly conveying it to me, and for this purpose he made
+frequent trips to Washington for verbal instructions, and to report in
+person the success of his operations. Sometimes he would be accompanied
+by one or more of his intimate associates, and these occasions were not
+without profit, for when thus accompanied, although necessarily
+prevented from reaching my office, he was enabled to increase his
+acquaintance with the traitorous element of Washington, and finally was
+enabled to unmask several guilty ones whose loyalty had never been
+impeached or suspected.</p>
+
+<p>Once, on returning to Baltimore, after a longer absence than usual, his
+friends greeted him warmly.</p>
+
+<p>"By Jove, Webster, we had begun to think you were in trouble," one of
+them exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"No danger of that," was the laughing response. "I have no intention of
+being trapped before I fulfill my mission. I have some valuable work to
+do for the Southern Confederacy before the Yankees can get the upper
+hand of me."</p>
+
+<p>They were in a saloon&mdash;a favorite rendezvous of these men&mdash;and Webster
+was in the midst of his crowd. He was telling them about some imaginary
+"points" which he had picked up in Washington, and assuring them he
+would in some manner transmit the information<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span> he had received to the
+rebel commanders before he was a week older. While thus entertaining his
+hearers, his attention was attracted by a man who entered the saloon
+with a swaggering gait, his hands in his pockets, and his hat tipped
+over one side of his head. He knew this man as a ruffian and bully of
+the worst stripe, Bill Zigler, and one of the ringleaders of the mob
+that had attacked the Union troops on the 19th of April; consequently,
+he entertained a wholesome contempt for the fellow, and avoided him as
+much as possible.</p>
+
+<p>He was much surprised when the new-comer stopped in the middle of the
+room, and exclaimed, gruffly:</p>
+
+<p>"Hello, Webster! You're <i>here</i>, are you? By G&mdash;d, I've been looking for
+you!"</p>
+
+<p>Webster turned toward him a look of surprised inquiry.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you speak to me, sir?" he asked, quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I spoke to you, sir!" mimicked Bill Zigler, in a bullying voice.
+"I say I've been lookin' for you, and when I've spoke my piece I reckon
+this town will be too hot to hold you many hours longer."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't understand you," protested Webster.</p>
+
+<p>"Ha! ha! ha!" laughed the ruffian, a glitter of triumph and hatred in
+his eyes. "You've been playin' it fine on the boys here for the last
+three weeks, but d&mdash;n you, I'll spoil your little game!"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" demanded Webster, his anger beginning to rise. "You
+speak in riddles."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you what I mean!" blustered the bully. "Gentlemen," turning
+toward the crowd, and pointing his finger toward the detective; "that
+man is leagued with the Yankees, and comes among you as a spy."</p>
+
+<p>There was a general start of astonishment, and Webster himself was
+dumfounded.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, nonsense, Zigler," spoke up one of the men, after a death-like
+silence of several moments. "You must be drunk to make such an assertion
+as that. There is not a better Southern man in Baltimore than Mr.
+Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"I am as sober as the soberest man here," declared Zigler; "and I reckon
+I know what I am talking about. I saw that fellow in Washington
+yesterday."</p>
+
+<p>"I can well believe that you saw me in Washington yesterday," said
+Webster, quietly, "for I certainly was there. I have just been telling
+these gentlemen what I saw and heard while there."</p>
+
+<p>"Maybe you have, but I'll bet ten dollars you didn't tell 'em that you
+had a conversation with the <i>chief of the detective force</i> while you
+were there!"</p>
+
+<p>Webster, it must be admitted, was wholly unprepared for this, but he
+realized in an instant that the bully's insinuation must be denied and
+overcome. With an assumption of uncontrollable rage he cried out "You
+are a liar and a scoundrel!"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 716px;">
+<img src="images/illus013.jpg" width="716" height="375" alt="&quot;The man reeled half way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables.&quot; P. 277." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;The man reeled half way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables.&quot; P. 277.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I am, eh?" hissed Zigler through his clenched teeth, and before any one
+could make a movement to restrain him he sprang furiously toward
+Webster.</p>
+
+<p>Quick as was this movement, however, Webster was prepared for him. Like
+a flash of lightning his fist flew straight out from the shoulder,
+striking the ruffian between the eyes, with a force that would have
+felled an ox. The man reeled half-way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables.</p>
+
+<p>With a roar like that of a baffled beast, Zigler gathered himself up and
+rushed at Webster, flourishing above his head a murderous-looking knife.
+But, as if by magic, a revolver appeared in the detective's hand, the
+muzzle of which covered his adversary's heart.</p>
+
+<p>"Stop!" cried Webster, in a tone of stern command. "Hold your distance,
+you miserable cur, or your blood will be upon your own head!"</p>
+
+<p>Zigler involuntarily recoiled. The frowning muzzle of the pistol, the
+unmistakable meaning of those words, and the deadly purpose expressed in
+the cold, calm face before him, were too much even for his boasted
+bravery. He turned pale and drew back, muttering and growling.</p>
+
+<p>"Coward!" exclaimed Webster, "if I served you right I would shoot you
+down like a dog; and I am afraid I can't resist the temptation to do so
+anyway, if you don't immediately leave the room. Go! and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span> in future be
+careful who you accuse of being in league with the accursed Yankees."</p>
+
+<p>By this time a number of the other men had recovered from their
+astonishment, and they immediately joined their threats to those of
+Webster, commanding Zigler to leave the saloon at once, if he desired to
+"save his bacon."</p>
+
+<p>Zigler did not dare to disobey. Sullenly putting up his knife, and
+muttering curses on the whole crowd, he slunk out, stopping at the door
+long enough to glance back at Webster, with the exclamation:</p>
+
+<p>"I'll fix you yet, d&mdash;n you!"</p>
+
+<p>When he was gone, Webster said:</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot conceive what that fellow has against me, that he should try
+to defame my character by such an accusation."</p>
+
+<p>Several of the men broke into a derisive laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd as soon suspect Jeff Davis of being a Yankee spy," said one, with a
+boisterous guffaw.</p>
+
+<p>"Lord, Webster," spoke up another, "you needn't calculate that anything
+that fellow can say is going to injure you with the people here."</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon Zigler is mad because you won't clique in with him and his
+gang," said a third. "Nobody takes any stock in him. It would have been
+considered a good riddance if your pistol had gone off while it covered
+his heart. Bah! he isn't worth a thought. Come, boys, let's licker."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>And the affair ended in a witty cross-fire of jokes, frequent explosions
+of hearty laughter, and numerous bumpers of sparkling wine.</p>
+
+<p>So far from proving disastrous to Webster or his mission, this little
+episode with Bill Zigler rather elevated him in the estimation of his
+companions. The neat knock-down with which he had met the bully's
+unprovoked assault; his air of virtuous indignation in resenting the
+imputation of disloyalty to the South, and the manner in which he had
+defeated and put to flight a man who was much feared among his fellows,
+only won for him new laurels, and caused him to be regarded as brave as
+he was loyal. His intimate acquaintances reposed such firm faith in him,
+that not one of them entertained for a moment the thought that there
+might possibly be a grain of justice in Zigler's accusation.</p>
+
+<p>One morning, not long after this little episode, Webster left his hotel
+to walk down town, when he noticed that there was some unusual
+excitement on the streets. On every corner on Baltimore street, from the
+Exchange office, large numbers of men were standing in groups, evidently
+absorbed in some particular topic of conversation.</p>
+
+<p>While wondering what all this meant, the detective was accosted by a man
+named Sam Sloan, one of the most faithful of his adherents.</p>
+
+<p>"Webster, I was just going up to see you. Have you heard the news?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I have heard nothing, Sam," was the reply. "Is there a new sensation
+this morning?"</p>
+
+<p>"Another of Lincoln's outrages," said Sloan, with an indignant oath.
+"Major Brown, Ross Winans, and several others were arrested last night,
+and taken to Fort McHenry."</p>
+
+<p>"What for?"</p>
+
+<p>"For no other purpose, I suppose, than to break up the election, which
+is to take place next month."</p>
+
+<p>"But how can that interfere with the election?"</p>
+
+<p>"By making us all afraid to go to the polls, or speak our minds."</p>
+
+<p>The two walked down the street together, and dropped into a drug store,
+which was known as one of the resorts of the unterrified. There they
+found a number of men conversing somewhat excitedly. The proprietor, a
+Mr. Rogers, turned toward the new-comers and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, Mr. Webster; we were just talking over last night's
+proceedings."</p>
+
+<p>"It beats anything I ever heard of," said Webster, warmly. "But what can
+we do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing just now," returned Rogers; "but I think there will soon be a
+time when we will have a chance to do something. In the meantime,
+gentlemen, we must make up our minds to say nothing. We have all been
+too free with our tongues. Hereafter, we must keep mum, or we will all
+get into Fort McHenry."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"We must just lay low, and wait till Jeff crosses the Potomac," said one
+of the loungers.</p>
+
+<p>"If we only had arms," said Webster, musingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Arms!" echoed Rogers; "why, sir, we have from five to six thousand
+stand of arms right here in Baltimore."</p>
+
+<p>"That may be true," said Webster, "but nobody seems to know where they
+are."</p>
+
+<p>"I am satisfied they will turn up at the right time," said Rogers.
+"Marshal Kane, before he was arrested, put them in the hands of men who
+will take good care of them until they are wanted."</p>
+
+<p>"And let us hope they will be wanted inside of two weeks," put in Sloan.
+"We can afford to be quiet now, boys, but when the Southern army comes
+this way, we'll rise ten thousand strong, and help take Washington."</p>
+
+<p>The opinion seemed to have fixed itself in the minds of nearly all the
+Southern sympathizers in the city, that in a very brief space of time,
+three or four weeks at the utmost limit, Baltimore would be occupied by
+rebel soldiers, and Jeff Davis would be there in person.</p>
+
+<p>"One thing is certain," said Webster, firmly. "If this thing goes on
+much longer, there will be a general uprising one of these days, and the
+streets of Baltimore will run with blood a thousand times worse than
+they did on the 19th of April."</p>
+
+<p>"You are right, there," said Rogers; "but for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span> heaven's sake don't let
+any one outside of your circle hear you use that expression, or you will
+be the next one in limbo."</p>
+
+<p>"If they want me, now is their time," replied the detective, with a
+smile, "for I have made up my mind to undertake a journey down into
+southern Maryland and Virginia, at an early day."</p>
+
+<p>"The devil you have! You will find that a difficult and dangerous
+undertaking."</p>
+
+<p>"Nevertheless, I shall attempt it. I find that if I can make the trip
+successfully I may be of service to some of our people here, by carrying
+letters and messages to their friends and relatives, with whom they are
+unable to communicate in any other way."</p>
+
+<p>Webster made this intention known to all of his associates, and gave
+them to understand that he desired to sell his horses and carriage
+before leaving. The sale was accomplished in a manner that seemed
+legitimate enough to all, though it was a mere pretense. One of my
+operatives, whom I sent to Baltimore for that purpose, made a sham
+purchase of the team and turned it over to me in Washington.</p>
+
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn10.jpg" width="160" height="109" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn6.jpg" width="448" height="120" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster Makes a Journey to the South.&mdash;A Secret Organization.&mdash;The
+"Knights of Liberty."&mdash;Webster Becomes a Member.&mdash;A Sudden Intrusion of
+the Military.&mdash;The Conspiracy Broken Up.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>In accordance with my instructions, Webster commenced his tour through
+southern Maryland, on Thursday, September 26th. He was accompanied by
+John Scully, who had been assisting him in his Baltimore operations, and
+they followed a line of travel which I laid out for them. Taking passage
+on the steamboat "Mary Washington," they baffled the officers who
+stopped them by showing a pass issued by the Provost-Marshal of
+Baltimore, and were soon steaming down the Chesapeake toward Fair Haven,
+which was their pretended destination. Arriving at that point they went
+ashore, and proceeded to the village of Friendship. From there they
+worked their way south-west to Prince Frederick, then across the Big
+Patuxent to Bendict, from which place they proceeded to Charlotte Hall,
+and thence on foot to Leonardtown, a distance of twenty miles. At the
+last-named place they found Wm. H. Scott, another of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span> my operatives,
+awaiting them, and were accompanied by him during the remainder of the
+journey.</p>
+
+<p>A number of messages, written and verbal, which had been intrusted to
+Webster by his Baltimore associates, were delivered at various points on
+the route, thus enabling them to form the acquaintance of certain
+secessionists who were men of prominence and influence in their
+respective neighborhoods, and who in turn provided them with letters of
+introduction to others of like ilk further on. Through this medium they
+secured attention and hospitality wherever they stopped, and had the
+advantage of valuable advice and assistance in the matter of pursuing
+their journey safely.</p>
+
+<p>They represented themselves to be rebel sympathizers on their way to the
+Potomac, for the purpose of finding a safe place where goods could be
+shipped across the river into Virginia. They were frequently cautioned
+to be very careful, as there were Union soldiers stationed all along the
+river, and people whose hearts were with the South were not permitted to
+express their sentiments with impunity. They penetrated as far as a
+point called Allen's Fresh, and deciding that they had gained all the
+information that could be picked up in that part of the country, they
+returned to Washington and reported to me.</p>
+
+<p>When Webster re-appeared on the streets of Baltimore, after completing
+this trip, he was more than ever lionized by his numerous friends who
+were in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span> the secret of his Southern journey, and its supposed object. By
+endangering his life in the Southern cause, as it was believed he had
+done, he had made himself a hero in the eyes of the traitors who were
+attached to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you still keeping mum?" he asked, as he stood in the center of a
+group at Dickinson's billiard hall, adjoining the Exchange.</p>
+
+<p>"Those who have any regard for their personal safety are doing so,"
+replied Rogers; "and I think the majority of the boys have learned that
+lesson. Baltimore is comparatively quiet now. Only one man has been
+arrested since you left, and we have hopes that he will be released."</p>
+
+<p>"Who is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"A man from Washington. He was fool enough to think he could talk as he
+pleased in Baltimore."</p>
+
+<p>"By the way," remarked some one present, "Webster must join our&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Sh," cautioned Dave Dickinson, the proprietor of the billiard room.
+"Have you no more sense than to reveal yourself <i>here</i>? Remember that
+your lips are sealed by an oath on that subject."</p>
+
+<p>There was a moment's silence; Webster looked from one to another, and
+noticed that an air of mystery had settled upon every countenance
+present.</p>
+
+<p>"What's this?" he demanded with a laugh. "Is it a conspiracy to betray
+me into the hands of the enemy?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Not exactly," replied Dickinson, whose laugh was echoed by the crowd.
+"Sloan, you will give Mr. Webster his cue when a favorable opportunity
+occurs. We want him with us, by all means."</p>
+
+<p>Webster's curiosity was satisfied an hour later, when he and Sam Sloan
+walked toward Miller's Hotel together.</p>
+
+<p>"The fact is," said Sam, in a guarded tone, "since you went away we've
+formed a secret organization."</p>
+
+<p>"A secret organization?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; and we have held several meetings."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it a success?"</p>
+
+<p>"A perfect success. Some of the best in town are among our members. We
+may be forced to keep silent, but, by Heaven! they can't compel us to
+remain idle. We are well organized, and we mean undying opposition to a
+tyrannical government. I tell you, Webster, <i>we will not down</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>"Never!" responded Webster, copying the boastful tone and bearing of his
+companion. "It does not lie in the power of these white-livered Yankees
+to make slaves of Southern men! I should like to become a member of your
+society, Sloan."</p>
+
+<p>"They all want you," said Sloan, eagerly. "They passed a resolution to
+that effect at the last meeting. They want the benefit of your counsel
+and influence."</p>
+
+<p>"What is your society called?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"The Knights of Liberty."</p>
+
+<p>"When will your next meeting be held?"</p>
+
+<p>"To-night."</p>
+
+<p>"So soon?"</p>
+
+<p>"And you are expected to attend. Have you any objections?"</p>
+
+<p>"None whatever. But how will I get there?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am delegated to be your escort," replied Sloan.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your hour of meeting?"</p>
+
+<p>"Twelve o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, a midnight affair. All right, Sam; you'll find me waiting for you
+at the hotel."</p>
+
+<p>Here they separated. Webster realized that quite an important period in
+his Baltimore experience was opening up before him, and that all his
+detective skill would probably be called into play to foil a band of
+conspirators. How to thwart the schemes of these Knights of Liberty,
+whose purpose, as he understood, was to assist in the overthrow of the
+Government of the United States, was now the question to be solved.</p>
+
+<p>He did not, however, attempt to form any plans at this time, but waited
+for such developments as he had no doubt would be made that night. He
+resolved to learn the nature of the plots that were in existence, before
+he commenced counterplotting.</p>
+
+<p>Promptly at eleven o'clock Sam Sloan put in an appearance at the hotel,
+and he and Webster proceeded<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span> toward the place of meeting. The night was
+dark and stormy, just the right sort of night, Webster thought, for the
+concocting of hellish plots and the performance of evil deeds.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"That night, a chiel might understand,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Deil had business on his hand."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>The stars were hidden from view by masses of flying clouds; the wind
+whistled shrilly through the trees and spires; while the deep,
+threatening murmurs of distant thunder were accompanied by fitful
+flashes of lightning, which illumined the scene with a weird, quivering
+light. Few shops were open in the localities through which they passed.
+Occasionally a light was seen struggling through the screened window of
+a saloon, and the sound of midnight orgies within indicated that
+business had not been suspended there; but elsewhere all was dark and
+still.</p>
+
+<p>Sloan led the way to a remote quarter of the city, and into a street
+which bore a particularly bad reputation. Here he stopped, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"I must blindfold you, Webster, before proceeding further. This is a
+rule of the order which cannot, under any circumstances, be departed
+from."</p>
+
+<p>Webster submitted quietly, while a thick bandage was placed over his
+eyes and securely fastened. Then Sloan took him by the arm and led him
+forward.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Blindfolded as he was, he knew that they turned suddenly into an
+alleyway, and he also knew when they passed through a gate, which Sloan
+closed behind them. He rightly conjectured that they were now in a sort
+of paved court, in the rear of a building.</p>
+
+<p>"Come this way and make no noise," whispered Sloan.</p>
+
+<p>The next moment the latter knocked on a door with a low, peculiar rap,
+that was like a signal. Immediately a guarded voice on the inside was
+heard:</p>
+
+<p>"Are you white?"</p>
+
+<p>"Down with the blacks!" responded Sloan.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing more was said. A chain clanked inside, a bolt shot back, and the
+door creaked on its hinges as it swung open.</p>
+
+<p>Webster was led through, and he and his conductor began to ascend a
+flight of stairs, so thickly carpeted that they emitted no sound from
+the footsteps upon them.</p>
+
+<p>At the head of the stairs they were again accosted:</p>
+
+<p>"Halt! Who comes there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Long live Jeff Davis," muttered Sloan.</p>
+
+<p>Passing on through another door, they found themselves in a small,
+square apartment, although, so far as Webster was concerned, there was
+no ocular proof of this. There seemed to be several persons here, and a
+voice, that was evidently meant to be tragical and impressive,
+demanded:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Whom have we here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Most Noble Chief," said Sloan, humbly, "I have a friend in charge, who
+wishes to become a worthy member of this league."</p>
+
+<p>"His name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Timothy Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"Have the objects of the league been fully explained to him?"</p>
+
+<p>"They have."</p>
+
+<p>The gruff-voiced speaker then said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Webster, is it your desire to become a member of this knightly
+band?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is," responded the detective, firmly.</p>
+
+<p>There was a sound as of a number of swords leaping from their scabbards,
+and the clank and ring of the steel as the blades seemed to meet above
+his head. Then the Grand Chief continued:</p>
+
+<p>"You will now kneel upon one knee, and place your right hand upon your
+heart, while I administer to you the binding obligation of our
+brotherhood."</p>
+
+<p>Webster did as he was directed, and in this attitude repeated the
+following oath, as it was dictated to him:</p>
+
+<p>"I, Timothy Webster, citizen of Baltimore, having been informed of the
+objects of this association, and being in full accord with the cause
+which it seeks to advance, do solemnly declare and affirm, upon my
+sacred honor, that I will keep forever secret all that I may see or
+hear, in consequence of being a member<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span> of this league; that I will
+implicitly obey all orders, and faithfully discharge all duties assigned
+to me, no matter of what nature or character they may be; and that life
+or death will be held subordinate to the success and advancement of the
+cause of the Confederacy and the defeat of the bloody tyrants who are
+striving to rule by oppression and terrorism. Should I fail in the
+proper performance of any task imposed upon me, or should I prove
+unfaithful to the obligations I have here assumed, may I suffer the
+severest penalty for treason and cowardice, as well as the odium and
+contempt of my brother knights."</p>
+
+<p>The swords clanked again as they were returned to their scabbards, and
+the new-made member, having taken the oath, was commanded to rise. He
+did so in silence, and the bandage was removed from his eyes.</p>
+
+<p>At first the light of the room almost blinded him, but his eyes soon
+became accustomed to the change, and he looked about him with some
+curiosity. He found that he was in the presence of seven stalwart men,
+besides Sloan, all of whom wore swords at their sides, dark cloaks
+drooping from their shoulders, and black masks upon their faces. The
+masks, however, were now removed, and Webster discovered, to his relief,
+that they were all familiar to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Webster," said the Chief, dropping his tragic tone of voice,
+"without further ceremony, I pronounce you a Knight of Liberty. I greet
+you heartily;"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span> and then, extending his hand&mdash;"Come with me."</p>
+
+<p>As they emerged into the main council-chamber, Webster quietly examined
+his surroundings. It was a spacious apartment, very plain in its
+appointments, with a low ceiling and bare walls, and furnished with
+chairs arranged in rows around the room. At the head of the hall was a
+low platform on which were tables and chairs. Behind these, on the wall,
+were suspended two Confederate flags, artistically draped, above which
+were the initials "K. of L." Some forty men were already assembled, and
+others were quietly dropping in at intervals. Webster noticed that all
+these men were from the better class of citizen secessionists, and that
+the low, rowdy element was not represented. They were mostly men who had
+not thus far been suspected of disloyalty to the Union cause.</p>
+
+<p>The Grand Chief and other officers now took their positions on the
+platform, and Webster was assigned to a seat where he could observe all
+that was said or done.</p>
+
+<p>Presently a clock in the room struck twelve. Instantly all the doors
+opening into the chamber were securely locked, and the secret conclave
+was in session. The Grand Chief rose and opened the meeting in regular
+form; and again, after the secretary had read the journal, made an
+address of some length. At the conclusion of his remarks, some one arose
+and said:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Most Worthy Chief, I believe we can now claim Mr. Webster as a member
+of this body. I understand that he has just returned from an interesting
+and somewhat dangerous mission, and I now move that he be invited to
+address this meeting relative to his experiences during the journey he
+has just completed."</p>
+
+<p>Webster, taken by surprise, undertook to combat the proposition, but the
+motion was unanimously concurred in, and no excuses were accepted. He
+therefore yielded good-naturedly, and mounting the platform, he
+proceeded to relate some of the particulars of his trip to the Potomac.
+He made the recital as entertaining and agreeable as possible, and
+although his statements did not always possess the merit of being
+strictly true, they were such as could not fail to meet the approval of
+his hearers, and were therefore received with great favor. Concluding
+with a well-timed panegyric on the "faithful" of Baltimore, he resumed
+his seat amid the congratulations of his many admiring friends.</p>
+
+<p>After this, the regular business of the meeting was taken up, in which
+Webster took no other part than that of a close listener and observer.
+Motions were made, resolutions were adopted, and various duties assigned
+to volunteer committees. The proceedings grew more and more interesting
+to the detective as they progressed, and it was not long before he began
+to feel considerable surprise, if not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span> alarm, at the unexpected
+revelations which were made. It became evident to him that these
+conspirators had by some means succeeded in placing themselves in direct
+communication with the Confederate leaders, and that a gigantic plot was
+now in preparation to make a united and irresistible movement against
+Washington. Nearly ten thousand Baltimoreans, it was alleged, were
+prepared to rise in arms at a moment's notice, and join the rebel army,
+whenever such a movement might seem feasible. It appeared, also, that
+the Baltimoreans were not alone in this plot against the government, but
+that branches of their organization existed in a number of the outlying
+towns, and that the secessionists of the entire State were working
+harmoniously together for the accomplishment of one great purpose. There
+was no lack of arms, for these had already been secured, but their place
+of concealment was known only to a few and they were not to be brought
+to light until they should be needed.</p>
+
+<p>The main portion of the plot seemed to be well matured, and was most
+perfect in its details. The arrival of the rebel army in Maryland was
+expected in a very short time, as they had the promises of the Southern
+commanders themselves that they would soon cross the Potomac. Their
+coming was to be the signal for a simultaneous uprising of all the
+secessionists in the Western and Southern portions of the State, who
+were to unite in a movement that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span> could scarcely fail to carry
+everything before it. There were also deep-laid schemes by which the
+Federals were to be kept in ignorance of the real designs of the
+Confederates, until too late to avert the blow.</p>
+
+<p>The extent of the conspiracy rather startled Webster, although some of
+the projects sounded rather visionary, and he made up his mind to
+consult with me at once. Accordingly, the very next day, he proceeded to
+Washington, and was closeted with me for several hours. As soon as he
+had explained the situation, I devised a plan of procedure, and gave him
+full instructions as to the manner in which he should proceed. The great
+object, of course, was to break up the organization, and defeat the
+conspiracy in a manner that would not compromise Webster; but it was not
+deemed prudent to go about this with any inordinate haste.</p>
+
+<p>I advised Webster to continue attending the meetings, in the character
+of an active conspirator; to learn all he could, and report to me as
+often as possible. In the meantime, I would send him two other
+operatives, and he was to secure their admission into the secret
+society, as members thereof. In a week or two the final act in the
+little drama would be introduced by first making a confidant of Mr.
+McPhail, the deputy Provost-Marshal of Baltimore, and then confronting
+the conspirators with a company of armed soldiers.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Webster returned to Baltimore with a clear understanding of the course
+he was to pursue, and he followed that course with the untiring zeal
+with which he performed every duty assigned to him. He attended the
+midnight meetings regularly, and gained much information concerning the
+plans and movements of the Southern commanders, which proved of
+incalculable value to the government. The two operatives soon contrived
+to join the society, not through Webster's recommendation, as that was
+to be avoided, if possible, but by making the acquaintances of men whom
+he pointed out to them, and representing themselves as secessionists who
+were capable of keeping their own counsel.</p>
+
+<p>This done, the rest was comparatively easy. By the rules of the society,
+no one could enter the secret chamber of the conspirators without
+passing two guards, and giving sundry pass-words. These guards were
+appointed by the Chief from those who volunteered for the positions. At
+stated periods, new pass-words were arranged, by which every man was
+required to answer the questions of the guards, and any one who failed
+to commit these to memory sufficiently to satisfy these sentinels that
+he was a member of the society, found himself barred out of the meeting.</p>
+
+<p>Our plan worked to perfection. There came a night when my two operatives
+were on duty, as guards, they having volunteered their services at the
+last preceding meeting. This was the night set<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span> apart for the surprise.
+It had been announced that Webster would speak that night, and it had
+been arranged with the guards, that a certain part in his speech should
+be taken as the signal for the grand finale that had been decided upon.</p>
+
+<p>The hour of midnight approached. The old building in which the secret
+conclaves were held was shrouded in silence and darkness. At intervals
+one or more dark figures might have been seen to enter the covered
+archway leading thereto, and pass through the gate into the narrow
+court. Then, one at a time, they approached a certain door, and after a
+signal rap, and a low, muttered conversation with the guards, they
+passed in and ascended the dimly-lighted stairs. Another brief dialogue
+with the inside guard, and they entered the council-chamber, where they
+dropped their mysterious manner, and were ready to answer to their names
+at the calling of the roll.</p>
+
+<p>The clock struck twelve. The sound rang through the apartment in solemn,
+measured tones, and as the twelfth stroke was still vibrating in the
+air, all the doors, even those communicating with the ante-rooms, were
+promptly locked, no one being admitted after that hour.</p>
+
+<p>The meeting was opened after the regular form, and the business disposed
+of without interruption. When the time which was set apart for addresses
+arrived, Webster was called upon for his speech. He ascended the
+platform with a serious expression on<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span> his face, and after thanking his
+fellow-knights for the honor conferred upon him, he launched forth into
+a stirring address, the treasonable nature of which was calculated to
+fire the Southern blood of his hearers, and to add much to his own
+popularity. As the speaker appeared to warm up with his subject he
+lifted his voice and exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"The dissolution of the Union is one of the inevitable necessities of
+Lincoln's election, and it will be our mission to strike directly at the
+heart of the abolition party, and bury its foul carcass beneath the
+smoking ruins of Washington city!"</p>
+
+<p>This was the signal. The words had no sooner passed the lips of the
+speaker, than a startling noise, like that of a battering-ram being
+applied to one of the ante-room doors, cut short the speech, and caused
+every man present to spring to his feet in astonishment and alarm. Bang!
+bang! bang! sounded the heavy blows. The door burst open with a crash,
+and a stream of blue-coated soldiers, all fully armed, came pouring into
+the council-chamber, and quickly deployed around three sides of the
+room, effectually cutting off the retreat of the inmates before they
+could make a movement.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 718px;">
+<img src="images/illus014.jpg" width="718" height="375" alt="&quot;The door burst open and a stream of blue coated
+soldiers came pouring in.&quot; P 298" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;The door burst open and a stream of blue coated
+soldiers came pouring in.&quot; P 298</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The sudden and unexpected appearance of these intruders had a paralyzing
+effect upon the conspirators. Had so many ghosts confronted them they
+could not have been more surprised. Horrified consternation was depicted
+on every blanched face; startled eyes looked wildly around for some
+avenue of escape, and exclamations of terror or baffled rage broke from
+many white lips. Some of the most desperate seemed for a moment to
+entertain thoughts of breaking through the line of soldiers and reaching
+the door, but no such mad attempt was made. McPhail stepped forward with
+a revolver in each hand, and in a low, thrilling voice, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, you are our prisoners. I advise you to give in gracefully.
+We are too many for you."</p>
+
+<p>His advice did not go unheeded. They surrendered as gracefully as
+possible under the circumstances, and resigned themselves to the custody
+of their armed foes. The chamber in which they had maliciously plotted
+the overthrow of the government became the scene of their own downfall,
+and it was with dejected countenances that they submitted to the
+inevitable, and permitted themselves to be marched in a body before the
+Provost-Marshal. It was not observed, however, until they were being
+removed, that Timothy Webster had somehow contrived to make good his
+escape.</p>
+
+<p>The leading spirits of this conspiracy&mdash;those who did the actual
+plotting, and who were known to be the arch traitors and prime movers in
+the secret enterprise&mdash;were taken to Fort McHenry. The rest, after
+taking the oath of allegiance, were released.</p>
+
+<p>My two operatives disappeared from Baltimore immediately after this
+occurrence, as well they might,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span> for of course the suspicion of the
+defeated conspirators fastened upon them at once. As they did not show
+themselves in that city again, however, they never were made the victims
+of the terrible vengeance which some of their late associates swore to
+bring down upon their luckless heads at the first opportunity. As for
+Webster, instead of being suspected of any complicity in the betrayal,
+he was congratulated upon his fortunate and remarkable escape from the
+fate which befell his unfortunate brother knights.</p>
+
+<p>With the defeat of the "Knights of Liberty" in Baltimore, ended the
+existence of the branch lodges all over the State. The organization,
+which had so carefully planned the destruction of the Union at a single
+blow, was completely broken up. The conspirators, taking warning by the
+fate of their leaders, became mute and inactive, and although skilled
+detectives were sent to all outlying towns, no new signs of an uprising
+were discovered.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn5.jpg" width="448" height="160" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Suspicions in Washington.&mdash;"Uncle Gallus."&mdash;Property Searched.&mdash;A Rebel
+Family sent South.&mdash;Webster starts for Richmond.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Aside from the operations of Timothy Webster and his assistants in
+Baltimore, there was work enough to do in Washington to keep myself and
+all the members of my large force constantly employed. Innumerable
+persons, suspected of treasonable designs, were closely shadowed; whole
+families became objects of distrust, and fell under the watchful eye of
+my department; while the ungracious task of searching the homes of
+people who stood upon the highest round of the social ladder became of
+frequent occurrence.</p>
+
+<p>Among the latter class were the wife and family of ex-Governor Morton,
+of Florida, who at this time were sojourning in Washington. Mrs. Morton
+was known to be in sympathy with the South, and the unceasing vigilance
+of my men soon developed the fact that she was in secret communication
+with certain officials of the rebel government, to whom she was giving
+information concerning affairs at the North. She was a lady of eminent
+respectability and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span> refinement, and much esteemed by all who knew her,
+but this did not render it less advisable, under the circumstances, to
+have all her movements watched, and her house constantly shadowed by
+detectives. Her pleasant residence at No. 288 "I" street, was therefore
+placed under strict surveillance, and its inmates followed whenever they
+went out for a walk or drive, while all visitors at the house were
+invariably shadowed when they went away.</p>
+
+<p>There was an old negro servant, known as Uncle Gallus, who went to and
+from the house oftener than any one else, on errands for the family.
+Finally one of my operatives drew the old fellow into conversation, and
+found him so cheerful and communicative, and so firm in his loyalty to
+the Northern cause, that when the fact was reported to me, I concluded
+to talk with Uncle Gallus myself. Accordingly, I gave orders to have him
+brought to my office, if it could be done without opposition on his
+part. The friendship I bore for the colored race, and my long experience
+as an underground railroad conductor, had given me such an insight into
+the character of the negro, that I believed I could gain his confidence
+and good-will if I should meet him.</p>
+
+<p>Uncle Gallus came to my office quite willingly. He was a
+powerfully-built darky, though evidently well advanced in years, as
+attested by the bleached appearance of his wool and eyebrows. His skin
+was as black and shone as bright as polished ebony, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span> it took but
+little provocation to set him on a broad grin, which displayed two
+unbroken rows of glistening ivory.</p>
+
+<p>This interesting specimen appeared before me one afternoon, when Timothy
+Webster was with me in my office. We had just finished a discussion
+concerning some delicate point in Webster's Baltimore operations, and
+had lapsed into a desultory conversation. My sable visitor stood bowing
+and scraping, and turning his hat round and round in his hands, till I
+bid him be seated.</p>
+
+<p>"Your name is Gallus?" I said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sah," he replied, his mouth stretched from ear to ear. "Folks done
+got so dey call me <i>uncle</i> Gallus nowadays."</p>
+
+<p>"You have been a slave all your life, I understand?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, massa, eber sence I war knee-high to a hopper-grass. I'se done a
+mighty sight o' wu'k, too, 'kase I wus allus as big an stout as a
+sixty-dollah bull, an' I could stan' mo' hard-fisted labor dan any o' de
+udder niggahs on de plantation. But sence I been wid Massa Morton I
+ain't had nuffin' to do skursely, an' it seems as ef I'se gwine to git
+pow'ful lazy fur de want o' wu'k. H'yah! H'yah!"</p>
+
+<p>"What is your native State, Uncle Gallus?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ole Virginny, sah."</p>
+
+<p>He held his head a little higher, and sat a trifle more erect as he said
+this, showing that inordinate<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span> pride in his State which I had so often
+noticed in other Virginia slaves, as well as in Virginia masters.</p>
+
+<p>I asked him if the Mortons had offered him his freedom since the
+breaking out of the war. He shook his head and gravely replied:</p>
+
+<p>"Dey hain't been nuffin' said to dis pusson on dat 'ar subjick, but I
+knows dey'd gimme my freedom in less'n twenty-fo' hours ef I done ax 'em
+fur it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you don't want to be free?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes, I does, massa; yes, I does, fur sho'. But Massa Linkum an' de
+Yankee boys am gwine ter fetch dat aroun' all right by'm-bye. Bress your
+soul an' body, I can't b'ar fur to run away from missus an' ole massa,
+'kase dey's been so good an' kyind to me; an' I'se done tuk an oath dat
+I won't leave 'em till dey gimme leaf. When missus goes back down Souf
+I'se gwine ter go wid her, ef she don't tole me to stay heah. It won't
+be long, nohow, 'kase de time am soon comin' when de darkies will all be
+free."</p>
+
+<p>"Your mistress intends to return to the South, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sah; we'll soon be off now, ef de good Lo'd will let us. Massa,
+he's in Richmond, an' he hab done sent fur de family."</p>
+
+<p>"Is Mrs. Morton in communication with her husband?"</p>
+
+<p>"Spec' she is, sah. She writes letters, an' <i>gits</i> letters. She has ter
+be sorter keerful like, for dese<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span> 'yah Yankees is got eyes like a cat,
+an' kin see fru a stun wall in de dark."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know whether your mistress writes to any one besides her
+husband?"</p>
+
+<p>Uncle Gallus leaned back in his chair, and looked at me somewhat
+suspiciously, the whites of his eyes shining like polished china.</p>
+
+<p>"'Deed, sah, I doesn't know whedder she dusdo, or whedder she doant," he
+said, hesitatingly. "Please, massa, doant ax dis chile any mo'
+questions. My missus is de bes' woman in de wu'ld, and nebber didn't do
+nuffin' wrong in all her bawn days. Ole Gallus wouldn't say nuffin' to
+bring trubble on her for fifteen cents," he added, earnestly.</p>
+
+<p>I quieted the fears of the faithful old man by assuring him that I meant
+no harm to his mistress, and that I had no doubt she was the good lady
+he represented her to be. Satisfied with the result of my
+investigations, I permitted Uncle Gallus to depart, first charging him,
+however, to say nothing to any one concerning my interview with him. He
+promised secrecy, and bowed himself out with all his teeth visible,
+saying, as he went:</p>
+
+<p>"Fo' de Lawd, gemmen, I'se hopin an' prayin' de No'thun folks will be de
+top dog in dis wrastle, an' ef eber dis niggah hes a chance to gib
+yu'uns a helpin' han', yu' kin bet a hoss agin' a coon-skin he'll do it;
+but I hope an' trus' my missus not be boddered."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, I had learned enough to bring me to the decision, that
+Mrs. Morton's house must be searched, and under orders of the Secretary
+of War, I sent three of my men to No. 288 "I" street, to perform this
+unpleasant task. The operatives chosen to make the search were W. H.
+Scott, John Scully, and Pryce Lewis. Mrs. Morton received them very
+civilly, and told them they were at liberty to make a thorough search of
+the premises, which they immediately proceeded to do. They had
+instructions to read all letters that were found, but to keep only those
+that were of a treasonable nature, and in no case to destroy any
+property or leave anything in a disordered condition. These instructions
+were obeyed to the letter. Boxes that were packed ready for shipment
+were all carefully repacked and closed after they had been examined by
+my men, and when the operatives departed, they left no traces of their
+search behind them. Their polite and considerate conduct won for them
+the good will, not only of Mrs. Morton herself, but also of her daughter
+and two sons, who expressed themselves as being agreeably surprised, for
+they had been informed that the men from the Provost-Marshal's office
+were a set of ruffians, who did not scruple to break up boxes, and
+litter the house with their contents, and that their conduct towards
+ladies was insulting in the extreme. They even went so far as to assure
+the operatives, that if any of them should ever be taken prisoner and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span>
+brought to Richmond, they would do all in their power to secure kind
+treatment for them.</p>
+
+<p>Among the letters that were found, two of them were from ex-Governor
+Morton, to his son and daughter, requesting them to come to him at
+Richmond; but nothing of a criminating character was discovered, and the
+family were not subjected to further annoyance.</p>
+
+<p>Some two weeks afterwards, when John Scully boarded a train for
+Baltimore, whither I had sent him with a message to Webster, he chanced
+to meet Mrs. Morton and family in the car which he entered. They were
+departing from Washington, having been required to leave the North, by
+the authorities, who furnished them a safe passport to Richmond, and
+they were accompanied by the faithful Uncle Gallus. They recognized
+Scully, and greeted him with cordial courtesy, the eldest son rising in
+his seat to shake hands with him. They told him that on arriving at
+Baltimore, they were to take a flag-of-truce boat to Fortress Monroe,
+from which point they would continue their journey to Richmond. Scully
+as a matter of policy, gave them distinctly to understand that he had
+quitted the government service and was returning to his home in the
+North.</p>
+
+<p>This little experience with the Morton family was trifling enough in
+itself, and was only one of many similar episodes with which I and my
+force were connected during those troublous times; but I have been<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span> thus
+particular in detailing it because it has an important bearing upon
+other events which afterwards occurred.</p>
+
+<p>It was about a month after the incident above mentioned, that Timothy
+Webster completed his preparations for making his first trip into
+Virginia and through the rebel lines. A large number of Baltimoreans had
+intrusted him with letters to their friends and relatives in the South,
+and he had assured them that their messages would be delivered safely
+and answers brought back in due time.</p>
+
+<p>He left Baltimore on the 14th of October, and proceeded southward along
+the "Eastern Shore" of Virginia, seeking a convenient place to cross
+over to the mainland or "Western Shore." He arrived at Eastville, the
+county seat of Northampton county, on Tuesday, October 22d, where he
+found that he could effect a crossing with the assistance of a man named
+Marshall, who made a business of smuggling passengers and mails through
+the lines. He was compelled, however, to remain at Eastville several
+days, waiting for Marshall and his boat to come over from the other
+side, his trips being delayed on account of the bright moonlight nights,
+as the boatman did not dare to run the gantlet of the Federal guns,
+unless covered by darkness.</p>
+
+<p>Some two or three months before, this man, Marshall, had owned a sloop,
+which he had used successfully in running the Federal blockade. One
+night he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span> was caught in a calm near the western shore, and was run-down
+by a gunboat. His sloop was captured, and he narrowly escaped capture by
+deserting his vessel and reaching the shore in a smaller boat. Since
+that time Marshall had been pursuing his vocation with a sort of canoe,
+or "dugout," thirty-one feet in length and five feet in width, carrying
+three sails&mdash;main, fore and jib. His route was from Gloucester Point,
+York river, to Eastville, and his business was to transfer from one side
+of the bay to the other the Confederate mail and passengers, and
+sometimes a small cargo of merchandise. Marshall being an expert pilot
+and a thorough seaman, was frequently employed by the masters of sloops
+and schooners to pilot them past certain points, they giving him the
+privilege of putting his passengers and mail-bags aboard the vessel
+without charge. It was his invariable custom to place a stone or other
+heavy substance in his mail-bag before starting, for the purpose of
+sinking it in case of being pressed by the gunboats.</p>
+
+<p>It was on a dark evening that Webster left Cherrystone Lighthouse in
+Marshall's canoe, to make the voyage across the Chesapeake. There were
+thirteen passengers, all told. Eight of these were Marylanders, mostly
+from Baltimore, every one of whom announced his intention of enlisting
+in the Confederate army or navy upon his arrival at Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>On starting, Marshall rowed off a short distance from the light-house,
+and rested on his oars for some<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span> time, taking observations to ascertain
+if the bay was clear of hostile craft. The night was scarcely dark
+enough for safety; the clouds were thin and scattered, and the stars
+were peeping through the dark, ragged curtain overhead. The wind was
+blowing strongly from the east, and the water was exceedingly rough.</p>
+
+<p>Resolving, however, to make the effort, Marshall hoisted his sails, and
+as they rapidly filled, the little vessel sprung forward like a thing of
+life. It fairly skimmed over the waves, its sharp prow cutting the water
+and dashing up clouds of spray that caused the men to turn up their
+coat-collars and pull their hats down closer upon their heads. All
+conversation was forbidden, lest their voices should betray them to the
+enemy. With sealed lips and motionless forms, they might have been so
+many dark phantoms speeding before the wind on some supernatural
+mission.</p>
+
+<p>Webster, by his own wish, had been put upon the look-out by the captain
+of the boat, and he keenly watched for signs of danger. When they had
+traveled nearly half the distance across the bay, he spied a point of
+light to leeward, and at once called Marshall's attention to it.</p>
+
+<p>"It is a gunboat with a light on her bows," said the latter. "Let her
+come. She can't catch us, for with oar present headway we are not to be
+overhauled by any boat on this water."</p>
+
+<p>The canoe was headed due west for about fourteen miles, then south-west
+by west for ten or twelve<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span> miles, then due west again to Gloucester
+Point. The entire run was made in three and a half hours, the sailing
+distance being about thirty miles.</p>
+
+<p>On nearing Gloucester Point, they were hailed by a sentinel, with the
+usual challenge:</p>
+
+<p>"Who comes there?"</p>
+
+<p>The blockade-runner sent back the answer:</p>
+
+<p>"Marshall&mdash;mail boat!"</p>
+
+<p>"Stand, Marshall, and give the countersign!"</p>
+
+<p>"No countersign," was the reply.</p>
+
+<p>The sentinel then called out:</p>
+
+<p>"Sergeant of the Guard, Post No. 1!"</p>
+
+<p>And another voice, further away, cried:</p>
+
+<p>"Who's there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Marshall, with mail boat and passengers."</p>
+
+<p>"Sentinel, let them pass."</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later the passengers disembarked, and found themselves in
+a rebel camp.</p>
+
+<p>Webster, with others, went to Marshall's shanty&mdash;a rude, wooden
+structure, which that worthy had built on the Point for the
+accommodation of his passengers&mdash;and there the remainder of the night
+was spent in the refreshing companionship of Morpheus.</p>
+
+<p>On the following morning Webster was up and astir at an early hour. He
+ascertained that the encampment at Gloucester Point consisted of two
+regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry, and one field battery
+of six guns, all under the command of Col. Charles H. Crump. The
+entrenchments comprised<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span> an area of about fifteen acres, and the main
+breastwork on the beach consisted of a heavy earth-bank, walled on the
+inside with split pine logs set up on end. About the center of this
+breastwork was a sixty-four-pound gun, mounted on a high carriage, which
+traversed in a circle commanding a sweep of the whole land side of the
+entrenchments, where there was a clean field of about seven hundred
+acres bounded by timber on the north and York river on the south.</p>
+
+<p>General Magruder had command of this division of the army, including the
+forces at Gloucester Point, Yorktown and all the peninsula bounded by
+the James and York rivers, extending down to Fortress Monroe. The
+division embraced thirty-three regiments of infantry and cavalry.</p>
+
+<p>Webster called at Colonel Crump's headquarters and obtained from that
+officer a pass to Richmond, not only for himself, but for several others
+who had crossed the bay with him. At about the hour of noon on Saturday,
+the 26th, the party were ferried across the river to Yorktown, in a
+small boat. The landing at Yorktown was in front of a hill which rose
+with a gentle slope some twenty-five feet above the beach, on the top of
+which, in front of the town, was an earthwork mounting six or eight
+guns.</p>
+
+<p>From this point the party proceeded in a south-westerly direction,
+across the peninsula, to Grove Wharf, on James river. The distance was
+about ten<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span> miles, and was accomplished without difficulty or delay. On
+their arrival at Grove Wharf, however, they were disappointed to learn
+that no boat was to leave there for Richmond until the following Monday.
+There was no help for it, and with a rueful attempt at resignation, they
+took quarters at a neighboring farm-house, where they waited and rested.</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn2.jpg" width="160" height="144" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn9.jpg" width="448" height="90" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Spy at Richmond.&mdash;Earthworks Around the Rebel Capital.&mdash;An
+Unexpected Meeting.&mdash;Pistols for Two.&mdash;A Reconciliation.&mdash;Safe Return to
+Washington.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>On Monday morning Webster left Grove Wharf, on the regular steam packet,
+for Richmond, where he arrived on the evening of the same day. Here he
+separated from his companions and made his way alone to the Spotswood
+Hotel, where he registered, and proceeded to make himself at home. He
+was now in the rebel capital, surrounded on all sides by the enemies of
+his country, with no friends to whom he could apply in case of danger,
+and burdened with a mission, upon the successful performance of which
+his life depended. It was a mission, too, requiring such delicate and
+skillful labor, that a man less iron-nerved would have trembled at the
+very contemplation of it; but Webster, whose courage and self-command
+never deserted him in the most trying moments of his life, coolly
+reviewed the situation and laid his plans in a systematic manner for
+future operations.</p>
+
+<p>The next day, he busied himself about the city, delivering his letters,
+forming acquaintances, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span> paving the way for an interview with the
+Secretary of War, his object being to obtain from that high official, if
+possible, a pass to Manassas and Winchester. He was informed by General
+Jones, Post-Adjutant to General Winder, the Provost-Marshal at Richmond,
+and commander of the forces there, that no interview could be obtained
+with the Secretary of War, except upon business especially connected
+with the military department, as they were daily expecting an attack
+from the Federal Army of the Potomac, and the Secretary was wholly
+engaged with officers of the army.</p>
+
+<p>Among the acquaintances which Webster formed, was a young man by the
+name of William Campbell, originally a Baltimorean, to whom he brought a
+letter of introduction from the father of the young man. Campbell
+treated my operative with the utmost friendliness and courtesy, and
+invited him to a drive during the afternoon. The invitation was
+accepted, and as the weather was all that could be desired, they enjoyed
+a very pleasant afternoon. They visited the environs for the purpose of
+viewing the defenses, and Webster noted the fact that there were
+seventeen very superior earthwork batteries around the town, forming a
+rude semicircle with either end resting on the James river. The
+entrenchments around each of these batteries were from twelve to
+fourteen feet wide at the top, and about ten feet deep. Some of the
+batteries were designed for six guns and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span> some for sixteen. They were
+nearly all completed at this time, and the work upon them had been done
+exclusively by negro slaves. In most cases they were mounted with their
+full complement of guns, varying in caliber, from thirty-two to
+sixty-four pounds. The land around Richmond consists of hills and
+valleys, and the batteries were planted on the most elevated and
+commanding points. The heaviest of these commanded the turnpikes and
+railroads which formed the approaches from Manassas and Fredericksburg.</p>
+
+<p>After visiting the batteries, Webster went with Campbell to the ordnance
+department, where he was introduced to several persons who had charge of
+the ordnance stores, and from whom he elicited much valuable
+information. Among other things, he was informed by the Colonel in
+charge, that the "Bermuda," an English vessel which had recently run the
+blockade, had brought over for the Confederate government twelve
+thousand Enfield rifles, a large supply of cavalry swords and a number
+of rifled cannon; and that, upon trial, the rifled cannon were found to
+be more accurate than any of their brass pieces.</p>
+
+<p>On the following day Webster concluded to make another inspection of the
+earthworks around the city. He went alone and on foot this time, as he
+desired to make some notes and calculations, which he was unable to do
+in the presence of others without running an unnecessary risk. It was a
+fine, brisk morning,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span> the air was slightly tinged with the coolness of
+approaching winter, and the spy occupied the entire forenoon in
+strolling leisurely from point to point, apparently with the single
+object of idling away a few leisure hours. Now he passed some men
+engaged in planting a cannon on one of the redoubts, and again he saw a
+group of slaves busily at work with pickaxes and shovels, but no one
+seemed to pay any attention to him.</p>
+
+<p>About noon he came upon a scene, which, though characteristic of the
+time and place, was rather a novel sight to a Northern man, and he
+stopped to view it with considerable interest. In a sunny spot near the
+river bank about a dozen negro laborers were gathered, their
+surroundings showing that they had just left off work for the enjoyment
+of their allotted hour of rest, at noon. Having finished their mid-day
+repast, they were now filling their time by indulging in a species of
+amusement peculiar to their race. On a pine log sat a jolly-looking old
+negro, whose hair was white as snow and whose face was black as ebony,
+grinning, and rolling his head from side to side, while he patted "Juba"
+with great energy and skill, on his knees, chest and head. The other
+darkies were dancing to the "music," and apparently enjoying the sport
+to an unlimited degree.</p>
+
+<p>The detective was amused at the spectacle, but this feeling gave way to
+one of surprise and curiosity, as he looked more intently at the
+white-haired old<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span> man who was acting as <i>musician</i>. There was something
+strikingly familiar in those black, smiling features. Surely this was
+not the first time he had seen that face, or witnessed that tremendous
+grin. Where had he met this darky before?</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly his recollection was quickened. The person in question was none
+other than Uncle Gallus, the servant of ex-Governor Morton, whom he had
+seen in my office at Washington, on the day that I had questioned him
+about his mistress. This fact was clear enough to Webster, but somewhat
+surprising, withal. He remembered that Uncle Gallus had, on that
+occasion, represented the Mortons as very indulgent slave-owners, who
+never permitted him to perform any hard labor; yet here he was, in the
+role of a common workman, employed upon the fortifications around
+Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>Whatever had caused this change, however, it did not appear to weigh
+heavily upon the old darky, for at this moment he was in the very
+ecstasy of delight, as he patted inspiration into the nimble feet of his
+companions. The other darkies danced until their faces shone with
+perspiration, and the manner in which their loose-jointed limbs swung
+and wriggled, suggested the idea that those members were hung on pivots.
+They leaped and vaulted, and flung their heels in the airs, as if they
+were so many jumping-jacks and Uncle Gallus was pulling the string.</p>
+
+<p>The latter hummed snatches of plantation melodies<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span> as he warmed up to
+his work, and finally he sung a series of characteristic verses, of
+which the following are a sample:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Did you ebber see a woodchuck lookin' at a coon-fight?<br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Did you ebber see a niggah gal dancin' in de moonlight?<br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Possum up a gum-stump, chawin' slippery-ellum,<br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Nigga's in de market an' massa tryin' to sell 'em&mdash;<br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Secesh in Richmon'&mdash;de Yankee boys has treed 'em&mdash;<br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">All de little pickaninnies gwine to git dar freedom&mdash;<br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!"<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Suddenly the merriment of the blacks was interrupted in a most
+unexpected manner.</p>
+
+<p>Some tall bushes that covered the top of a slight elevation near by were
+suddenly parted, and a man, wearing the uniform of a Lieutenant in the
+Confederate army, leaped down among the astonished revelers. In a
+towering rage, he turned upon Uncle Gallus and shouted:</p>
+
+<p>"Shut your head, you d&mdash;&mdash;d old villain, or I'll fill your black hide
+with lead!" and he flourished a cocked revolver in the face of the
+terrified negro.</p>
+
+<p>"Afo' God, Massa, we didn't mean no harm, we's jes passin' away de
+time," said Uncle Gallus, in a frightened voice.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well, then," said the officer, with an oath, "be a little more careful
+in the future about the kind of songs you sing, or I'll have every
+d&mdash;&mdash;d one of you bucked and gagged, and whipped within an inch of your
+lives."</p>
+
+<p>Replacing his weapon, and turning on his heel, he was striding angrily
+away when he came face to face with Webster.</p>
+
+<p>The recognition was mutual and instantaneous between the two men. As
+quick as a flash Webster had his revolver cocked and pointed at the head
+of the blustering Confederate.</p>
+
+<p>"Bill Zigler, what are you doing here? You move at your peril."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd kill you, curse you, but you've got the drop on me now, as you had
+once before. But my time will come, you d&mdash;&mdash;d Yankee spy!"</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Bill!" said Webster, anxious, if possible, to disarm at once
+and forever the suspicions of his enemy, "what is the use of our being
+continually at daggers' points? You were foolish enough to insult me in
+Baltimore by impeaching my loyalty to the South, and I resented it, as
+any man would. If you repeat the vile slander, I'll do the same thing.
+If, however, you have anything personal against me, and must fight, I'll
+put up my weapon and meet you hand to hand."</p>
+
+<p>Zigler looked at the speaker a moment, and then advancing and extending
+his hand, said:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Webster, put up your pistol; I guess I've made a d&mdash;&mdash;d fool of myself.
+I did think you were a spy, but I knock under; I don't want to be an
+enemy to such a friend to the cause as I now believe you to be."</p>
+
+<p>Lowering his revolver, Webster good-naturedly received the friendly
+overtures of his former foe.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought you would come to your senses at last; but when did you come
+down here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I've been here several weeks. I enlisted in Baltimore and came down
+as a lieutenant," answered Zigler. "But where are you from?" he
+continued, "and what is the news from the Monumental City?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am just from that city," replied Webster, "and have brought a number
+of letters for parties here and at Manassas. I expect to go to the
+Junction to-morrow, if I succeed in getting a pass."</p>
+
+<p>"Who do you want to see there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I want to see John Bowen," replied Webster, naming a particular
+friend of Zigler's, whom he knew was at Manassas. "I understand he is
+down with typhoid fever, and will no doubt be glad to hear from home."</p>
+
+<p>This straightforward story completely disarmed the suspicions of the
+bully as to Webster's true character, and finding that he had time to
+spare he invited the scout to his quarters.</p>
+
+<p>Thus the quarrel was settled between these two<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span> men, and the superior
+tact and coolness of Webster had succeeded in making a friend of a man
+who might have seriously interfered with his operations, and probably
+have jeopardized his life.</p>
+
+<p>As they were leaving the place, Webster cast a look at the group of
+negroes, whose mirth had been so suddenly interrupted, and he noticed
+that they were regarding the Lieutenant with looks of sullen anger. He
+was, however, considerably relieved to find that Uncle Gallus had not
+recognized him, and that as far as the aged negro was concerned, he had
+nothing to fear. He accompanied Zigler to his quarters, where they
+chatted pleasantly for an hour, after which Webster returned to his
+hotel, a much wiser man than when he first started out upon his walk.</p>
+
+<p>As he sauntered quietly back to the city, he felt quite elated at the
+success of his management of Zigler, whom he had made a fast friend.
+After supper, in company with Mr. Campbell, he strolled about the city
+for a short time, when his companion excused himself, and Webster
+pursued his way alone. He was walking along Utah street, apparently
+deeply absorbed in his own meditations, when he heard a voice behind
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"Hole on dar, Massa!"</p>
+
+<p>Turning around, he was surprised to see Uncle Gallus, approaching him as
+rapidly as his stiffened limbs would permit.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well, uncle," said Webster, as the old man caught up to him&mdash;"did you
+speak to me?"</p>
+
+<p>"You'se de man dat I 'dressed, sah&mdash;done you know me?" said the old
+fellow, peering anxiously in the face of the detective.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I don't remember you," said Webster, determined to ascertain
+whether the old darky did know him; "where have you ever seen me?"</p>
+
+<p>"In Washington, sah," replied Uncle Gallus; "don' you remember you saw
+me at Majah Allen's, when I was dah libin wid Missus Morton?"</p>
+
+<p>Webster looked at the negro a moment, and then, feeling assured of the
+friendliness of his interlocutor, he said:</p>
+
+<p>"Your face does seem familiar to me; what is your name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Dey calls me Uncle Gallus, sah," answered the old fellow.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes," said Webster, "now I remember you."</p>
+
+<p>"Golly, massa," grinned Uncle Gallus, "wen I seed you gib it to Bill
+Zigler dis mo'nin', I dun knowed you right away, but I wouldn't say
+nuffin' for de world, fo' I knowed you was a pullin' de wool ober his
+eyes."</p>
+
+<p>Knowing full well that he had nothing to fear from Uncle Gallus, he
+talked with him good-naturedly on various topics, and in the course of
+the conversation he learned that he was no longer with Mrs.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span> Morton,
+having been disposed of by her, some time before, and that he was now
+being used by the Confederate government to work upon the
+fortifications. Not deeming it advisable to remain long in conversation
+with the old darky on the streets, he told him that he would see him in
+a day or two, and placing a coin in the old man's hand, he bade him
+good-night.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning Mr. Campbell and Webster visited General Jones, and
+obtained the sought-for passes to Manassas, for which place he left
+early in the forenoon. On his arrival there, he learned that John Bowen,
+for whom he had a letter, had been taken to Richmond, but having several
+other messages to deliver to parties of prominence there, he busied
+himself during the day in forming acquaintances, and in acquiring
+knowledge. From Manassas he went to Centreville, where he remained a few
+days, and from thence to Warrington, and finally back again to Richmond,
+where he delivered his remaining letters. Here he formed the
+acquaintance of a man by the name of Price, who was engaged in running
+the blockade, and who was making arrangements to return to Baltimore, to
+purchase a fresh supply of goods. Together they went to the office of
+the Provost-Marshal, where they obtained the necessary passes to insure
+their safe journey through the rebel lines.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving Richmond, they went to Fredericksburg, where he stayed long
+enough to visit all the places of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span> interest around that city, and in
+company with Mr. Price they went on to Brooks Station, the headquarters
+of General Holmes, with whom Price was intimately acquainted. After
+remaining several days, he left his companion, making his way to
+Yorktown and Gloucester Point, and from thence to Washington, where he
+reported to me.</p>
+
+<p>This first visit of Timothy Webster to Richmond was highly successful.
+Not only had he made many friends in that city, who would be of service
+to him on subsequent trips, but the information he derived was
+exceedingly valuable. He was able to report very correctly the number
+and strength of the fortifications around the rebel capital, to estimate
+the number of troops and their sources of supplies, and also the forts
+between that city and Manassas Junction. His notes of the topography of
+the country were of the greatest value, and he received the warmest
+thanks of the commanding general, for what he had thus far been able to
+accomplish.</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn4.jpg" width="448" height="193" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn12.jpg" width="448" height="102" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Again in Baltimore.&mdash;A Warning.&mdash;The Spy is Arrested, and Escapes.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>After the return of Timothy Webster from Richmond and Manassas, I deemed
+it best that he should again visit Baltimore and mingle once more with
+his rebel friends in that city. Since the summary collapse of the
+Knights of Liberty the majority of them had been remarkably quiet, and
+no indications were apparent that they contemplated any further
+proceedings of a treasonable nature. It will be remembered that on the
+night that the secret meeting was disturbed, Webster managed in some
+unaccountable manner to escape, and that he had disappeared almost
+immediately afterwards. As no suspicion existed as yet of his having
+been concerned in the affair, and as his prolonged absence might give
+rise to doubts of his loyalty, I concluded that it was best for him to
+again show himself among his old associates, and account for his escape
+in a manner that would appear truthful and straightforward.</p>
+
+<p>He accordingly took the train, and after arriving in Baltimore, he went
+directly to Miller's Hotel. Here he found several of his friends, and
+their greetings<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span> were most cordial and hearty. In a few moments others
+of the party had been notified, and came thronging in to welcome him and
+to congratulate him upon his escape and present safety. Eager inquiries
+were made as to the manner in which he had so successfully eluded the
+soldiers, and how he had spent the time since the occurrence of that
+event. In reply Webster gave a satisfactory and highly interesting
+account of his movements, all of which was heartily enjoyed by his
+listening friends. Gratified beyond expression at the pleasant condition
+of affairs, he became quite jolly, and the balance of the evening was
+spent in convivial and social enjoyment.</p>
+
+<p>On the following morning he started out in search of his old friend Sam
+Sloan, for whom he had a letter from his brother, who was in the rebel
+army, and stationed at Centreville. Having also a number of letters for
+other Baltimoreans, he desired to secure Sloan's services in their
+proper and safe delivery.</p>
+
+<p>Sam looked in astonishment as Webster blandly approached him, and after
+an effusive greeting he remarked earnestly:</p>
+
+<p>"Webster, you'll have to be mighty careful now, or you will be arrested
+yet. We are watched night and day&mdash;the least suspicious move we make is
+reported at once&mdash;and if repeated, the first thing the offender knows he
+finds himself in the guard-house."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," replied Webster, laughingly, "I'll have to take my chances with
+the rest of you."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I know your grit, Webster," said Sloan, "but by all means be careful. I
+was arrested myself since you went away."</p>
+
+<p>"The deuce you were!" ejaculated Webster. "How did that occur?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I went over to Washington to transact a little business, and
+while there I met some of the boys, and we had a little 'time.' I don't
+know what I did, but when I started to come home, the Provost-Marshal
+arrested me, and I had to take the oath of allegiance before I could get
+away."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't tell me that you took the oath, Sam?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I did," laughed Sam. "I would take twenty oaths before I would be
+locked up;" and then he added: "I tell you, we are all spotted here in
+this city, and who is doing it we can't find out."</p>
+
+<p>"What makes you think that?" inquired Webster, doubtfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Many things. Why, only the other day I was taken before Lieutenant
+Watts, who has charge of the station-house, and the questions he put to
+me about the gang, convinced me that he knew a great deal more than was
+good for us."</p>
+
+<p>"Did he ask anything about me?" queried Webster.</p>
+
+<p>"No," replied Sam, "and if he had I wouldn't have told him anything, you
+may be sure."</p>
+
+<p>"I can readily believe that," said the detective,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span> "but if it is so
+dangerous here, how am I going to deliver these letters?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can help you there," said Sloan, after a moment's consideration;
+"John Earl, Richardson and I will see that they are delivered, and that
+will keep you from incurring suspicion."</p>
+
+<p>"That will do," said Webster, "and you can tell the people you see to
+write their answers at once, and inclose them in two envelopes, one
+directed to their friend, and the other to John Hart, at Miller's
+Hotel."</p>
+
+<p>"I understand; but who is this John Hart you mention&mdash;can we trust him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think so," replied the detective, laughing heartily; "his other name
+is Timothy Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"By Jove, Webster, you're a good one; I begin to think myself that there
+isn't so much danger of your getting caught after all."</p>
+
+<p>This being satisfactorily arranged, the two men started in search of
+John Earl and Richardson, who both agreed to assist in the delivery of
+the letters which Webster had brought with him from the South. They all
+went to the room occupied by the detective at the hotel, and after a
+friendly drink, the letters were properly assorted, and each man was
+given his particular portion. They were instructed to request answers
+from those only in whose friendship they could implicitly rely, and to
+take in person any that were prepared at the time.</p>
+
+<p>In the afternoon, Webster called on Mr. Campbell,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span> the father of the
+young man who had accompanied him on his trip from Richmond to Manassas
+Junction. The old gentleman was rejoiced to hear from his son, and after
+a few minutes' conversation Webster discovered that he was quite as
+bitter a secessionist as any one he had met, although he was quite aged
+and not very active. He informed the detective that he had once made a
+very handsome horse-bit for General McClellan, and that he was now
+making one for General Johnston, which he would like Webster to take
+with him when he next went to Richmond, and deliver it to the General in
+person.</p>
+
+<p>"Have everything ready," said the detective, "and I will see that it
+reaches its destination in safety."</p>
+
+<p>Returning to the hotel, he went in to supper, and after a hearty repast
+seated himself in the reading-room to await the return of his
+mail-carriers. While carelessly glancing over the columns of a daily
+paper, he was approached by a gentleman, who stepped in front of him,
+exclaiming heartily: "Why, Mr. Webster, how do you do? I am glad to see
+you; when did you get back to Baltimore?"</p>
+
+<p>Looking up hastily from his paper, Webster recognized the speaker as Mr.
+Price, the blockade runner whom he had met in Richmond, and with whom he
+had traveled some distance through the rebel country.</p>
+
+<p>Their greeting was most cordial, and the return of John Earl and Sam
+Sloan found the two men engaged<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span> in animated conversation. From Price,
+Webster learned that a large amount of goods had been purchased by
+several wealthy gentlemen of Baltimore, who had adopted a very novel
+manner of transporting them into rebeldom, without danger from Federal
+pickets or gunboats. Their plan was to ship the goods upon a vessel
+bound for Europe and ostensibly the goods were intended for the same
+destination. In addition to this a small boat was purchased, which was
+to be taken in tow by the steamer. By an arrangement with the captain
+the vessel was to stand in as close as possible to the mouth of York
+river, when the small boat was to be brought alongside, then the goods
+were to be transferred to it, and the owners were to pull up the river
+to Yorktown, effect a safe landing, and the rest would be an easy task.</p>
+
+<p>Webster complimented his companion on the shrewdness displayed in this
+suggestion, and that evening he wrote to me, conveying full particulars
+of the proposed blockade-running.</p>
+
+<p>It is needless to say that this little plan, shrewd as it was, failed of
+execution. Men were at once placed upon the track of these merchants,
+and a more surprised coterie never existed than were these gentlemen,
+when their goods, carefully labeled for a foreign port, were seized by
+the government, and their conveyance to the South effectually stopped.
+An examination of the goods fully confirmed the correctness of Webster's
+information, and this venture, at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a></span> least, was a losing speculation to
+those who had engaged in it.</p>
+
+<p>After Mr. Price had taken his departure, John Earl called Webster aside,
+and informed him that a gentleman desired to send a draft for a large
+amount of money to Richmond, and that he had insisted on placing it in
+the hands of John Hart himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know this man, and that he is all right?" asked Webster.</p>
+
+<p>"No," replied Earl, "I know nothing about him except that he is vouched
+for by three parties who are true, and they say he is all right."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like this idea," said Webster, doubtfully; "I guess you had
+better tell this man that you will deliver it safely for him, and then
+you can hand it to me."</p>
+
+<p>"I did suggest that, but he said his orders were to intrust it to no one
+but John Hart himself."</p>
+
+<p>After considering for some time, Webster finally concluded to see the
+individual in person. He was satisfied that no harm could come to him if
+the man was a Federal detective, as, by application to the authorities
+or to me he could readily extricate himself from any difficulty, and if
+he was a rebel, he would incur no risk whatever.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," he said, after he had fully deliberated the question, "you
+can bring him to my room and then we will see what is to be done.
+Meanwhile I will take a short walk and smoke a cigar."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>On his return he found John Earl awaiting him.</p>
+
+<p>"The gentleman is up-stairs in my room," said Earl; "will you go up now
+and see him?"</p>
+
+<p>Webster signified his willingness, and the two men ascended the stairs.
+As they entered the room the stranger arose to greet them, and Webster
+scrutinized him carefully. The result of his scrutiny was decidedly
+unsatisfactory. The new-comer was a tall, well-formed man, of about
+forty years of age. His hair was dark, and he wore long side-whiskers of
+the same color. In appearance he was what would be ordinarily considered
+a handsome man, but there was a look of quiet curiosity about the eyes,
+and a peculiar curl about the mouth, which struck Webster very
+unpleasantly, and caused him to instinctively regret having accorded him
+the interview which he desired.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Hart," said the stranger, pleasantly, after they had been formally
+introduced to each other, "I have a letter here, inclosing a draft,
+which I am desirous of having safely delivered to my sister-in-law in
+Richmond. You will find the address upon the envelope inside. Can you
+attend to this?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess so," replied Webster. "I can try, at all events."</p>
+
+<p>Webster could not overcome a feeling of unrest and suspicion, as he
+conversed with the man, and he felt considerably relieved when, after
+expressing his thanks, he took his departure.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The next morning Webster was astir early, and after partaking of a
+hearty breakfast, he thought he would pay another visit to Mr. Bowen.
+Leaving the hotel, he walked rapidly down the street in the direction of
+the old man's residence. He had not proceeded far when, on turning
+around, he noticed that his friend of the night before was walking upon
+the opposite side of the street, and but a short distance behind him.
+Finding that he was observed, the man crossed the street, and after
+bidding Webster a very cordial good-morning, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Hart, as we are walking in the same direction, if you have no
+objection, we will walk together."</p>
+
+<p>Webster assented, and for a short distance they journeyed along,
+indulging in a very constrained conversation. Webster felt assured that
+the man had been following him, and that his apparent friendliness was
+assumed. Desiring to rid himself of his unwelcome and uncomfortable
+companion, he was upon the point of expressing himself very forcibly,
+when he was startled by the stranger grasping him firmly by the arm, and
+ejaculating:</p>
+
+<p>"John Hart, you are my prisoner!"</p>
+
+<p>Had a thunderbolt fallen at his feet he could not have been more
+surprised, but recovering himself quickly, he wrenched himself from the
+grasp of the man.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, sir?" he asked.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 724px;">
+<img src="images/illus015.jpg" width="724" height="375" alt="&quot;John Hart, you are my prisoner.&quot; P. 334." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;John Hart, you are my prisoner.&quot; P. 334.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Just what I have said," replied the other, coolly; "there is no
+occasion for any controversy upon the question, and as you are directly
+in front of the station-house, resistance would be worse than useless."</p>
+
+<p>The cool manner in which these words were spoken exasperated Webster
+beyond control, but he saw that there were two soldiers standing guard
+in the doorway, and he realized at once that any attempt at escape would
+be foolhardy in the extreme. He therefore submitted quietly, and
+suffered himself to be led into the building, where an officer was
+seated at a table, examining the reports of the previous day.</p>
+
+<p>The recognition between the Lieutenant and Webster's captor appeared to
+be mutual, and, indeed, the presence of my operative did not seem to be
+an unlooked-for event.</p>
+
+<p>"Lieutenant, this is Mr. Hart," said the stranger.</p>
+
+<p>"All right," replied that officer, "we will take good care of him."</p>
+
+<p>After a short consultation, held in a tone too low for Webster to hear,
+the stranger took his leave, and the officer turned to the detective:</p>
+
+<p>"Come with me, sir; your case will be attended to in the course of the
+day."</p>
+
+<p>"Lieutenant, I would like to speak to you a moment, now that we are
+alone," said Webster, desirous of ending the matter, and of enabling the
+Lieutenant to ascertain his true character.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I have no time to talk with rebels," said the officer, shortly, and
+then calling to the turnkey, he directed him to place Webster in a cell.</p>
+
+<p>Deeply resenting the treatment of the officer, but feeling that
+opposition would only aggravate his annoyance, Webster followed the man,
+internally vowing vengeance against the fellow who had instigated his
+arrest. He was anxious to express himself forcibly to the officer in
+charge, but he considered that he would probably do the same thing under
+the same circumstances. The Lieutenant believed him to be a rebel, and
+as such his treatment was harsh and impolite, and after debating the
+matter in his mind he came to the conclusion that he was not much to
+blame after all. He was desirous, however, of communicating with some
+one who could intercede for him, and by that means secure his release,
+and he resolved to make friends with his jailer as the best possible way
+of obtaining what he wanted.</p>
+
+<p>Shortly after he had been incarcerated, he heard the voices of Sam Sloan
+and John Earl, who had been informed of his arrest and had come to see
+him. Their request was denied, however, and they expressed themselves in
+very loud tones against the injustice they were compelled to submit to.
+All to no avail, however, and they reluctantly took their leave. The
+turnkey coming along the corridor at this time, Webster called to him,
+and requested his attention for a few moments. The man was about<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span> sixty
+years of age, and had a very benignant countenance, which Webster argued
+was a good omen for the work of propitiation which he had in hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Will you tell the Lieutenant that I would like to speak with him,"
+asked Webster.</p>
+
+<p>"It's no use," said the old man, with a shake of the head; "the
+Lieutenant says he won't have anything to say to you, until your case is
+reported to headquarters this evening."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then," smiled Webster, "I suppose I will have to wait his
+pleasure; but can't a fellow get a little whisky and cigar? I'll make it
+worth your while if you can help me in that particular."</p>
+
+<p>The old man laughed, and said he would see what could be done, as
+Webster slipped a bill into his hand. He disappeared, and after about a
+half hour, he returned and slipped a small bundle through the grated
+door, admonishing Webster to be careful about exposing himself to the
+other prisoners within view.</p>
+
+<p>"All right," said Webster, "you keep the change, old man, for your
+trouble."</p>
+
+<p>In the afternoon another officer, accompanied by four men, came to his
+cell, and requested his appearance at the office. Here he was carefully
+searched, and upon his person were found some letters addressed to
+himself; a pass from Col. Cramp, and about seventy dollars in money.
+They were about to take these from him, when Webster inquired:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Who was the man who arrested me this morning?"</p>
+
+<p>"His name is McPhail, and he belongs to the secret service," was the
+reply.</p>
+
+<p>At the mention of the name, Webster started in surprise. He had heard of
+him as connected with my force, and knew that everything would soon be
+all right.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said Webster, "will you be kind enough to send for Mr. McPhail,
+and ask him to telegraph to Major Allen, and inquire if Tim is all
+right?"</p>
+
+<p>"What Major Allen is that?" asked the officer.</p>
+
+<p>"Of the secret service," replied Webster. "McPhail will know all about
+him; and you will learn that I am no rebel, in a very short time."</p>
+
+<p>"We will do what you request," said the officer, "and if you are all
+right, we will be glad to find it out."</p>
+
+<p>Thanking the officer for his kindness, Webster was conducted back to his
+cell to await developments.</p>
+
+<p>About ten o'clock that night, the officer again made his appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"John Hart, come here."</p>
+
+<p>Webster presented himself before the iron grating of his cell.</p>
+
+<p>"Is your name John Hart?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir, my name is Timothy Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, my orders are for a man named Hart, who is to be taken to Fort
+McHenry."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 714px;">
+<img src="images/illus016.jpg" width="714" height="375" alt="&quot;Webster leaped from the wagon while it was in motion.&quot;
+P. 339." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Webster leaped from the wagon while it was in motion.&quot;
+P. 339.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Something in the tone of the man's voice, and in the twinkle of his eye,
+told Webster that everything was understood, so he answered at once:</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, I am the man!"</p>
+
+<p>"Come with me, then."</p>
+
+<p>They conducted him to the street, where he saw a covered wagon in
+waiting. They all got in and then in a loud voice the officer gave the
+order:</p>
+
+<p>"Drive direct to Fort McHenry pier!"</p>
+
+<p>After they had started, the officer explained to Webster that it had
+been arranged, in order to prevent suspicion, that he should be allowed
+to jump from the wagon as it was driven along, and after a pretended
+pursuit, he would make his escape to his rebel friends with whom he
+should remain quietly for a few days, and then return to Washington and
+report to me.</p>
+
+<p>These directions he implicitly followed; and seizing a favorable
+opportunity, he leaped from the wagon and rapidly made his way in the
+direction of the city. Going directly to Sam Sloan's, he knocked loudly
+at the door. After a few minutes a window was raised and a voice
+inquired angrily:</p>
+
+<p>"Who are you, and what do you want?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is I&mdash;Webster&mdash;Sam, come down and open the door."</p>
+
+<p>The window was shut, with an oath of joyful surprise, and in a
+twinkling, the door was opened, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span> Sloan pulled Webster into the room,
+closing and locking the door behind him.</p>
+
+<p>"Great G&mdash;d, Webster, how did you manage to get away from the Yanks?"</p>
+
+<p>"Let me get warm, and I'll tell you," replied Webster, with a laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"Come up stairs," said Sloan heartily, "and we'll have something to
+drink."</p>
+
+<p>After refreshing themselves, Webster related the manner of his escape,
+carefully concealing the action of the officer, and the fact that he had
+been peaceably permitted to leave the vehicle&mdash;and when he had
+concluded, Sloan's admiration was unbounded. Promising to secrete him
+until he could safely get away, they all went to bed, and slept soundly.</p>
+
+<p>Early the next morning Sloan left the house, and after an absence of an
+hour or two returned, bringing with him several of Webster's trusty
+friends, among whom was John Earl, who was decidedly crestfallen at the
+thought of having been instrumental in leading Webster into such danger
+by introducing the strange man to him, without learning more about his
+character for loyalty to the cause. They were all overjoyed at his
+escape, and spent the afternoon in a jollification over his safe return.
+The newspapers contained full particulars of the affair, and when they
+were brought before him Webster could not restrain his laughter at their
+contents, as he read:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"ESCAPE OF A STATE PRISONER.<a name="FNanchor_A_1" id="FNanchor_A_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_A_1" class="fnanchor">[A]</a></p>
+
+<p>"It was rumored yesterday that the man Webster, who was
+arrested, stopping at the hotel of Messrs. McGee, upon the
+charge of being concerned in the regular transportation of
+letters between Baltimore and the seceded States, had
+succeeded in making his escape. It is learned upon the best
+authority that during a late hour of the night he was
+removed from the western police station and placed in a
+carriage under the charge of a special detective officer.
+The wagon was driven towards Fort McHenry, he having been
+previously ordered to that post, but while the vehicle was
+in motion, and when within a short distance of their
+destination, he gave a sudden bound from his seat, and
+before the officer could seize him, he was beyond his grasp.
+It is not known which direction he took, but he will
+scarcely be able to escape from the city. He is a citizen of
+Kentucky, but left there in the early part of April, and
+since that time has been residing in Baltimore."</p></div>
+
+<p>In another paper he read:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><a name="FNanchor_B_2" id="FNanchor_B_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_B_2" class="fnanchor">[B]</a>"We have learned from an entirely reliable source that
+Mr. Webster was arrested in endeavoring to procure replies
+to a number of letters which he had delivered from
+Marylanders now residing in Virginia to friends at home. A
+fact which, in view of the hazards of such an attempt,
+should content the unfortunate exiles from Maryland with the
+gratification of communication with their friends there and
+without<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a></span> the reciprocal joy of hearing from the latter in
+return. We have reason to believe that Webster is beyond the
+reach of the Yankees."</p></div>
+
+<p>Remaining with his friends until after midnight on the second day, he
+made his way to the train, and at 4.30 in the morning started for
+Washington, where he arrived about seven o'clock, and reported at my
+headquarters.</p>
+
+<p>It may seem strange that Webster was arrested by one of my men, and that
+my intervention was necessary to effect his release, but a few words
+will serve as an explanation. McPhail, the operative who had caused
+Webster's arrest, had never seen that gentleman, and was entirely
+ignorant of his true character. Under such circumstances he very
+naturally was led to suspect him as a rebel spy, and to lay the trap for
+his capture. The delicate and important duties which had been assigned
+to Webster were such, that I deemed it advisable to inform but very few
+of my men of his immediate connection with me, hence the arrest, as far
+as McPhail was concerned, was a <i>bona fide</i> revelation of what he
+believed to be a dangerous crime. As it was, the arrest did no harm, but
+rather enabled Webster to cement more closely the bonds of friendship
+which existed between himself and those with whom he had previously
+associated.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_A_1" id="Footnote_A_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_A_1"><span class="label">[A]</span></a> The above is from the <i>Baltimore American</i> of November 22,
+1861.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_B_2" id="Footnote_B_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor_B_2"><span class="label">[B]</span></a> The above is taken from the <i>Gazette</i> of November 22,
+1861.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn11.jpg" width="448" height="121" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster and Scobell.&mdash;A Negro as a Spy.&mdash;A Traitor Deserts from the
+Army.&mdash;He Carries Dispatches to the Rebels, which Fail of their
+Destination.&mdash;An Attack in the Woods.&mdash;"The Loyal League."&mdash;Slaves as
+Patriots.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>On the first day of November, 1861, General McClellan was made the
+Commander-in-Chief of all the armies of the United States. Immediately
+on assuming this important position, the General turned his attention to
+the entire field of operations, regarding the Army of the Potomac as a
+branch, though the most important one, of the armies under his command.</p>
+
+<p>Reliable information regarding the location and strength of the enemy
+was the most desirable thing to be obtained at present, and although
+Webster had been performing giant labor in this direction, his
+operations comprised but a minor portion of the work that devolved upon
+me. Numerous men of various callings and abilities were traveling
+through the South, gathering items of news wherever possible, and
+reporting the same as accurately and as rapidly as they were enabled to
+do so. So numerous were the methods which I employed in promoting the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span>
+successful operations of the secret service, that it is possible within
+the limits of the present volume to enumerate but very few of the many
+events which occurred. Among the many men thus employed, was a negro by
+the name of John Scobell, and the manner in which his duties were
+performed, was always a source of satisfaction to me and apparently of
+gratification to himself. From the commencement of the war, I had found
+the negroes of invaluable assistance, and I never hesitated to employ
+them when, after investigation, I found them to be intelligent and
+trustworthy.</p>
+
+<p>As I have previously stated, all refugees, deserters and contrabands
+coming through our lines were turned over to me for a thorough
+examination and for such future disposition as I should recommend. John
+Scobell came to me in this manner. One morning I was seated in my
+quarters, preparing for the business of the day, when the officer of the
+guard announced the appearance of a number of contrabands. Ordering them
+to be brought in, the pumping process was commenced, and before noon
+many stray pieces of information had been gathered, which, by
+accumulation of evidence, were highly valuable. Among the number I had
+especially noticed the young man who had given his name as John Scobell.
+He had a manly and intelligent bearing, and his straightforward answers
+to the many questions propounded to him, at once impressed me very
+favorably.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span> He informed me that he had formerly been a slave in the
+State of Mississippi, but had journeyed to Virginia with his master,
+whose name he bore. His master was a Scotchman, and but a few weeks
+before had given him and his wife their freedom. The young woman had
+obtained employment in Richmond, while he had made his way to the Union
+lines, where, encountering the Federal pickets, he had been brought to
+headquarters, and thence to me. He gave an intelligent account of his
+travels through the country, and appeared to be well informed as to the
+localities through which he passed, and of the roads and streams round
+about.</p>
+
+<p>I immediately decided to attach him to my headquarters, with the view of
+eventually using him in the capacity of a scout, should he prove equal
+to the task. For two weeks I employed him in various capacities of minor
+importance, but those in which secrecy and loyalty were essential
+qualifications, and his performance of these duties was all that could
+be desired. At the end of that time I resolved to send him into the
+South, and test his ability for active duty. Calling him into my
+quarters, I gave him the necessary directions, and dispatched him, in
+company with Timothy Webster, on a trip to Virginia. Their line of
+travel was laid out through Centreville, Manassas, Dumfries, and the
+Upper and Lower Accoquan.</p>
+
+<p>John Scobell I found was a remarkably gifted man for one of his race. He
+could read and write, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span> was as full of music as the feathered
+songsters that warbled in the tropical groves of his own sunny home. In
+addition to what seemed an almost inexhaustible stock of negro
+plantation melodies he had also a charming variety of Scotch ballads,
+which he sang with a voice of remarkable power and sweetness. During the
+evenings his singing was the chief feature of the impromptu
+entertainments that were resorted to in order to while away the tedious
+hours before retiring, and he soon became a universal favorite.
+Possessing the talents which he did, I felt sure, that he had only to
+assume the character of the light-hearted, happy darky and no one would
+suspect the cool-headed, vigilant detective, in the rollicking negro
+whose only aim in life appeared to be to get enough to eat, and a
+comfortable place to toast his shins.</p>
+
+<p>It was arranged that the two men should travel together until they
+arrived at Leonardstown, when they were to separate, Webster proceeding
+on to Richmond by way of Fredericksburg, while Scobell was to make his
+way to the rebel camp at Dumfries, and then up as far as Centreville.</p>
+
+<p>Proceeding by stage to Leonardstown they parted company, each one
+depending upon his own exertions to get across the river. Although they
+had traveled in the same coach, they paid no attention to each other,
+nor gave any indication of a previous acquaintance. At Leonardstown
+Webster went to a hotel, kept by a Mr. Miller, who was a bitter
+secessionist,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span> and had known my operative for some time. His greeting
+was cordial, and his enthusiasm over his escape from the officers at
+Baltimore, an account of which he had read in the paper, was quite
+overpowering.</p>
+
+<p>While they were conversing together a tall, dark-whiskered man came into
+the room, and after a quick, nervous glance at Webster, requested to see
+the land lord in another room. As they departed, Webster bestowed a
+searching look upon the new-comer and was at once impressed with the
+familiarity of his features. He recollected that while he was coming
+down on the stage, this man came riding rapidly behind them, seated in a
+buggy and driven by a young negro. They made several ineffectual
+attempts to pass the stage, and finally succeeded in doing so, and
+disappearing from view. Webster had forgotten all about him, until his
+sudden appearance at the hotel and his suspicious actions attracted his
+attention. After the lapse of a few minutes the two men again entered,
+and the stranger immediately took his departure.</p>
+
+<p>Filled with curiosity as to the identity of the man, Webster carelessly
+observed to the landlord:</p>
+
+<p>"That fellow seemed a little nervous, doesn't he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," replied the landlord, "and he has cause to be; he is a deserter
+from the Yanks."</p>
+
+<p>"Was he an officer?"</p>
+
+<p>"He says he was a surgeon, and had served in the regular army on the
+Pacific coast for a number<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span> of years. His family are Southerners, and he
+says he concluded to throw up his commission and join our side."</p>
+
+<p>"Which way is he going?"</p>
+
+<p>"He wants to get to Richmond as soon as he can. He will be back shortly
+and I'll introduce you to him; perhaps you can give him a helping hand."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll do what I can," replied Webster, with a mental reservation. "What
+is his name?"</p>
+
+<p>"He gave me his name as Doctor Gurley: he brought a letter from a friend
+of mine in Washington, and I believe he is carrying some messages to Mr.
+Benjamin, the Secretary of War, which he is very anxious to deliver as
+early as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, we may be fellow-travelers if he turns up in time to go over with
+me," said Webster, who was already attempting to devise some plan for
+intercepting the delivery of the dispatches which the titled deserter
+was carrying.</p>
+
+<p>"I have made all arrangements," replied the landlord, "and will send you
+both down to-morrow in time to get the boat."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," said Webster; "and now, as I have a little time before
+dinner, I will take a short walk to give me an appetite."</p>
+
+<p>Webster was intent upon finding John Scobell, if possible. He had formed
+a plan for getting possession of the dispatches, and he required the
+services of his colored companion in order to perfect it.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span> Keeping a
+sharp look-out about him, he strode on in the direction of the negro
+quarters, where he felt reasonably sure of meeting with the man he was
+in search of. As chance would have it, when within a short distance of
+the locality, he saw, to his intense delight, Scobell approaching him
+from the opposite direction. In a few words, he developed his plan to
+the intelligent darky, and from the broad grin which overspread his
+countenance, it was evident that he not only fully understood, but
+highly relished, the propositions that had been made. It was arranged,
+that Scobell should be in the neighborhood of the hotel during the
+afternoon, and that Webster should endeavor to point out to him the
+deserting surgeon, after which Scobell was to perform the duty which
+Webster had delegated to him.</p>
+
+<p>That afternoon, the Doctor, who was stopping with some friends, a short
+distance out of town, made his appearance at the hotel, and Mr. Miller,
+having first assured him of my operative's loyalty, introduced the two
+men to each other. By reason of Webster's familiarity with the country,
+and his evident and hearty desire to serve his new-found friend, he soon
+won the kindly regards of the Doctor, who prolonged his visit until
+nearly dark. At length, promising to meet Webster on the morrow, and
+with a parting beverage, the Doctor started to go. Webster accompanied
+him to the door, and with apparent good-feeling, bade him good-evening.
+As Webster re-entered<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span> the hotel, he noticed with satisfaction that
+Scobell was on hand, and had posted himself in a secluded position,
+where, unobserved himself, he could watch the hotel, and notice what
+transpired.</p>
+
+<p>"There is going to be a shower, and the Doctor will have to walk fast to
+escape it," said Webster, as he entered the bar-room.</p>
+
+<p>He had been engaged in friendly conversation with Mr. Miller for about
+an hour, when they heard the hurried stamping of feet outside; in a few
+moments, the door was thrown suddenly open, and the deserting Doctor
+stood before them. The appearance of the Doctor was most rueful. He was
+without his hat; his clothing was disarranged, and torn and soiled; his
+face was of a death-like paleness, while his lips trembled as if with
+fear.</p>
+
+<p>Webster and the landlord sprang to their feet, and rushed toward the
+man, who was very near falling from exhaustion.</p>
+
+<p>"What has happened!" inquired Webster, in a tone of solicitude.</p>
+
+<p>"I've been attacked and robbed!" ejaculated the Doctor, weakly.</p>
+
+<p>The landlord poured out a glass of spirits, which he gave to the
+demoralized Doctor, and after swallowing it, he seemed to regain his
+strength. After he had been sufficiently restored, he related his story.
+After leaving the hotel, he had started to walk toward the house where
+he was stopping. It becoming<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span> quite cloudy, and fearing a storm, he had
+hastened his pace in order to avoid the rain. Suddenly, as he was
+passing through a small patch of woods, he was stealthily approached
+from behind, by some one, who struck him a fearful blow on the back of
+the head. He was completely stunned and fell to the ground. When he
+recovered consciousness, he found that he had been thoroughly searched,
+and that his dispatches to the Secretary of War had been taken. Nothing
+else about his person was disturbed, and the attack had evidently been
+made by somebody who was aware of the fact that he had them in his
+possession. The Doctor's anxiety about his loss was pitiable in the
+extreme, but Webster could scarcely repress a smile of satisfaction, at
+the success which Scobell had achieved in capturing the precious
+documents.</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind," said Webster, soothingly. "The loss of the papers won't
+amount to much; when we arrive in Richmond you can communicate verbally
+the nature of the papers you have lost."</p>
+
+<p>"That's the devil of it," blurted out the Doctor. "I don't know their
+contents; they were intrusted to me by men who are working in the
+interest of the South, and as they were sealed, I have no more idea than
+you have what they contained."</p>
+
+<p>This piece of information was an additional source of satisfaction to
+Webster, who had thus effectually prevented their transmission to the
+Rebel government. He sympathized with the Doctor, however, most<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span>
+sincerely, and although that individual was decidedly crestfallen at the
+turn of affairs, under Webster's ministrations he recovered some of his
+spirits, and finding that he was not seriously injured, he again started
+for his lodgings. He took the precaution, this time, to carry his
+revolver in his hand, and to keep a sharp look-out as he journeyed
+along.</p>
+
+<p>Miller, the landlord, was somewhat alarmed at this adventure, but
+Webster endeavored to reassure him as best he could. He suggested that
+the attack was probably made by some one who was in the interest of the
+South, but who was fearful that, as the Doctor had deserted from the
+Northern army, he might not be as true to the good cause as he should
+be. However this may be, Miller's fears soon disappeared, and by nine
+o'clock he had recovered his usual good-humor, and set about making his
+arrangements for the morrow. Feeling anxious to learn from Scobell,
+Webster lighted a cigar and strolled out into the street. He walked
+slowly along, and after he had gone some distance from the hotel he
+turned around, and saw following him, at some distance behind, a figure
+which he instantly recognized as Scobell's. He therefore went on until
+he came to the outskirts of the town, and then awaited the arrival of
+his companion.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell came up with a broad grin on his countenance, and extending his
+hand, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Here dey is, Mister Webster. Dey is all right,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span> an' I reckon de Doctor
+don't know what hurt him by dis time."</p>
+
+<p>Webster took the packet from the outstretched hand of the black man, and
+complimented him warmly upon his success. Scobell seemed quite elated
+over his exploit, and it was with some difficulty that Webster could
+restrain him from breaking out into loud laughter.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell informed Webster that he had already made arrangements for
+forwarding the documents to me, provided they met with the approval of
+the scout. He suggested that they be intrusted to an intelligent and
+loyal colored man, who was to start for Washington on the following
+morning, and whose honor and truthfulness could be implicitly relied
+upon.</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to see this man first," said Webster, when Scobell had
+concluded.</p>
+
+<p>"Werry well; cum along of me," answered Scobell. "I'll show you sumfin
+you neber seed afore, I reckon."</p>
+
+<p>"Go ahead, then," directed the scout.</p>
+
+<p>Proceeding together a short distance, when the black stopped before a
+dilapidated building that had evidently not been used for some time. It
+was a low, two-story structure, the windows of which were boarded up,
+and no sign of life was visible from without.</p>
+
+<p>"Come this way," said Scobell, in a low voice,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span> taking Webster by the
+hand and through a low door, on which he rapped three times.</p>
+
+<p>Webster had scarcely time to give vent to his astonishment by a low
+whistle, when the door was noiselessly opened. They entered without
+challenge and found themselves in utter darkness, while Webster could
+hear the bolts and bars being replaced upon the door. Listening
+intently, he thought he could hear voices overhead, and a noise as of
+the shuffling of feet. Presently he heard a shrill whistle from his
+conductor, which was replied to from above with the query:</p>
+
+<p>"Who comes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Friends of Uncle Abe!" was the reply.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you desire?"</p>
+
+<p>"Light and Liberty!" came the response.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately a trap-door overhead was opened, revealing a dimly-lighted
+room, and a rope-ladder was let down before them.</p>
+
+<p>"Mister Webster, you go up first," said Scobell, "and I will follow
+you."</p>
+
+<p>Webster took hold of the ropes and, ascending easily, found himself in a
+dimly lighted room and surrounded by a body of negroes, numbering about
+forty. Some of them were young men who had barely attained their
+majority, while others were middle-aged, with a goodly number whose
+heads were as white as snow. The room in which they were assembled was
+quite large and entirely destitute<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span> of furniture. An upturned barrel,
+with an American flag draped over it, served as the desk of the
+President, and his seat was made of a box, which had once been used in
+packing merchandise for shipment.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long before Webster realized that he was in a lodge of "the
+Loyal League," composed almost exclusively of colored men, and whose
+branches extended over the entire South. The trap-door being closed
+behind them, Webster was introduced to the assembly by John Scobell, who
+had already identified himself with the institution. His welcome was
+most cordial and hearty. Shortly after they had become quiet, the
+President, a tall, well-formed negro, about thirty-five years of age,
+took his position, and in a deep, full voice, addressed the meeting. He
+detailed the operations of the various lodges which he had visited, and
+gave an encouraging account of the good work that was being done by the
+colored men throughout the country. He was listened to intently, and
+when he had finished he was greeted with numerous remarks of approval
+and indorsement.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell had meanwhile disclosed the nature and objects of the "Loyal
+League." Although as yet prevented from taking up arms in defense of
+their rights, these colored men had banded themselves together to
+further the cause of freedom, to succor the escaping slave, and to
+furnish information to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span> loyal commanders of the movements of the rebels,
+as far as they could be ascertained.</p>
+
+<p>The President of the League, Scobell said, was about undertaking a trip
+to Washington, and he was the person who had been selected to carry the
+packet to me. Webster conversed with him for some time after he had
+spoken, and finding him reliable and willing to undertake the task about
+to be imposed upon him, he signified his willingness to trust him with
+the delivery of the dispatches. Writing a hasty description of the
+manner in which they had been obtained, he safely sewed the package and
+his letter in the lining of the messenger's coat, and fully instructed
+him as to how the papers should be delivered.</p>
+
+<p>Webster was called upon before the meeting adjourned, and he replied in
+a few words of encouragement and compliment, which elicited the most
+sincere tokens of appreciation from his sable auditors.</p>
+
+<p>After thanking the colored men for their kindness to him, Webster and
+Scobell descended from the improvised lodge-room, and Webster made his
+way back to the hotel, feeling quite relieved as to the safety of the
+dispatches, and fully confident that they would reach their destination
+in safety. He shortly afterwards retired to rest, fully satisfied with
+the day's work, and slept soundly until morning.</p>
+
+<p>The trusty messenger arrived in Washington in due time, and I received
+from his hands the papers<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span> intrusted to him. They were of a highly
+important nature, and conveyed information to the rebel authorities
+which would have been very dangerous had they reached their legitimate
+destination. As it was, through Webster's sagacity, Scobell's physical
+power, and the exertions of the President of the "Loyal League," the
+traitor surgeon was prevented from assisting the cause of treason and
+rebellion, and as a bearer of dispatches, his first venture was far from
+being successful.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p357.jpg" width="336" height="348" alt="A HOT CHASE." title="" />
+<span class="caption">A HOT CHASE.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>A Negro Spy.&mdash;Passage on a Steam Packet.&mdash;Lyrical Melodies.&mdash;Scobell
+Deserts the Ship.&mdash;His Tramps Through Rebeldom.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The next afternoon, Webster and Doctor Gurley started for their point of
+debarkation. The medical deserter was exceedingly downcast about the
+loss of valuable papers, although he had entirely recovered from the
+physical effects of his attack. He indulged in curses, loud and deep,
+upon the perpetrator of the theft, and speculated with grave seriousness
+as to the effect of their loss. Webster, who felt that he could be
+liberal in dealing out his sympathy, was profuse in his expressions of
+regret and condolence, though I am afraid, that an observer who was
+acquainted with the facts of the case, would have detected a sly twinkle
+of merriment in his eyes, that belied his words. They were driven to a
+farm-house, situated on a little creek that ran in from the bay, where
+they were met by a man named James Gough, to whom Webster had a letter
+of introduction from Mr. Miller at the hotel. After reading the letter,
+Mr. Gough invited the travelers to enter, and informed them that the
+boat would attempt to cross the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_359" id="Page_359">[Pg 359]</a></span> bay that night, if the weather would
+permit. After partaking of a bountiful supper, the party repaired to the
+landing, and although there were indications of a storm, the captain,
+who was in waiting, determined to make an effort to get across. A large
+amount of merchandise had already been placed on board, and soon after
+the arrival of Webster and the Doctor, who were to be the only
+passengers, they put off. Their trip was made in safety, and by midnight
+they reached the Virginia side. Here they went to the house of a Mr.
+Woodward, who was a partner with Mr. Gough, in shipping goods into the
+rebel country, and who took charge of the cargo that came over with our
+travelers in the boat.</p>
+
+<p>Remaining at the house of Mr. Woodward during the night, on the
+following morning they went to Tappahannock, where they boarded a packet
+for Fredericksburg. Here they met a Colonel Prickett, who was an old
+acquaintance of Doctor Gurley, and from the general conversation that
+ensued, Webster obtained material information of the location of the
+rebel forces. That evening they proceeded to Richmond, and Webster,
+parting with his traveling companion, set about delivering some letters
+which he had brought with him. Finding that several of his friends, from
+whom he had hoped to receive information, were absent from the city, and
+that it would be impossible to do much good service, he resolved to
+return to Washington. He went to the office of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_360" id="Page_360">[Pg 360]</a></span> Secretary of War,
+and, obtaining a pass to Norfolk, he returned by that route, taking
+notes by the wayside, and arrived in Washington in due time.</p>
+
+<p>John Scobell remained in Leonardstown a few days after Webster's
+departure, mingling with the colored people of that locality, and
+posting himself upon several points that would be of benefit to him
+further on. The desire for freedom, and the expectation that the result
+of the war would determine that question, had now become universal among
+the colored men of the South. Although as yet debarred from taking up
+arms in defense of their rights, their efforts in behalf of the Northern
+troops were freely given when opportunity offered, and consequently,
+Scobell made hosts of friends among the black-skinned people, who
+advised him cheerfully and were profuse in their offers of assistance.</p>
+
+<p>During the time that he remained in Leonardstown Scobell made his home
+with an old negro who was an active member of the League, and who had
+conceived a wonderful friendship for my bright and intelligent colored
+operative. Uncle Turner, as he was called, was a genuine Virginia darky,
+who, having been reared as a house servant, had been enabled to acquire
+more than the average amount of intelligence, and obtaining his freedom,
+had settled himself in Leonardstown, where he obtained a livelihood by
+performing a variety of duties for the people in the town. Here, with
+his aged wife, a fat, good-natured<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span> negress, he lived in comparative
+comfort, and a more thorough abolitionist never existed than was Uncle
+Turner.</p>
+
+<p>Through this old negro, Scobell had made arrangements with a young
+colored man to set him across the river in a skiff, and after spending
+the day among his new-found friends, and amply provided with a
+substantial lunch from Aunt Judy, Scobell made his way to the river
+bank, where he found his man waiting for him, carefully concealed among
+some bushes that grew along the shore.</p>
+
+<p>After remunerating the boatman, and bidding him a hearty farewell,
+Scobell started up the river. His first plan was to walk as far as
+Dumfries, and from that point commence his operations among the rebel
+camps, but after reflection, he concluded to make his way to the
+Rappahannock, and endeavor to work his way on one of the river boats as
+far as Fredericksburg, which would save him a walk of some fifty miles
+and materially expedite his journey. He accordingly set out for the
+river and, walking briskly, he found himself about noon at Leestown, a
+small landing-place on the Rappahannock. Feeling somewhat fatigued by
+his long tramp, he remained over night, and early on the following
+morning repaired to the wharf, where he was in hopes of finding a boat
+on which he could secure his passage. He had not long to wait, for
+shortly after his arrival the packet boat "Virginia" steamed up to the
+landing, and soon the men were engaged<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span> in putting on board a quantity
+of miscellaneous freight, that was destined for Fredericksburg. Finding
+that there was plenty of work to do, Scobell stepped quickly on board
+and seeking the captain politely asked permission to work his passage.
+The Captain, who was a kind and genial man at heart, although he
+carefully veiled these characteristics under a rough exterior, and a
+bluff and impetuous demeanor, listened to the request, and being in want
+of some extra help, turned to Scobell and said:</p>
+
+<p>"You black rascal, what do you want at Fredericksburg? Come now, no
+lies, or I'll throw you into the river!"</p>
+
+<p>"I done tell no lies, Massa Cap'n," replied Scobell, with a broad grin
+overspreading his face, "but I've bin back in de kentry to see some ob
+my folks dar, and I dun got no money fur ter git back."</p>
+
+<p>"So you want me to take you to Fredericksburg, do you?" ejaculated the
+Captain, good-naturedly. "Well, go below and tell the cook to put you to
+work!"</p>
+
+<p>Scobell was about to express his thanks, when the Captain blurted out:</p>
+
+<p>"Clear out, d&mdash;n you! I've no time for talk now."</p>
+
+<p>Scobell hurried below, and seeking out the cook was soon busily engaged
+at work; before he had been very long employed he made a friend of his
+sable instructor, and was as merry as a cricket. The run to
+Fredericksburg was about twelve hours, but owing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span> to shoal water they
+were obliged to stop at Coulter's Wharf to wait for the rising of the
+tide. In the evening the negro hands gathered on the deck around the
+smoke-stack, and with the stars twinkling overhead, they made the shores
+ring with their mirthful melodies. Among the party was an old negro, who
+had spent almost his entire life upon the river, and who was an
+excellent performer on the banjo, and he accompanied the singers with
+his instrument. "Nelly Gray," "Bob Ridley," "Way down upon de Swanee
+River," and a host of the most popular songs of the day were rendered in
+a style that elicited the heartiest applause from the delighted
+passengers. The climax of enjoyment was reached, however, when my
+Scobell, in his splendid baritone, and accompanied by the old negro and
+his banjo, sang that sweet old Scottish ballad:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Maxwelton's braes are bonny,<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">Where early fa's the dew."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>The applause which greeted him upon its conclusion was most hearty and
+enthusiastic, and when he gave them</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"A man's a man for a' that,"<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>the passengers crowded around him and began to ply him with eager
+questions as to his knowledge of the music of the beloved bard of
+Scotia. The idea of a darky singing Scotch ballads, and with such true<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_364" id="Page_364">[Pg 364]</a></span>
+emotional pathos and sweetness, was such a novelty to them that all were
+anxious to learn where he had heard them. Scobell briefly and modestly
+informed them that he had been raised by a gentleman who was a native of
+Scotland, who was himself a good singer, and that his master had taught
+him the music he loved so well. The Captain, who was also a Scotchman,
+and who had listened to the melodies with the tears trickling over his
+rubicund nose, now stepped forward and said heartily:</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, young fellow, I need an extra man on this boat, and I'll
+give you forty dollars a month to work for me. The work is light&mdash;now
+what do you say?"</p>
+
+<p>Here was a dilemma entirely unexpected. Scobell had not only sung
+himself into the good graces of the passengers, but of the rough old
+Captain also. It was plain that this offer came from the very heart of
+the old salt, who was as deeply touched by the melodies as was any one
+else, and he wanted to secure Scobell's services as much for the songs
+he could sing as for the work he could do.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell bowed his thanks to the Captain, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"I'm werry much obliged to yer Cap'n; I'se bin lookin' fur a job ebber
+since I left ole Mississippi, an' I'll do my best to please you, sure."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," replied the Captain. "It's time to turn in now, so go below
+and tell the mate to take your time; your pay will commence from
+to-day."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 713px;">
+<img src="images/illus017.jpg" width="713" height="375" alt="&quot;The work isn&#39;t hard. Now, what do you say.&quot; P. 364." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;The work isn&#39;t hard. Now, what do you say.&quot; P. 364.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>All hands went below, where Scobell duly reported to the mate, a bunk
+was assigned to him and he was made one of the crew of the steam-packet
+"Virginia." This was a rather different turn of affairs than he had
+expected, but he had done the best he could under the circumstances, and
+regretting that he was compelled to deceive the honest old Captain, he
+turned in for the night and slept soundly.</p>
+
+<p>When he awoke the next morning, the boat was in motion, and he knew that
+he was on his way to Fredericksburg. How to get away was the next
+question to be decided, but he resolved to await the operation of events
+and adopt any chance that afforded for getting away. In due time the
+boat landed at her destination and soon all was bustle and confusion in
+discharging the freight. Scobell assisted manfully in landing the cargo,
+and earned the encomiums of the Captain for his diligent labor. Learning
+that the boat would not start on her return trip until the next morning,
+he requested permission to go on shore until they were prepared to
+start. This was readily granted by the unsuspecting and really
+good-natured Captain, who also gave him a small sum of money to defray
+his expenses, and cautioned him to report on time or the boat would
+start without him. Scobell promised to be punctual, and then took his
+leave.</p>
+
+<p>It is not necessary to state that the "Virginia" on her down trip went
+without the ballad-singing negro,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_366" id="Page_366">[Pg 366]</a></span> for by the time she was ready to put
+off, he was on his way to Dumfries and the Accoquan.</p>
+
+<p>Carefully noting everything that came in his way he traveled through
+Dumfries, Accoquan, Manassas and Centreville, and after spending nearly
+ten days in these localities he finally made his way to Leesburg, and
+thence down the Potomac to Washington. His experiences on this trip were
+quite numerous and varied, and only a lack of space prevents their
+narration. Sometimes, as a vender of delicacies through the camps, a
+laborer on the earthworks at Manassas, or a cook at Centreville, he made
+his way uninterruptedly until he obtained the desired information and
+successfully accomplished the object of his mission.</p>
+
+<p>His return to Washington was accomplished in safety and his full and
+concise report fully justified me in the selection I had made of a good,
+reliable and intelligent operative.</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn13.jpg" width="160" height="107" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_367" id="Page_367">[Pg 367]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn7.jpg" width="448" height="148" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>A Perilous Ride.&mdash;A Suspicious Peddler.&mdash;Uncle Gallus Again.&mdash;Scobell
+Investigating.&mdash;Doubts and Suspicions.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>It was on a beautiful morning in the early part of the month of April,
+1862, when a lady, mounted upon a handsome and spirited black horse, and
+accompanied by a young and intelligent-looking negro, also excellently
+mounted, rode out of the city of Richmond, apparently for the purpose of
+enjoying a morning ride. Provided with the necessary passports, they
+experienced no difficulty in passing the guards, and after a short ride
+found themselves in the open country beyond the city.</p>
+
+<p>The lady was young, handsome and apparently about twenty-five years of
+age. Her complexion was fresh and rosy as the morning, her hair fell in
+flowing tresses of gold, while her eyes, which were of a clear and deep
+blue, were quick and searching in their glances. She appeared careless
+and entirely at ease, but a close observer would have noticed a
+compression of the small lips, and a fixedness in the sparkling eyes
+that told of a purpose to be accomplished, and that her present journey
+was not wholly one of pleasure.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_368" id="Page_368">[Pg 368]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>After leaving the city the colored attendant spurred to her side, and
+then, putting spurs to their horses, they broke into a swift canter.
+Their road lay along the river bank, which here led in a south-easterly
+direction. Turning to the negro at her side, the lady remarked:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, John, we have a ride of ten miles before us, and we must be at
+Glendale as early as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, missus," rejoined her sable companion, "dese hosses will
+take us through in good shape, I know."</p>
+
+<p>They followed the course of the stream, whose waters glistened in the
+rays of the morning's sun like polished silver. On either side the road
+was fringed with a growth of cottonwood trees, that cast a grateful
+shade along their path, while the cool breezes of the rippling river
+rendered their ride a most delightful one indeed. But as they sped along
+the most casual observer would have noticed from the expression of their
+faces that their ride was being undertaken for other purposes than
+pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>The riders pressed on, scarcely slackening their speed until in the near
+distance could be seen the tall spire of the single church in the
+pleasant little village of Glendale. They now drew rein and brought
+their smoking steeds to a slow walk, and riding leisurely onward, they
+stopped before a neat little inn located on the outskirts of the town.</p>
+
+<p>An old, white-headed negro took their horses and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_369" id="Page_369">[Pg 369]</a></span> led them away, while
+the landlady, a neat and tidy-looking matron, wearing widow's weeds, met
+the lady at the door, and cordially welcomed her into the house.</p>
+
+<p>"Here, Jennie," she called to her daughter, a trim little girl of twelve
+years, "show this lady to her room."</p>
+
+<p>Following the little girl, the lady was conducted into a cool and
+pleasant little parlor, with windows opening upon the garden, and
+through which came the fragrant breath of roses in full bloom.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell accompanied the old man with the horses into the stable-yard,
+where he assisted in caring for the heated animals.</p>
+
+<p>"I dun spose you's on de way to Yu'ktown?" queried the old darky, who
+was rubbing vigorously away upon the limbs of the glossy black horse.
+After waiting a short time, and hearing no response, he added:</p>
+
+<p>"What'd you say? dis yer hoss is fidgettin' aroun' so I didn't har you."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't say anything," responded his companion good-naturedly, but in
+a tone that plainly indicated his intention not to submit himself to the
+pumping process at the hands of his garrulous friend.</p>
+
+<p>"I tought you hearn what I dun axed you," replied the old man, a little
+taken aback by the cool demeanor of his new acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell, however, industriously worked away at his own horse and said
+nothing.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_370" id="Page_370">[Pg 370]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well," said the old darky after another pause, and apparently communing
+with himself&mdash;"it am a fac' dat now an den you meets people dat ain't
+got de cibbleness to answer a question&mdash;nor de grit to tell a feller
+'tain't nun o' his business; but dey jes let on like dey didn't har wat
+you sed&mdash;wen all de time dey kin har jes as well as I kin."</p>
+
+<p>Still there was no satisfactory response, and at last the old man
+blurted out again:</p>
+
+<p>"Now I dun spec' it am nun ob Uncle Gallus's bizness were dese folks am
+a goin', but Jemima! I didn't tink it any harm to ax. Folks dat knows
+Uncle Gallus aint afeared tu tell him nuffin, coz dey knows he dun got a
+mitey close head when it am needcessary."</p>
+
+<p>The old man was none other than the veritable old Uncle Gallus, whose
+experience in the South seemed to be very different from the easy life
+he had led as the house servant of Mrs. Morton. How he came into this
+position I am unable to say, but here he was, and the same smile of
+good-nature irradiated his face, as when his way of life was pleasant,
+and his duties lighter. Perhaps, it would be as well to state here, that
+the two persons already mentioned were Mrs. Carrie Lawton, a female
+operative on my force, and John Scobell, who has figured before in these
+pages. These two persons had been for a time employed in Richmond, and
+were now endeavoring to effect their journey North.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_371" id="Page_371">[Pg 371]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>After finishing the last remark, Uncle Gallus straightened himself up
+and stood erect, with the air of a man who had been unjustly injured,
+and who was disposed to vindicate himself now and there.</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you, uncle," finally replied Scobell, "there are times when one
+must be careful what you say, and who you say it to."</p>
+
+<p>"Dat am a fac'!" ejaculated the old man.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, if I knowed you was all right," Scobell continued, "I might talk,
+but 'tain't smart to tell your business to strangers."</p>
+
+<p>"Dat am a fac', young man," observed Uncle Gallus, shaking his head with
+a knowing look; "but den I spose you's a friend to Uncle Abe, ain't you
+now?" he queried.</p>
+
+<p>"And if I am," said Scobell, "what do you want?"</p>
+
+<p>"Light and Liberty," replied the old man impressively, "and fo' de L'ud
+I b'lieve de day am nigh when it am a comin'."</p>
+
+<p>At these words, Scobell stepped forward and said in a low voice:</p>
+
+<p>"Do you belong to the League?"</p>
+
+<p>"I does," answered Uncle Gallus; "I dun jined it in dis berry place."</p>
+
+<p>"How often do you meet?" inquired Scobell.</p>
+
+<p>"We meets ebery two weeks, down at Uncle Dicky Bassett's&mdash;he libs on de
+bluff ob de ribber<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_372" id="Page_372">[Pg 372]</a></span> 'bout a mile furder down de road to'rds Wilson's
+Landin'."</p>
+
+<p>"How far is it to Wilson's landing?" asked Scobell, who, finding that
+Uncle Gallus was a member of the League, was now no longer loth to talk
+with him.</p>
+
+<p>"A little grain de rise ob twenty mile," replied the old man.</p>
+
+<p>"About sundown, then," said Scobell, "these horses must be saddled and
+ready for the missus and me, for we must be at the landing before
+midnight."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," rejoined Uncle Gallus, "dey'll be ready when yu want 'em."</p>
+
+<p>"See heah now, is yure name John?" suddenly asked the old man, as if an
+idea had just occurred to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that's what they call me."</p>
+
+<p>"An' you cum frum Richmun' dis mo'nin?"</p>
+
+<p>Scobell nodded.</p>
+
+<p>"An' dat young leddy am gwine to meet somebody, mebbe her husband, at de
+landin'?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said Scobell; "but how do you know these things? Has anybody been
+here to see you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yah! Yah!" chuckled the old man. "I dun tole you dat folks as knowed
+Uncle Gallus dun often come ter see him. I dun knowed you all de time,
+when you fust come&mdash;in fac', I was 'spectin' you and de missus all de
+mawnin'."</p>
+
+<p>"Was the landlady looking for us too?" inquired Scobell.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_373" id="Page_373">[Pg 373]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"She knowed you was a comin'," replied Uncle Gallus; "dah was a gem'man
+heah las' night, as talked about you to her, an' lef' a note fur de
+lady."</p>
+
+<p>"Is the landlady all right?" asked Scobell.</p>
+
+<p>"True to de core," affirmed Uncle Gallus emphatically; "more'n one poor
+feller as 'scaped from Richmun' hes foun' a good bed an' supper at de
+'Glen House.'"</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said my operative, "you can finish your work here; I have an
+errand or two for the missus, and I must go and attend to them before
+dinner."</p>
+
+<p>So saying, he started for the house, leaving Uncle Gallus to water and
+feed the horses, which had now sufficiently cooled, and were enjoying
+their needed rest.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell's errand was simply to take a stroll about the village in order
+to ascertain whether there was any indication of their having been
+followed by anyone from Richmond. He strolled about the village, noting
+carefully every one whom he met, and, feeling comparatively secure,
+started to return to the hotel.</p>
+
+<p>Turning the corner of a street he came suddenly face to face with a
+peddler, who addressed him in a rich Irish brogue and inquired the way
+to the tavern. Scobell gave him the required information and stood
+watching the fellow as he ambled off in the direction indicated. There
+was something in the appearance of this man that attracted the attention
+and excited the suspicions of my observant operative. He resolved<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_374" id="Page_374">[Pg 374]</a></span> to
+keep an eye upon his movements and endeavor to discover, if possible,
+whether the man was a genuine peddler, or a spy, who had adopted that
+disguise to conceal his true character.</p>
+
+<p>In the few words that passed between them Scobell had noticed that while
+the man's hair was a fiery red his eyebrows and lashes appeared of a
+dark brown color, and his face was altogether of too florid a hue to be
+natural. These observations were sufficient to put Scobell upon the
+alert at once, and convinced him that the man was not what he appeared
+to be.</p>
+
+<p>Following slowly he watched him until he reached the hotel and entered
+the bar-room, where, laying aside his pack, he ordered his dinner.
+Scobell entered the room immediately behind him, and passing through it,
+he made his way to the kitchen, where the landlady was superintending
+the preparations for a most savory dinner. Calling her aside, he
+informed her of the peddler's arrival and of his suspicions regarding
+him, cautioning her to convey the news to his missus before they met at
+the table.</p>
+
+<p>In a few minutes dinner was announced, and the boarders, to the number
+of fifteen, including Mrs. Lawton and the peddler, with the landlady at
+the head, gathered around the long table in the low, old-fashioned
+dining-room. The lively clatter of the knives and forks soon attested
+the vigor with which they attacked the viands set before them. The
+peddler ate<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_375" id="Page_375">[Pg 375]</a></span> his meal in silence, undisturbed by the general
+conversation going on around him, and Mrs. Lawton noticed that he was
+keenly watching her whenever an opportunity occurred to do so, as he
+thought, unobserved. She, however, affected entire unconsciousness of
+the scrutiny she was subjected to, and kept up an animated conversation
+with the landlady upon various trivial topics until the meal was
+finished.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell, who temporarily acted as an attendant at the table, lost no
+opportunity to carefully watch the movements of the peddler, and his
+searching glances, directed towards Mrs. Lawton, fully convinced him
+that his previous suspicions were well founded.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Lawton returned to her room, not a little disturbed at the
+peddler's strange behavior, and having no doubt that the stranger was a
+spy, she determined to discover if she was the object of his visit, or
+whether his appearance bore any relation to her presence at the hotel.
+She accordingly sent for Scobell, and together they decided that he
+should carefully watch the movements of the peddler, and if nothing of a
+suspicious nature transpired, they would renew their journey after
+nightfall.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell immediately left the room, and as he entered the bar-room he
+noticed that the peddler was settling his score, preparatory to taking
+his departure. He remarked to the landlady, with the same rich<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_376" id="Page_376">[Pg 376]</a></span> brogue
+which Scobell had observed, that business was dull, and that he would
+have to walk to Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, my fine fellow," muttered my operative, "we'll see whether
+you are going to Richmond or not."</p>
+
+<p>The peddler lighted a short-stemmed clay pipe, and swinging his pack
+over his shoulder, set off at a rapid pace on the road to Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell hastened to the stable and, procuring a pole and line that he
+had observed there in the morning, started off in the direction which
+the peddler had taken, but taking a shorter cut to the river, which
+would enable him to reach the road about a mile below the village and in
+advance of the peddler. Sauntering along until he had gained the shelter
+of a belt of timber to his left, he then increased his pace until he was
+almost abreast of the peddler, though entirely concealed from view. He
+was now satisfied that with a little effort he could keep his man in
+sight, and he concluded not to pass him, as he had at first intended,
+but to follow him until he saw him on his way to the rebel capital.</p>
+
+<p>When they were about three miles from the village, the peddler suddenly
+left the road and turned into the woods, leading directly to the banks
+of the river, which at this point were remarkably high and steep. This
+movement was entirely unexpected by my operative, and his only recourse
+was to drop hastily<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_377" id="Page_377">[Pg 377]</a></span> behind a tree to prevent being seen. He was not
+discovered, however, although the peddler, after entering the timber,
+gazed carefully around him, as if to see whether he was being followed.
+Apparently satisfied with his survey he resumed his walk, in happy
+ignorance of the fact that a pair of gleaming eyes were not far distant,
+noting his every movement.</p>
+
+<p>Waiting until he had gone a sufficient distance to render it safe,
+Scobell rose slowly from the ground and stealthily followed his
+footsteps until the peddler paused at the edge of the bluff, which ran
+down into the river. Here he tightened the strap of his pack, and after
+another hasty glance behind him, he began the descent of the bluff, with
+the aid of the stout stick which he carried with him. The bank was
+almost perpendicular, and was covered with a heavy undergrowth of young
+timber and brush, which made the journey rather a hazardous undertaking.</p>
+
+<p>"Wonder if he's going to swim to Richmond with that pack on his
+shoulders," said Scobell to himself, as he wonderingly watched these
+strange movements of the peddler.</p>
+
+<p>Fully determined to see the end of this mysterious maneuver, but
+recognizing the necessity of exercising the utmost caution in his
+advance, Scobell slowly and noiselessly made his way to the spot where
+the peddler had vanished as completely from his view as if he had sunk
+into the bowels of the earth.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_378" id="Page_378">[Pg 378]</a></span> Advancing to within a few feet of the
+edge of the bluff, he threw himself upon his hands and knees, and drew
+himself forward until he could overlook the steep descent. He could see
+nothing of the peddler, however, for the dense growth of bushes
+completely obstructed his view, but he could readily discern the marks
+of footprints in the soft soil, which had been made by him in his
+descent to the bottom.</p>
+
+<p>Here was a dilemma. He had lost his man, and he dared not follow
+directly after him, as the peddler might be lying in ambush, and an
+encounter might be fatal. After a few moments' consideration, he
+concluded to walk along the bluff a short distance and endeavor to find
+another path by which he might descend, and thus avoid the peddler, if
+he was waiting to surprise him. About a hundred yards further on he came
+upon a well-beaten path, and here he began his descent. Everything was
+as quiet as the grave around him, and he reached the base of the cliff
+in safety, but without seeing anything of the man he was after. Passing
+up along the lane by the river a short distance, he discovered a narrow
+path leading in the direction which the peddler had taken, and showing
+the mark of recent footprints. Passing cautiously along this path a
+short distance, he saw that the high bluffs were gradually giving to
+more level banks, and that a little further on the stream made a sharp
+detour to the right, and swept out into the open and level country.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_379" id="Page_379">[Pg 379]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In the bend of the river, and on the same side, he noticed a small
+cabin, half hidden by a clump of trees. Surmising that the peddler had
+entered this cabin, he resolved to hide himself and watch for a few
+minutes, hoping that the man would soon make his appearance. He had
+scarcely taken a position where he could unobservedly note all that was
+going on, when a man, whom he at once recognized as the peddler, made
+his appearance at the door, and stood anxiously gazing around, as though
+expecting some one. He still maintained his disguise, and appeared to be
+alone. Returning into the cabin, and after a few minutes, to the
+surprise of Scobell, another individual made his appearance. This
+new-comer, while about the same size as the peddler, was a very
+different-looking person indeed, for instead of the red hair and florid
+complexion, he noticed that this man had a closely-cropped head of black
+hair, while his complexion was dark and swarthy.</p>
+
+<p>"So there's a pair of you!" thought Scobell.</p>
+
+<p>The fellow, after apparently satisfying himself that the coast was
+clear, proceeded to a small stable that stood in the rear of the cabin,
+and almost on the edge of the river bank. Scobell thought he heard the
+faint whinny of a horse, and shortly afterwards the man, mounted on a
+dark iron-gray horse, appeared, and made his way over the hill and out
+into the direction of the river road.</p>
+
+<p>It instantly flashed across Scobell's mind that this<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_380" id="Page_380">[Pg 380]</a></span> man was no other
+than his peddler, and without hesitation he approached the cabin and
+knocked loudly at the door. There was no response, and after a moment's
+hesitation he lifted the latch and entered. As he had conjectured, the
+cabin was empty.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p380.jpg" width="336" height="345" alt="&quot;GOOD-MORNING.&quot;" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;GOOD-MORNING.&quot;</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_381" id="Page_381">[Pg 381]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn8.jpg" width="448" height="86" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Journey Resumed.&mdash;A Midnight Pursuit.&mdash;A Brave Woman.&mdash;A Deadly
+Encounter.&mdash;Scobell Defends Himself.&mdash;Death of a Rebel Spy.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>While these events were occurring, General McClellan was advancing up
+the Peninsula towards Richmond. Yorktown had surrendered, the battle of
+Williamsburg had been fought, and the army was advancing to the
+Chickahominy.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Lawton and John Scobell had been for some weeks in Richmond, during
+which time they had obtained much important information, Mrs. Lawton
+taking the role of a Southern lady from Corinth, Mississippi, and
+Scobell acting as her servant. Having determined to leave Richmond, they
+were on their way to join the Union forces, which, under General
+McClellan, had their headquarters on the Chickahominy at a point about
+ten miles from Wilson's Landing. Here, according to previous
+arrangement, they were to meet Mr. Lawton, who was also one of my
+operatives, and from that point were to proceed to the Union camp.</p>
+
+<p>The landlady of the Glen House was a staunch friend to the Federals, and
+had on more than one occasion rendered valuable service to my
+operatives,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_382" id="Page_382">[Pg 382]</a></span> especially to Hugh Lawton. It was therefore at his
+suggestion that his wife and Scobell adopted the plan they did to leave
+Richmond and to reach our lines. As Uncle Gallus had stated, a man had
+stopped at the tavern the night before and had informed Mrs. Braxton,
+the landlady, that these parties would take that route from
+Richmond&mdash;and had left a note to be delivered to Mrs. Lawton, which
+contained instructions of her future line of travel.</p>
+
+<p>The trip from Glendale was one attended with great risk, as the country,
+on that side of the river, was filled with the scouts of both armies,
+and if captured by the rebel scouts or pickets, the chances were that
+detection would be followed by serious consequences. Among my female
+operatives, however, none were clearer-headed or more resolute than Mrs.
+Lawton, who prior to this time had been a most efficient worker and had
+been remarkably successful on her trips into the lines of the enemy. In
+each case she had escaped with rare good fortune.</p>
+
+<p>When Scobell entered the structure which the stranger had left, he found
+that it comprised but a single room, and immediately proceeded to make a
+thorough examination of its interior. A small fire-place on one side,
+which showed no signs of having been recently used, and a number of
+benches, were scattered about. In the corner of the room he saw the pack
+and several articles that had been worn by the peddler, which left no
+further room for doubt in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_383" id="Page_383">[Pg 383]</a></span> his mind as to the character of the
+individual he had been watching for so long a time.</p>
+
+<p>He accordingly set out for Glendale, where he arrived just as the sun
+was sinking behind the western horizon. He narrated the particulars of
+his chase to Mrs. Lawton, who was convinced that the peddler was a rebel
+spy; but the question was&mdash;Was he upon their track? Did he suspect them?
+and if so, by what means had he discovered who they were and what their
+destination was?</p>
+
+<p>Without attempting to settle these questions, however, they concluded to
+set out at once for the landing. The horses were brought to the door by
+Uncle Gallus, who was closely questioned as to whether a horseman
+answering the description given by Scobell had passed through the
+village that afternoon, did not remember having seen such a person.
+Believing that possibly the man might really have gone on to Richmond
+they concluded to start that night and hazard the consequences.</p>
+
+<p>Both of them were well armed and were therefore fully prepared to defend
+themselves, unless attacked by numbers. They rode swiftly along at the
+free and sweeping gallop for which the southern saddle-horses are so
+famous, and feeling quite secure, they conversed pleasantly together on
+their way.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess we will get through all right, notwithstanding our fears to the
+contrary," said Mrs. Lawton.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_384" id="Page_384">[Pg 384]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I dunno about that," replied Scobell; "we're not through with our
+journey yet, and there's plenty of time for trouble yet. Perhaps we had
+better walk the horses a spell."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a good suggestion," assented Mrs. Lawton, "we will walk them a
+mile or two, and then we will be enabled to go the faster."</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you, missus," said Scobell, "I wish we was at the landin';
+somehow I feel that there is yet danger ahead."</p>
+
+<p>"What makes you think so?" inquired Mrs. Lawton.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I am afraid that confounded peddler will turn up before we get
+through."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I can manage him myself," laughed Mrs. Lawton, "and if that is all
+you fear, we are perfectly safe."</p>
+
+<p>"Now you're pokin' fun at me, missus; but you'll find that I can fight
+if I get the chance, and I was thinking more of you than of myself."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, there's an old saying, John, don't cross a bridge until you reach
+it; so we won't borrow trouble until it comes."</p>
+
+<p>Their journey now lay through a richly cultivated district; on either
+side were fine farms, whose growing crops had not yet been touched by
+the ravages of war, and the country, under the soft light of the moon
+presented a scene of rare beauty. Away to the left ran the river, now
+bathed in a flood of silvery<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_385" id="Page_385">[Pg 385]</a></span> light, which, emerging from a belt of
+woods, pursued its winding way until again lost to view in the woods
+that were sharply outlined at a distance. To their right the country was
+broken and hilly, and the landscape presented a rugged and picturesque
+appearance in marked contrast to the evidences of cultivation upon the
+other side. The night was soft and balmy, and the silence was only
+broken by the sound of the horses' hoofs as they slowly trotted along.
+It seemed difficult to believe that war was abroad in the land, and that
+even now, while in the enjoyment of apparent safety, danger was lurking
+on every hand.</p>
+
+<p>Their horses being now sufficiently rested, they again pressed forward
+at a rapid pace until they were about five miles from the landing which
+was their point of destination. There Mrs. Lawton's husband was to meet
+her and the balance of the journey, to the Union camp would be free from
+danger, as the Federal pickets were posted across the river.</p>
+
+<p>They were now approaching a patch of timber, through which they would be
+compelled to pass, and an instinctive feeling of dread came over both of
+them as they drew near to it. The trees grew close together, shutting
+out the light of the moon, and rendering the road extremely dark and
+gloomy.</p>
+
+<p>"Just the place for an ambuscade," said Mrs. Lawton shiveringly; "draw
+your pistols, John, and be ready in case of attack."</p>
+
+<p>Scobell silently did as he was directed, and riding<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_386" id="Page_386">[Pg 386]</a></span> close together,
+they entered the wood. The darkness was so great, that they could
+distinguish objects but a short distance ahead of them. They passed
+safely through the wood, however, and as they emerged from the darkness,
+they congratulated themselves upon their good fortune, and began to
+think that they were unduly alarming themselves.</p>
+
+<p>Their comforting reflections were of short duration, however, for
+scarcely had they left the wood, than they perceived four horsemen
+approaching them at a swift gallop. What to do now was a question to be
+decided promptly. To turn and retreat would certainly insure their
+capture, as the woods were just behind, and they were afraid to travel
+through them on a run&mdash;so they resolved to bravely continue their way,
+and trust to chance for their safe deliverance, should the new-comers
+prove to be foes.</p>
+
+<p>A few hurried words were exchanged between them, as they arranged that
+each should select a man and fire on the instant they were challenged,
+and then they were to dash ahead, hoping by this bold and unexpected
+move to disconcert their assailants by killing or disabling two of their
+number, and thus effect their escape.</p>
+
+<p>As the advancing party came closer, they divided, two going on each side
+of the road, leaving a space between them for our travelers to pass
+through. They were now close enough for my operatives to discover that
+two of them wore the uniform of Confederate<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_387" id="Page_387">[Pg 387]</a></span> gray, with heavy sabres at
+their sides, while the others were apparently in citizens' clothes.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell, who had been intently regarding them, now exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"'Fore God, missus, that one on your side is the peddler!"</p>
+
+<p>He had scarcely uttered these words, when one of the men called out:</p>
+
+<p>"Halt, and throw up your hands!"</p>
+
+<p>They were now nearly face to face with each other, and in a flash two
+sharp reports rang out on the still night air, and two of the men reeled
+and fell from their saddles.</p>
+
+<p>"At 'em!" hissed Scobell, through his clenched teeth, as he plunged the
+spurs into his steed. The two animals sprang forward, like arrows from
+the string, and in a moment they had dashed past the others, who seemed
+dazed at the suddenness of their actions, and before they recovered
+themselves, my operatives were speeding like the wind some distance
+away.</p>
+
+<p>"Lay low to your saddle!" cried Scobell to his companion, "and turn your
+horse as far to the side of the road as you can," at the same time
+turning his own animal close to the fence that ran along the roadside.</p>
+
+<p>His directions were immediately followed by Mrs. Lawton, who retained a
+wonderful control over herself and the beast she rode.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_388" id="Page_388">[Pg 388]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>It was evident that their enemies had not been expecting such a result
+to their demand, and they sat for a time like statues; then, as if
+suddenly recollecting themselves, they wheeled their horses, and,
+discharging their revolvers in rapid succession, started in swift
+pursuit.</p>
+
+<p>"They'll never get us now," said Scobell, "unless their horses are made
+of better stuff than I think they are."</p>
+
+<p>The race now became an exciting one; the pursuers having emptied their
+weapons, without doing any harm to the escaping pair, did not take time
+to reload, but urged their horses to their utmost speed. They soon
+discovered that their horses were no match for those of the fugitives,
+and their curses were loud enough to be heard by both Scobell and his
+companion, as in spite of all their efforts they found themselves unable
+to lessen the distance between them.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell several times ventured a look over his shoulder, to note the
+progress of their pursuers, and on each occasion, finding them still
+lagging behind, he uttered some encouraging remark to Mrs. Lawton, who
+was straining every nerve in the attempt to escape.</p>
+
+<p>While indulging in one of these hasty observations, and forgetting for a
+moment the management of his horse, the animal suddenly swerved from the
+road, as if frightened at some object in advance of them, and,
+stumbling, fell heavily to the ground, throwing Scobell over his head
+and into the ditch.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 717px;">
+<img src="images/illus018.jpg" width="717" height="375" alt="&quot;With a scream of anguish, the one nearest to him threw
+up his hands and fell heavily to the ground.&quot; P. 380." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;With a scream of anguish, the one nearest to him threw
+up his hands and fell heavily to the ground.&quot; P. 380.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_389" id="Page_389">[Pg 389]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Scrambling quickly to his feet, the negro shouted to his companion:</p>
+
+<p>"Go ahead, don't mind me; save yourself!"</p>
+
+<p>He then turned his attention to his horse, which had now recovered his
+feet, and stood panting and trembling in every nerve both from fright
+and excessive exertion. Listening intently, he could hear the clatter of
+hoofs of the horse rode by Mrs. Lawton, in the distance, while coming
+closer every instant was the noise of the approaching horsemen. They had
+discovered his misfortune, and were now shouting and yelling with
+triumph at the possibility of capturing at least one of the party. There
+was no time for mounting, even if his horse was unhurt, and Scobell
+determined to make a bold stand and sell his life dearly, while he would
+assuredly prevent the capture of Mrs. Lawton.</p>
+
+<p>Leading his horse to the side of the road, he placed himself behind him,
+and resting his trusty weapon across the saddle, he awaited the coming
+of the approaching horsemen. He calmly waited until the two men were
+within a few yards of him, and then, taking as good aim as the light of
+the moon enabled him to do, he fired. The horseman nearest him uttered a
+scream of anguish, and, throwing up both hands, toppled from the saddle
+and fell upon the ground, while his frightened horse, with a snort of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_390" id="Page_390">[Pg 390]</a></span>
+terror, wheeled around and dashed off in the direction from whence he
+had come.</p>
+
+<p>The remaining man stopped his horse with a jerk that drew him back upon
+his haunches, and then, turning swiftly around, set off in the opposite
+direction, while the bullets from Scobell's weapon whistled in
+dangerously close proximity to his ears.</p>
+
+<p>Scobell, seeing that three of the pursuers were either dead or badly
+wounded, proceeded to reload his weapon, and was preparing to remount
+his horse and follow after Mrs. Lawton, when he heard the tramp of
+horses' feet coming from the direction in which she had gone. From the
+noise they made, he was convinced that the approaching party numbered at
+least a score, and that they were riding at a sweeping gallop. A bend in
+the road, however, hid them from his view, and he was unable to
+determine whether they were friends or foes. In an instant later they
+swept into full sight, and, to his intense relief, he discovered that
+they were Union cavalrymen, and that Mrs. Lawton and her husband were at
+their head.</p>
+
+<p>"Hello, John!" exclaimed Lawton, as they came up, "are you hurt?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," replied Scobell.</p>
+
+<p>"What has become of your assailants?"</p>
+
+<p>"Two of them we left a mile or two back, one is lying there in the road
+and the other, so far as I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_391" id="Page_391">[Pg 391]</a></span> know, is making tracks for Richmond,"
+answered Scobell.</p>
+
+<p>"You are a brave fellow, Scobell," said the Captain of the squad, coming
+forward. "You were lucky in escaping their bullets, and still more so
+that you didn't break your neck when your horse fell with you, at the
+speed you were going."</p>
+
+<p>"He fell on his head, I reckon," ventured one of the soldiers,
+waggishly, "which accounts for his not being hurt."</p>
+
+<p>"That's so," replied Scobell, in all seriousness, "I landed right square
+on my head in that ditch."</p>
+
+<p>A roar of laughter followed this remark, and Scobell added,
+good-naturedly:</p>
+
+<p>"It might have killed one of you fellows, but it didn't even give me the
+headache. I am glad, though, it wasn't the missus' horse, or things
+might have turned out different."</p>
+
+<p>The Captain now cut short the conversation by ordering four of the party
+to pursue the flying rebel, and, if possible, effect his capture, while
+the rest proceeded to hunt up those that had been injured. The man whom
+Scobell had shot last was soon found; he was dead, the ball having
+entered his skull. Riding back to the spot where the first encounter
+took place, they discovered the dead body of the peddler, or spy, who
+had met his doom from the bullet of Mrs. Lawton, while his companion,
+with a shattered arm, was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_392" id="Page_392">[Pg 392]</a></span> sitting up, and nearly faint from loss of
+blood, and suffering intense pain.</p>
+
+<p>Having captured two of the horses ridden by the party, and bandaging the
+shattered arm as well as they were able, the wounded man was placed on
+one of the animals and under an escort they were conveyed to the Union
+lines.</p>
+
+<p>Two shallow graves were hastily dug, and in them were placed the bodies
+of the two dead men. The party sent after the escaped soldier soon
+returned, reporting that he had obtained too much the start of them to
+be overtaken, and they were compelled to give up the chase.</p>
+
+<p>The entire party then returned to the Landing, and in the morning my
+operatives were put across the river, where they reported in due time at
+headquarters, where they detailed fully the information which they had
+gleaned in the rebel capital.</p>
+
+<p>It was subsequently learned that the peddler was a rebel spy, and for
+some time past had been visiting the Union camps gathering information,
+which he had no doubt conveyed to the rebels. On his person were found
+papers which fully confirmed this, and that they failed to reach their
+destination on account of his death, was a fortunate occurrence for the
+Union cause.</p>
+
+<p>How he had discovered the character of my operatives is a mystery yet
+unsolved, as his wounded companion, when examined the next day, stated
+that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_393" id="Page_393">[Pg 393]</a></span> he had met him that night for the first time, and had at his
+request accompanied him in the trip which had ended so disastrously. He
+further stated that his party belonged to a band of independent scouts,
+which had but lately been attached to Lee's Army, and were assigned to
+Gen. Stuart's Cavalry. Mr. and Mrs. Lawton and Scobell soon afterwards
+returned to Washington, where they were allowed to rest themselves for a
+time before being again called upon.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p393.jpg" width="336" height="360" alt="A DEAD SHOT." title="" />
+<span class="caption">A DEAD SHOT.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_394" id="Page_394">[Pg 394]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>A Woman's Discoveries.&mdash;An Infernal Machine.&mdash;The Shipping in
+Danger.&mdash;Discovery and Destruction of the Submarine Battery.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The destiny of nations, history tells us, sometimes turns upon the most
+trivial things. Rome was once saved by the gabbling of a flock of geese,
+whose cries awoke a sentinel sleeping at his post, just in time to give
+the alarm and enable the Roman soldiers to successfully repel the attack
+of an invading foe. A certain exiled and fugitive king took courage from
+watching a spider build its web, recovered his kingdom, and a crown that
+had been wrested from him by the misfortune of war. Darius, made King of
+Persia by the neighing of a horse&mdash;and in our own day historians agree,
+that had it not been for the opportune appearance of the "Monitor" when
+the rebel iron-clad "Merrimac" steamed out of Hampton Roads in March,
+1862, the destruction of the Union might have been an accomplished fact.
+For had not that formidable battery met her match in the "Yankee
+cheese-box," as the "Monitor" was derisively called, she might have
+cleared the water of Union sloops of war, raised the blockade, opened<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_395" id="Page_395">[Pg 395]</a></span>
+the way by river to Washington, shelled the national capital and turned
+the fortunes of war decidedly in favor of the South.</p>
+
+<p>This battle was an important epoch in the history of nations, and
+demonstrated to the world the formidable character of iron-clad war
+vessels, hitherto unknown; and placed the United States on record as
+having produced the most invincible navy in the world.</p>
+
+<p>In addition to the "Merrimac," the South, early in 1862, had devised a
+great many ingenious machines in the shape of torpedoes and submarine
+batteries, that were designed for the purpose of blowing up the Union
+vessels that blockaded the Southern ports.</p>
+
+<p>It was through the efforts of one of my operatives that the existence of
+one of these submarine batteries was discovered, and that, too, just in
+the nick of time to save the Federal blockading fleet at the mouth of
+the James River from probable destruction. It was in the early part of
+November, 1861, that I dispatched one of my lady operatives to Richmond
+and the South, for the especial purpose of ascertaining as much
+information as possible about these torpedoes and infernal machines,
+which I had good reason to believe were constructed at the rebel
+capital. The Tredegar Iron Works, the largest factory of the kind in the
+South, were located at this place, and since the commencement of
+hostilities had been manufacturing cannon and all kinds of shot and
+shell for the Confederacy.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_396" id="Page_396">[Pg 396]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The lady whom I selected for this task was Mrs. E. H. Baker; she had
+been in my employ for years, and at one time had resided in Richmond,
+although, prior to the war, she had removed to the North, where she had
+since dwelt.</p>
+
+<p>This lady, fortunately enough, was well acquainted with a Captain
+Atwater and his family, who resided in Richmond, and after undertaking
+the mission, she wrote to them from Chicago, apparently, stating that
+notwithstanding the conflict between the two sections of the country,
+she designed to pay a visit to them and renew the acquaintance of years
+ago.</p>
+
+<p>She accordingly started, and after a circuitous journey, arrived in
+Richmond on the 24th day of the month. The Captain and his family
+received her most hospitably, and requested her to make her home with
+them during her stay in that city.</p>
+
+<p>Captain Atwater, although holding a commission in the rebel army, was at
+heart a Union man, and secretly rejoiced at the news of a Federal
+victory. He soon expressed his views to my operative so clearly and
+forcibly, that she believed, if he could do so, without jeopardy, he
+would join the Union troops, and fight for the cause that really had his
+heartiest wishes for success.</p>
+
+<p>While Mrs. Baker did not reveal to him her connection with the secret
+service of the United States, she took no pains to conceal from him her
+real sentiments, and in their confidential conversations, was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_397" id="Page_397">[Pg 397]</a></span> quite
+free in expressing her desire for a speedy Union triumph. The Captain
+was firm in his belief that the South was wrong, and that the masses had
+been led into the war by designing and ambitious politicians, and that
+she must eventually fail. Moreover, he said, that, while born in a
+slave-holding State, he believed the institution to be wicked and cruel,
+and that the South should have given up her slaves rather than have gone
+out of the Union.</p>
+
+<p>Loyal as he was, the Captain understood the Southern people thoroughly,
+and he felt sure that they would fight long and stubbornly, rather than
+yield to the blacks the boon of freedom. Many days thus passed in quiet
+enjoyment and in these stolen discussions upon the important topics of
+the day. Mrs. Baker found herself very comfortably situated beneath the
+Captain's hospitable roof, and nearly a week was passed in viewing
+Richmond and the strange sights it then afforded.</p>
+
+<p>On every hand she saw preparations for war, and at every street she
+turned, she was confronted with armed soldiers, whose measured tread
+kept time to the music of fife and drum. In company with the Captain,
+she also visited the earthworks and fortifications around Richmond, and
+gained many valuable points of information in regard to their number and
+extent.</p>
+
+<p>As yet, however, she had been unable to discover anything concerning the
+special object of her mission, and feeling the necessity of
+accomplishing something<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_398" id="Page_398">[Pg 398]</a></span> in that direction, she resolved to act. She had
+now established herself so firmly in the estimation of those with whom
+she associated, that she believed she could with safety turn her
+inquiries in the direction that would lead to the knowledge she desired
+to gain. Accordingly, one evening at the tea-table she remarked,
+incidentally, that she desired very much to visit the Tredegar Iron
+Works.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, certainly," replied the Captain; "I will be most happy to go with
+you to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>"That will be delightful," said Mrs. Baker, enthusiastically.</p>
+
+<p>"But stay a moment," said the Captain, musingly, "I am afraid I will not
+be able to go to-morrow, as I have to go down the river to witness a
+test of a submarine battery."</p>
+
+<p>"Why couldn't I go, too?" demurely asked my operative. "I am sure I
+should enjoy it very much; that is, if there is no danger connected with
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, there is no danger, whatever, and there will, doubtless, be a
+number of ladies present, and you can go if you wish to."</p>
+
+<p>"I should most certainly wish to," laughingly answered Mrs. Baker.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said the Captain; "if you and Mrs. Atwater will be ready by
+nine o'clock, we will have ample time to reach the place, which is some
+few miles below the city."</p>
+
+<p>The ladies were both much pleased with this<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_399" id="Page_399">[Pg 399]</a></span> arrangement, and expressed
+themselves in extravagant terms of thankfulness for a trip which, no
+doubt, would be exceedingly pleasant. The Captain then proceeded to
+explain to them the nature of the battery which was to be experimented
+with on the morrow. He explained the object to be obtained by this
+battery, which was to break up the blockading fleet at the mouth of the
+James River, and thus give the South an outlet to the sea.</p>
+
+<p>The next day they started in a carriage for the scene of the exhibition,
+which was located about ten miles below the city. Arriving at the
+appointed spot, they found quite a large number of military men, many of
+them accompanied by ladies, assembled to witness the testing of the
+machine, from which so much was expected.</p>
+
+<p>A large scow had been towed into the middle of the river, and the
+submarine vessel was to approach it and attach a magazine, containing
+nearly half a bushel of powder, to which was attached several deadly
+projectiles, and this was to be fired by a peculiarly constructed fuse,
+connected by a long wire coiled on board the submarine vessel.</p>
+
+<p>At a given signal the boat was sunk into the river, about half a mile
+below the scow, and shortly afterwards it began to make its way under
+the water towards it. The only visible sign of its existence was a large
+float that rested on the surface of the water, and which was connected
+with the vessel<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_400" id="Page_400">[Pg 400]</a></span> below, designed to supply the men that operated it with
+air. This float was painted a dark green, to imitate the color of the
+water, and could only be noticed by the most careful observer. As my
+operative listened to a full explanation of the machine and its
+workings, she could scarcely control her emotions of fear for the safety
+of the Federal boats, in the event of its successful operation, and
+provided the government was not speedily warned of its existence.</p>
+
+<p>It was learned that this vessel was but a small working model of a much
+larger one, that was now nearly completed, and would be finished in
+about two weeks, and would then be taken to the mouth of the James
+River, to operate on the war vessels guarding that port.</p>
+
+<p>They had obtained an excellent position, where they had a full view of
+the river, and with the aid of a strong field-glass they could
+distinctly watch the large "float," which indicated the approach of the
+vessel.</p>
+
+<p>"How do the men who operate the machine manage to attach the magazine to
+the vessel they design to destroy?" asked Mrs. Baker.</p>
+
+<p>"Two or three men, who operate the boat," replied the Captain, "are
+provided with submarine diving armor, which enables them to work under
+the water and attach the magazine to the ship intended to be blown up.
+They then have only to quickly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_401" id="Page_401">[Pg 401]</a></span> move away to a safe distance, fire their
+fuse, and the work is done."</p>
+
+<p>The Captain also informed her, that the object was to break the blockade
+and allow the steamers "Patrick Henry" and "Thomas Jefferson" out to
+sea, these vessels being loaded with cotton and bound for England.</p>
+
+<p>While they were talking, my operative was closely watching, by the aid
+of her glass, the movements of the boat, and she now noticed that having
+approached to within a few rods of the scow, it stopped, and the water
+"float" which indicated its position remained motionless. After
+remaining in this position for a few minutes, it slowly began to recede
+from the scow, in the direction from whence it came.</p>
+
+<p>It moved steadily away some hundreds of yards, and Mrs. Baker was
+wondering at the seemingly long delay, when suddenly, and without any
+previous warning whatever, there was a terrific explosion, and the scow
+seemed lifted bodily out of the water and thrown high into the air. Her
+destruction was complete, and there was no longer any doubt that the
+submarine battery could be used with deadly and telling effect on the
+ships constituting the Federal blockading squadron.</p>
+
+<p>Those who witnessed the experiment were, of course, much elated over the
+efficient work of destruction which had been accomplished, and even
+Captain Atwater, in his enthusiasm as a soldier, forgot<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_402" id="Page_402">[Pg 402]</a></span> temporarily his
+real feelings, in his undisguised admiration of the ingenuity of the
+invention and the effectiveness of its operation.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Baker, however, looked on with a heavy heart as she reflected upon
+the terrible consequences of the workings of this machine, and at once
+felt the urgent necessity of taking steps to inform me what she had
+witnessed. Unless something was done in this direction, she felt
+confident that the Federal ships would be destroyed, the blockade
+forever ended, and untold disaster would attend the Union cause.</p>
+
+<p>After their return home that evening, she made copious notes of what she
+had learned and witnessed, which she safely secreted about her person.
+The next day, in company with the Captain, she visited the Tredegar Iron
+Works, and inspected the boat that was being built. It was truly a
+formidable-looking engine of destruction.</p>
+
+<p>The next day, being Sunday, she remained at the residence of the
+Captain, and on Monday morning, having procured a pass, she bade
+farewell to her host and his amiable spouse, and left Richmond for
+Fredericksburg. From thence she made her way to Washington by the way of
+Leonardstown, and lost no time in reporting to me the success of her
+trip. She had made a hasty, though quite comprehensive, sketch of the
+vessel, which sketch is still in my possession, and which showed the
+position under the surface of the water, and explained its workings.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_403" id="Page_403">[Pg 403]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>I immediately laid my information before General McClellan and the
+Secretary of the Navy, who at once transmitted the intelligence to the
+commanders of the squadron, instructing them to keep a sharp lookout for
+the "water-colored surface float," and to drag the water for the purpose
+of securing possession of the air tubes connecting the float with the
+vessel below.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing was heard from this for about three weeks, but about that time I
+was informed that one of the vessels of the blockading fleet off the
+mouth of the James River had discovered the float, and putting out her
+drag-rope, had caught the air-tubes and thus effectually disabled the
+vessel from doing any harm, and no doubt drowning all who were on board
+of her.</p>
+
+<p>This incident, and the peculiarity of the machine, was duly discussed in
+the newspapers at that time, who stated that "by a mere accident the
+Federal fleet off James River had been saved from destruction"&mdash;but I
+knew much better, and that the real credit of the discovery was due to a
+lady of my own force. The efficient manner in which this work was
+performed was of great service to the nation, and sustained the
+reputation of the Secret Service Department, as being an important
+adjunct in aiding the government in its efforts to suppress the
+rebellion.</p>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_404" id="Page_404">[Pg 404]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn9.jpg" width="448" height="90" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>"Stuttering Dave."&mdash;His Tramp Through the Rebel Lines.&mdash;An Ammunition
+Train.&mdash;"Dave's" Plan Succeeds in its Destruction.&mdash;A Man Who Stuttered
+and "Had Fits."</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>One morning, while the army was on the advance up the Peninsula, I was
+strolling about the camp, when I encountered a group of soldiers
+gathered around one of their number, who appeared to be entertaining
+them immensely with his droll anecdotes and dry witticisms. Approaching
+closer, I became one of the crowd that surrounded the narrator, and
+listened to an amusing incident admirably told, which had happened to
+him a day or two before while out with a scouting party.</p>
+
+<p>He was a man about thirty years of age, of medium height, strongly and
+compactly built, and with a good, firm, intelligent face, over which he
+had the most perfect control. So perfect was his command over his facial
+expression that he could make his hearers roar with laughter, while he,
+to use a homely phrase, would "never crack a smile." I noticed on
+joining the little crowd that had gathered around him, that the fellow
+stuttered amazingly, which fact, together with his imperturbable
+gravity,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_405" id="Page_405">[Pg 405]</a></span> seemed to be the secret of his always having a good audience
+about him to listen to his stories and to enjoy his droll humor. I was
+struck with the man's appearance at first sight and at once concluded
+that, unless I was much deceived in him, he was a man whom I could use
+to good advantage, and I determined to ascertain who he was and where he
+belonged.</p>
+
+<p>Turning to a soldier at my side, I inquired the man's name. Looking at
+me as though surprised at my ignorance, he answered:</p>
+
+<p>"Why, that's 'Stuttering Dave,' the drollest, smartest man in this
+regiment, and one of the best fellows you ever met."</p>
+
+<p>"What regiment does he belong to?" I asked.</p>
+
+<p>"To the Twenty-first New York," said the soldier, "but ever since I have
+known him, he has been with a scouting party. He used to live in
+Virginia before the war, and is well acquainted about here."</p>
+
+<p>That day I called upon the Colonel of the regiment to which the man
+belonged, and informed him of my wishes, which, if agreeable to him, I
+would ask him to send "Stuttering Dave" to my quarters.</p>
+
+<p>Shortly after sundown he came, and to my astonishment, I found that his
+stuttering propensity had entirely disappeared, and that he conversed
+with me with surprising ease and intelligence, and a quiet earnestness
+that betokened a solid and well-informed man. The fact was that
+stuttering with him was only a favorite amusement, and so naturally was
+it<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_406" id="Page_406">[Pg 406]</a></span> simulated, that no one would suspect he was shamming or that he was
+anything else but a confirmed stutterer of the most incorrigible type.
+In the interview which followed he signified his willingness to enter
+the secret service, and a day or two later he was detailed to my force.
+Here he served with such ability and credit that he was shortly
+discharged from his regiment altogether, and for the rest of the war was
+one of my most faithful and valued operatives.</p>
+
+<p>A few days after this interview, David Graham, for that was his real
+name, otherwise known as "Stuttering Dave," set out under my
+instructions, on a trip within the rebel lines. As he was about leaving
+my tent, he shook hands with me, and said in his dry manner:</p>
+
+<p>"G-g-go-good-by, M-m-m-major, I'm g-g-g-oin to have s-s-some fun before
+I g-g-get home, if I d-d-don't I'm a g-g-goat, that's all."</p>
+
+<p>Cautioning him against allowing his propensity for "fun" to get him into
+trouble, I accompanied him to the edge of the camp, and saw him set out
+in the direction of the Confederate forces.</p>
+
+<p>Graham had adopted the disguise of a peddler of notions, and carried in
+his pack a goodly supply of buttons, needles, thread, pins and such a
+trifling articles as he knew would be in great demand by the soldiers.
+Discarding his uniform, and dressed in a suit of butternut jean, with a
+broad-brimmed hat, a stout stick, and a pack across his shoulder, he
+appeared a veritable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_407" id="Page_407">[Pg 407]</a></span> tramping peddler. No one, to have seen him, would
+have imagined that he was an emissary of the secret service, and they
+would little have suspected that the stuttering, harmless-looking fellow
+who was hawking his wares, knew aught about military affairs, or the
+plans and movements of an army.</p>
+
+<p>It was in the fast deepening twilight of a beautiful evening, and but a
+few days after he had left the Union lines, that a party of rebel
+soldiers, weary and hungry with the toilsome march of the day, were
+resting around a camp-fire, engaged in the preparations of their evening
+meal.</p>
+
+<p>While thus employed, they were approached by a strange-looking
+individual, who walked right into their midst, and without ceremony,
+flung down his pack and seated himself among them.</p>
+
+<p>"B-b-boys," said he, "I'm most d-d-darned hungry, w-w-w-what do you
+s-s-say to givin' me a b-b-b-bite to eat; d-d-dang my buttons, I'm
+willin' to p-p-pay for it in t-t-trade or cash."</p>
+
+<p>"How did you manage to get inside the camp?" inquired one, who seemed to
+be the leader of the mess.</p>
+
+<p>"F-f-f-followed my legs, and they b-b-b-brought me right in," replied
+Stuttering Dave, as he coolly produced a short-stemmed, dirty-looking
+pipe, which he deliberately filled, and then lighted with a coal from
+the glowing embers at his feet.</p>
+
+<p>"What have you got to sell?" asked a soldier at his side.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_408" id="Page_408">[Pg 408]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"O, n-n-needles, p-p-pins, thread, b-b-buttons and n-n-notions."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you come from the Yanks?" now asked the man who had first addressed
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"D-d-d-am the Yanks!" ejaculated Dave, "I d-d-don't know anything about
+'em. Ain't them your s-s-sentiments?" he added, nudging the fellow who
+sat nearest to him.</p>
+
+<p>His companion evidently did not relish this sly poke, for he growled:</p>
+
+<p>"I, for one, am gettin' most thunderin' tired of runnin' around the
+country, and nothin' would suit me better than for us to stop long
+enough to giv' 'em a good lickin'."</p>
+
+<p>"You l-licked 'em like the d-d-devil at Williamsburgh, d-d-d-didn't
+you?" said Dave.</p>
+
+<p>The fellow looked at him in surprise, but failed to detect any evidence
+of an intended sarcasm in the immovable gravity of his face, so mentally
+concluding that the peddler was a fool and one of nature's own at that,
+he dropped the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>By this time the meal was ready, and Dave, being invited to join them,
+gladly assented, and fell to with an appetite that showed how thoroughly
+he enjoyed the repast. Supper over, the party spent the evening in
+chatting and telling yarns. The detective opened his pack, and
+displaying his goods, soon disposed of quite a large quantity, in return
+for which he demanded, and would take, nothing but silver or<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_409" id="Page_409">[Pg 409]</a></span> gold. When
+"taps" were called, he turned in with the party, and placing his pack
+under his head for a pillow, he soon slept soundly, until reveille in
+the early morning aroused him from his slumbers.</p>
+
+<p>Having eaten his breakfast, he sauntered through the camp, taking keen
+notice of the number of troops, and finding out all he could concerning
+their intended plans and movements. During the day, he did a thriving
+business with his small stock of notions, and was everywhere followed by
+a crowd, who were attracted by his droll humor and witty sayings.</p>
+
+<p>On one of these occasions, and while he was driving some lively bargains
+with the soldiers that were gathered around him, he was approached by an
+officer, who slapped him familiarly on the shoulder and exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"Here, my good fellow, we can use men like you; hadn't you better enlist
+with us? You can do your country a great deal more good than you are
+doing, tramping around the country selling needles and pins."</p>
+
+<p>The detective turned around, and seeing who it was addressing him,
+replied:</p>
+
+<p>"C-Captain, I d-d-don't think you would want me; I t-t-tried t-to enlist
+s-s-s-sometime ago, b-b-b-but the d-d-doctor said, m-my f-f-fits and
+stuttering b-b-being so b-b-bad, he c-c-couldn't p-p-pass me."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you subject to fits?" the officer now asked, as a sympathetic look
+came over his face.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_410" id="Page_410">[Pg 410]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Had 'em ever s-s-since I was t-t-ten years old," replied Dave, "have
+'em every f-f-full of the m-m-moon."</p>
+
+<p>"Where do you live?" interrupted the officer.</p>
+
+<p>"On t-t-the other s-s-side of the river," he answered.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name?"</p>
+
+<p>"They c-c-call me St-st-stuttering Dave," replied the detective, with an
+idiotic grin.</p>
+
+<p>The officer now turned and walked away, feeling no longer any interest
+in the fellow, except to pity his condition; and thoroughly satisfied
+that there was no harm in him, and that he was utterly unfit for a
+soldier.</p>
+
+<p>Well pleased to have shaken off the curious officer as easily as he had,
+Dave now turned again to the soldiers and resumed his occupation of
+dickering with the crowd about him; having concluded his business here,
+he ambled off to another part of the grounds where a large quantity of
+ammunition was stored in the wagons.</p>
+
+<p>Instantly, an idea occurred to him which he resolved to carry out if
+possible. It was to undertake the dangerous feat of firing the
+ammunition, and depriving his enemies of that much destructive material
+at all events. He lost all interest in disposing of his goods for a
+time, and proceeded to make a careful examination of the grounds about
+the wagons, and formed his plans for carrying out his project that very
+night.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_411" id="Page_411">[Pg 411]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He soon decided that by laying a train of powder from the wagons and
+running it to a safe distance, he could readily set fire to it, and make
+his escape in the confusion that would follow. At midnight, therefore,
+he stole around to the wagons and quietly commenced his work. He had
+taken the precaution that afternoon, to supply himself with a quantity
+of powder fuses, by rolling the powder up loosely in long strips of
+rags.</p>
+
+<p>Placing these in position to connect with the ammunition in the wagons,
+and laying his train from one to another, the next thing was to lay a
+long train, that would enable him after firing it to get out of harm's
+way before the explosion occurred. Having completed his arrangements, he
+now took himself off, to wait until the whole camp should be quietly
+wrapped in slumber, before he started his "fireworks," as he called
+them.</p>
+
+<p>About midnight, had the sentinel on guard at the wagons containing the
+ammunition been awake, and looking sharply about him, instead of dozing
+at his post, he might have observed a man stealthily steal up to the
+stores, and silently and quickly disappear into the woods beyond.
+Fortunately, however, for our friend, and the enterprise he had on hand,
+he only snored quietly and peacefully against a neighboring tree, little
+dreaming of the surprise that was in store for him.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later, a long, quick flash of light<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_412" id="Page_412">[Pg 412]</a></span> darted along the
+ground, which was immediately followed by a loud, stunning report, and
+the murky darkness was illumined with a brilliant, flaming light, and
+great volumes of smoke.</p>
+
+<p>Instantly the entire camp was aroused, and the half-dressed and
+fully-frightened soldiers came rushing to the scene, which was now only
+a scattered pile of burning ruins. How it occurred, no one knew, or
+could tell aught about it, and wild conjectures were freely indulged in
+as to the probable cause of the disaster. In the meantime, the only man
+in the world who could tell anything about the affair, was traveling as
+fast as his legs could carry him in the direction of the Union camp.</p>
+
+<p>In a few days he made his appearance at my headquarters, and related the
+success of his journey. I could not refrain from laughing heartily at
+his peculiar and independent system of warfare, but advised him to be
+more careful in the future as to how he tampered with the stores of the
+enemy.</p>
+
+<p>I was not disappointed as to the ability of the man, however, and for
+months he served me faithfully and well, needing but little instruction,
+and always performing his work to the entire satisfaction of every one.
+He at times adopted various disguises, but generally depended upon his
+own natural shrewdness, and his natural adaptiveness for the role of an
+itinerant peddler to carry him through successfully.</p>
+
+<p>He was always fortunate in his trips, and, so far<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_413" id="Page_413">[Pg 413]</a></span> as I knew, his
+identity was never discovered, and in the peddler who stuttered and
+"sometimes had fits," the rebels never recognized an emissary of the
+Secret Service.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p413.jpg" width="336" height="364" alt="SHOT BY A CANNON-BALL." title="" />
+<span class="caption">SHOT BY A CANNON-BALL.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_414" id="Page_414">[Pg 414]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Another Trip to Richmond.&mdash;A Rebel General Taken In.&mdash;Curtis Makes
+Valuable Acquaintances.&mdash;"The Subterranean Headquarters."</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>Early in 1862, it becoming necessary to obtain more fully the plans and
+intentions of the enemy, and their numbers around Richmond, I in April
+of that year dispatched one of my keenest and shrewdest operatives on
+this important mission.</p>
+
+<p>The man selected for this delicate and dangerous work was George Curtis,
+a young man about twenty-five years of age, tall, well-formed, with dark
+complexion, clear gray eyes, and possessing handsome, intelligent
+features. He was one of those men rarely met, who was by nature a
+detective; cool-headed, brave and determined, with ready wit and
+sagacious mind, he was especially qualified for efficient work in that
+important branch, the secret service.</p>
+
+<p>He was a native of New York, and had at the opening of the war enlisted
+in an infantry regiment from that State.</p>
+
+<p>Learning of his desire to enter the secret service, I had procured his
+discharge from his regiment, and he was detailed on my force, where he
+served until the close of the war.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_415" id="Page_415">[Pg 415]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>It was a beautiful April morning when, with his instructions carefully
+treasured in memory, for he dared take no written ones, he left my
+office on "I" street, in Washington, and set out on his perilous trip.</p>
+
+<p>I had previously made arrangements that he should accompany General
+McClellan down the river on his boat, the "Commodore," and on which he
+had established his headquarters, to Fortress Monroe, and landing there,
+make his way to Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>The morning of the first, he left Washington, and the next day he
+arrived at Old Point Comfort, and landed under the frowning walls of the
+old fort. He remained here until the morning of the second day after his
+arrival, where he was provided with a horse, and set across the river
+and proceeded on his way towards the rebel capital.</p>
+
+<p>He had now a journey of near seventy miles before him, through a country
+filled with enemies to the cause he espoused, and from whom, should his
+true character and mission become known, he might expect anything but
+kind treatment at their hands. His object in crossing the James at this
+point was to place himself in less danger from suspicion as a spy, and
+to better enable him to learn the sentiment of the people, as well as to
+gain accurate knowledge of the condition of the country as to roads,
+bridges, streams, etc., all of which information is of essential
+importance for the General of an invading army to know.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_416" id="Page_416">[Pg 416]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He, therefore, on horseback, and apparently as a man traveling for
+pleasure and recreation, proceeded on his way up the valley of the river
+and towards the objective point of his journey, the rebel capital.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing worthy of note occurred during the day; he stopped at noon at a
+house by the wayside, and obtained dinner for himself and horse. In a
+conversation with his host, who was a well-to-do old farmer, he
+apparently in a careless manner betrayed the fact that he himself
+followed the same occupation, that he lived on the river in the county
+of Norfolk, below, and was on his way to visit among friends at
+Petersburgh.</p>
+
+<p>It was towards evening that he neared the outskirts of the city, when he
+suddenly encountered the rebel pickets, stationed outside the town, who
+halted him and demanded to know his name and business. "My name is
+Curtis," replied the operative, "and I am from Norfolk; my business I
+will state to your commander when I am taken to him."</p>
+
+<p>Without further ceremony he was turned over to the officer of the guard,
+who sent him under escort to General Hill, the general in command.</p>
+
+<p>"Whom have you here?" queried the General, as in the company of his
+escort the detective was led into his presence.</p>
+
+<p>"A man who says he is from Norfolk," replied the guard, "but who refuses
+to tell his business to any one but yourself."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_417" id="Page_417">[Pg 417]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You may retire," said the General, and the escort immediately left the
+room. "Now," he exclaimed, turning to Curtis, "What is your business?
+Please be as brief as possible, as I am very busy."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, to come to the point at once," replied the detective; "in the
+first place, then, I spoke falsely to your pickets when I told them I
+was from Norfolk. My name is Curtis, and I am from Washington. As to my
+business, I deal in what the Yankees are pleased to term contraband
+goods; yet I don't see how gun-caps, ammunition of all kinds, and
+quinine should be considered contraband, for the simple reason that I,
+as a dealer, find a better market South than North for my goods. My
+desire," he continued, "is to get through to Richmond, where I hope to
+be able to effect contracts, with Secretary Benjamin, to furnish my
+goods to the Confederate government."</p>
+
+<p>"How did you get through the Union lines?" asked the General, still,
+evidently, a little suspicious of the sincerity of the detective's
+story.</p>
+
+<p>"I came down on the 'Commodore,' General McClellan's boat, three days
+ago," he answered, "was set across the river there, procured a horse
+from a friend, and here I am."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know anything of McClellan's plans for an advance?" asked the
+General.</p>
+
+<p>"I can tell you nothing about them," answered Curtis, "as everything is
+kept secret from even his own staff, I am told."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_418" id="Page_418">[Pg 418]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The General mused, thoughtfully, a moment, and then said: "I will give
+you a pass to Richmond, and you can proceed on your way in the morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, General," exclaimed the detective, "I assure you the cause
+shall suffer no loss by any efforts of mine. I shall, in all
+probability, return by this way, in a few weeks at farthest, when, if I
+can be of any service to you, you have only to command me."</p>
+
+<p>"By the way," said the General, "I have some letters to parties in
+Richmond, which ought to go at once. If you will do me the favor to
+deliver them I shall be obliged to you."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be happy to serve you, General, and will take pleasure in
+seeing that your letters reach their destination all right."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, then; call at my quarters in the morning, before you start,
+and I will have them ready for you, and will give you also your pass to
+Richmond."</p>
+
+<p>Curtis thanked him again, and, bidding him good-night, repaired to the
+hotel, and secured for himself and horse supper and lodging for the
+night.</p>
+
+<p>After he had partaken of a hearty meal, and provided himself with an
+excellent cigar, he sauntered out on to the veranda of the hotel, and,
+taking a comfortable seat, prepared to enjoy his fragrant weed, and
+amuse himself with listening to the conversation of those around him.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_419" id="Page_419">[Pg 419]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He soon discovered that the war, and the prospects for a speedy victory
+for the South, were the subjects under discussion, and he listened with
+much interest to the ideas advanced, and the confidence that marked
+their assertions of the superiority of the Southern troops over the
+Northern mudsills, as they termed the Federalists.</p>
+
+<p>"You may depend on it, that General Johnson will not permit the Yanks to
+approach any closer to Richmond than they now are, without contesting
+every inch of the ground as they advance," remarked one gentleman of the
+party near which he was sitting.</p>
+
+<p>"No," emphatically rejoined another, "when they take Richmond, it will
+be when they have annihilated the Southern people, when not a thousand
+able-bodied men are left on Southern soil to rally to its defense."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I am satisfied," remarked another, "that right here is to be the
+contest, that is to decide this matter one way or the other."</p>
+
+<p>"If the Yankees take Richmond, the South may as well surrender at once;
+if however they fail, as they are extremely liable to do, <i>they</i>, on the
+other hand, may as well withdraw their forces and acknowledge our
+independence."</p>
+
+<p>"If I am not greatly mistaken," now ventured my operative, "in the
+spirit of the Southern people, they will, to use a common phrase, 'fight
+to the bitter<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_420" id="Page_420">[Pg 420]</a></span> end.' And yet," he continued, "to the thoughtful
+observer, it is not pleasant to contemplate the spectacle of brother
+arrayed against brother, as they are in this war. I tell you,
+gentlemen," he added, "that while I am a Southern man, it grieves me to
+see our land so rent with strife and bloodshed and that the North has
+made it necessary for a resort to arms to settle a matter that should
+have been amicably adjusted."</p>
+
+<p>At this juncture, the party was joined by a new-comer, who had evidently
+just left the supper-room, as he carried an unlighted cigar in one hand,
+while with the other he was picking his teeth, with the manner of a man
+who had just eaten a hearty meal and who had enjoyed it.</p>
+
+<p>He was a man past the middle age, hair generously sprinkled with gray,
+and with a face, that while bronzed by exposure to the weather, was
+keenly intelligent, not unhandsome, and strongly expressive of force and
+decision of character. He seated himself and soon joined in the
+conversation, with that freedom and <i>nonchalance</i> that characterizes the
+experienced yet courteous traveler, who has seen the world and is
+familiar with its ways.</p>
+
+<p>"We shall hear of some pretty hard fighting, shortly, I imagine,"
+finally observed the stranger; "McClellan has arrived at Fortress
+Monroe, and will no doubt commence hostilities at once."</p>
+
+<p>"And we shall also hear of his army getting badly whipped," put in one
+of the party.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_421" id="Page_421">[Pg 421]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well," rejoined the stranger, "that may be true; but, after all, the
+real contest will be before Richmond; the fighting that may occur now
+will only be the strategic moves preceding the final struggle. Lee and
+Johnson," he continued, "are not yet ready for McClellan to advance upon
+Richmond, and they will see to it that it is put in the best possible
+condition of defense before he succeeds in reaching it."</p>
+
+<p>At this, my operative, who had taken little part in the conversation,
+except as an attentive listener, now arose and laughingly said:
+"Gentlemen, I guess we are all of one mind on this subject, let's
+adjourn down below and interview the bar-keeper; I don't profess to be a
+judge of military matters, but when it comes to a good article of
+whisky, I claim to be posted."</p>
+
+<p>The party, numbering near a dozen gentlemen about him, good-humoredly
+took the interruption and laughingly followed the detective, who now led
+the way to the bar-room.</p>
+
+<p>They filled glasses all around and Curtis proposed the rather ambiguous
+toast, "May the right prevail, and death and confusion, attend its
+enemies"&mdash;ambiguous in that it as much represented his real sentiments
+as it also met the approval of his secession friends.</p>
+
+<p>After the party had drank, they separated, agreeing to meet later in the
+evening; Curtis was himself starting for a stroll about the town, when
+the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_422" id="Page_422">[Pg 422]</a></span> stranger, who had last joined the party on the veranda approached
+him and said: "I have just drank the toast you proposed, and judging
+from it and your conversation up stairs, I take you to be, at least, a
+friend to the South, if indeed you are not a Southern man. I should like
+much to have your company for a short stroll about the city; my name,"
+he added, "is Leroy, and I hail from Baltimore."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to accompany you, Mr. Leroy," said my operative,
+heartily: "I was just thinking of going for a walk alone, but I assure
+you I shall be only too glad to have a companion. And since you have so
+kindly told me your name, I may as well tell you, that mine is George
+Curtis, and I am from Washington. But before we start," he added, "let
+us have a fresh cigar."</p>
+
+<p>He then ordered the cigars and they started for their walk.</p>
+
+<p>They had not proceeded far, before his new companion revealed the fact,
+that he also was in the contraband trade, and singularly enough, was on
+his way to Richmond on precisely the same business my operative had
+represented himself as engaged. Of course, Curtis reciprocated the
+confidence of his new-found friend, and with such results, that he not
+only returned from his walk much better posted on how to get goods
+through to Richmond, but actually returned a partner in an enterprize to
+furnish their goods in large quantities to the Confederate government,
+provided<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_423" id="Page_423">[Pg 423]</a></span> they could succeed in making satisfactory arrangements with
+Mr. Benjamin, the Secretary of War. They returned to the hotel, where
+they had a long talk, completing their plans. It was arranged that my
+operative should leave his horse at Petersburg, and in the morning, they
+would proceed on their way to Richmond by rail.</p>
+
+<p>On the following morning he arose early, and after breakfast, proceeded
+to call on General Hill at his quarters and obtained his pass, also the
+letters he was to carry for him to parties in Richmond. They then took a
+train for the rebel capital, and by noon found themselves in that city.</p>
+
+<p>The day following his arrival, in company with Leroy, he called on Mr.
+Benjamin and succeeded in closing contracts to furnish large quantities
+of their goods to his government, and at prices that were highly
+satisfactory to Mr. Leroy, who jovially remarked, as they left the
+Secretary's presence, that if they only had good luck, their fortunes
+were made. Curtis, however, felt highly gratified over the result of the
+interview, more from the reflection of the aid it would give him in
+prosecuting the real object of his visit, than from any financial
+benefit he expected to derive from it. He had received a pass from the
+Secretary that would enable him to pass in and out of Richmond at his
+pleasure, a most important privilege, and one that really removed all
+practical hindrances, and left him free to more fully accomplish his
+work.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_424" id="Page_424">[Pg 424]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He had not been in the city a week before he discovered that through
+some source, the rebels had almost daily news from the front, concerning
+the movements and plans of the Union troops. This he now determined to
+ferret out, and the next day, he in a careless manner, inquired of his
+friend Leroy, how it was, they obtained news so promptly from the front.</p>
+
+<p>"Why," replied his friend, laughingly, "haven't you heard of the
+subterranean headquarters?"</p>
+
+<p>"I confess I have not," replied the detective.</p>
+
+<p>"Then come along with me," said Leroy. "I ought to have told you about
+this before, as it is intimately connected with our business."</p>
+
+<p>He then led the way to the very hotel at which they were stopping, and
+conducted Curtis to a large and elegantly furnished room on the third
+floor, and in which were seated a number of gentlemen&mdash;some reading,
+while others were engaged in writing at little tables that were ranged
+about the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Here," said he, laughing, "are the subterranean headquarters, although
+they are above the top of the ground instead of beneath it. I need not
+tell you," he added, "that the name is given as much to mislead as for
+any other purpose."</p>
+
+<p>They then took seats at one end of the room where they were alone, and
+he proceeded with his explanation:</p>
+
+<p>"First," he said, "you must know that this is a bureau of intelligence,
+and is managed partly by the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_425" id="Page_425">[Pg 425]</a></span> government and partly by wealthy merchants
+here and at Baltimore; besides being used in getting information
+concerning the movements of the Federal troops, it is also used by the
+merchants in getting our goods through from Baltimore. We employ," he
+continued, "nearly fifty persons, some of whom are constantly in the
+field carrying dispatches, gaining and bringing in information from the
+Yankee lines. These persons are all under the control of a chief at
+their head, and are all known to that man yonder," pointing to a
+gentleman seated at a desk at the opposite end of the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Strange as it may seem to you," he continued, "right here in this
+hotel, we have the most exclusive privacy. You noticed that man standing
+in the hall when we came in, the same one now sitting at the desk?"</p>
+
+<p>Curtis nodded, and he proceeded: "Well, he knew me, and consequently he
+knew you were all right. Had you come alone, that door would have been
+closed, and would not have opened, had you tried it. Now," he said, "I
+will call him here and introduce you."</p>
+
+<p>Touching a small bell that stood on the table, the gentleman, to whom he
+had alluded, instantly answered its summons and crossed the room to
+where they were sitting.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Wallace," said Leroy, "this is my friend and partner, Mr. Curtis."
+The two men bowed and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_426" id="Page_426">[Pg 426]</a></span> shook hands, and Wallace seating himself proved
+to be a pleasant and well-informed gentleman.</p>
+
+<p>In the course of the conversation, Leroy asked, "What is the latest news
+from the front, Mr. Wallace?"</p>
+
+<p>"We have nothing as yet to-day," he answered, "but yesterday it was
+reported that McClellan had laid siege to Yorktown; the chances are,
+that we shall hear of a battle, in a few days at farthest." During the
+interview, Curtis learned also, that the persons operating for this
+bureau had confederates, both at Baltimore and at Washington; these, he
+determined to discover, if possible, in addition to the information
+already gained.</p>
+
+<p>To this end, he made himself very agreeable to Mr. Wallace, and in the
+course of the conversation, expressed his willingness to do what he
+could in aiding the force, and remarked that he should be passing back
+and forth, between Washington and Richmond, and could doubtless be of
+service.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Wallace thanked him heartily, and gave him a small plain badge of
+peculiar shape, that would at any time, if shown, admit him to the
+headquarters, and then taking him about the room, he introduced him to
+the gentlemen present, and after a short conversation with his new
+friends, he in company with Leroy took his departure, and together they
+went down to dinner.</p>
+
+<p>That evening, as he was sitting in the bar-room<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_427" id="Page_427">[Pg 427]</a></span> of the hotel, one of
+the men he had met up-stairs in the forenoon, came to him and told him
+that in a day or two, he was to start for Yorktown with important
+dispatches for General Magruder, but that owing, to sickness in his
+family, he did not want to leave home, unless it was impossible for him
+to get some one he could trust to undertake the task for him.</p>
+
+<p>He then asked Curtis if he would object to making the trip for him. The
+detective thought a moment, and told him he would give him an answer in
+the morning. The two men then indulged in a friendly glass, after which
+they separated. The man had no sooner gone, than Curtis made up his mind
+to take the dispatches, not to General Magruder, but to me at
+Washington.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, the next morning he informed his friend he would undertake
+the task for him, as he intended returning to Baltimore at any rate.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning found him, with the dispatches carefully secreted about
+his person, at the depot, ready to take the first train for Petersburgh.</p>
+
+<p>Here he arrived about noon, and proceeded to call on General Hill. After
+procuring his dinner at the hotel, he ordered his horse and started on
+his long ride for the Union camp, where he delivered his dispatches to
+Mr. Bangs, the superintendent of my headquarters in the field, and
+forwarded copies of the same to me at Washington, together with a full
+account of his trip and information he had gained;<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_428" id="Page_428">[Pg 428]</a></span> not forgetting a
+full statement of his discovery of the "Subterranean Headquarters," and
+his enlistment as a member of its force of spies and agents, employed in
+transmitting intelligence of the movements and plans of the Union
+troops.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn4.jpg" width="448" height="193" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_429" id="Page_429">[Pg 429]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn11.jpg" width="448" height="121" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIX.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>A Virginia Home.&mdash;Unwelcome Visitors.&mdash;Mr. Harcourt Arrested and
+Released.&mdash;Dan McCowan Makes Forcible Love to Mary Harcourt.&mdash;The Girl
+in Peril.&mdash;A Timely Rescue.&mdash;The Villain Punished.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The important information brought to my notice by Operative Curtis, on
+his return from Richmond, concerning the character and working of the
+"Subterranean Headquarters," at once determined me on a plan of using
+the same body of men, or rather the information they carried, for the
+benefit of the Union forces, instead of allowing them to use it in the
+interests of the Confederates. To accomplish this, I detailed several
+members of my force, both at Washington and Baltimore, to co-operate
+with Curtis, whom I intended now should become an active agent of the
+rebels in carrying dispatches to and from Richmond. The plan was, in
+short, that all dispatches entrusted to him should be accurately copied,
+the copies to be delivered to his confederates, and the originals
+forwarded to their destination.</p>
+
+<p>In war, as in a game of chess, if you know the moves of your adversary
+in advance, it is then an easy matter to shape your own plans, and make
+your moves accordingly, and, of course, always to your<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_430" id="Page_430">[Pg 430]</a></span> own decided
+advantage. So in this case, I concluded that if the information intended
+for the rebels could first be had by us, after that, they were welcome
+to all the benefit they might derive from them.</p>
+
+<p>In a few days, then, having completed my arrangements, Curtis started to
+Richmond, by the way of Wilson's Landing and Glendale, he having decided
+that, provided as he was with his pass from the Secretary, it would be
+perfectly safe, and at the same time a much shorter route than by the
+way of Petersburgh.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving him for the present, then, to make his way to Richmond as best
+he can, we will turn our attention to other persons and to other scenes.
+The interior of a comfortable farm-house, the place, and early evening
+the time.</p>
+
+<p>The family are gathered around the tea-table, and are discussing
+earnestly the war, and the chances of the success of the Northern
+troops. The family consisted of five persons: the husband and wife, both
+traveling down the western slope of life, a young and beautiful
+daughter, apparently about twenty years of age, and two younger
+children, a boy and girl, aged, respectively, fourteen and twelve years.</p>
+
+<p>These latter are listening attentively to the conversation going on
+about them, and anon interjecting some childish observation, or asking
+some question commensurate with the quaint views and ideas of childish
+years.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_431" id="Page_431">[Pg 431]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well," finally observed the old gentleman, "it is hard that one dare
+not speak their own sentiments in a country like this; my grandfather
+fought in the revolution, my father in the war of 1812, and I, myself,
+took a hand in the brush with Mexico; but I never dreamed of seeing the
+day when a man dared not speak his honest convictions, for fear of
+having his roof burnt from over his head, and, worse than all, endanger
+even his own life, and those dearest to him."</p>
+
+<p>"I have always told you, William," replied his good wife, "that the day
+would come when this fearful curse of slavery would have to be wiped out
+in blood, and you all know now that I prophesied truly. And," she added,
+"as for me, I have no fears for the result. <i>Our</i> only mistake has been
+in casting our lot and settling in the South, and in the very presence
+of an evil we could not avert."</p>
+
+<p>"True, mother," rejoined her husband, "but you know I have ever been
+outspoken against slavery, and its attendant curses. I also flatter
+myself that I have had some influence in mitigating, at least, the
+condition of not a few of the black race. You remember Colonel Singleton
+liberated his slaves at the very outset of this war."</p>
+
+<p>"And was compelled to flee to the North to save his own life," answered
+his wife; "and had we been wise, we would have gone to a country more
+congenial to our views, and while we could have done so<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_432" id="Page_432">[Pg 432]</a></span> with safety. I
+am afraid," she continued, "if it becomes known that our son has joined
+the Union army, serious trouble may befall us at the hands of men who
+have long desired an excuse for arresting you and confiscating your
+property; if, indeed, they would be content with sparing your life."</p>
+
+<p>"If I were younger," said the old gentleman, "I would defy them to do
+their worst; and, as it is, my only fears are for my family, not for
+myself. Still," he added, "my neighbors are all friendly, and the
+majority of them, though thinking differently from me on these
+questions, are under obligations to me, so that I feel I have but little
+to fear at their hands. As to our boy, who has gone to fight for the old
+flag, I am proud of him; I fought for it, so did my fathers before me,
+and I would disown the child who would refuse, if necessary, to lay down
+his life in its defense."</p>
+
+<p>And here, fired with the sentiments he had just uttered, he arose from
+the table in an agitated manner and began to pace the floor.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," he continued, "I love that old flag, and old as I am, would fight
+for it yet."</p>
+
+<p>Going to a case that stood in a corner of the room, he took from a shelf
+a beautiful silken banner, and holding it aloft, he exclaimed, with
+great earnestness, "There is the flag I fight under&mdash;the flag of the
+Union and of the country our fathers fought to save."</p>
+
+<p>"Father," exclaimed his eldest daughter, "you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_433" id="Page_433">[Pg 433]</a></span> forget yourself in your
+enthusiasm; even now some one may be outside listening; you forget that
+Dan McCowan and his desperate gang may be in the vicinity and give us a
+call at any moment."</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had the warning fell from her lips, when there came a loud
+knocking at the door, followed by a few vigorous and well-directed blows
+that threatened to take it from its hinges.</p>
+
+<p>The whole family started up in alarm, and while one snatched the flag
+from the old gentleman and hastily deposited it in its hiding-place,
+another answered the summons from without.</p>
+
+<p>The old man himself, while not frightened, was somewhat disconcerted by
+the noise, and remained standing in the center of the room, when the
+door was suddenly burst open, revealing a body of Confederate soldiers
+headed by a villainous-looking fellow, their leader, who now entered the
+room, and approaching him, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Harcourt, I have orders to place you under arrest, so you will
+prepare to accompany us to Glendale at once!"</p>
+
+<p>"What crime have I committed?" demanded the old man, now perfectly calm,
+"that you dare enter my house in this manner!"</p>
+
+<p>"You will know that soon enough," replied the officer; "so hustle on
+your duds, as we must be going. Bill," he commanded, turning to a fellow
+near him, "you will search the house and take possession<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_434" id="Page_434">[Pg 434]</a></span> of anything
+contraband or treasonable that you can find."</p>
+
+<p>This order was exactly what his followers wanted, as it meant really an
+order to plunder the house and appropriate to their own use whatever
+articles of value they found and that pleased them to take.</p>
+
+<p>As none of the family had offered the slightest resistance, the
+unwelcome intruders had conducted themselves, so far, very orderly. Mrs.
+Harcourt, a kind and matronly-looking woman, with a firmness and
+self-control, that under the circumstances was admirable, bustled about
+the room, getting together a small bundle of clothing for her husband to
+take with him on his enforced journey to Glendale; and anon, while doing
+this, spoke soothing words of comfort and encouragement to the younger
+children, who, white and speechless with terror, were crouching in the
+darkest corner of the room.</p>
+
+<p>The eldest daughter, at a sign from her father, accompanied the two men
+detailed to search the premises, and proceeded with them from room to
+room, as they rummaged chests and drawers, appropriating various little
+articles to their own use, in spite of the indignant protest of the
+spirited girl at such barefaced robbery.</p>
+
+<p>Finally, with much reluctance, she was compelled to admit them to her
+own room, and to witness their ruthless handling of the contents of a
+small trunk, in which were various little articles, trinkets and
+mementoes,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_435" id="Page_435">[Pg 435]</a></span> worthless to any one else, but, of course, priceless to her.</p>
+
+<p>But what she most prized among them, and which caused her the most alarm
+should they be discovered, was a small packet of letters from her
+brother already mentioned as serving in the Union army, and a small
+locket containing his miniature. Judge of her dismay were one of the men
+picked up the letters, and with a laugh exclaimed: "These are from your
+feller, I suppose;" and then, observing the locket, he opened it and
+with a leer on his face, said: "And this is his picture, I reckon, eh?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said the girl eagerly uttering, or rather echoing, the falsehood.
+"Yes," she repeated, "please don't take them, as they are of no account
+to any one but myself."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," said the fellow, good-naturedly, "I guess you can have
+them;" as he handed them to her. She eagerly seized them, trembling at
+the narrow escape they had had from falling into the possession of
+those, who knowing their contents, would have given her poor old father
+much trouble indeed.</p>
+
+<p>Having completed their search, and finding nothing that could be
+considered of a treasonable character, they returned to the room below,
+and reported to their Captain the result of their search. He then
+ordered his men to retire to the outside, where he followed them, and
+after consulting a short time, he returned to the house and brusquely
+informed Mr.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_436" id="Page_436">[Pg 436]</a></span> Harcourt that as he had found nothing to convict him of
+treason against the Confederate government, he might go this time, but
+to be d&mdash;d careful in the future, or he would get him yet. He then
+slammed the door behind him, rejoined his companions who mounted their
+horses and rode slowly away.</p>
+
+<p>Satisfied that they had left, the family ventured to express their
+congratulations at the departure of their unwelcome visitors, and at
+once set to work rearranging the disordered room. They, however, felt
+that this was only the commencement of their prosecutions, and they well
+knew that another time, the chances were that they would not escape so
+easily; for should it become known that their son was in the Federal
+army, they could no longer hope to live in peace and safety. The men who
+had visited them on this occasion, were evidently strangers in the
+neighborhood, and were, no doubt, a scouting or foraging party, who had
+stopped more from a want of having anything else to do, than from a
+desire to do them any injury. They, however, knew, that from those in
+their own vicinity, there was much more to be feared; and of one person
+in particular, they stood in especial dread. That person was Dan
+McCowan, the man whose name was mentioned by Mary Harcourt, in her
+warning to her father, only a moment before the soldiers, had entered
+their dwelling. Dan McCowan was a man who for years had pursued the
+detestable calling of a negro-hunter.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_437" id="Page_437">[Pg 437]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He was about thirty-five years of age, tall, of an ungainly form, and
+slightly stoop-shouldered; his hair and eyes were dark, and his
+complexion as swarthy as an Indian. His features, naturally coarse and
+repulsive, were rendered still more so, by being bronzed and hardened by
+long-continued exposure to the weather. His only associates and his most
+intimate friends appeared to be his blood-hounds, which he used in
+hunting and bringing back to their masters, the poor negroes who were
+seeking to escape from a life of continued toil and bondage. The
+following unique hand-bill, which he used to post up in various places
+over the country, will serve to show the nature of his business, and
+also the vast amount of intelligence necessary to carry it on.</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p class="center">NO TIS.</p>
+
+<p>The undersind taiks this methed of makkin it none that he
+has got the best <span class="smcap">Nigger Hounds</span> in the state, and is always
+redy to ketch runaway niggers at the best rates.</p>
+
+<p>My hounds is well trained, and I heve hed 15 yeres
+experience. My rates is 10 dollurs per hed if ketched in the
+beate where the master lives; 15 dollurs in the coonty, and
+50 dollurs out of the coonty.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i36"><span class="smcap">Dan McCowan.</span><br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i36">N. B.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Planters should taik panes to let me know, while the niggers
+tracks is fresh, if they want quick work and a good job.</p></div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_438" id="Page_438">[Pg 438]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>It is scarcely necessary to say that his services were frequently
+employed to catch and bring back the poor runaways, and more than once
+had the Harcourt family been awakened in the night by his hounds, as
+they made the woods echo with their baying. Often had they pictured to
+themselves the terror of the poor wretches, over whose trail, with
+unerring scent, swept the monsters, who would tear them limb from limb,
+and whose only choice was death at their hands or the old life of labor
+and the lash.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Harcourt was a strong anti-slavery man. Holding these views, he had
+ever spoken consistently against slavery. He was also a man of deeds, as
+well as words, for many a poor fugitive had been assisted by him on his
+long and perilous journey northward in search of friends and the freedom
+he craved.</p>
+
+<p>Owing to these proclivities, and to the fact that he had never taken
+pains to conceal his views, a mutual antipathy had long existed between
+Mr. Harcourt and Dan McCowan, the nigger-hunter. While the latter had no
+direct proofs, yet he had long suspected Mr. Harcourt of being a friend
+to, and a sympathizer with the very runaways whom it was his business to
+catch and return to the bondage they were endeavoring to escape from.
+Notwithstanding his dislike for the father, however, the fellow had
+conceived a violent attachment for Mary Harcourt, his daughter, and for
+a year past had greatly annoyed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_439" id="Page_439">[Pg 439]</a></span> not only the poor girl herself, but the
+whole family, by his uncouth attentions.</p>
+
+<p>Finally, Mr. Harcourt told him plainly that his attentions to his
+daughter were extremely distasteful to her, and added a polite, yet firm
+request, that he cease his troublesome visits.</p>
+
+<p>Mary, who was a young lady of sweet and lovely disposition, possessing
+both intelligence and refinement, shrank from the fellow as she should
+from a viper in her path; while his odious attempts to lavish his
+unsought affections upon her so disgusted and frightened her that she
+always avoided his presence.</p>
+
+<p>Dan McCowan, however, was just the man, when thwarted in his plans, to
+at once take steps for revenge. For some time he had kept a close
+espionage of the house and the movements of its inmates. He had somehow
+obtained possession of the knowledge that young Harcourt was in the
+Union army, and he determined to use this in his well-laid plans to
+persecute the poor girl, who had been so unfortunate as to have been the
+object of his passion.</p>
+
+<p>On the day following the incidents just related, Mary, who had been
+spending the afternoon with a neighbor's family, towards evening was
+returning to her home, when she was suddenly and most unexpectedly
+confronted by Dan McCowan. So startled was she by this unlooked-for
+meeting, that she involuntarily gave a slight scream, as she recognized
+who it was that stood before her.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_440" id="Page_440">[Pg 440]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I see as how I have skeered you right smart now," said the fellow,
+grinning in her face with a wicked leer. "Your father told me as how he
+would be much obliged to me if I would stop my visits to his house,
+which, bein' a gentleman, I was bound to do, and as I had a little
+something to say to you, I thought this would be the time to say it."</p>
+
+<p>The girl, who had now somewhat recovered her composure, yet fully
+realizing the character of the man with whom she had to deal, stood
+quietly looking him full in the face, and said, in a tone that betrayed
+her contempt, "I suppose I must listen to you, sir, but be brief, as it
+is getting late, and my folks will be uneasy at my long absence."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Miss Harcourt," he replied, "I will come to the point at once.
+You have a brother, who has been away from home fur some time. Do you
+know where he is?"</p>
+
+<p>Mary was silent, and he muttered, half to himself, "I thought so; the
+whole family are traitors. No more than is to be expected from these
+d&mdash;d abolitionists. I can tell you where he is," he continued; "he is on
+the other side, and fighting against the South."</p>
+
+<p>"And what if he is in the Federal army? He is fighting for the
+government you and yours are seeking to destroy," answered the spirited
+girl.</p>
+
+<p>"It don't matter much to me which side he fights on; but suppose I tell
+it around, that he is fighting with the Yankees, do you think it would
+matter to you then?"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 712px;">
+<img src="images/illus019.jpg" width="712" height="375" alt="&quot;While she was struggling in his grasp, he was startled
+by a violent clutch upon his collar from behind.&quot; P. 441." title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;While she was struggling in his grasp, he was startled
+by a violent clutch upon his collar from behind.&quot; P. 441.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_441" id="Page_441">[Pg 441]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"My brother is his own man," replied Mary, "and he alone is responsible
+for his acts; surely they would not harm my father and us for that; and
+surely you would not tell what you know, to injure us?"</p>
+
+<p>"That depends on you, Miss Mary," the fellow replied, now approaching
+closer, and attempting to take her hand.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, you scoundrel?" demanded the girl, drawing back,
+while the fire flashed from her eyes. "Don't offer to touch me, Dan
+McCowan, or I'll&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"What would you do, now?" he exclaimed; and, before she was aware of his
+intentions, he had sprang quickly forward, seized her about the waist,
+and placed one hand over her mouth, but not until she had given one long
+and piercing call for help.</p>
+
+<p>The fellow's base designs were evident, and that he would have been
+successful there is no doubt; but help, fortunately, was at hand. While
+he was yet struggling with the girl, he felt a violent clutch on his
+collar, from behind, and before he could see from whence it came he was
+thrown violently to the ground, and was writhing under the well-directed
+kicks, which were most lavishly bestowed upon him by the new-comer, who
+was no less a personage than my operative George Curtis.</p>
+
+<p>The girl had sank to the ground almost fainting<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_442" id="Page_442">[Pg 442]</a></span> from fright, but so
+enraged was Curtis at the scene he had witnessed, that he continued to
+shower his kicks on the miserable wretch, who roared and begged for
+mercy, until the girl interposed, and begged him, for her sake, not to
+kill him, but to desist, and let him go.</p>
+
+<p>At this my operative ceased, more, however, from mere lack of breath
+than from a feeling that the fellow had been sufficiently punished, and
+allowed him to regain his feet. "You contemptible, cowardly brute," he
+exclaimed, as McCowan arose; "I have a mind to finish you, while I have
+my hand in. Miss," he continued, turning to the girl, "I am happy to
+have arrived in time to be of service to you. I do not know anything
+about this difficulty, but from what I saw, I concluded that I had not
+time to make any inquiries."</p>
+
+<p>"I am very grateful to you, sir, for what you have done in saving me
+from that villain. Look out!" she exclaimed, "he has a pistol."</p>
+
+<p>Curtis turned his head in time to see the fellow in the act of drawing a
+revolver. Quicker than a flash, his own weapon was in his hands, and
+covering the man, he said, coolly:</p>
+
+<p>"Drop your hands, you hell-hound, or I will blow you to atoms in a
+second."</p>
+
+<p>The fellow saw that he was foiled, and dropped his hands at his sides.</p>
+
+<p>Curtis advanced and disarmed him; then, stepping back a pace, he said:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_443" id="Page_443">[Pg 443]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Go now while I am in the humor to let you; another move like that, and
+I will shoot you as I would a dog."</p>
+
+<p>McCowan reluctantly obeyed, and slunk away muttering threats of
+vengeance.</p>
+
+<p>My operative, however, paid no attention to him now, but turned to the
+young lady who proceeded to relate the circumstance of her meeting with
+McCowan, from which his timely interference had saved her, and ended by
+a cordial invitation, blushingly given, that he would accompany her
+home, and spend the night under her father's roof. As he was anxious to
+find a lodging-place for the night, at any rate, the detective
+gratefully accepted the invitation, feeling such an interest in this
+really beautiful girl that he could not resist the desire to cultivate
+further the acquaintance, so strangely begun. He hastily brought his
+horse from where he had left him by the roadside, and leading him by the
+bridle, walked by the side of his companion until they reached the
+house. As they strolled along, Mary frankly told him the secret of
+McCowan's attack, and proceeded to explain the man's character, and the
+detestable nature of the business in which he was engaged.</p>
+
+<p>By this time, they had reached her father's house, where they were met
+at the gate by the old gentleman himself, who was alarmed and anxious at
+his daughter's absence so far beyond her usual time for return.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_444" id="Page_444">[Pg 444]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Father," said the girl, "this is"&mdash;here she paused, visibly
+embarrassed, and gazed timidly into the face of the detective.</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me," said Curtis hastily, seeing the cause of her confusion; "my
+name is George Curtis; we have been so busy talking that I had not
+thought of names."</p>
+
+<p>She then introduced them, and briefly related to her father the cause of
+her detention, and her adventure with McCowan, not forgetting to mention
+the part my operative had played in her timely rescue from the villain's
+hands.</p>
+
+<p>The old man thanked him again and again, and so profusely, that Curtis
+begged that he would not mention it, as he had done nothing more than
+any gentleman, under the same circumstances, would have done, gone to
+the lady's rescue at her call for help.</p>
+
+<p>His horse was ordered to be taken to the barn, and he himself was soon
+seated in the house, receiving the tearful thanks of good Mrs. Harcourt,
+and the object of the admiring gaze of Mary's younger brother and
+sister, who regarded him as a hero, and a person who had no small claim
+on their affection and esteem.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn10.jpg" width="160" height="109" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_445" id="Page_445">[Pg 445]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn1.jpg" width="448" height="115" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXX.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Curtis Again on his Travels.&mdash;A Loving Episode.&mdash;Dan McCowan Again
+Turns Up.&mdash;The Capture of Curtis.&mdash;A Fight For Life, and Escape.&mdash;A Bit
+of Matrimony.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The next day, my operative took his leave of the Harcourt family, and
+continued on his way to Richmond. He, however, gave them his promise,
+that he would visit them again before long, a promise he was in no wise
+loath to keep, as Mary had joined her request to that of her father,
+that he should not fail to give them a call, when he was in their
+vicinity.</p>
+
+<p>The truth was my operative, who was a very excellent young man, and,
+notwithstanding his calling, susceptible to the charms of the fair sex,
+was not a little smitten by the fair Mary, whom he had met under
+circumstances that would have caused even a less romantic person than
+himself to have fallen in love with her at once.</p>
+
+<p>On the other hand, the girl's feelings of gratitude and admiration for
+the young man, who had rescued her from McCowan's clutches, were those
+almost akin to love; but with true maidenly modesty, she simply treated
+him with that delicate courtesy that, while it showed plainly her high
+regard for him, yet<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_446" id="Page_446">[Pg 446]</a></span> it in no way overstepped the bounds of strict
+propriety. It was evident, however, that she regarded him as one who
+certainly had strong claims upon her friendship and esteem.</p>
+
+<p>Bidding them good-bye, then, Curtis took leave of the family, whom he
+had known but a single night, yet who, in that brief space, had grown to
+be like old acquaintances; and his regret on leaving them, was very much
+like that in parting from old and intimate friends.</p>
+
+<p>Taking the route by Glendale, he, towards evening, arrived at Richmond,
+without any event worthy of notice, and put up at Miller's Hotel.</p>
+
+<p>A few weeks later found him on his return to the Army of the Potomac,
+and in his possession important dispatches that he had obtained in the
+rebel capital. As he left Richmond, the news reached that city of the
+evacuation of Yorktown by the rebels, and their retreat up the peninsula
+towards Williamsburgh. The effect of these tidings was anything but
+encouraging to those who had hoped that a final and decisive battle
+would have been fought at Yorktown, and the further advance of the Union
+troops effectually checked.</p>
+
+<p>McClellan's vigorous preparations, however, for a protracted siege, had
+decided the rebels that it would be useless to risk a battle here, and
+they consequently determined to evacuate the place, which they did on
+the fifth of May, and by noon of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_447" id="Page_447">[Pg 447]</a></span> same day McClellan's army had
+broken camp and was in full pursuit. With such celerity did he make his
+movements, and so closely did he press the Confederates, that on the
+following day they were compelled to make a stand, and here was fought
+the battle of Williamsburgh, in which the rebels were defeated, and
+continued their retreat towards Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>The army of the Potomac now continued its advance, with all the rapidity
+the terrible condition of the roads would permit, having for its base of
+supplies the York River, until two weeks later it rested between the
+Pamunkey and the Chickahominy. It was at this stage of affairs on the
+Peninsula, that Curtis was on his return trip from Richmond. With his
+passes in his pocket, his dispatches securely concealed about him, and
+his trusty horse as his only companion, he set out for his long ride to
+Wilson's Landing, and the headquarters of the Union army.</p>
+
+<p>It was his purpose to stop by the way long enough to at least inquire
+after the health of the Harcourt family, and learn how they had fared
+during his absence. So, pushing rapidly ahead, towards the close of what
+had been a beautiful day in May, he, near nightfall, found himself at
+Farmer Harcourt's door, where he was most cordially welcomed.</p>
+
+<p>His jaded horse was led to the barn to be watered and fed, while he was
+soon resting his tired limbs in an easy chair, while waiting a tempting
+supper that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_448" id="Page_448">[Pg 448]</a></span> was almost ready for an appetite keenly whetted by his long
+and hard day's ride.</p>
+
+<p>His object now, was to stop long enough to rest himself and horse, and
+then push on by night and endeavor to reach the Federal lines by
+daybreak. Mr. Harcourt informed him that they had not been molested by
+McCowan since his former visit, and that it was reported that he had
+formed a band of Guerrillas, and at their head was pillaging and robbing
+the people in an adjoining county.</p>
+
+<p>"He is an unscrupulous villain," observed the old gentleman, "and I
+confess I stand in no little dread that he may pay us a visit at any
+time, in which case, if we escape with our lives, we may consider
+ourselves fortunate. I have," he added, "fully made up my mind to take
+my family, leave my home here, and, if possible, go North, where a man
+of my way of thinking can live in security and peace. If I were younger,
+I would enlist, myself, but my fighting days are past."</p>
+
+<p>"I trust you may soon be able to get away from here," said Curtis; "and
+as the Union army is now advancing up the Peninsula, you can, I think,
+with little danger, make your way into its lines."</p>
+
+<p>He then informed him of the evacuation of Yorktown, and of the retreat
+of the Confederates, and advised him to hasten his arrangements to go
+North, while this opportunity afforded him a way to do so with safety.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_449" id="Page_449">[Pg 449]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>After the evening meal was over the family seated themselves on a
+pleasant little porch, that ran along one side of the old-fashioned
+house, facing the west, and in the deepening twilight they sat and
+talked over the trying times, and united in their wishes for a speedy
+termination of the fratricidal conflict.</p>
+
+<p>Thus the evening passed until near ten o'clock, when my operative
+informed his friends that he must take his departure, as he was
+determined, if possible, to reach the Union lines by daybreak.</p>
+
+<p>The whole family urged him to pass the night with them; but finding him
+bent on going, his horse was ordered to the door, and he prepared to
+take his leave.</p>
+
+<p>He shook hands with the good farmer and his wife, and looked anxiously
+around for Mary; surely she would bid him good-bye before he went away,
+but she was nowhere to be seen. He even lingered a few moments, hoping
+she would return; she did not, however, put in an appearance; so,
+leaving his regards for her with her parents, he mounted his horse, and
+with a heavy heart rode along down the long, narrow lane that led from
+the house to the main road.</p>
+
+<p>He could not understand why the girl should have absented herself just
+as he was taking his leave; could it be that he had in any way offended
+her, that she should avoid him on purpose? Revolving the matter in his
+mind, and feeling that hereafter he would take pains to avoid the
+Harcourt mansion, he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_450" id="Page_450">[Pg 450]</a></span> now approached the terminus of the lane, still
+buried in thought, when his horse, becoming frightened, shied slightly
+to one side; hastily raising his eyes, he saw, to his amazement, the
+object of his thoughts standing by the roadside.</p>
+
+<p>He checked his horse, and, in a tone that betrayed his astonishment,
+exclaimed, "You here, Miss Mary!"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," she answered, evidently a little confused, "I wanted to see you a
+little while alone. I trust you will pardon me for adopting the means I
+have to secure a short talk with you."</p>
+
+<p>By this time Curtis had dismounted, and was standing at her side.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, what is it, Miss Harcourt? I am happy to be at your service in
+any way in my power."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," she answered, hastily, "you have placed me under
+obligations to you, but I venture to-night to ask one favor more."</p>
+
+<p>"It is granted already," said Curtis.</p>
+
+<p>Thanking him again, she proceeded: "You know my brother is in the Union
+army, and I have not heard from him for several weeks; I wish you would
+try to get this letter to him, and, if it is not asking too much," she
+added, hesitatingly, "will you kindly bring me his reply, or at least
+some word that I may know he is safe and well?"</p>
+
+<p>Curtis took the letter from her hands, and, depositing it safely in an
+inside pocket of his coat, he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_451" id="Page_451">[Pg 451]</a></span> said "I will do my best to deliver the
+letter, and, should I not return soon with an answer, you may know
+something unavoidable has detained me."</p>
+
+<p>As he stood there, gazing earnestly into the sweet face of his fair
+companion, a sudden purpose to then and there declare his love for her
+came into his mind. With him, to resolve was to act; extending his hand,
+he took hers in a friendly clasp, and said: "Miss Harcourt, I am going
+to bid you good-bye, with the hope of seeing you again very soon; but I
+will not conceal from you the fact, that, in the fortunes of war, it is
+possible that we may never meet again. Under these circumstances, then,
+I make bold to tell you to-night something that, ordinarily, I would not
+mention until your longer acquaintance with me would make it appear more
+proper, at least so far as society rules are concerned.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Harcourt," he continued, still holding the hand that now lay
+passively in his, "in the short time I have known you I have learned to
+love you, and I am confident time only will strengthen that love. I do
+not ask your answer now; when we meet again, if we do, you can tell me
+my fate. If your answer then should be nay, I will try to bear it like a
+man, respecting you none the less even if I fail to win the love I would
+so highly prize. Good-bye, darling!" and lightly pressing her hand to
+his lips, he threw himself into his saddle, and giving his noble animal
+the rein, dashed away, leaving Miss Harcourt standing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_452" id="Page_452">[Pg 452]</a></span> in a half-dazed
+manner, straining her eyes after his figure, that in the pale moonlight
+was rapidly disappearing from her view.</p>
+
+<p>Curtis now set off for the headquarters of the Union army. Our friend
+pushed on, and shortly after midnight arrived at the Landing, and from
+here faced about to the east, and in the direction of Williamsburgh,
+where the Union army, victorious in the battle just fought, were
+encamped.</p>
+
+<p>He now slackened his speed somewhat, to rest his jaded steed, and,
+dropping the reins, allowed him to take a moderate walk, while he
+himself fell into a deep reverie over the events of his trip.</p>
+
+<p>On this occasion he had been very successful in his work in the rebel
+capital, and had, so far, effectually escaped any suspicion as a spy.
+Considering the watchful vigilance that at this time was maintained by
+the rebels, Curtis had indeed done well; and it was with feelings of
+thorough satisfaction that now, near the close of his arduous journey,
+and when he felt reasonably secure from being molested, that he relaxed
+somewhat his usual vigilance, and allowed himself and animal a much
+needed rest.</p>
+
+<p>He was not, however, destined to get through so easily as he had
+anticipated. As he entered a small clump of timber, and while he was
+unsuspecting any danger at this nearness to the Union camp, two mounted
+men suddenly made their appearance from the side of the road, and from
+where they had been<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_453" id="Page_453">[Pg 453]</a></span> concealed in the bushes, and, holding their cocked
+weapons at his head, commanded him to halt.</p>
+
+<p>At the same instant, men came pouring in from both sides of the woods,
+that here skirted his path, and almost before he could realize his
+situation, or who were his assailants, he was overpowered, taken from
+his horse, and securely bound.</p>
+
+<p>He soon discovered his captors were a band of guerillas, who had been
+quartered in the grove, and he had by the merest chance stumbled right
+into their midst. While he was quickly debating in his mind his chances
+for escape, and his probable fate at their hands, he was led into the
+presence of the captain of the band, who, with a few of his followers,
+had evidently been sleeping about a camp-fire that had now burned low,
+leaving only a bed of glowing embers, that cast a faint light on the
+swarthy faces of the rough-looking men that now grouped yawningly about
+it awaiting his coming.</p>
+
+<p>"Who have you here," asked the Captain, as the party escorting Curtis
+came up.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't know, Capten," laconically answered one of the men; "we jest now
+found him and handed him in here without askin' him enny questions; but
+here he is, you can talk to him yourself."</p>
+
+<p>Curtis was now unbound, and led forward, and stood facing the Captain.
+As their eyes met, the recognition was mutual and instantaneous; in the
+man that stood before him, my operative recognized<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_454" id="Page_454">[Pg 454]</a></span> no less a personage
+than Dan McCowan, the man whom he had so unmercifully drubbed on a
+former occasion, which has already been described.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment, McCowan saw who it was that had so unexpectedly
+fallen into his hands, and with a wicked laugh and a horrible oath, he
+sprang forward, and clutching him by the throat, exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"By G&mdash;d, I have been looking for you for some time; it is my turn now."</p>
+
+<p>It was evident that the fellow in his rage meant murder; but Curtis, who
+was both brave and cool, besides being strong and active, wrenched loose
+from his grip, and springing hastily backward, he dealt him, with the
+rapidity of lightning, a powerful blow between the eyes, that felled him
+like an ox. Then, before the lookers-on could scarcely realize what had
+taken place, he leaped over the form of the prostrate man, and
+disappeared in the darkness of the wood.</p>
+
+<p>The Captain by this time regained his feet, and showering curses upon
+his men for a pack of cowardly idiots, started off in pursuit, followed
+by a half a score of his fellows, who now, in order to conciliate their
+enraged leader, determined to retake the detective at all hazards.</p>
+
+<p>Fortunately for Curtis, he had been allowed to retain his weapons, and
+being fleet of foot, he had but little to fear.</p>
+
+<p>He soon succeeded in eluding his pursuers, and,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_455" id="Page_455">[Pg 455]</a></span> shortly after daylight,
+found his way into the Union camp.</p>
+
+<p>He then reported to me with his dispatches from Richmond, and related
+his adventures here recorded.</p>
+
+<p>I ought to state, however, that he did not, at that time, inform me of
+his proposal to Miss Harcourt; but after remaining with me until the
+close of the war, during which time he made many trips to and fro
+between Richmond and the headquarters of the Federal army, after the
+struggle was ended and we both had retired to the life of a citizen, he,
+as a salesman in a business house in Chicago, I to my business as a
+detective in the same city, then it was he related the story of his
+courtship, and the manner in which he wooed and won the woman who was
+then, and still is, his wife. As for the Harcourt family, they made
+their way to the North, by the aid of my operative and young Harcourt,
+and the courtship between Curtis and the daughter was kept up until the
+close of the war, when they were married.</p>
+
+<p>I will also say, that they are still living happily together, surrounded
+by an interesting family of children, who with childlike eagerness
+clamber on their papa's knees to hear him tell them stories of the war,
+and his adventures before they were even born, a period that to them
+seems ages and ages ago.</p>
+
+<p>Dan McCowan was killed in an attack that his party, led by him, made on
+a band of our scouts,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_456" id="Page_456">[Pg 456]</a></span> shortly after the occurrence of the incidents
+described in this chapter.</p>
+
+<p>I would fain have dwelt longer on the work of young Curtis, and noted
+more minutely the importance of his labors in the secret service, but a
+lack of space and time compel me here to drop him with the passing
+comment, that he was an excellent operative, and that he so faithfully
+and efficiently did his work, that the subterranean headquarters, with
+its corps of operatives, never did the Union cause any practical harm,
+but a great deal of good, in furnishing intelligence of the movements
+and intentions of the rebel forces.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p456.jpg" width="336" height="361" alt="NIGHT ON THE BATTLE-FIELD." title="" />
+<span class="caption">NIGHT ON THE BATTLE-FIELD.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_457" id="Page_457">[Pg 457]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn12.jpg" width="448" height="102" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>McClellan and his Enemies.&mdash;The Peninsula Campaign.&mdash;The Rebel Forces
+Before Richmond.&mdash;The Union Forces Outnumbered by the Enemy, and their
+Commander Hampered By Superiors.&mdash;An Honest Opinion.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>It is not my purpose to attempt to detail the various movements of the
+army, to describe the battles which were fought, or to chronicle the
+victories and defeats which were achieved and sustained by the brave
+soldiers who fought under the flag of the Union. That duty belongs to
+the historian; mine simply to relate the experiences of my own men in
+the delicate, dangerous and laborious duties which devolved upon them.
+Far less is it my desire to enter into a discussion upon the various
+subjects that have, since that fratricidal conflict, engrossed the
+attention of the student of history.</p>
+
+<p>I trust, however, that I may be pardoned, if, for a time, I depart from
+the main narrative and devote a brief space to the consideration of that
+much discussed subject, the campaign of the Peninsula. I make no
+pretension whatever to being a military scholar, nor in any sense a
+military man, but my connection with the government during the war, and
+participation in the movements of the Army of the Potomac,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_458" id="Page_458">[Pg 458]</a></span> together
+with my long and intimate acquaintance with its commander, General
+McClellan, may entitle me to a brief expression of my own views of that
+campaign. I may be pardoned, also, if I attempt to ascribe to their
+proper source, some of the causes which contributed largely to the
+disasters that attended it.</p>
+
+<p>There can be no doubt of the fact, that the young commander-in-chief was
+subjected to the persecutions of the most malignant political
+intriguers, who feared that his growing popularity would result in
+political exaltation. Taking advantage of the fact, therefore, that
+General McClellan was an avowed Democrat, a scheming cabal was working
+to weaken his influence with the people by vague insinuations against
+his loyalty to the Union cause. To further that end, his plans, so
+carefully and intelligently matured, for the speedy crushing of the
+rebellion, were either totally disregarded by an unfriendly cabinet, or
+were so frequently thwarted, that to successfully carry them out was an
+utter impossibility.</p>
+
+<p>As I have always been a faithful adherent of the maxim, "speak the
+truth, though the heavens fall," and believing it to be a doctrine, that
+if practically carried, will right all wrongs, uphold the innocent,
+administer censure where deserved, and praise where it is due, I have
+invariably attempted to form my judgment of my fellow-men upon their own
+intrinsic merits.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_459" id="Page_459">[Pg 459]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Whatever may have been his faults as a man, his mistakes as a General,
+he was throughout unflinchingly loyal to the cause of the North. With
+him it was but one sentiment, and one ambition&mdash;to whip the rebels into
+subjection&mdash;and manfully did he perform his duty toward the
+accomplishment of that object. Much of the censure which has been heaped
+upon him and his conduct as Commander of the Army of the Potomac, is due
+to a hasty and inconsiderate judgment of the man and his motives, or the
+result of direct prejudice and ill-will. In the eyes of his critics his
+great fault lay in what they considered his inexcusable delay in moving
+against the enemy in the Spring of 1862, after, as they supposed, he had
+ample time to prepare his army for the field.</p>
+
+<p>From this point began the open and unfriendly criticisms which were
+designed to excite an impatient people, who did not, and could not,
+understand why active operations were not at once begun. This delay was
+adroitly used by scheming politicians to cast the shadow of disloyalty
+upon a man, who never for one moment entertained a disloyal thought, nor
+performed a single action which he did not believe would redound to the
+credit and honor of the Union troops, and of the Government which he
+served.</p>
+
+<p>My acquaintance with General McClellan began before the war, and when he
+was the Vice-President of the Illinois Central Railroad. That
+corporation had, on frequent occasions, employed my services in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_460" id="Page_460">[Pg 460]</a></span> various
+operations affecting their interests, and in this way I first met and
+became associated with the General. From this date began my warm regard
+for the man, which, during the many years that have passed, has known no
+diminution.</p>
+
+<p>I knew the man so well, and my confidence in his integrity and
+patriotism was so thorough, that a doubt of his loyalty never entered my
+mind. Many of my old-line abolition friends went so far as to reproach
+me for my steadfast adherence to McClellan, and accused me of abandoning
+my principles. I, however, knew my own ground, and held it. I knew that
+the General was not an abolitionist, but that he was not a patriot I
+could not believe for a moment. I have always thought, and my opinion
+remains unchanged to this day, that had he been left free to carry out
+his plans in the Peninsula campaign, the Army of the Potomac would have
+escaped the disasters that befell it; Richmond would have been reduced,
+and occupied by the Federal troops; and victory instead of defeat would
+have crowned their heroic efforts from the river to the rebel seat of
+government.</p>
+
+<p>"How do you account for General McClellan's 'masterly inactivity' during
+all these months that his army lay at Washington?" is asked. Ah, there
+is the mistake. It was anything but inactivity, and it is beginning to
+be pretty generally understood now what he was doing at that time.</p>
+
+<p>More than one writer on the campaigns of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_461" id="Page_461">[Pg 461]</a></span> Civil War, has taken
+occasion to say that the splendid achievements of the Army of the
+Potomac at subsequent periods, and under other commanders, were mainly
+due to the careful drilling and the rigid discipline inculcated under
+McClellan. At the time he was called to the command of the army it was
+nothing better than a band of disorganized men, who had not recovered
+from the defeat of Bull Run, and whatever efficiency it attained, was
+accomplished by the indefatigable efforts of General McClellan and the
+officers under his command.</p>
+
+<p>The South, at the outbreak, was far better prepared for war than the
+North. For months preceding the election of Mr. Lincoln the people of
+the South were secretly preparing for a struggle. They had even then
+determined, if beaten by the ballot, to resort to the bayonet, and to
+decide upon the battle-field the questions which they failed to settle
+by fair discussion and honest legislation in the National Congress. The
+people of the North, on the contrary, being so long accustomed to submit
+to the expressed will of the majority, apprehended no danger. While they
+were keenly alive to the important nature of the issues presented in the
+campaign, they did not dream that the new party, if successful, would
+have a gigantic civil war on its hands as the result of its triumph in a
+contest peaceably decided by the silent yet all-powerful ballot. Resting
+in this fancied security from<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_462" id="Page_462">[Pg 462]</a></span> danger, the war was a surprise, for which
+they were but illy prepared.</p>
+
+<p>I need not detail the situation of affairs when the news flashed over
+the wires that Fort Sumter was fired upon. Suffice it do say, that the
+South was up in arms, in full preparation almost, before the North could
+realize that war was at hand.</p>
+
+<p>The first great battle of the war was fought, and the Union troops
+suffered a most humiliating defeat, falling back in disordered crowds
+upon Washington, and at this time General McClellan took command and
+brought order out of chaos.</p>
+
+<p>The community did not seem to consider, or to understand, that it was
+necessary to spend so much time in drilling the troops and making
+elaborate preparations for the field. But the commanding officer was too
+good a general to imitate the impetuous actions of his predecessors, and
+to make an aggressive campaign with raw and undisciplined troops. It was
+in consequence of this, that months were spent in the patient and
+persistent task of properly organizing, drilling and equipping his men
+for the field, and in the spring of 1862, when the army did move, in the
+language of the General, it was one "from which much was to be
+expected."</p>
+
+<p>Unfortunately, however, at the very outset, the General and the
+President had each matured a plan for the conduct of the war, and, in
+many respects, these were diametrically opposed to each other. At<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_463" id="Page_463">[Pg 463]</a></span> this
+point the question might be asked, whose plan should have been followed?</p>
+
+<p>By the Constitution, the President is the Commander-in-Chief of all the
+armies and the navy of the United States, and is, of course,
+<i>ex-officio</i>, the highest military authority in the land. "But if a
+President disclaims all knowledge of military affairs," as President
+Lincoln did, "it then becomes a question how far he should defer the
+conduct of a war to his appointed Commander-in-Chief, who is supposed to
+be chosen on account of his skill and sagacity in military matters, and
+upon his presumed fitness for the position."</p>
+
+<p>In President Lincoln's hesitation between the advice of his Generals in
+the field, and the views urged by his Cabinet lay the foundation of many
+of the blunders and mistakes of the war, the trouble being, as one
+writer affirms, that "instead of one mind, there were many minds
+influencing the management of military affairs." As the result of this
+there was a lack of concert and action between the two heads of the
+military department, and at the critical period of the campaign,
+McDowell's forces were held at Washington when McClellan expected him to
+re-enforce the army of the Potomac.</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding all that has been said and written upon this subject, I
+have no hesitation in expressing the opinion, that had not the President
+and his advisors, stood in such ungrounded fear for the safety<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_464" id="Page_464">[Pg 464]</a></span> of
+Washington, and had not withheld McDowell's forces at a time when their
+absence was a most serious blow to the plans of General McClellan, the
+close of the year would have seen the Rebellion crushed, and the war
+ended.</p>
+
+<p>At the commencement of the campaign I had an interview with General
+McClellan, and he expressed the utmost confidence in his ability,
+provided his plans were fully supported and carried out, to gain the
+objective point of the war, and to accomplish the reduction of the rebel
+capital. My force of operatives had been diligently at work in procuring
+what information that was possible of attainment, of the numbers of the
+enemy, and with such success that in March I was able to report the
+approximate strength of the rebel army at 115,500 men, apportioned about
+as follows:</p>
+
+
+
+<div class='center'>
+<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align='left'>At Manassas, Centerville and vicinity,</td><td align='right'>80,000</td></tr>
+<tr><td align='left'>" Brooks' Station, Dumfries, &amp;c.,</td><td align='right'>18,000</td></tr>
+<tr><td align='left'>" Leesburg,</td><td align='right'>4,500</td></tr>
+<tr><td align='left'>In the Shenandoah Valley,</td><td align='right'>13,000</td></tr>
+<tr><td align='right'></td><td align='right'>&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</td></tr>
+<tr><td align='left'>Total,</td><td align='right'>115,500</td></tr>
+</table></div>
+
+
+<p>In gaining this important information, Timothy Webster, Pryce Lewis,
+John Scobell and a host of other efficient members of my force, some of
+whom have already been mentioned in these pages, deserve especial credit
+for their sleepless energy in prosecuting the work that had been
+assigned to them.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_465" id="Page_465">[Pg 465]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>On the 4th of April the forward movement was made, and the siege of
+Yorktown was begun. The result of this siege the student of history
+already knows, a simple detention of the Army of the Potomac, until the
+enemy could occupy and fortify Richmond. Here is where McClellan
+suffered from the detention of McDowell at Washington&mdash;he had prepared a
+plan with McDowell as one of its principal actors, and with that force
+withdrawn, the General's intentions were not only radically interfered
+with, but seriously deranged.</p>
+
+<p>During this time the rebel army was being daily reinforced and
+strengthened, until, by June 26th, its numbers were swelled to nearly
+200,000 effective men. McClellan, on the contrary, starting as he did,
+with a smaller army than he thought was necessary to cope with the
+enemy, found himself, when before their fortifications, after being
+deprived of McDowell's division, with an army of less than 90,000
+effective troops.</p>
+
+<p>Another element in this campaign must not be lost sight of. The Navy,
+whose co-operation and assistance had been promised and relied upon, was
+unable to aid him at all. Can it be wondered at, therefore, that his
+plans, however well laid, and whatever their merits, viewed from a
+military stand-point, or the stand-point of common sense, failed in
+their execution.</p>
+
+<p>One writer, in speaking of the treatment of General<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_466" id="Page_466">[Pg 466]</a></span> McClellan, has well
+said: "A general of high spirit and sensitive soul might have found in
+the government's action the occasion for sending in his resignation; but
+General McClellan continued in command, accepted the situation, and
+endeavored to make the best of it."</p>
+
+<p>And still another has said, although inclined to be partial and unfair,
+in his account of the battles of Antietam and Fredericksburg:</p>
+
+<p>"His capacity and energy as an organizer are universally recognized. He
+was an excellent strategist, and, in many respects, an excellent
+soldier. He did not use his own troops with sufficient promptness and
+vigor to achieve great and decisive results, but he was oftener
+successful than unsuccessful with them; and he so conducted affairs that
+they never suffered heavily without inflicting heavy loss upon their
+adversaries. It may appear a strange statement to follow the other
+matter which this volume contains, but it is none the less true, that
+there are strong grounds for believing that he was the best commander
+the Army of the Potomac ever had." Concluding a comparison, that
+redounds much to the credit of General McClellan, both as a soldier and
+a patriot, the same writer says:</p>
+
+<p>"A growing familiarity with his history as a soldier, increases the
+disposition to regard him with respect and gratitude, and to believe,
+while recognizing the limitations of his nature, that his failure to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_467" id="Page_467">[Pg 467]</a></span>
+accomplish more was partly his misfortune, and not altogether his
+fault."</p>
+
+<p>General McClellan knew much better than some of his self-appointed
+critics the numbers and strength of the enemy. He knew from the reports
+of the secret service that the general estimate of the rebel army at,
+and around Richmond, was far below their real numbers.</p>
+
+<p>My shrewd and daring operatives, men and women trained for the work,
+moved in and out among the Rebel troops at all times and places. From
+actual observation they gathered the location, character and strength of
+their fortifications, and from actual count the estimates were made of
+the numerical strength of the opposing army.</p>
+
+<p>Suffice it to say, that I knew of my own knowledge, and General
+McClellan knew from the reports I laid before him, the fearful odds
+against which he had to contend in the bravely fought but disastrous
+campaign of the Peninsula.<a name="FNanchor_C_3" id="FNanchor_C_3"></a><a href="#Footnote_C_3" class="fnanchor">[C]</a></p>
+
+<div class="footnotes"><h3>FOOTNOTES:</h3>
+
+<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_C_3" id="Footnote_C_3"></a><a href="#FNanchor_C_3"><span class="label">[C]</span></a> See detailed statement in Appendix.</p></div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn13.jpg" width="160" height="107" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_468" id="Page_468">[Pg 468]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn8.jpg" width="448" height="86" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster's Expedition.&mdash;His Gallantry.&mdash;A Stormy Passage.&mdash;A Mysterious
+Package.&mdash;Treason Discovered and Punished.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>It was Christmas morning, in Washington, and the bells were ringing
+merrily throughout the city. The sun was just peeping over the hills,
+and lighting up the winter landscape with a beauty and brilliancy that
+would defy the skill of an artist. Washington was alive with soldiers.
+Throughout the city the military was the predominating element, and for
+miles around the country was dotted with the white tents that marked the
+encampments of the country's defenders. Thousands of muskets gleamed in
+the morning light, as with the rattle of the drum or the shrill blast of
+the bugle, the <i>reveille</i> awoke the hills and valleys from the
+death-like silence and slumber of the night.</p>
+
+<p>The Union army was encamped around the capital, and General McClellan
+was in command. For months the process of drilling and disciplining the
+volunteer troops had been going on under his watchful eye and masterful
+hand, and the "Army of the Potomac" was rapidly approaching a degree of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_469" id="Page_469">[Pg 469]</a></span>
+efficiency that was eminently calculated to make them formidable
+adversaries to their reckless and determined enemies.</p>
+
+<p>This morning, at my headquarters on I street, Timothy Webster was
+engaged in completing his arrangements for another extended journey into
+Rebeldom. By this time he had succeeded in thoroughly ingratiating
+himself into the favor of the rebel authorities, and at the War
+Department in Richmond he was regarded as a trusted emissary of the
+Confederate government.</p>
+
+<p>Upon the trips which he had previously made he had carried numerous
+letters from Northern residents to their secessionist relatives in the
+South, and then, upon returning, he had delivered communications from
+Southern people to individuals north of the line. Of course these
+letters and communications, before being delivered to the parties to
+whom they were addressed, were first submitted to the inspection of
+trusted employees of my office, and anything which tended to convey
+information of the movements and intentions of the Southern leaders was
+carefully noted, and the Federal authorities duly notified. By this
+means a double purpose was served. Webster not only won the entire
+confidence of the Southern authorities, but he was very frequently the
+bearer of important dispatches, whose contents were often valuable to
+the Northern leaders.</p>
+
+<p>After finishing his preparations, Webster came into<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_470" id="Page_470">[Pg 470]</a></span> my room, where Mr.
+Bangs and I were seated, and announcing his readiness to start, inquired
+if I had any further orders for him.</p>
+
+<p>"I am ready now, Major," said he, cheerily, "have you any further
+commands?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, Webster," said I, "I believe everything has been carefully
+arranged, and I have no commands to give except for you to take good
+care of yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll try to do that," he replied with a laugh, and then, tapping his
+breast lightly, where his letters were sewed into the lining of his
+waistcoat, "I will take care of my mail too."</p>
+
+<p>With a warm clasp of the hand, and a hearty good-bye, Webster went out
+into the bright sunlight and frosty air of a winter's morning, and was
+soon lost to view.</p>
+
+<p>Procuring a conveyance, Webster left Washington, passing the guards
+without difficulty, and made his way toward Leonardstown, in Maryland.
+This journey was accomplished without event or accident, and early on
+the following morning, he drove up before the hotel, and was warmly
+greeted by John Moore, the landlord of the hostelry at that place.</p>
+
+<p>This Moore was a strong secessionist at heart, although openly
+professing to be a Union man, and regarding Webster as a Southern
+emissary his greeting was always cordial, and his hospitality unstinted.
+The air was cold and frosty, and riding all night in a stagecoach, which
+was far from being weather-proof,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_471" id="Page_471">[Pg 471]</a></span> Webster was chilled through when the
+stage stopped before the comfortable inn of John Moore. Very soon,
+however, a jug of steaming punch, and the genial warmth from a fire of
+crackling logs in the large open fire-place, were instrumental in
+loosening the stiffened joints of my tired operative, and contributing
+materially to his comfort.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, John," said Webster at length, "what is the prospect for crossing
+the river to-night?"</p>
+
+<p>"We can't cross here at all any more, Webster," replied Moore, with an
+oath; "the damned Yankees are too sharp for us."</p>
+
+<p>"Is there no way of getting over about here at all?" asked Webster,
+somewhat troubled at the unexpected information.</p>
+
+<p>"There's a way for some people," replied Moore with a laugh, and a
+significant wink, "and I guess you are included in the number."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," said Webster, immeasurably relieved, "but how do we manage
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well," replied Moore, "you will have to go up to Cob Neck, and then I
+will see that you are taken care of."</p>
+
+<p>Cob Neck is a point of land extending out from the main shore, about
+fourteen miles distant from Leonardstown, and was very well adapted for
+the purpose in view. On each side of the point, or neck, there was a
+wide bay or inlet where a boat could put out, and the ground, which was
+soft and marshy, was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_472" id="Page_472">[Pg 472]</a></span> completely covered with a growth of pine thickets
+and underbrush, which prevented the placing of vigilant pickets at this
+point. Being perfectly acquainted with the locality named, Webster had
+no fears of being able to get safely across the Potomac into Virginia,
+and then continuing his way to the rebel capital.</p>
+
+<p>"By the way," said Moore, "I have a favor to ask of you, Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," replied Webster, "anything I can do will be cheerfully done for
+you, Moore."</p>
+
+<p>"I know that, Webster," said Moore, heartily, "and there is no one in
+the world I would rather oblige than you. The fact is, I have got two
+ladies here, who are wives of army officers, now stationed in Richmond,
+they have been living North for some time, and are anxious to get to
+their husbands; they have three children with them, and I want you to
+take charge of the party, and see them safely on their way."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll do that with pleasure," replied Webster, "and I'll take good care
+of them, too."</p>
+
+<p>That night, about nine o'clock, a close-covered carriage was driven away
+from the hotel, in the direction of Cob Neck. John Moore and Timothy
+Webster sat on the driver's seat, while within were the families of the
+rebel officers, who had been placed in my operative's charge. Reaching
+their destination in safety, the party alighted, and walking out to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_473" id="Page_473">[Pg 473]</a></span> the
+end of the point, Moore uttered a shrill whistle, which was immediately
+answered in the same manner. Soon they heard the splashing of oars, and
+in a few minutes a boat was discernable through the darkness, and the
+voice of a man called out:</p>
+
+<p>"Here I am, Cap'n! on time, as ye see."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, Tom," replied Moore, "I've got a party here that you must
+take good care of."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, Cap'n, I'll do the best I can, but I'm afraid the wind ain't
+right for landin' on t'other side."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said Moore, "you must do your best, and I guess you will get
+over all right."</p>
+
+<p>The night was dark and cold, the wind was blowing sharp and chill, and
+heavy clouds were shifting overhead. The river was running swiftly, and
+was of that inky blackness that invariably presages a storm. The wind
+through the low pines was sighing like a human being in distress, and
+the ladies gazed fearfully and shudderingly at the dark waters and the
+frail craft which was to carry them to the opposite shore. Webster
+uttered words of courage and assurance to the shrinking ladies, and
+assisted in comfortably bestowing them in the boat, and then, with a
+parting salutation to John Moore, the boat pushed off from the shore.</p>
+
+<p>After getting clear of the land they hoisted sail, and were soon flying
+rapidly over the water, before the driving wind. As the wind was against
+them, they were obliged to make short and frequent tacks,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_474" id="Page_474">[Pg 474]</a></span> and thus
+their approach to the opposite shore was accomplished by slow and
+labored degrees. The ladies were huddled together in the stern, clasping
+their frightened children nervously in their arms, while Webster, active
+and alert, rendered such assistance in managing the boat as was in his
+power.</p>
+
+<p>"The storm's coming!" shouted the boatman, after a long silence, "and
+the women had better cover up."</p>
+
+<p>The storm came, sure enough. A blinding rain, icy cold, which beat
+pitilessly down upon the unprotected voyagers, while the little vessel
+rocked to and fro at the mercy of the dashing waves. The wind suddenly
+changed, the frail yacht gave a sudden lurch, and in a twinkling the
+keel of the boat was heard scraping upon the bottom of the river, and
+they were aground. They had been blown out of their course, and had
+drifted into the shallow water, a mile below their landing place, and
+within a hundred feet of the shore.</p>
+
+<p>Without a moment's hesitation, Webster bade the boatman lower his sail,
+and then, jumping into the water, which was waist deep, and as cold as
+ice, he took two of the children in his strong arms, and carried them
+safely to the river-bank. Returning again, he assisted in carrying the
+ladies and the remaining child ashore, although he was so chilled that
+his lips were blue and his knees knocked together with the cold. The
+nearest place of shelter was a mile away, but unmindful of the cold and
+the pelting storm, Webster cheered his companions by his hearty words,
+and bidding the boatman take care of one of the children, he picked up
+another, and the weary party set out to walk through the icy rain to the
+little hut, whose welcome light was gleaming in the distance.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 712px;">
+<img src="images/illus020.jpg" width="712" height="375" alt="&quot;Webster took two of the children in his strong arms,
+and carried them safely to the bank.&quot; P. 474" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;Webster took two of the children in his strong arms,
+and carried them safely to the bank.&quot; P. 474</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_475" id="Page_475">[Pg 475]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Thanks to a flask of good brandy, which Webster fortunately had with
+him, the ladies were strengthened and sustained sufficiently to make the
+journey; and when they arrived at last at the comfortable cabin, their
+words of gratitude to Webster were heartily and unstintingly uttered.</p>
+
+<p>After warming themselves before the fire, and drying their drenched and
+dripping garments as far as practicable, the ladies retired to another
+room, leaving Webster, who, overcome with fatigue, was obliged to sleep
+in his wet clothing in the room to which they were first admitted.
+Unmindful of himself, however, his only solicitude was for the ladies
+who had been placed in his charge, and after they had been comfortably
+disposed of, he prepared to take his own much-needed rest.</p>
+
+<p>He spread a blanket before the roaring blaze, and was about to stretch
+his weary limbs upon it, when he noticed, lying upon the floor, a short
+distance from him, a small packet, wrapped in oiled-cloth, and tied with
+red tape. It had evidently been dropped by one of the ladies, and its
+loss had escaped her notice. Picking it up, he examined it carefully by<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_476" id="Page_476">[Pg 476]</a></span>
+the light of the fire, and to his surprise he found that it was directed
+to Mr. Benjamin, the Rebel Secretary of War. As "all things are fair in
+love and war," Timothy lost no time in secreting the precious document
+about his own person. He had no objection at all to assisting two ladies
+to reach their husbands, even if they were enemies; but he objected
+decidedly to lend his aid to the forwarding of dangerous information to
+those who were fighting against the cause he held so dear. His
+conscience, therefore, gave him but little uneasiness as he pocketed the
+mysterious little packet, and with the resolve to discover its contents
+on the morrow, he stretched himself before the burning logs, and was
+soon sound asleep.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, when he arose, his clothing was dry, but he
+experienced acute pains in his limbs, and a sense of weariness, that
+boded no good to his physical condition. Ignoring his own ailments,
+however, he busied himself in securing the comfort of his charges, and
+after a hearty breakfast, the party set out upon their trip to Richmond.
+They traveled for several miles in an ox-cart, and then by team, to a
+place called Hop Yard Wharf, on the Rappahannock River. Here the party
+embarked on a steamboat, and traveled as far as Fredericksburg, where
+Webster was obliged to remain for two days, owing to an acute attack of
+rheumatism, which was caused by his exposure in behalf of the ladies,
+whose safety he had undertaken to insure. At this time he received a
+striking illustration of the gratitude which one earns by the
+performance of a kindly act of self-sacrifice. No sooner had the boat
+landed at Fredericksburg, than these ladies expressed their impatient
+desire to push on directly to the rebel capital. Notwithstanding
+Webster's precarious condition, the danger in leaving him alone, and the
+fact that his sufferings had been occasioned by his efforts in their
+behalf, these high-toned Southern dames, intent only upon their selfish
+pleasures, left him to his own resources, and without displaying the
+slightest interest in his welfare they went their way, and Webster,
+unable to move himself, was obliged to depend upon the services of
+absolute strangers, for that care and attention of which he stood in so
+much need.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 718px;">
+<img src="images/illus021.jpg" width="718" height="375" alt="Webster discovers a mysterious package. P. 475." title="" />
+<span class="caption">Webster discovers a mysterious package. P. 475.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_477" id="Page_477">[Pg 477]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>It was while he was detained at Fredericksburg, that he seized the
+opportunity of examining the package, which had come into his possession
+in the little cabin at Monroe's Creek. Removing the enfolding wrappers,
+he discovered that the contents of the bundle were complete maps of the
+country surrounding Washington, with a correct statement of the number
+and location of the Federal troops. Several items of information were
+also conveyed, in regard to the probable intentions of the Union
+Commanders in the coming spring. From the nature of this information, it
+was evident that a trusted officer of the Federal government was
+unfaithful to his duty, and was assisting the enemies of the country.
+Webster<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_478" id="Page_478">[Pg 478]</a></span> congratulated himself upon the lucky chance which had thrown
+this little packet in his way, and he resolved to forward the same to me
+at the first opportunity that occurred.</p>
+
+<p>On the second day, though suffering severely, he was able to resume his
+journey, and taking the train at Fredericksburg he was soon approaching
+the City of Richmond. Immediately upon his arrival, he repaired to the
+office of the Secretary of War, and delivered the letters which he had
+brought with him from the North, and which were to be forwarded to their
+various addresses by the Confederate authorities. Mr. Benjamin warmly
+congratulated Webster upon his success in passing through the Union
+lines, and for the information which he brought. He furnished him with
+passports, which would enable him to journey unrestricted and
+unquestioned throughout the Southern dominions, and requested a further
+interview at a later day.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving the War Department, he went to the Monumental Hotel, where he
+engaged a room for himself, and where he found Mrs. Lawton, who had
+remained in the city during his absence. Mrs. Lawton informed Webster
+that she had just received a visit from Mr. Stanton, another of my
+operatives, who had arrived in Richmond from Nashville, Tenn., and that
+he was going to attempt to leave for Washington that night.</p>
+
+<p>This was a lucky chance, and Webster resolved<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_479" id="Page_479">[Pg 479]</a></span> to see Stanton, and
+entrust to him the conveyance of the packet that had so fortunately come
+into his hands. Knowing the places at which he would be most apt to be
+found, he made a tour of the city, and was at length fortunate enough to
+discover the man he was in search of. Selecting a secluded place,
+Webster confided his package to Stanton, instructing him to deliver it
+to no one but myself under any circumstances, and then, feeling the need
+of rest, he went back to the hotel, and shortly afterward retired to
+bed. The next day he was unable to move. His sufferings were
+excruciating, and for weeks he was compelled to endure the agonies of an
+acute attack of inflammatory rheumatism, which confined him a prisoner
+to his bed.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving Webster at the Monumental Hotel, we will return to the movements
+of my operative, who had been delegated to deliver the package which
+Webster had found. Mr. Stanton arrived safely in Washington, and after
+rendering a report of his own observations upon his journey from
+Nashville to Washington, he produced this packet of Webster's, a careful
+examination of its contents revealed to me the author of the treasonable
+communications.</p>
+
+<p>His name was James Howard, a native of the South, and he was a clerk in
+the Provost-Marshal's office. I had frequently seen his handwriting, and
+knew it perfectly. There could be no possibility of mistake about this,
+and I lost no time in laying before<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_480" id="Page_480">[Pg 480]</a></span> the commanding officer, the proof
+of the suspected man's guilt. Howard was confronted with the evidence
+against him, and finding it impossible to deny the truth, he confessed
+his treason, and implicated several others in the conspiracy. Before the
+shades of night had fallen over the tented city, James Howard, and his
+treasonable confederates, were placed within the enfolding walls of the
+old capital prison, and behind iron bars were left to meditate upon the
+heavy price they had paid for an attempt to betray their country.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p480.jpg" width="336" height="357" alt="&quot;HAIL COLUMBIA!&quot;" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;HAIL COLUMBIA!&quot;</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_481" id="Page_481">[Pg 481]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn7.jpg" width="448" height="148" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Activity in Washington.&mdash;Webster's Journey Through The South.&mdash;His
+Return to the Capital.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>During the month of January, 1862, I was actively engaged in the city of
+Washington. With a part of my force, I was acting in conjunction with
+General Andrew Porter, the Provost-Marshal of the district, while the
+remaining portion was assisting General McClellan in obtaining reliable
+information about the topography of the Southern country, and of the
+number and disposition of the Southern troops.</p>
+
+<p>Almost every day witnessed some incident of importance to the national
+cause, and my time was fully occupied with the numerous and responsible
+duties which necessarily devolved upon me. Mr. George H. Bangs, who is
+now the general superintendent of my agencies, was detailed to the
+headquarters of the army, while I remained in charge of my office on "I"
+street, although I was kept fully informed by daily reports of whatever
+transpired at both places. As may readily be imagined, my office was no
+sinecure. Many times I was obliged to deprive myself of needed rest and
+sleep, engaged in laborious duties<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_482" id="Page_482">[Pg 482]</a></span> from early morn far into the waking
+hours of the succeeding day, and for weeks scarcely obtaining a peaceful
+night's slumber. The capital was filled with suspicious personages, with
+Southern spies, and their Northern allies, and frequently officers of
+the government, holding elevated positions, would be discovered in
+secret, but active correspondence with the rebel authorities. Arrests
+were numerous, and the searching of suspected premises of almost daily
+occurrence, while the large number of men employed by me required
+constant and unceasing personal surveillance.</p>
+
+<p>In the army it was astonishing what rapid progress had been made in
+drilling and disciplining the large, and, for the most part, untried
+force of soldiery. The commanding general was engaged in perfecting his
+plans for a campaign against Richmond, and in order to do this
+intelligently, much information was required of the condition of the
+country through which the army must pass, and of the number of the enemy
+he would be likely to encounter. The obstacles that must be overcome,
+the defenses which would impede his passage, and all the minutia of
+warlike particularities, were mainly left to be discovered by the men in
+the secret service department, of which I was the authorized leader, and
+responsible head. Engaged in these duties the month of January passed
+away. Numerous operatives had been dispatched into the hostile country
+before us, and had made their examinations, and returned, conveying<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_483" id="Page_483">[Pg 483]</a></span> to
+me and to the commanding general items of valuable information which
+could have been obtained in no other way.</p>
+
+<p>We will now follow the movements of Timothy Webster, whom we left in
+Richmond struggling with his old and relentless enemy, the rheumatism.</p>
+
+<p>After a painful confinement to his bed for nearly a week, he was at last
+able to move about once more, and in a few days thereafter was strong
+enough to undertake a journey which he had been contemplating for some
+time.</p>
+
+<p>In company with one of the largest contractors for the rebel government,
+he left Richmond for Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Campbell, the contractor,
+was engaged in the purchase of leather and desirous of purchasing
+directly from the tanner, instead of depending upon the dealers, who
+might not be able to supply him in such quantities as he required.
+Traveling with this gentleman, and armed as he was, with an all powerful
+passport from the Secretary of War, Webster would have every opportunity
+for making his observations without incurring the slightest suspicion.
+During this journey he traveled through Knoxville, Chattanooga and
+Nashville, in Tennessee, then to Bowling Green, in Kentucky, and then,
+on his return, he passed through Manassas and Centreville, carefully
+noting in his passage through the country the number and condition of
+the various troops, the number and extent of batteries and
+fortifications,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_484" id="Page_484">[Pg 484]</a></span> and eliciting an amount of information that seemed
+wonderful for one man to accomplish. He made the acquaintance of
+commanding officers, and conversed unreservedly with them upon the
+various matters connected with their divisions, and their movements,
+present and perspective. He carefully examined the fortifications that
+had been erected, and the number of guns they contained. He talked with
+the private soldier and the civilian, and in fact, on his return to
+Richmond, was as well informed with regard to the military resources of
+the enemy as were the generals themselves. Rejoiced at his success, and
+carefully noting what he had witnessed, Webster prepared to return
+North.</p>
+
+<p>Visiting the War Department and the office of the Provost-Marshal, he
+received from Mr. Benjamin and General Winder a large number of letters
+and several important commissions, which were to be delivered and
+attended to after he should arrive in Washington and Baltimore.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving Richmond, he safely passed the pickets and outposts of both
+Federals and rebels, and reported to me. His trip had been a most
+important and successful one, and the information he brought was most
+invaluable. Webster seemed as well pleased at his success as were either
+General McClellan or myself, and after a short rest announced himself as
+quite prepared to make another journey to the South, whenever his
+services should be required.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_485" id="Page_485">[Pg 485]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn14.jpg" width="448" height="86" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster's Last Mission.&mdash;Anxiety at his Long Absence.&mdash;No Tidings of
+the Faithful Scout.&mdash;Operatives Sent in Search of him.&mdash;Webster Ill in
+Richmond.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>In the latter part of January, 1862, another packet of rebel mail matter
+had accumulated, and the various articles, which Webster had agreed to
+purchase for the residents of Richmond and vicinity, were ready for
+delivery, and Webster prepared himself for another journey into the
+South. While in Washington he had not experienced any painful reminders
+of his old disease, and he was impatient to be actively employed once
+more.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, everything was arranged for his trip, and early one bright
+winter's morning he came, as was his custom, to bid me farewell.</p>
+
+<p>I often recall, and with an emotion that I cannot control, the
+appearance of Timothy Webster, as I saw him that day. Brave, strong and
+manly, he stood before me. The merry twinkle in his eyes seemed to belie
+the sternness of the set lips, which were even now curved with a smile
+of good humor. No trace of fear or hesitancy was apparent in his manner.
+He seemed to be animated solely by an earnest desire<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_486" id="Page_486">[Pg 486]</a></span> to serve his
+country to the best of his ability. He well knew, as did I, that his
+journey lay through a hostile country; that danger was lurking
+everywhere around him, and that if his true character was discovered,
+the consequences would, no doubt, prove fatal to him. Notwithstanding
+this, there was no quivering of the compact muscles, the hand that
+grasped mine was as firm as iron, and the brave heart that throbbed in
+his bosom was insensible alike to a thought of shrinking, or a desire to
+evade, the responsibility that devolved upon him.</p>
+
+<p>After a few words of necessary caution and with good wishes for his
+welfare and safe return, Timothy Webster took his departure, and went
+his way. I did not know then that I had looked upon his face and manly
+form for the last time, and no hint or warning of his subsequent fate
+came to me as I sat watching his retreating figure. But to this day, I
+can picture him with sentiments of pride, in his valor and services, and
+regrets, deep and heartfelt, for the brave man who but a few months
+afterwards laid down his life for his country.</p>
+
+<p>For some time previous to this journey of Webster's, Mrs. Lawton had
+been located at Leonardstown, where she had assiduously cultivated the
+acquaintance of the most important people in that locality, whose
+sympathies were with the Southern cause, and whose assistance to Webster
+and herself would be valuable in time of need.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_487" id="Page_487">[Pg 487]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Among this number was a man whose name was Washington Gough, a wealthy
+secessionist, who was one of the most active in his efforts to assist
+the Southern blockade-runners in crossing over into Virginia, and in
+eluding the watchfulness of the Federal pickets. Through her
+acquaintance with this man, Mrs. Lawton was enabled to acquire much
+valuable information from those who sought the aid of Mr. Gough in
+obtaining the facilities for reaching the rebel lines in safety.</p>
+
+<p>With Gough, Webster was a prime favorite, and so thoroughly had my
+operative ingratiated himself into the favorable opinion of this rebel
+gentleman, that any service which would be required would be performed
+without question or delay. Mrs. Lawton was invited to make the house of
+Gough her home, while in Leonardstown, and by her charms of manner and
+conversation proved a powerful ally to Webster in the discovery of
+important secrets relating to the movements and intentions of the enemy.</p>
+
+<p>Webster's footing with the rebel authorities was also firmly
+established, and every one of them with whom he came in contact yielded
+to the magic of his blandishments and was disposed to serve him whenever
+possible.</p>
+
+<p>An event which happened about this time fully justified this assertion.
+It appeared that during Webster's absence from Leonardstown, a gentleman
+by the name of Camilear had crossed over the river,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_488" id="Page_488">[Pg 488]</a></span> and although a
+noted secessionist in his own immediate vicinity, was not known to any
+one upon the other side of the water. He was accordingly arrested and
+placed in confinement. The appeals of his friends and relatives were
+unavailing in securing his release, and the captive chafed terribly
+under the burden of his captivity. At length, on Webster's appearance,
+the matter was presented to him, and he was entreated by Camilear's
+relatives to intercede in his behalf. He promised to do so, and indited
+a letter to the officer who had the prisoner in charge, requesting his
+release, and giving assurances of the man's fealty to the Confederate
+government. In a few days the prisoner was returned to his home, and was
+informed by the officer, that only the protestations made by Webster had
+been sufficient to accomplish his release. From the highest to the
+lowest, the confidence in Webster was universal.</p>
+
+<p>On this last mentioned trip Webster decided to take Mrs. Lawton with
+him, and having obtained my sanction to his proposition, he journeyed to
+Leonardstown and communicated his wishes to the lady, who was nothing
+loath to accompany him. They accordingly made their preparations, and in
+the darkness of the night they made their way to the river-bank where an
+oyster boat was in waiting to cross the river. Mrs. Lawton wore an
+overcoat and felt hat belonging to Webster, and to a casual observer
+appeared very masculine in her habiliments. The river<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_489" id="Page_489">[Pg 489]</a></span> was entirely
+clear of vessels, and the journey was made in perfect safety. As they
+neared the opposite bank the moon shone out brightly, and revealed the
+"pungy" to the rebel pickets, who were known by Webster, and from whom
+he expected no interference or opposition.</p>
+
+<p>The lights on shore revealed the stations of these pickets, and as they
+were expecting his return Webster called out loudly: "Pickets!
+Pickets!!"</p>
+
+<p>There was no response to this call, and to his dismay the lights were
+suddenly extinguished. The boatman was greatly frightened at this
+proceeding, and was in momentary dread of being fired upon; but Webster
+reassured him, and continued his loud, but ineffectual calls for the
+guard.</p>
+
+<p>Finding it impossible to attract the attention of those who should have
+been upon the lookout for him, Webster assisted the boatman in landing
+their trunks, after which the "pungy" was pushed off from the shore, and
+soon afterwards disappeared in the darkness.</p>
+
+<p>Webster and his companion wandered about for more than an hour, and it
+was nearly midnight when they came to a farm house, where their approach
+was heralded by the loud barking of numerous dogs, who were aroused by
+the unwonted presence of human beings, and were disposed to resent their
+approach.</p>
+
+<p>The noise of the dogs brought the farmer to his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_490" id="Page_490">[Pg 490]</a></span> door, who demanded, in
+no very gentle terms, to know who they were, and what had brought them
+there at that unseasonable hour. In a few words Webster explained the
+situation, and the genial farmer bade them welcome, and safely bestowed
+them for the night.</p>
+
+<p>They had scarcely retired, when they were aroused by a loud knocking at
+the door, which was discovered to have been made by the pickets from the
+adjoining camp, who demanded to know who the new-comers were, and stated
+that they had been ordered to bring them immediately before an officer
+of the guard, two miles away.</p>
+
+<p>"Why didn't you tell them that, when they called out to you before?"
+inquired the farmer, in a contemptuous tone.</p>
+
+<p>"Well we did not know who they were," answered the leader of the party,
+"and we did not think it was safe."</p>
+
+<p>"Oho! you were afraid of them, were you, and ran away?"</p>
+
+<p>At this point, Webster, who had heard the conversation, made his
+appearance at the door, and demanded to know what was wanted.</p>
+
+<p>The leader of the guard again explained his mission, and demanded that
+Webster should accompany him to the camp.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell your commander that I will not stir from this house until morning.
+My name is Timothy<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_491" id="Page_491">[Pg 491]</a></span> Webster. I am in the employ of the Confederacy, and
+if you had answered my call, there would have been no difficulty."</p>
+
+<p>Finding that Webster was determined, the men went away, and left the
+household to their repose. The next morning Webster reported at the
+camp, and requested to see Major Beale, the officer in command. He was
+informed, that this gentleman was stationed twenty miles away, and upon
+telegraphing to him, the answer was returned: "Let Webster go where he
+pleases."</p>
+
+<p>The day was cold and stormy, and the roads were in a wretched condition,
+but notwithstanding this Webster pushed on to Fredericksburg, and after
+delivering some letters and merchandise which he had brought for
+residents there, he pushed on to Richmond.</p>
+
+<p>Taking up their quarters at the hotel, they resolved to wait until the
+following day before commencing their operations. During the night,
+however, Webster's malady returned, and he suffered terribly from his
+old enemy, the rheumatism. In the morning he was helpless, and unable to
+move.</p>
+
+<p>From this time, I heard nothing further from him directly, and for weeks
+was utterly ignorant of his movements or condition. I began to grow
+alarmed. Hitherto, his visits had not occupied more than three or four
+weeks, and he had always succeeded in escaping suspicion, and evading
+being detained by either<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_492" id="Page_492">[Pg 492]</a></span> force through which he would necessarily be
+obliged to pass. As the days and weeks passed, and brought no tidings
+from him, my apprehensions became so strong that I resolved to send one
+or two of my men to the rebel capital, in order to ascertain the cause
+of his unusual and long-continued absence.</p>
+
+<p>My anxiety was equally shared by General McClellan, with whom Webster
+was a great favorite, and who placed the utmost reliance upon his
+reports. One evening, early in February, the General called upon me, and
+advised the sending of one messenger, or two, for the sole purpose of
+hunting up Webster, or discovering some trace of him. I informed him
+that I had already considered the necessity of some such action, and was
+upon the point of submitting the matter for his approval. Finding the
+General thus fully in accord with the proposition, I at once selected
+two of my men for this important mission. After mature consideration, I
+decided upon despatching Price Lewis and John Scully upon this delicate
+quest. My reasons for this selection, were that both Scully and Lewis
+had been connected with other operations in Baltimore, in company with
+Webster, and had thus been enabled to form the acquaintance of a great
+number of secessionists in that city, some of whom had gone South, while
+others, who remained at home, had influential friends in Richmond.
+During these operations, both Lewis and Scully had pretended the most
+earnest and sincere<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_493" id="Page_493">[Pg 493]</a></span> sympathy for the cause of the Confederacy, and were
+known as ardent secessionists. This, I concluded, would materially
+assist them after reaching Richmond, particularly if they should be
+fortunate enough to meet any of their old Baltimore associates. They had
+also been engaged upon various investigations through the Southern
+States, and especially in Western Virginia, where they had rendered good
+service in the early campaigns in that section of the country. I had,
+therefore, no doubt of their ability to perform the task assigned to
+them, and felt perfectly satisfied that they would perform their duties
+to the best of that ability.</p>
+
+<p>Requesting their presence in my private office, I broached the matter to
+them, and submitted the question of their undertaking this task to their
+own election. Upon operations of this kind, where there was danger to be
+incurred, where a man literally took his life into his own hands, and
+where death might be the result of detection, I invariably placed the
+question upon its merits, before the person selected for the mission,
+and then allowed him to decide for himself, whether he would voluntarily
+undertake its accomplishment.</p>
+
+<p>I did this for various reasons. In the first place, I felt very loath to
+peremptorily order a man upon an enterprize where there was every
+possibility of danger, for in the event of fatal result, I should be
+disposed to reproach myself for thus endangering the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_494" id="Page_494">[Pg 494]</a></span> lives of those
+under my command. It is true, that under their terms of service, and by
+virtue of the authority vested in me, I had the undoubted right to issue
+such order; but I always preferred that my men should voluntarily, and
+without urging, signify their willingness to undertake hazardous
+missions. Again, I have invariably found, that the ready and cheerful
+officer performs the most acceptable service, and that the absence of
+fear or hesitation are sure passports to success; while on the other
+hand, should there be timidity or unwillingness, or a disposition to
+avoid danger, success is rarely, if ever, attained.</p>
+
+<p>It is but just, however, to state that during my entire connection with
+the secret service of the government, I never found any of my men
+disinclined to undertake an operation that was delegated to them; but on
+the contrary, I always experienced the utmost cheerfulness and ready
+support from those who so valiantly served under my orders. Nor was I
+disappointed in the present instance. On presenting the case, with all
+its attendant dangers, to Price Lewis and John Scully, both of them
+signified, without the slightest hesitation, their voluntary desire to
+go to Richmond, and to make the inquiries, which were considered of so
+much importance by both General McClellan and myself.</p>
+
+<p>But few instructions, and very little preparation, were required for
+this journey, and in the afternoon both men were prepared to start. I
+did not deem it advisable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_495" id="Page_495">[Pg 495]</a></span> to provide them with any goods, as was
+sometimes the case, in order to furnish an excuse for their
+blockade-running experiences, for the reason that their journey would be
+much delayed, owing to the impassability of many of the roads. I did,
+however, cause a letter to be written, apparently by a rebel spy, then
+in Washington, and which was directed to Webster. This letter introduced
+the two men to Webster as friends of the South, and informed him that
+his old route back was no longer a safe one, owing to the presence of
+Federal troops in that locality, and advising him to select some other
+and less hazardous one on his return to Washington. I did this to guard
+against their being suspected and detained after reaching the rebel
+lines, as, upon presenting this, they would at once be known as Southern
+emissaries, and given safe conduct to the capital. Provided with this
+letter, and with full verbal instructions as to their manner of
+proceeding, they started from Washington late on the evening of the 14th
+of February. As an additional safeguard, I sent along with them an
+operative by the name of William H. Scott, who was well acquainted with
+the various Federal commanders, and who was to see them safely across
+the Potomac river.</p>
+
+<p>The three men departed in good spirits, and, though fully conscious of
+the danger before them, thoroughly resolved to successfully accomplish
+what they had undertaken.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_496" id="Page_496">[Pg 496]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Prior to despatching these men, I had some misgivings that there might
+be still remaining in Richmond some of those families who, while
+residing in Washington, had been suspected of sympathizing with, or
+furthering the cause of the Confederacy, and whose papers had been
+seized, and themselves transported beyond the lines. Among the most
+noted of these were the families of Mrs. Phillips, of South Carolina,
+and of Mrs. Ex-Gov. Morton, of Florida, who had been residing in
+Richmond for a short time. To satisfy myself upon this point, I made
+extensive inquiries from deserters, refugees and contrabands, and
+learned, from a variety of sources, that Mrs. Phillips had gone to
+Charleston, and that Mrs. Morton and her family had departed for their
+home in Florida. Believing my information to be reliable, I felt
+reassured, and then the men were selected.</p>
+
+<p>While these men were making their way to Richmond, Webster was suffering
+excruciating pain, confined to his bed, and unable to move. During all
+this time, he was carefully attended and nursed by my resident
+operative, Mrs. Hattie Lawton, and through the long, weary days and
+sleepless nights, no patient ever had more careful nursing, or more
+tender consideration than did Timothy Webster, from the brave
+true-hearted woman who had dedicated her life and her services to the
+cause of her country and its noble defenders.</p>
+
+<p>This was the state of affairs on the last day of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_497" id="Page_497">[Pg 497]</a></span> January, and when the
+information which Webster had gained would have been of vast importance
+and benefit to the cause of the Union, but which, lying an agonized
+invalid in a Richmond hotel, he was unable to communicate to those who
+were anxiously awaiting his return. And now, leaving Webster at
+Richmond, and with Price Lewis and John Scully on their way to the rebel
+capital, we will return to Washington, and watch the events which were
+transpiring at the capital.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 336px;">
+<img src="images/pic_p497.jpg" width="336" height="362" alt="EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS." title="" />
+<span class="caption">EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS.</span>
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_498" id="Page_498">[Pg 498]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXV.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>McClellan and the Government.&mdash;Lewis and Scully Arrested as Spies.&mdash;An
+Attempted Escape.&mdash;Trial and Conviction.&mdash;Condemned to Die.&mdash;Before the
+Gallows their Mouths are Opened.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>The month of February added its slowly passing days to those that had
+preceded it, and as yet no tidings were received from Timothy Webster,
+or from those who had gone in search of him. W. H. Scott had returned,
+and reported that they had safely passed over the Potomac River, and
+landed upon rebel soil, but further than this, I had no information that
+tended to allay my anxieties, or to give assurance of their safety.</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime, the troops around Washington had not been idle.
+Reconnoissances had been made from time to time, by the advance-guard of
+the army, and skirmishes with the enemy were of frequent occurrence.
+These movements were of great importance, not so much from the actual
+results of victories attained, as for the education which it imparted to
+the troops, in accustoming them to the presence of their foes, and
+giving them confidence while under fire.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_499" id="Page_499">[Pg 499]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>General McClellan had completed his plans for the investment of the
+rebel capital, and the public mind was in a state of feverish anxiety
+and expectation for the forward movement of the troops. The popular cry
+of "On to Richmond," was echoed from lip to lip throughout the entire
+country. Every one, except those who knew and realized the danger and
+difficulties to be encountered and overcome, were filled with an
+enthusiasm which only regarded results and never considered the cost of
+their accomplishment. Extravagant ideas of a struggle which should be
+"short, sharp and decisive," were the only ones entertained by the great
+army of "stay at homes," and the question of caution, foresight and
+sagacity was left to the consideration of those who must brave the
+dangers of the field, and face the deadly fire of their determined
+enemies.</p>
+
+<p>Added to this a feeling of dissatisfaction began to display itself in
+high circles at Washington. The delay, which General McClellan wisely
+deemed necessary for the perfect equipment and education of his army,
+was being used as a pretext by those who envied the young commander, to
+detract from his reputation, and to impair the confidence which a united
+people had reposed in his loyalty and ability. The President was
+besieged by importunate cavillers the burden of whose refrain was the
+defamation of the hero of West Virginia, and it is not surprising,
+however much to be regretted, that Mr. Lincoln<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_500" id="Page_500">[Pg 500]</a></span> gradually permitted
+their clamors to disturb him, and eventually partook of some of the
+distrust with which they endeavored to impress him. From a legitimate
+and wise desire to prevent an untimely divulgence of his plans, General
+McClellan had, up to this time, kept his ideas and opinions to himself
+and confined his military discussions to but a few of his immediate
+officers, and those whom he had known and trusted for years. This manner
+of proceeding was not to the taste of some of the leading men in high
+places at that time, who deemed themselves as competent to confer with
+and advise the commanding general, as those whom he had chosen. In order
+to soothe their wounded self-pride they had recourse to a species of
+revenge not admirable, to say the least. They plied the ears of the
+President with comments derogatory to McClellan, and with innumerable
+suggestions of pet schemes of their own conception, which would, in
+their opinion, undoubtedly end the war with surprising alacrity. The
+result of these onslaughts was, that McClellan was required by Mr.
+Lincoln to unfold his own carefully arranged plans to a council of
+generals, for their consideration and approval. To this "wicked and
+ignorant clamor" he was obliged to yield, and it is not to be wondered
+at, that his proposed movements were betrayed, and that not long
+afterwards he was subjected to the mortification of having his army
+divided into corps, against his wishes, and their commanders appointed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_501" id="Page_501">[Pg 501]</a></span>
+without consulting him, and without his knowledge. Subsequently he was
+compelled to submit to having the conduct of the war in Virginia placed
+in charge of inexperienced, irresponsible and jealous-minded officers,
+whose antipathy to him was as well known as it was unceasing and
+violent.</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding all this, the general pursued his way. His army was
+organized, his plans prepared. The defense of Washington was provided
+for, as he thought, in the most complete manner possible, and in command
+of a noble army, which had grown up under his immediate guidance and
+control, the brave commander started upon his campaign.</p>
+
+<p>During the month of March, 1862, the forward movement was commenced. By
+divisions the army was transported from Alexandria to their point of
+destination upon the Peninsula, and on the first day of April, General
+McClellan embarked, with his headquarters, on the steamer "Commodore,"
+reaching Fort Monroe on the afternoon of the following day.</p>
+
+<p>At this point we will leave the army, to follow the movements of my
+operatives, and detail their experiences in the rebel capital, although
+the facts were not reported to me until a long time after their actual
+occurrence.</p>
+
+<p>Price Lewis and John Scully reached the city of Richmond without
+accident or delay, and at once established themselves in the Exchange
+Hotel, where they remained quietly for the night. The next<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_502" id="Page_502">[Pg 502]</a></span> morning they
+started out to search for Timothy Webster, and for the purpose of
+obtaining reliable information of him they went to the office of the
+<i>Richmond Enquirer</i>, for the proprietors of which Webster had frequently
+carried letters, and purchased goods while in the North. Here they were
+informed that Webster was confined to his bed at the Monumental Hotel.
+Repairing at once to the place where they were directed, they were shown
+to Webster's room, and here they found the brave fellow, lying a weak
+and helpless invalid, attended by Mrs. Lawton, whose attentions to him
+were unremitting. There was also in the room, a Mr. Pierce, a warm
+Southern friend, whose friendship for Webster was of long standing, and
+whose visits to the sick man were of daily occurrence.</p>
+
+<p>The recognition between them was a most formal and undemonstrative one,
+and no one would have suspected that they were engaged in the same
+vocation, and acting under the same authority. During the short
+interview that ensued, Webster was fretful and ill at ease. Knowing the
+sentiments of the people as he did, and associated as intimately as he
+was with the most prominent of the Confederate authorities, he was
+fearful that the precipitate and unheralded appearance of his companions
+might lead to their being suspected, as well as to attaching suspicion
+to himself.</p>
+
+<p>The few words of conversation, therefore, that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_503" id="Page_503">[Pg 503]</a></span> ensued, were marked by a
+constraint which was uncomfortable to all parties, and the visit was of
+short duration. When they called again upon Webster, they found with him
+a rebel officer from the Provost-Marshal's office, who was a friend of
+Webster, and who visited him frequently.</p>
+
+<p>Webster introduced his two friends to Captain McCubbin, for that was the
+man's name, and after a few minutes, that officer inquired:</p>
+
+<p>"Have you gentlemen reported at General Winder's office?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir," replied Lewis, "we did not think it was necessary, having
+fully reported to Major Beale, and received his permission to travel."</p>
+
+<p>"It <i>is</i> necessary for you to report to the Provost-Marshal here, and I
+now give you <i>official</i> notice of the fact," said McCubbin, laughingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," returned Lewis, "we will do so as early as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"Any time within a day or two will answer," said the officer.</p>
+
+<p>Webster watched the rebel captain carefully while he was speaking, and
+he thought he detected beneath his careless, laughing demeanor, an
+element of suspicion, which he did not like, and more than ever he
+deplored the fact that my men had visited him so soon, or had appeared
+to be acquaintances of his. However, the mistake had been made, if
+mistake it was, and he resolved to give the matter as<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_504" id="Page_504">[Pg 504]</a></span> little concern as
+possible, trusting that his anxiety was ill-founded, and that all would
+be right in the end.</p>
+
+<p>On the following morning my two operatives presented themselves at the
+office of the Provost-Marshal, and meeting Captain McCubbin there, they
+were soon introduced to General Winder, who occupied that position in
+the rebel capital. After they had been formally introduced to General
+Winder, that officer made very minute inquiries, as to the antecedents
+and the business of the two men before him, although no word was
+mentioned, that led either of them to believe that they were suspected
+of being other than they seemed. They informed the Marshal that they
+were natives of England and Ireland, that Scully had been in America
+nearly three years, while Lewis had arrived only eighteen months before;
+that one of them had been connected with a prominent dry-goods house in
+New York city, and the other represented a London publishing firm, whose
+office was located in the same city. They also stated that in Baltimore
+they had become acquainted with W. H. Scott, who had informed them of
+great opportunities for making money by smuggling goods into the
+Confederacy, and that this visit had been made to afford them the
+knowledge requisite to embarking in such an enterprize. They had agreed
+to deliver the letter, which Mr. Scott gave them, to Mr. Webster, which
+they had done, and further than this their intimacy with either
+gentlemen did not extend.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_505" id="Page_505">[Pg 505]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>This interview was conducted in a very pleasant manner by General
+Winder, and after they had fully answered all the questions which had
+been propounded to them, they took their leave, being politely invited
+by the General to call upon him whenever convenient.</p>
+
+<p>Congratulating themselves upon the fortunate outcome of a visit which
+they had looked forward to with more or less solicitude, they repaired
+to Webster's room to give him an account of what had transpired.</p>
+
+<p>They had not been seated very long, when a detective from the Marshal's
+office made his appearance, and after apologizing for his visit,
+inquired from what parts of England and Ireland the two men had come;
+stating also, that General Winder desired the information.</p>
+
+<p>After this man had left, Webster turned to his companions and in as firm
+a voice as he could command, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Get away from Richmond immediately! There is danger brewing. You are
+certainly suspected, and it may go very hard with all of us, unless you
+leave the city at once!"</p>
+
+<p>"Why do you think so?" inquired Scully, in a skeptical tone. "We
+certainly cannot be suspected, and I am confident that you are alarming
+yourself unnecessarily."</p>
+
+<p>A spasm of pain prevented Webster from replying<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_506" id="Page_506">[Pg 506]</a></span> immediately; but when
+the agony had somewhat subsided, he answered:</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you that man never would have come here with that question
+unless there was something wrong. You must, indeed, get away, or the
+consequences will be serious."</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had he uttered these words, when there came a sharp rap at the
+door, which, upon being opened, revealed the forms of two men, one of
+them being George Cluckner, a detective officer attached to the
+Provost-Marshal's office, and the other no less a personage than Chase
+Morton, a son of ex-Governor Morton, of Florida, whose house in
+Washington my operatives had at one time assisted in searching.</p>
+
+<p>The consternation of Lewis and Scully may well be imagined, and the
+latter, without uttering a word, walked rapidly towards the open doorway
+and disappeared, leaving Lewis, filled with astonishment and
+apprehension, to pass the ordeal of an introduction. The salutations
+between them were, as may be conjectured, not of a very cordial
+character; and after the merest form of politeness, Lewis bade Webster
+good-evening, and left the room. At the top of the landing he found
+Scully awaiting him, and they were about to descend the stairs,
+felicitating themselves upon having escaped a threatened danger, when
+the door of Webster's room was opened, and the Confederate detective
+again stood before them.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_507" id="Page_507">[Pg 507]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Are your names Lewis and Scully?" he inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Lewis, promptly, resolved to put as bold a face
+upon the matter as possible.</p>
+
+<p>"Then," said the officer, "I have orders to convey you to General
+Winder's office."</p>
+
+<p>There was no help for it, and they signified their readiness to
+accompany him at once, intending to make an effort to escape when they
+reached the street. This hope, however, was dashed to the ground; for,
+as they descended the stairs, they found three other officers awaiting
+their appearance, who immediately took them in charge, and accompanied
+them to the Provost-Marshal's office.</p>
+
+<p>Several times, during their journey, Lewis noticed, with increasing
+apprehension, that the gaze of young Chase Morton was riveted fixedly
+upon them, and he had no doubt whatever that they had been recognized,
+and would certainly be apprehended. This prospect was far from being a
+cheerful one; but they mustered up all their latent courage, and
+conversed good-humoredly with their escort, as they walked briskly
+along.</p>
+
+<p>Arriving at the General's headquarters, they learned that that
+functionary was absent upon some urgent business, but would shortly
+return, and had left orders that they should await his appearance. Lewis
+and Scully were accordingly admitted to a private room, and requested to
+make themselves comfortable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_508" id="Page_508">[Pg 508]</a></span> until General Winder should desire their
+presence. The door closed upon the retreating forms of their escort, and
+left them in a most uncomfortable condition of mind indeed. There was
+now no doubt of the correctness of Webster's suspicions, and they
+bitterly regretted their haste in visiting him, and also not having
+taken his advice at once. However, this was no time for regrets, and
+they resolved to firmly adhere to their original statements, and await
+the disposition of their case by General Winder.</p>
+
+<p>While they were conversing together, the door was opened, and young
+Morton entered the room, accompanied by an officer. Stepping directly up
+to Price Lewis, he addressed him:</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you remember me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not," responded Lewis; "I do not remember to have seen you at any
+time before to-day."</p>
+
+<p>He looked unflinchingly into the eyes that met his, and the determined
+tones of his voice betrayed no trace of the emotions that were raging
+within his bosom.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you remember," continued young Morton, "coming to my mother's
+house, in Washington, as an agent of the secret service of the Federal
+government, and making a thorough search of our premises and its
+contents?"</p>
+
+<p>"You are mistaken, sir," replied Lewis, firmly. "I know nothing of what
+you are alluding to."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_509" id="Page_509">[Pg 509]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I am not mistaken," said the young Southerner, "and you are the man!"</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps this gentleman will say that he recollects me, next," said
+Scully, resolved to be as bold as possible, under the circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>Chase Morton gazed at him a few moments and then answered, decidedly:</p>
+
+<p>"Yes sir, I recollect you also; you were one of the men who assisted in
+searching my mother's residence."</p>
+
+<p>Both men insisted strongly upon their ignorance of any such proceeding,
+and indignantly repudiated the charges that had been made against them.</p>
+
+<p>At this juncture General Winder came in, and walking up to Lewis he
+greeted him cordially, warmly shaking him by the hand, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"How do you do, Mr. Lewis, and how is Mr. Seward?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not know what you mean," replied Lewis.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps not," said Winder, with a disagreeable smile, "but I am
+inclined to think that you know a great deal more than you are willing
+to admit."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not understand you."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said the Provost-Marshal, "you will understand me, and all
+in good time. Do you know gentlemen, I suspected you were all wrong from
+the start, and you were not keen enough to impose your story upon me?
+George," he added, turning to one of his men, "go to the hotel, and get
+the baggage<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_510" id="Page_510">[Pg 510]</a></span> belonging to these gentlemen. We will see if that will
+throw any further light upon their true character."</p>
+
+<p>The officer departed, and during his absence, General Winder plied them
+with questions about their mission; their knowledge of Timothy Webster;
+their visit to Richmond, and in fact about everything imaginable, and
+all of them showing conclusively that he believed them to be spies, and
+unworthy of credence. Their satchels were finally brought in, and a
+rigid examination failed to discover anything to justify his suspicions,
+and Winder finally left the room, angrily ordering them to remain where
+they were, and directing his officers and Chase Morton to accompany him.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes elapsed after their departure, during which the loud voice
+of Winder could be heard, angrily declaiming against the two men; he
+then came back again, and addressing my operatives said:</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen, your stories don't agree with what I know about you, and we
+will give you time to think the matter over;" then turning to his deputy
+he commanded, "Take them away!"</p>
+
+<p>"Where to?" inquired the officer.</p>
+
+<p>"To Henrico Jail," was Winder's response.</p>
+
+<p>They were then conducted to the jail and placed in a room in which six
+others were confined, where the officers left them to their meditations,
+which, as may be imagined, were far from pleasant. Not knowing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_511" id="Page_511">[Pg 511]</a></span> what
+might be in store for them, and fearing that their presence in Richmond
+might result in danger to Webster, they resolved to say nothing
+whatever, and to adhere strictly to the story originally told by them,
+and then to abide by the consequences, no matter how serious they might
+be.</p>
+
+<p>During the afternoon of the following day, an officer accompanied by an
+elder son of Mr. Morton made their appearance at the jail, and he, too,
+identified the two men, as being concerned in searching his mother's
+residence in Washington, and endeavored to recall several incidents
+which had taken place on that occasion. To all of his statements,
+however, Price and Scully made emphatic denials, and vehemently asserted
+their entire ignorance of anything connected with the Mortons, or their
+relations to the Federal government.</p>
+
+<p>Finding it impossible to obtain any admission from the two prisoners,
+they took their departure, and left the confined detectives to their own
+unpleasant reflections.</p>
+
+<p>For three days they remained in their place of confinement, and during
+that time no word came from the Marshals office or from any one
+concerning their disposition or future movements. It seemed as though
+the authorities had been content with simply placing them in durance
+vile, and then had dismissed them from their minds. This was the most
+favorable view they were able to take of the case, and they<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_512" id="Page_512">[Pg 512]</a></span> were
+solacing themselves with the fallacious hope of having escaped a fate
+which they dreaded, and also with the belief that Webster, their friend
+and companion, would not be associated with their presence in Richmond,
+and that their discovery would not operate to his injury.</p>
+
+<p>On the fourth day, however, an attach&eacute; of the Marshal's office came to
+the jail, and calling for John Scully informed him that his presence was
+required by General Winder. Scully prepared himself for the visit, and
+taking leave of his companion followed the officer. He did not return
+that night, and for days afterwards Lewis was in ignorance of what had
+become of him, or what fate he was to expect at the hands of these
+minions of disloyalty and secession.</p>
+
+<p>Lewis, meanwhile, had become acquainted with his fellow prisoners, all
+of whom were in a state of anxiety as to what measure of punishment
+would be meted out to them, and all nearly crazed with the uncertainty
+of their impending fate. For days they had been concocting a plan of
+escape, and finding Lewis disposed to make an effort to be released from
+his confinement, they developed their plans to him, and requested his
+aid in the accomplishment of their purpose.</p>
+
+<p>Lewis hailed with delight a proposition that promised to enable them to
+exchange the damp and noisome air of a prison for the free breath of
+nature, and the dark hours of captivity for the freedom and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_513" id="Page_513">[Pg 513]</a></span> liberty he
+longed for, and he became an energetic and careful coadjutor of those
+who suffered with him the degrading position of being imprisoned by a
+government which they despised, and by which their lives were menaced.</p>
+
+<p>The part of the jail in which they were confined was separated from the
+main building, and contained four cells, two upon the ground floor and
+two immediately above them. These cells were reached through a corridor
+from the yard outside, and secured by two doors; one a heavy iron one
+fastened on the inside, and the other a stout wooden barricade, the lock
+of which was placed on the outside of the building. It was the custom of
+the old man, who acted as the jailer, to allow the prisoners a half
+hour's walk in the yard during the early evening, and then, locking them
+up safely again, he would leave them alone in the building, while he
+went to his home, several blocks distant.</p>
+
+<p>One of the men had managed to secrete a file about his person, and with
+this they succeeded in making a saw out of a knife. These were the only
+implements which they had to work with. Notwithstanding the meagerness
+of their implements, but a few days had elapsed before the bolts on
+every cell-door were sawed through so that they only required a few
+minutes' labor to detach them from their fastenings altogether.</p>
+
+<p>It is impossible to detail the hours of feverish<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_514" id="Page_514">[Pg 514]</a></span> anxiety, of tireless
+energy, and of momentary fear of detection, through which these men
+passed while engaged in their difficult and dangerous work&mdash;or to depict
+their joy, when at last their labor was completed, and they awaited the
+time of carrying their plans into execution.</p>
+
+<p>The outside door was now the only barrier between them and their coveted
+freedom, and various plans were suggested to overcome this obstacle. At
+length one was decided upon which promised to secure the object of their
+desires. In one corner of the yard in which they took their daily
+exercise, there was a large pile of ashes and garbage, which had been
+accumulating for a long time. It was resolved that one of their number
+should be buried under this rubbish, while several of the other
+prisoners engaged the old jailer in animated conversation.</p>
+
+<p>The man selected for this purpose was a good, brave fellow, who was
+formerly a sailor, and had lately been a member of an artillery company
+from New York. His name was Charles Stanton, and he had come into the
+South upon his own inclination, and for the Quixotic purpose of
+obtaining command of a gunboat of the Confederacy, and then attempting
+to run it through to the Union lines. He had, however, been suspected,
+and remanded to prison, where he had remained without a trial, and
+without hope of release, for several months.</p>
+
+<p>The prisoners were all turned out for their usual<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_515" id="Page_515">[Pg 515]</a></span> exercise in the yard,
+on the evening which had been agreed upon; and in accordance with their
+arranged plan, several of the prisoners surrounded the old turnkey, and
+engaged him in an earnest discussion, while others set actively to work
+to dig the grave of Stanton in the ashes. In order that he might not be
+unbearably uncomfortable, his body only was covered with the contents of
+the ash-heap, while his head and shoulders were concealed from view by
+some straw, which one of the men brought from his cell for that purpose.</p>
+
+<p>In the jail, at this time, there were a number of negroes, who had been
+captured while attempting to make their way to the North, and although
+these faithful blacks were aware of the attempted escape, and knew full
+well that they were not included in the movement, their efforts were
+none the less active in behalf of the white men who were struggling for
+liberty.</p>
+
+<p>They had been informed of the attempted escape, from the first, and had
+kept the matter a profound secret, at the same time rendering such
+service as they were capable of to the whites.</p>
+
+<p>Everything worked to their entire satisfaction. The turnkey was
+unsuspicious; the grave was made without discovery, and Stanton was
+carefully concealed. In a few minutes afterwards the call for retiring
+was heard, and the men, with throbbing hearts, rushed in a mass toward
+the door of the corridor.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_516" id="Page_516">[Pg 516]</a></span> This was done in order to escape the counting
+of their number, in case the old man should attempt to do so. They
+passed quickly into their cells, and were not required to be counted.
+Thus far, all had been done as successfully as could be hoped for, or
+expected; no suspicions were excited, nor was their missing comrade
+called for. It had been the custom of the old man to make a tour of the
+cells after the prisoners had retired, to see if they were all there
+before he went away for the night. In order to overcome this possibility
+of detection, a figure had been made of straw, stuffed into the garments
+of the men, and laid upon the bed, in order to look as much like a human
+being as possible.</p>
+
+<p>This precaution proved to be a good one, for just before the time of
+closing up the prison arrived, the glimmer of the old turnkey's lantern
+was seen in the corridor, and shortly after, his face appeared at the
+door, as he eagerly scanned the occupants of the various cells.
+Apparently satisfied with his scrutiny, the jailer went his way, the
+heavy outside doors were closed and locked, and the retreating footsteps
+of the old man could be distinctly heard.</p>
+
+<p>The critical moment had at last arrived, and they awaited in breathless
+silence the appearance of Stanton. Fortune favored them in a peculiar
+manner this evening. As the old man was passing the pile of ashes under
+which Stanton was concealed, he noticed the unusual appearance of the
+straw.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_517" id="Page_517">[Pg 517]</a></span> Stopping for a moment, he drew a match from his pocket, lighted
+it, and then walked toward the heap as though with the intention of
+setting fire to it. The match fortunately was extinguished by a blast of
+wind, and after searching in his pocket for another match, but finding
+none, he slowly turned, and walked out of the gate, locking it securely
+behind him.</p>
+
+<p>Stanton's feelings, under this ordeal, may be imagined. If the old man
+had succeeded in igniting the straw, under which he was concealed,
+detection would have followed instantly, and no doubt serious injury
+would have been inflicted upon the brave fellow, who had willingly
+suffered the discomforts of his unpleasant confinement for the purpose
+of assisting his comrades to escape.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had the gate closed upon the jailor, than he crawled nimbly
+out from his place of concealment, and hastily made his way to the door.
+He at once began his operations upon the lock. The appearance of Stanton
+at the door was the signal for the others, and in less than an hour the
+locks upon the cell doors had been removed. Stanton had wrested the lock
+from the outside door, and only the iron inside one was now to be
+overcome. This barrier resisted all their efforts, and it was at last
+decided that the lock must be removed by main force. This was a
+proceeding which necessitated a great deal of noise, and they were in an
+agony of apprehension lest their clamor should attract the attention of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_518" id="Page_518">[Pg 518]</a></span>
+people passing on the outside, and thus lead to their detection. To
+prevent this, the colored men, without any solicitation or instruction,
+came to the rescue in a very important, though unexpected manner. They
+commenced to sing in concert, at the top of their voices, snatches of
+plantation and camp-meeting melodies, which effectually drowned the
+sound of their blows, and enabled them to work without fear of
+detection.</p>
+
+<p>The lock at last yielded to their combined efforts, and the men issued
+silently forth into the darkness of the night, breathing once more the
+stimulating atmosphere of hope and promised liberty. Only the wall
+around the prison yard was now to be surmounted, and with the aid of
+some old planks that were lying around, they succeeded in reaching the
+top, after which they noiselessly dropped themselves to the ground.
+Although this wall was very high, they all reached <i>terra firma</i> in
+safety, and with one impulse breathed a prayer of thankfulness for the
+success which had thus far attended their efforts.</p>
+
+<p>Silently, and walking in couples, at long distances apart, they started
+out to leave the city. The sky was clear, and the moon was shining
+brightly overhead. The stars were twinkling merrily, as though enjoying
+the success which had attended these brave, patient men, in their labor
+and toil of days and weeks.</p>
+
+<p>This was on the eighteenth day of March, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_519" id="Page_519">[Pg 519]</a></span> Martial law had been
+proclaimed some time previously. It was now nearly eight o'clock, and by
+the provisions of the law any one found upon the streets after nine
+o'clock, must be in possession of a pass, or be liable to arrest. Great
+haste was therefore necessary, in order to leave the city before that
+hour. With only the stars for their guide, they set out in a northerly
+direction. Not one of the men was acquainted with the country, and their
+journey was all the more perilous on that account.</p>
+
+<p>By midnight they had reached the Chickahominy, having succeeded, by the
+greatest good fortune, in escaping any one who was disposed to make
+inquiries or to molest them in any manner whatever. Across this swamp
+their way led through quagmires and deep pools, and was dangerous in the
+extreme. Sometimes waist deep in the soft mud and water, and scrambling
+over slipping places which furnished insecure footholds, and threatened
+instant danger from falling back into the pools through which they had
+made their way. Their journey was full of hardship and suffering. The
+air was cold and frosty, and their wet garments clung to them like ice;
+their limbs trembled; their teeth chattered with the cold, and their
+condition was really a pitiable one indeed.</p>
+
+<p>At length they reached the woods upon the opposite side. Here they were
+obliged to stop and rest, completely exhausted. Some of the hardier of
+the party removed their dripping garments, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_520" id="Page_520">[Pg 520]</a></span> attempted to wring the
+water from them; while others, unable to stand the chilling air any
+longer, built a fire, around which they gathered in the effort to warm
+their bodies and to dry their water-soaked clothing.</p>
+
+<p>They rested for about two hours, and then pushed on again until
+daylight, when they sought the shelter of the woods and laid down,
+hoping to get some sleep after their laborious and fatiguing journey of
+the preceding night. Sleep, however, was impossible; their clothing was
+wet, and the air was cold. Their sufferings became intense, and at
+length, finding it impossible to endure the freezing atmosphere longer,
+they determined to build a fire, regardless of the consequences.
+Proceeding further into the wood, they gathered some boughs, and soon
+the cheerful blaze afforded them sufficient heat to dry their frozen
+clothing and to warm their benumbed and freezing bodies. Thus passed the
+day, and when darkness came on again they resumed their journey.</p>
+
+<p>Already they began to experience the pangs of hunger. They had eaten
+nothing since the evening before, and had walked many weary miles. They
+were foot-sore and tired and hungry. They had provided themselves with
+the remnants of the corn cake which had been served for their supper on
+the previous evening, but these had become thoroughly soaked with water
+on their journey through the swamps, and had crumbled to pieces.
+Notwithstanding their<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_521" id="Page_521">[Pg 521]</a></span> pitiable condition, their strong wills and brave
+hearts sustained them, and they plodded on.</p>
+
+<p>The night was intensely dark; the stars were obscured, and a pall of
+inky blackness hung over them, which rendered their journey exceedingly
+hazardous, as they could not see the way before them, and were unable to
+tell in which direction they were traveling.</p>
+
+<p>They had not proceeded far when the storm broke, and a drenching torrent
+of rain descended. The wind whistled and howled through the trees, and
+for hours the tempest raged with relentless fury. Seeking the shelter of
+the woods again, they crouched close to the trunks of the trees, and
+vainly attempted to screen themselves from the deluge. It was of no
+avail, however; the leafless timber afforded them no protection, and
+during the continuance of the storm the poor, tired and almost exhausted
+fugitives were exposed to the pitiless blast.</p>
+
+<p>Shivering with cold, their teeth chattering, their garments drenched
+through to their quivering skin, they knelt or crouched upon the ground,
+and when daylight dawned, and the storm at last cleared away, they were
+almost too weak to help themselves.</p>
+
+<p>Price Lewis looked around him as the faint streaks of sunrise illumined
+the horizon, and to his dismay saw that nearly all of his late
+companions had disappeared, and that only three others beside himself
+remained.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_522" id="Page_522">[Pg 522]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>With the greatest difficulty they succeeded in building a fire, and were
+just preparing to enjoy its comforting warmth, when they were alarmed by
+the sound of the hasty tramping of feet, and in a moment they were
+surrounded by a number of Confederate soldiers, who commanded them to
+surrender at once.</p>
+
+<p>This sudden and unexpected appearance was a crushing blow to their
+hopes. They submitted without a word; and although bowed to the ground
+with disappointment, they experienced a sensation almost amounting to
+relief, at the prospect of receiving the care and attention which even
+enemies would give to those in such distress as were these poor
+fugitives.</p>
+
+<p>Limping along, they were marched to an out-building, connected with a
+farm-house near by, when, to their surprise, they saw the remainder of
+their party, who had been captured by another band of soldiers, huddled
+together in one corner of the room.</p>
+
+<p>The soldiers were touched with pity, as they beheld the forlorn
+condition of the men whom they had secured, and in a short time they had
+provided them with a repast, which the famished fugitives devoured with
+a rapidity which gave ample testimony of their long and painful
+abstinence.</p>
+
+<p>After dispatching this meal they were conveyed directly back to
+Richmond, and returned to their old quarters in Henrico jail. On their
+arrival each man was placed in a separate cell, and doubly ironed, to
+prevent a repetition of their efforts to escape.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 728px;">
+<img src="images/illus022.jpg" width="728" height="375" alt="The prisoners re-captured. P 522" title="" />
+<span class="caption">The prisoners re-captured. P 522</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_523" id="Page_523">[Pg 523]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>While Price Lewis had been engaged in this unsuccessful attempt to gain
+his liberty, John Scully had been undergoing a far different experience.
+A court-martial had been hurriedly convened, where he was fully
+identified by every member of the Morton family as the man who had
+searched their premises in the city of Washington, and had, after a very
+summary trial, been convicted and remanded back to prison to await his
+sentence.</p>
+
+<p>On the second day after the return of Price Lewis he was conducted
+before a court-martial, and in a remarkably short space of time was
+accorded a trial, if trial it could be called, and his conviction
+followed as quickly as did that of John Scully.</p>
+
+<p>They had been charged with being alien enemies, and at one time acting
+in the service of the Federal government in Washington. In addition to
+this, they were charged with loitering around the fortifications at
+Richmond and taking plans of the same. Notwithstanding the fact that no
+witness could be procured who would swear to having seen them in such
+localities, or engaged in any such occupation, the members of the
+court-martial, with singular unanimity, found them guilty of the second
+charge, with as much haste, and as manifest an air of solemnity, as they
+did of the first.</p>
+
+<p>The next day they were each informed of their sentence, which was that
+they should be hung by the neck, as spies, and that their execution
+should take<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_524" id="Page_524">[Pg 524]</a></span> place in one week from the day of the communication of the
+information to them.</p>
+
+<p>This sentence was a heavy blow to the two prisoners; and from the
+character of the men by whom they were surrounded, they felt that hope
+was useless. The spirit of animosity manifested toward them by the
+court, the indecent haste with which their trial had been conducted, and
+the rapidity with which their sentence had followed their conviction,
+gave them no reasons for hoping for clemency, or that they would be able
+to escape the dreadful fate which now was impending over them.</p>
+
+<p>The conduct of the various members of the Morton family in betraying my
+operatives to the authorities, and in appearing as accusing witnesses
+against them, in face of their promises, long ago made, to befriend them
+if possible, was an act which did not reflect very favorably upon their
+regard for truth, or their appreciation of delicate treatment when they
+themselves were suspected of treachery.</p>
+
+<p>Lewis and Scully had never seen each other from the time when the latter
+was removed from the cell a few days after their first imprisonment, and
+each was unconscious of the other's fate or of the state of their
+feelings under the fatal sentence which hung over them both.</p>
+
+<p>After their conviction they had both been sent to a prison called Castle
+Godwin, and had been placed in irons, and in separate cells. During the
+first two<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_525" id="Page_525">[Pg 525]</a></span> days that elapsed after their conviction, they were visited
+by Judge Crump, who conducted the trial, and by several members of
+General Winder's staff, all of whom endeavored to obtain some admissions
+from the two prisoners which would justify their action in condemning
+them to death. All with no avail, however; the two men stoutly insisted
+upon their original story, except so far as to admit that they had
+searched the premises of Mrs. Morton, but each man was firm in stating
+that he had become disgusted with the service, and had left it very soon
+after that act had been committed.</p>
+
+<p>On the day after their sentence had been communicated to them, a letter
+was brought to Lewis, from the commandant of the post, stating that
+Scully was suffering with a serious illness, and having requested that
+Lewis be allowed to visit him, the privilege had been granted. On
+entering the cell where Scully was confined, Lewis found his
+fellow-prisoner in a very depressed condition of mind, although his
+physical infirmities had been assumed in order to secure an interview
+with his partner in misfortune.</p>
+
+<p>After discussing their situation as philosophically as possible under
+the circumstances, seeking for some ray of hope and finding none, they
+were at last compelled to the belief that their doom was sealed, and
+that their only plan was to bear up manfully to the end.</p>
+
+<p>Scully, who was a Roman Catholic, desired the services of a priestly
+comforter, to whom he could<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_526" id="Page_526">[Pg 526]</a></span> make such statements as would relieve his
+mind in the coming trial, and made known this wish to Lewis.</p>
+
+<p>"You will not tell him what you know of Webster, and his connection with
+this matter, will you?" said Lewis, fearful that Webster might be
+betrayed.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know what I will tell him," answered Scully; "I have not
+decided what to say, nor do I know what I will be commanded to relate."</p>
+
+<p>"For God's sake, Scully, don't say anything about Webster; we can meet
+our fate like men, but to mention his name now, would be wrong indeed."</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you," said Scully, "I don't know what I am going to say. I don't
+want to do wrong, but I cannot tell what I may have to do yet."</p>
+
+<p>Lewis argued with his companion long and earnestly upon this matter, and
+when at last the priest arrived, and Scully followed him to another
+cell, the warning admonitions of his fellow-prisoner were ringing in his
+ears.</p>
+
+<p>What transpired during that secret meeting between the condemned spy and
+his father-confessor, Lewis did not know, but when he was conducted to
+his own cell, late that night, he saw a man and woman closely guarded,
+in the lower hall, and his heart grew heavy and cold as his imagination
+conjured up the direful fate which a confession from his imprisoned
+comrade would bring to the faithful patriot Webster, who lay suffering
+and anxious upon his bed of pain.</p>
+
+<p>After a long and restless night, in which he tossed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_527" id="Page_527">[Pg 527]</a></span> uneasily upon his
+hard prison bed, vainly attempting to court the rest-giving slumber of
+which he stood so much in need, Lewis arose from his couch, feverish and
+unrefreshed, as the first faint rays of the morning sun penetrated his
+damp and dingy cell.</p>
+
+<p>His mind was in a state of confusion, and his heart was filled with
+fear. What had been done he knew not, and yet those guarded figures of
+the night before were ever in his mind. Could it be that they were
+Webster and his faithful attendant Mrs. Lawton? He shrank involuntarily
+from this thought; and yet, strive as he would, it recurred to him, with
+increased force, and with more convincing power, after each attempt to
+drive it from him.</p>
+
+<p>In a little while, the prison was astir. The guards were making their
+accustomed rounds, breakfast was served, and another day, with all its
+solemn activity, and its bustle so death-like and subdued, had begun.</p>
+
+<p>Unable to partake of the scanty meal that was set before him, Lewis
+impatiently awaited the hour when he would be permitted to visit his
+fellow-prisoner whom he had left upon the eve of consulting with his
+spiritual adviser, and, if possible, learn the result of his interview
+with the priest.</p>
+
+<p>About ten o'clock the turnkey appeared, and he was conducted to Scully's
+cell. As he entered the dimly-lighted room, he noticed that the face of
+the man whom he had left the night before, had undergone a wonderful
+change. His cheeks were sunken<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_528" id="Page_528">[Pg 528]</a></span> and pale; his eyes had a strange, wild
+expression, and the shadows under the lids were dark and heavy. His hair
+was unkempt, and his lips trembled with the emotions which he was
+struggling to repress. Whatever events had transpired since he had seen
+him last, it was evident that their effect upon Scully had been terrible
+and agonizing. He had been unable to sleep, and the tortures of his mind
+had been almost unbearable. His greeting to Lewis showed a degree of
+restraint which had been unknown before, and for a moment he seemed
+unable to speak.</p>
+
+<p>At length he grew calmer, and related to his friend the events of the
+preceding night, and the influences that had been brought to bear upon
+him. The promise of freedom; his loving family at home; the certainty of
+an ignoble death if he refused; the degradation of the impending
+scaffold; and the promise that his admissions should result in injury to
+no one, all combined against his weak condition of both mind and body,
+and at last, yielding to the influences which he could not control, he
+had told his story, and had given a truthful account of all his
+movements.</p>
+
+<p>Who can blame this man? Who, that has stood before the frowning
+scaffold, and with a free world before him, can utter words of censure?
+Only those who have suffered as he did, prostrated as he was, can know
+the terrible agony through which he passed ere the fatal words were
+forced from his trembling<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_529" id="Page_529">[Pg 529]</a></span> lips. For myself, I have no judgment to
+utter. Now, as when the news was first communicated to me, I cannot
+express an unjust sentence. John Scully and his companion were not
+heroic martyrs. What then? They were simply men who, after having
+performed many brave acts of loyalty and duty to their country, failed
+in a moment of grand and great self-sacrifice. I cannot apologize for
+them&mdash;I cannot judge them. Their trial was a severe one, and they were
+in sore distress. If they succumbed to a controlling emergency, it was
+because of a lack of the heroic elements of humanity; and who, in our
+day, can claim their possession in the very face of death and dishonor?</p>
+
+<p>Let us hasten over these unpleasant and disastrous events. Finding that
+the worst had occurred, and that further concealment was of no avail,
+Lewis, too, opened his mouth. He was again visited by the rebel
+authorities, and at last he, too, added his voice to that of Scully, and
+made a revelation of his true character, and of the nature of his
+mission to Richmond. The next day they were respited. They had escaped
+an ignominious death, but, perhaps, in their lonely cells they suffered
+a death in life, beside which an actual demise might have seemed a
+blessing. Leaving them to their reflections, we turn again to Timothy
+Webster.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_530" id="Page_530">[Pg 530]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn6.jpg" width="448" height="120" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>Webster Arrested as a Spy.&mdash;A Woman's Devotion and a Patriot's
+Heroism.&mdash;Webster is Convicted.&mdash;The Execution.&mdash;A Martyr's Grave.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>After the departure of Lewis and Scully from Webster's room, where they
+were so closely followed by the Confederate detective and Chase Morton,
+my trusty operative heard nothing of them for some time. Fearing to make
+inquiries concerning them, lest he should compromise them still further,
+as well as bring himself under the suspicion of the rebel authorities,
+he maintained a strict silence with regard to the movements of his
+companions. Several days of anxious suspense followed, which, to one in
+Webster's critical condition, were fraught with agonizing doubts and
+heartfelt fears for the ultimate safety of himself and his friends.
+Resolving, however, to utter no word which would compromise them, he
+bore the solicitude with unmurmuring firmness. Only to the heroic woman,
+who so faithfully nursed him, did he unburden his mind of the weight of
+care which oppressed him, and her words of womanly friendship and
+encouragement were the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_531" id="Page_531">[Pg 531]</a></span> only influences which supported him through the
+trying ordeal.</p>
+
+<p>One day, Mrs. Lawton came into his room&mdash;as was her custom&mdash;but this
+time there was a gravity about her manner, which, to Webster's quick
+perceptions, boded no good. Finding him receiving some friendly
+visitors, the lady withdrew, and repressing his impatience as well as he
+was able to do, Webster dispatched his friends as quickly as politeness,
+and a due consideration for their kindly regard, would permit. When they
+had disappeared, Mrs. Lawton again entered the room.</p>
+
+<p>"You have news for me," said Webster, impatiently; "what is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Be calm, my dear friend," said the devoted little woman; "what I have
+to tell, calls for the utmost calmness."</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me what it is," said Webster; "I will be as calm as you could
+wish, but do not, I pray you, keep me in suspense."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," replied Mrs. Lawton, "I learned this morning that Lewis and
+Scully have been arrested and taken to Henrico Jail."</p>
+
+<p>"When did this occur?" asked the invalid, a great weight pressing upon
+his heart.</p>
+
+<p>"The very day they were here last," answered the woman.</p>
+
+<p>"Then all is lost," exclaimed the sick man. "I feared as much; and now
+the time has come I will<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_532" id="Page_532">[Pg 532]</a></span> meet it manfully; however," he continued, "it
+will be only a short time before I will share the same fate."</p>
+
+<p>"Why do you think so?" anxiously inquired Mrs. Lawton. "Surely they
+cannot connect you with these men."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not know why I think so, but I am as confident that I will be
+brought into this matter as though the officers were already here to
+arrest me."</p>
+
+<p>While he yet spoke, there came a knock at the chamber door, which, on
+being opened, revealed the form of Captain McCubbin.</p>
+
+<p>As he entered the room he gazed furtively around, and his salutation to
+Webster was very different from the cordiality which had marked his
+previous visits.</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, Webster," said he, as he took the offered chair, and for
+the first time since they had known each other neglecting to shake the
+invalid by the hand. "This is bad news about Lewis and Scully, isn't
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?" inquired Webster, apparently receiving the information for
+the first time.</p>
+
+<p>"They have been arrested as spies, are confined in prison, and General
+Winder wants that letter which they brought to you from the North."</p>
+
+<p>There was something so cold and imperious in the officer's tones, which
+confirmed Webster's fears for his own safety; but without evincing the
+slightest alarm, he cheerfully made reply:</p>
+
+<p>"I am sorry to hear this news, and trust that they<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_533" id="Page_533">[Pg 533]</a></span> will be able to
+exonerate themselves from the charge. Anything, however, that General
+Winder wants from me will be cheerfully given. Mrs. Lawton, will you get
+the letter, and hand it to Captain McCubbin."</p>
+
+<p>There was no tremor of the voice, and the watchful Confederate looked in
+vain for any evidence of fear in the face of the man, who, stricken by
+disease as he was, still showed the bravery of a lion, and gazed
+unflinchingly at him. Though the hand of fate was upon him, Webster
+never lost his heroic courage, and bore the scrutiny of the officer
+without the quiver of a muscle.</p>
+
+<p>Captain McCubbin received the letter, and almost immediately withdrew.
+As he closed the door behind him, Webster turned to his faithful
+companion, and, in a low, solemn voice, said: "That letter has sealed my
+fate!"</p>
+
+<p>From this point, Webster's physical condition seemed to improve, and
+although depressed with fears for the fate of his companions, he
+gradually became stronger, and was at length able to leave his bed and
+move about his room.</p>
+
+<p>The visits of his numerous friends had now almost ceased. From General
+Winder's officers, with whom he had previously been so intimate, he
+heard nothing, nor did they make inquiries about his health, as had been
+their custom. Of the many friends in private life, who had surrounded
+him, only two remained. These were Mr. Pierce and Mr. Campbell, with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_534" id="Page_534">[Pg 534]</a></span>
+whom Webster had traveled for some time, and his family. This dropping
+away of old friends, and the breaking up of old associations, was
+significant to Webster of impending danger. It must be that he, too, was
+suspected, and that the favor of the rebel authorities had been
+withdrawn.</p>
+
+<p>Day by day, during his convalescence, did the brave little woman who had
+nursed him back to life, endeavor to encourage him to a hopeful view of
+his situation, and to impress him with her own sanguine trust for a
+favorable outcome from this present dilemma. Webster listened to the
+bright promises of his devoted companion, but he was too profoundly
+aware of the danger that threatened him to permit himself to hope that
+the result to him would be a beneficial one.</p>
+
+<p>After he was able to leave his bed, he accepted the pressing invitation
+of Mr. Campbell, and was removed to the residence of that gentleman,
+where he would be more quiet, and where he could receive that care and
+attention which could not be afforded him in a hotel. The kindness of
+Mr. Campbell and his family was heartfelt and unceasing. They did
+everything in their power to make him comfortable, and their courtesy to
+Mrs. Lawton was as marked and genuine, as was their regard and care for
+Timothy Webster.</p>
+
+<p>Webster had been domiciled at the house of Mr. Campbell but two days,
+when one of Winder's men<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_535" id="Page_535">[Pg 535]</a></span> came to know if Webster was sufficiently
+recovered to go out, as his presence was imperatively demanded at the
+court room, as a witness in the trial of John Scully. The officer
+further stated that the evidence of Webster had been solicited by Scully
+himself. Finding him unable still to leave the house, the officer stated
+that arrangements would be made by which his testimony could be taken in
+his room. On the second day after the appearance of the officer, the
+court-martial adjourned to Campbell's house, and Scully accompanied
+them. Seating themselves around the bedside of the invalid, the court
+was formally opened, and Webster was requested to state what he knew of
+the antecedents of the accused.</p>
+
+<p>Though very weak, and speaking with considerable difficulty, Webster
+made his statement. He said that he had known John Scully from April,
+1861, to the time of his arrest. That the prisoner was in Baltimore when
+he first met him, and was always in the company of known secessionists,
+and was considered by them to be a good friend to the South. So far as
+he had any knowledge of the accused he was what he assumed to be, and
+that his appearance in Richmond was a surprise to him. He was not known
+to be in the employ of the government, and Webster had never met him
+under any circumstances which would indicate that fact.</p>
+
+<p>This was all that he could say, and although closely questioned by the
+president of the court, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_536" id="Page_536">[Pg 536]</a></span> the attorneys present, he insisted that his
+knowledge of John Scully was confined to what he had already stated.
+Finding it impossible to obtain any further information upon this
+subject from the sick man, the court, in a body, left the room, and
+departed from the house.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Lawton, who had been compelled to retire on the entrance of the
+Confederate authorities, and who had been in a wild state of excitement
+and apprehension during their visit, instantly repaired to Webster's
+room. When she entered the chamber, she found that the brave man, after
+the exciting experiences through which he had been compelled to pass,
+had fainted. His strength of will, which had supported him through the
+investigation, had given way, and he lay, limp and inanimate, upon the
+bed.</p>
+
+<p>Several days of anxiety and solicitude now passed. Unable to learn any
+tidings of his unfortunate comrades, Webster tortured himself with all
+manner of vague fears and doubts as to their probable fate, all of which
+had their effect in retarding his recovery, and keeping him confined to
+his room.</p>
+
+<p>At last, after days of weary and anxious waiting, the newspapers were
+brought in one morning, and the information of the conviction of Lewis
+and Scully was duly chronicled. The same paper also announced the day
+upon which their death was so speedily to follow. This filled the cup of
+Webster's misery to overflowing, and, sinking upon a chair, he wept
+like<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_537" id="Page_537">[Pg 537]</a></span> a child. Refusing to be comforted, although Mrs. Lawton exerted
+herself to the utmost, Webster paced the room, half frantic with his
+grief, at the horrible fate which had overtaken his friends.</p>
+
+<p>Slowly the day passed, and when the shadows of evening were falling
+Webster was at last induced to lie down, and attempt to snatch a few
+hours sleep. He was soon slumbering quietly, although ever and anon he
+would start nervously and utter an inarticulate moan, as though his mind
+was still troubled with the sad events of the day. While he lay thus,
+attended by Mrs. Lawton, Mr. Campbell suddenly entered the room, with a
+look of fear upon his face, which filled Mrs. Lawton with alarm.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter?" she hurriedly ejaculated.</p>
+
+<p>"One of Winder's men is below, and I fear his presence indicates
+misfortune for Webster," was the reply.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Cashmeyer," answered Mr. Campbell. "He inquired for Webster, and says
+he must see him at once."</p>
+
+<p>Webster, disturbed by this conversation, was awake in an instant and
+inquired what was wanted.</p>
+
+<p>"Cashmeyer has called, and wishes to see you," said Mr. Campbell.</p>
+
+<p>"Let him come up at once," replied Webster, in the hope that he might
+bring some tidings of Lewis and Scully.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_538" id="Page_538">[Pg 538]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Mr. Campbell departed, and in a few moments returned with the
+Confederate officer. Cashmeyer's salutation was cold and formal, and
+without any preliminary he addressed Webster.</p>
+
+<p>"I have a painful duty to perform, Mr. Webster. I am directed by General
+Winder to arrest you, and convey you at once to Castle Godwin."</p>
+
+<p>As he spoke, two soldiers appeared at the doorway.</p>
+
+<p>"You cannot wish to take him away in this condition, and at this hour of
+the night," said Mrs. Lawton. "Such an action would be his death, and
+would be the worst of inhumanity."</p>
+
+<p>Webster stood silent and unmoved. He did not utter a word, but gazed
+fixedly at the officer, whose visits heretofore had been those of
+sympathy and condolence.</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot help it," said Cashmeyer, "my orders are to take him dead, or
+alive, and those orders I must obey."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," said Mrs. Lawton, "I will go too. He needs care and attention,
+without it he will die, and no one can nurse him so well as I."</p>
+
+<p>Cashmeyer gazed at the brave little woman for a moment, and a shade of
+pity came over his face.</p>
+
+<p>"I am sorry to inform you, that my orders are to arrest you also, and to
+search your trunks."</p>
+
+<p>"This is infamous," exclaimed Webster; "what can Winder mean by
+arresting this woman, and what<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_539" id="Page_539">[Pg 539]</a></span> am I charged with that renders your
+orders necessary?"</p>
+
+<p>"Webster," answered Cashmeyer, "as God is my witness, I do not know; I
+only know what my orders are, and that I must obey them."</p>
+
+<p>Without further parley, Webster and Mrs. Lawton prepared to accompany
+their guards, and Cashmeyer, demanding their keys, commenced a search of
+their trunks, which resulted in his finding nothing that would criminate
+his prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>A carriage was procured, and Webster was assisted into it, while Mrs.
+Lawton, under the escort of Cashmeyer was compelled to walk. It was
+quite late when they arrived at the prison, and as Price Lewis was
+ascending to his cell, Webster and his faithful female companion entered
+the gloomy portals of the jail.</p>
+
+<p>General Winder was present when they arrived, and after a hurried
+examination Webster was remanded to a room, in which a number of Union
+prisoners were already confined, and the atmosphere of which was reeking
+with filth and disease.</p>
+
+<p>As he entered the room, pale and emaciated, and scarcely able to walk,
+the prisoners gathered around, in silent pity for his forlorn condition.</p>
+
+<p>"My God!" exclaimed one of their number, "they will send the dead here
+next."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Lawton was conducted before the General, but she stoutly declined
+to answer a single question<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_540" id="Page_540">[Pg 540]</a></span> that was propounded to her. This so enraged
+the valiant officer that he ordered her to be taken away at once. She
+was then conducted to a room in which another lady was confined, and
+left for the night.</p>
+
+<p>As midnight tolled its solemn hour over the city, and the tramp of armed
+men resounded through the streets, the noises within the prison died
+away. An awful and impressive silence brooded over the place. The dim
+light in the corridor shone faintly upon four miserable human beings,
+who tossed restlessly upon sleepless couches through the long, weary
+watches of the night.</p>
+
+<p>Who can tell the thoughts that thronged through their brains, as the
+slow moving hours advanced toward the dawn? The brave woman who had been
+cruelly deprived of her privilege to administer to the needs of her
+suffering friend. The heroic Webster, wasted by disease, weakened by his
+long and painful illness, but still brave and defiant. Price Lewis and
+John Scully, tortured with the thoughts of their impending fate, and
+harassed with reflections of a more agonizing nature, which we may not
+analyse.</p>
+
+<p>The trial of Webster was ordered for an early day. With a haste that was
+inhuman, the Provost-Marshal made his preparations for the farce of an
+investigation. It seemed as though he was fearful that his victim would
+die, ere he could wreak his vengeance upon him. The court was convened,
+and,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_541" id="Page_541">[Pg 541]</a></span> owing to Webster's weakened condition, their sessions were held in
+the jail. For three long, weary weeks did the investigation drag its
+slow length along, although it was apparent that those who tried him had
+already decided upon his fate. Numerous witnesses were examined, and
+testimony was admitted which would have been excluded by any righteous
+tribunal whose ideas of justice were not obscured by an insane desire
+for revenge.</p>
+
+<p>Price Lewis and John Scully were compelled to give their evidence; and
+although they attempted to do their utmost to lessen the effect of their
+testimony, it bore heavily against the poor prisoner, who sat pale and
+emaciated before them, and whose heart never failed him through the long
+and tedious ordeal. What Webster's feelings must have been during this
+harrowing experience is unknown to any one. What thoughts were rushing
+through his brain, as the damaging statements fell from the lips of his
+late associates, were never revealed by him. No murmurs escaped his
+lips, no words of censure or blame against the men whose evidence cost
+him his life, were ever uttered. A heroic calmness, born of the very
+despair which oppressed him from the first, was manifest throughout the
+long, weary investigation. Indeed so manfully had he borne himself, so
+completely had he controlled his feelings, that his physical health
+perceptibly improved, so much so that the tribunal removed their
+sittings to the court-house,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_542" id="Page_542">[Pg 542]</a></span> and Webster was able to be in daily
+attendance.</p>
+
+<p>Webster had secured able counsel for his defence, and they did all that
+was possible for man to do. Although they were rebels, their efforts in
+behalf of the accused spy were such, that if pleadings could have
+availed him aught, his fate would have been averted.</p>
+
+<p>It was not to be, however; the trial came to an end at last. A verdict
+of guilty followed quickly upon the heels of the partial and
+antagonistic charge of the judge, and Timothy Webster was convicted of
+being a spy in the employ of the Federal authorities.</p>
+
+<p>Not even then did the brave spirit break down. Firm and heroic he
+received the fatal verdict, and the satisfaction of his enemies was
+robbed of its value by the unflinching deportment of their victim.</p>
+
+<p>After the trial, he was remanded to a cell, and closely watched. But a
+little time elapsed, and then came the warrant for his execution. An
+officer appeared in the cell, the paper was produced, and the faithful,
+brave, true-hearted man was condemned to be hung on the twenty-ninth day
+of April, but ten days after the approval of his sentence.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 707px;">
+<img src="images/illus023.jpg" width="707" height="375" alt="The death warrant. P. 542." title="" />
+<span class="caption">The death warrant. P. 542.</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_543" id="Page_543">[Pg 543]</a></span></p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>The Union army was before Yorktown. McClellan had already sustained two
+serious disappointments, and both of them at the hands of the government
+at Washington. In the first place, on his arrival at Fort Monroe, he had
+ascertained that the promised assistance of the navy could not be relied
+upon in the least, and that their efficient co-operation with him would
+be an utter impossibility. This interference with his plans might have
+been overcome, although the loss of the naval support was a serious
+misfortune to him; but a more surprising and disheartening act of the
+authorities was yet in store for him. A few days later, he was
+thunderstruck at the unexpected information that General McDowell's
+entire corps, upon whose assistance he had confidently relied, was
+detached from his command, and had been ordered to remain in front of
+Washington, for the protection of the capital, which was erroneously
+believed to be in imminent danger of capture by the rebels. These events
+rendered a scientific siege of Yorktown a necessity; and while engaged
+in this laborious work, I was in constant consultation with the
+commanding General. Numerous scouts had been sent out through the rebel
+country, and the secret service department was taxed to its utmost.
+George H. Bangs was busily engaged in examining the rebel deserters and
+prisoners, Southern refugees and contrabands, who were either captured
+or came willingly into camp, and in preparing daily reports of our
+movements, which were required to be made to the General in command. I
+had accompanied McClellan upon this campaign, and gave my untiring
+personal supervision to the management of the large corps of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_544" id="Page_544">[Pg 544]</a></span> men and
+women, white and black, then engaged in obtaining information.</p>
+
+<p>During all this time, not a word had been received of my missing
+operatives. Tortured by the uncertainty of their fate, I passed many an
+anxious hour. At length all doubts were set at rest, and a dreadful
+certainty manifested itself to my mind. A newspaper, published in
+Richmond, was received by me, and in hastily perusing its contents, with
+a view of acquiring such military information as it contained, my eye
+alighted upon a small paragraph, which filled me with dread and sorrow.
+This paragraph was the simple announcement that Price Lewis and John
+Scully had been arrested as spies in the rebel capital, and had been
+sentenced to be hung on the 6th day of April.</p>
+
+<p>I cannot detail the effect which this announcement produced upon me. For
+a moment I sat almost stupefied, and unable to move. My blood seemed to
+freeze in my veins&mdash;my heart stood still&mdash;I was speechless. By degrees I
+was able to exercise a strong command over myself. I then sought my
+immediate associates, and communicated the fatal news to them. Their
+consternation and grief were equal to my own. Every man seemed to be
+impressed with the solemnity of the fate of their comrades. What was to
+be done? How to intercede in their behalf? I rushed to the tent of
+General McClellan, and relating the news to him, besought his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_545" id="Page_545">[Pg 545]</a></span> aid in
+this direful extremity. His sympathy and sorrow were as acute as though
+the men had been joined to him by ties of blood. Anxiously we discussed
+the situation, in the vain attempt to seek some mode of obtaining their
+release, and all without definite or satisfactory conclusion.</p>
+
+<p>All that night I paced the camp, unable to sleep&mdash;unable almost to think
+intelligently; and when morning dawned I was as far from devising any
+practical plan of relief as when I first received the information.</p>
+
+<p>I telegraphed to Captain Milward, Harbor-Master at Fortress Monroe, and
+in charge of the flag-of-truce boat for exchanging prisoners, asking him
+to endeavor to ascertain from the Richmond papers, or from any other
+source, anything definite as to the fate of my unfortunate operatives.</p>
+
+<p>Several messages were received from that officer, containing various
+statements of the case, and finally came the crushing intelligence that
+Lewis and Scully had been respited, after having given information which
+implicated Timothy Webster, whom the rebels now regarded as the chief
+spy of the three.</p>
+
+<p>This was the crowning burden of all, and I was almost prostrated by the
+blow. Hurried consultations were held, every conceivable plan was
+suggested and discussed, which would avail in the slightest degree to
+avert so terrible a fate from the faithful patriot who now was in such
+deadly danger.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_546" id="Page_546">[Pg 546]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>I suggested that General McClellan should send, by flag-of-truce boat,
+such a demand as would, if possible, save their lives; but to this the
+General demurred, fearing, and justly too, that such a course might be
+productive of more injury than good&mdash;that it would be a tacit
+acknowledgment of their real character as spies, and they would be hung
+without further delay.</p>
+
+<p>It was at last decided that I should go to Washington, accompanied by
+Colonel Key, an eminent patriot, and an efficient member of General
+McClellan's staff. We were to confer with the President and the members
+of the Cabinet, lay the matter before them, and petition for the
+official interposition of the government in their behalf.</p>
+
+<p>With Colonel Key, I started for Washington, about the middle of April.
+The interest of that officer was scarcely second to my own, and he was
+fully determined to exert every energy of his manly, sympathetic nature
+in the work of saving their lives, if possible.</p>
+
+<p>The journey to Washington was quickly made. Mr. Lincoln was readily
+seen, and he, too, filled with sympathy for the unfortunate men,
+promised to call a special session of the Cabinet to consider the case,
+that evening.</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime, Colonel Key and I occupied ourselves in visiting the
+various heads of the departments, in order to prepare them, before
+evening<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_547" id="Page_547">[Pg 547]</a></span> arrived, for energetic and speedy action. We felt that no time
+was to be lost; if, indeed, it was not already too late to avert their
+dreadful doom.</p>
+
+<p>Secretary Stanton, whom, among others, we saw, expressed in strong terms
+his willingness to assist Webster to the extent of the resources of the
+government, but he was but little disposed to assist the others, who, he
+alleged, had "betrayed their companion to save their own lives."</p>
+
+<p>In the evening the Cabinet was convened, and, after a full discussion of
+the matter, it was decided that the only thing that could be done, was
+to authorize the Secretary of War to communicate with the rebel
+authorities upon the subject. He was directed to authorize General Wool
+to send by flag-of-truce boat, or by telegraph, a message to Jefferson
+Davis, representing that the course pursued by the Federal government
+toward rebel spies had heretofore been lenient and forbearing; that in
+many cases such persons had been released after a short confinement, and
+that in no instance had any one so charged been tried for his life, or
+sentenced to death. The message concluded with the decided intimation
+that if the rebel government proceeded to carry their sentence of death
+into execution, the Federal government would initiate a system of
+retaliation which would amply revenge the death of the men now held.</p>
+
+<p>Receiving a copy of these instructions, Colonel Key and myself, feeling
+that we had exhausted the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_548" id="Page_548">[Pg 548]</a></span> power of the government in this matter,
+returned at once to Fortress Monroe. We arrived there on the 23d day of
+April. General Wool was immediately found, and without a moment's delay,
+he caused the required dispatches to be forwarded, by way of Norfolk,
+through General Huger, who was then in command of that place, with the
+urgent request that he would instantly transmit it by telegraph to the
+Richmond authorities.</p>
+
+<p>This, I learned, was done as had been requested, and I learned further,
+that it reached the officers of the rebel government, and received their
+consideration in time to have been of avail, had there been one spark of
+manly sympathy animating the breasts of those who were the leaders of a
+vile conspiracy to destroy the noblest government under the blue canopy
+of heaven.</p>
+
+<p>Feeling that all had now been done that was possible to save the lives
+of my men, and believing that the hate and malignity of the rebel
+officers would not carry them to such a murderous extent as this, I
+awaited the result of our mission with painful solicitude.</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>After the day of execution had been fixed, Mrs. Lawton was permitted to
+visit Webster in the room to which he had been assigned. During all the
+time that the trial had been in progress, they had never been allowed to
+communicate with each other, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_549" id="Page_549">[Pg 549]</a></span> the noble little woman had been
+compelled to suffer in silence, while Webster was undergoing the painful
+experiences of the investigation, which had resulted in his being
+condemned to be hung as a spy.</p>
+
+<p>The meeting between Webster and Mrs. Lawton was a most affecting one.
+Tears filled the eyes of the faithful woman, as she gazed at the pale
+and emaciated form of the heroic patriot. Their hands were clasped in a
+warm pressure, and her words of heartfelt sympathy and grief were choked
+by the sobs which shook her frame. Even in the excess of his despair,
+Webster's fortitude never for a moment forsook him. He bore the burdens
+which had been imposed upon him with a courage and firmness that
+impressed all who witnessed it.</p>
+
+<p>Under Mrs. Lawton's direction, the room in which he was confined was
+soon made cheerful and clean; with her own hands she prepared for him
+such delicacies as he needed most, and her words of comfort were of
+great effect in soothing his mind, and in preparing him for the dreadful
+fate which he was called upon to meet.</p>
+
+<p>Nor did Mrs. Lawton stop here. She sought an interview with Jefferson
+Davis, but, finding him engaged with General Lee, she obtained the
+privilege of visiting the wife of the Confederate president. With Mrs.
+Davis she pleaded long and earnestly in behalf of the condemned man.
+Besought her by every holy tie of her own life to intercede for the
+pardon of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_550" id="Page_550">[Pg 550]</a></span> the poor invalid, whose life hung by so slender a thread.</p>
+
+<p>All in vain, however. While fully sympathizing with the fate of the
+unfortunate man, Mrs. Davis declined to interfere in matters of state,
+and Mrs. Lawton left the house utterly hopeless of being able to avert
+the dreadful fate which impended over Webster.</p>
+
+<p>The hours flew swiftly by, and the day of execution drew near, and still
+a ray of hope glistened through the gloom which surrounded him. If
+McClellan only succeeded in capturing Richmond all would be well. But as
+the days passed, and this result seemed further from accomplishment than
+ever, even that flickering ember of hope died out, and he prepared to
+meet his fate like a man.</p>
+
+<p>One thing, however, impressed the doomed man more than anything
+else&mdash;the thought of being hung. Any other mode of punishment would have
+been accepted with joy, but to be hanged like a murderer, was a disgrace
+which he could not bear to think about. On the day before his execution,
+he requested a visit from General Winder, and that officer, evidently
+expecting a revelation from the lips of his victim, soon made his
+appearance at the prison.</p>
+
+<p>As he entered the cell where Webster was reclining upon his couch, he
+roughly accosted him:</p>
+
+<p>"Webster you have sent for me; what is it that you desire?"</p>
+
+<p>"General Winder," replied Webster, "I have<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_551" id="Page_551">[Pg 551]</a></span> sent for you to make an
+appeal to your manhood; my fate is sealed. I know that too well&mdash;I am to
+die, and I wish to die like a man. I know there is no hope for mercy,
+but, sir, I beseech you to permit me to be shot, not be hanged like a
+common felon,&mdash;anything but that."</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid that cannot be done," said Winder, coldly.</p>
+
+<p>"It is not much to ask," pleaded Webster; "I am to die, and am prepared,
+but, sir, for God's sake let me not die like this; change but the manner
+of my death, and no murmur shall escape my lips."</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot alter the sentence that has been ordered."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Lawton, who was present, and unable further to restrain herself,
+exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"General, as a woman I appeal to you&mdash;you have the power, and can
+exercise it. Do not, I pray you, condemn this brave man to the odium of
+a felon's death. Think of his family, and his suffering. Let the
+manliness of your own heart plead for him. It is not much that he asks.
+He does not sue for pardon. He seeks not to escape your judgment, harsh
+and cruel as it is. He only prays to be allowed to die like a brave man
+in the service of his country. You certainly can lose nothing by
+granting this request, therefore, in the name of justice and humanity,
+let him be shot instead of the dreadful death you have ordained for
+him."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_552" id="Page_552">[Pg 552]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>While she was speaking, the hard lines about the rebel's mouth grew
+still more harsh and rigid. He did not attempt to interrupt her, but
+when she had finished, he turned coolly upon his heel, and, as he
+reached the door he said:</p>
+
+<p>"His request and yours must be denied. He hangs to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," ejaculated the undaunted woman, "he will die like a man, and his
+death will be upon your head,&mdash;a living curse until your own dark hour
+shall come!"</p>
+
+<p>Without deigning to notice them further, he passed out of the cell,
+violently closing the door behind him.</p>
+
+<p>The shadows of the night came down over the prison. The last night on
+earth to a brave man who had met death in a hundred forms ere this. How
+many times the gaunt, repulsive form of the fatal scaffold, appeared to
+the vision of the condemned man, as he sat firm and rigid in his dark
+cell, we may not know. How many times he lived over again the bright
+scenes of his past life! The happy, careless days of childhood, when the
+fond eyes of a loving mother beamed upon him in his sportive gambols.
+His school days, the lessons conned by the evening lamp in the dear old
+home of long ago. The merry days of youth, which glided away amid scenes
+of mirth and jollity. The first dawnings of the passion of his life,
+when a soft hand nestled lovingly in his, and earnest eyes, full of love
+and trust, seemed to speak a world<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_553" id="Page_553">[Pg 553]</a></span> of affection. Then the stirring
+scenes of active life, he a man among men battling with the world,
+performing his daily duties, mingling honorably with his fellows, and
+upheld by a pride of honor and self-respect. His sacrifices for his
+country in the dark hour of her peril. The lonely marches, the weary
+burdens, the unflinching steadfastness of his fealty to his government.
+The long nights of storm and danger, the varying episodes of pleasure
+and of pain, conflicts with enemies, and happy hours with friendly
+companions&mdash;all these thoughts came upon him with a distinctness which
+brought their actual presence near. Now he was listening to the sweet
+lullaby of his mother's voice, now he stood in the hall of the "Sons of
+Liberty," in the midst of affrighted conspirators and blue-coated
+soldiers&mdash;anon he strayed by a purling stream, with a loved one upon his
+arm&mdash;and again he breasted the dashing waters and the deluging storm on
+the bay, as he rescued the women and children from the stranded boat. So
+vivid were these pictures of his mind that he lived again a hundred
+scenes of his past life, partook of a hundred pleasures, shared in a
+hundred sorrows. Suddenly in the midst of some thrilling vision of
+by-gone days, the flickering of his lamp or the tread of the sentry
+outside would recall him from a delightful reverie to the dark and
+dreadful present. Then gloomy and despondent thoughts would come to him.
+He would picture minutely the scenes of the morrow, the rude platform,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_554" id="Page_554">[Pg 554]</a></span>
+the dangling noose, the armed soldiers, the hideous black cap, the
+springing of the gallows trap.</p>
+
+<p>Then, unable to bear the agony of his thoughts, he would start to his
+feet, press his hands to his ears, as if to drown the fearful sounds,
+and pace rapidly the narrow cell. Mrs. Lawton never left him; ever alert
+to his needs, ever ready with sustaining words, although her own brave,
+tender heart was breaking, she did her utmost to strengthen and sustain
+him. Gradually he became calmer. The slow moving hours passed on, and he
+resolutely performed the last duties that devolved upon him. Messages
+were confided to his unwavering nurse for the dear friends at home;
+expressions of love and regard for his kindred, and unswerving
+breathings of devotion to his country.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell Major Allen that I met my fate like a man. Thank him for his many
+acts of kindness to me. I have done my duty, and I can meet death with a
+brave heart and a clear conscience."</p>
+
+<p>The first faint streaks of the early dawn came in through the grated
+window; the sun was rising in the heavens, brightly and gloriously
+lighting up a day that should have been shrouded in gloom. Its beams
+illumined the little chamber, where Webster lay calm and wakeful, his
+hands clasped by the woman who had so nobly shared his captivity.</p>
+
+<p>A silence had fallen upon them. Each was busy with thoughts which lips
+could not utter, and the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_555" id="Page_555">[Pg 555]</a></span> death-like stillness was undisturbed save by
+the tramp of the guards in the corridor.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly there came the sound of hurried footsteps. They paused before
+the door. The heavy bolts were shot back, and in the doorway stood Cap.
+Alexander, the officer in charge.</p>
+
+<p>The little clock that ticked upon the wall noted a quarter past five
+o'clock.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, Webster, it is time to go."</p>
+
+<p>There was no sympathy in the rough voice which uttered these words.</p>
+
+<p>"To go where?" inquired Webster, starting up in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"To the fair grounds," was the laconic reply.</p>
+
+<p>"Surely not at this hour," pleaded the condemned man; "the earliest
+moment named in my death-warrant is six o'clock, and you certainly will
+not require me to go before that."</p>
+
+<p>"It is the order of General Winder, and I must obey," answered
+Alexander. "You must prepare yourself at once."</p>
+
+<p>Without another word Webster arose from his bed, and began his
+preparations. Not a tremor was apparent, and his hand was as steady and
+firm as iron. When he had fully arranged his toilet, he turned to Mrs.
+Lawton, and taking both her hands in his he murmured:</p>
+
+<p>"Good-bye, dear friend; we shall never meet again on earth. God bless
+you, and your kindness to me.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_556" id="Page_556">[Pg 556]</a></span> I will be brave, and die like a man.
+Farewell, forever!" then turning to Captain Alexander, who stood unmoved
+near the door, he said:</p>
+
+<p>"I am ready!"</p>
+
+<p>As they went out through the door, a piercing shriek rent the air, and
+Mrs. Lawton fell prostrate to the floor.</p>
+
+<p>Arriving at the entrance to the prison, they found a company of cavalry
+drawn up before them, and a carriage, procured by Mrs. Lawton, awaiting
+their appearance. Webster crossed the pavement with unfaltering step and
+entered the vehicle, the order to march was given, and the procession
+started for the scene of execution.</p>
+
+<p>At Camp Lee, the scene was one of bustle and excitement. Soldiers were
+moving about in companies, and in small detachments. Eager spectators
+were there, curious to watch the proceedings, and the streets leading to
+the grounds were lined with people whose prevailing emotion seemed to be
+that of idle curiosity.</p>
+
+<p>On arriving at the camp, Webster was conducted into a small room, on the
+ground floor of one of the buildings, and was left alone with the
+clergyman who had been requested to accompany him.</p>
+
+<p>Thus he remained for several hours. At ten minutes past eleven, the
+carriage was drawn up before the door, and Webster appeared leaning upon
+the arm of the jailer, and attended by his spiritual adviser.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_557" id="Page_557">[Pg 557]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The doomed man wore a look of calm composure. His face was pale, and the
+feebleness of his condition was manifest in his tottering walk; but his
+eye was clear and steady and not a muscle of his face betrayed his
+emotion.</p>
+
+<p>They reached the scaffold, which was erected on the north side of the
+parade ground. Slowly and painfully he ascended to the platform. Amid a
+breathless silence, he stood for a moment and gazed about him. The
+bright blue sky overhead, the muskets of the soldiers glistening in the
+rays of the sun, the white, eager faces which surrounded him. His last
+look on earth. Though much exhausted by his long illness, he stood alone
+and firmly whilst his arms were tied behind him and his feet were bound
+together.</p>
+
+<p>The black cap was placed over his head, and then followed a moment of
+solemn stillness. The entire assembly seemingly ceased to breathe. The
+signal was given, the trap was sprung, and, with a dreadful, sickening
+thud, Webster fell from the gibbet to the ground beneath. The hang-man's
+knot had slipped, and the man, bound hand and foot, lay in a confused
+heap, limp and motionless, before the gathered throng. He was lifted up
+and carried to the scaffold.</p>
+
+<p>"I suffer a double death," came from the lips of the dying man as he was
+again placed upon the readjusted trap. The rope was again placed around
+his neck, this time so tight as to be excruciatingly painful.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_558" id="Page_558">[Pg 558]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You will choke me to death this time," came in gurgling tones from
+within the enveloping hood.</p>
+
+<p>In a second the trap was again sprung, and the brave patriot was
+swinging in the air, between heaven and earth.</p>
+
+<p>Rebel vengeance was at last satisfied, the appetite for human blood was
+sated.</p>
+
+<p>Treason had done its worst, and the loyal spy was dead.</p>
+
+<p>Early in the afternoon, Captain Alexander returned to the prison, and
+informed Mrs. Lawton that all was over. He found her deathly pale, but
+now firm, and giving no other outward sign of the agony of the past few
+hours.</p>
+
+<p>"May I see him before he is taken away?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"There is no objection to that."</p>
+
+<p>Accompanying the officer, she went to the room in which the body lay,
+incased in a metallic coffin which Mrs. Lawton had procured. His face
+was not discolored in the least, and the features indicated the same
+Roman firmness which he exhibited when he left the prison. He died as he
+had lived&mdash;a brave man.</p>
+
+<p>Several rebel officers stood around the coffin. Turning suddenly upon
+them, and facing Captain Alexander, Mrs. Lawton, in a burst of passion,
+exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"Murderers! this is your work. If there is vengeance<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_559" id="Page_559">[Pg 559]</a></span> or retribution in
+this world, you will feel it before you die!"</p>
+
+<p>As if stung to the quick by this accusation, Captain Alexander stepped
+up to the coffin, and laying his hand upon Webster's cold, white
+forehead, said:</p>
+
+<p>"As sure as there is a God in Heaven, I am innocent of this deed. I did
+nothing to bring this about, and simply obeyed my orders in removing him
+from the prison to the place of execution."</p>
+
+<p>Application was made to General Winder for the privilege of sending
+Webster's body to the North, where it might be buried by his friends;
+but this the rebel officer peremptorily refused. A petition was then
+made that it be allowed to be placed in the vault in Richmond, with no
+better success. Not content with heaping ignominy upon him while living,
+the fiend was determined that even in death the patriot should be the
+subject of odium and contempt.</p>
+
+<p>In the dead hour of the night, he ordered the remains to be carried
+away, and buried in an obscure corner of the pauper's burying-ground.</p>
+
+<p>Farewell, brave spirit! I knew thee well. Brave, tender and true; thou
+hast suffered in a glorious cause, and died a martyr's death. Thy memory
+will long be green in the hearts of thy friends. When treason is
+execrated, and rebellion is scorned and despised, the tears of weeping
+friends will bedew the sod which rests above the martyred spy of the
+Rebellion&mdash;Timothy Webster.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_560" id="Page_560">[Pg 560]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>After the war was over, and peace once more reigned throughout the land,
+I procured his body, and it now lies in the soil of a loyal state&mdash;the
+shrine of the patriot&mdash;the resting-place of a hero.</p>
+
+<p>But little more remains to be told. After weary months of captivity,
+Mrs. Lawton, Price Lewis and John Scully, were sent to the North, where
+their stories were told, and from whose lips I learned the particulars I
+have narrated.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn4.jpg" width="448" height="193" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_561" id="Page_561">[Pg 561]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn11.jpg" width="448" height="121" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXVII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>The Defeat of General Pope at the second Battle of Manassas.&mdash;McClellan
+Again Called to the Command.&mdash;The Battle of Antietam.&mdash;A Union
+Victory.&mdash;A Few Thoughts about the Union Commander.&mdash;McClellan's Removal
+from Command and his Farewell Address.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>On the second day of September, 1862, the following order was issued:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i1">"War Department, Adj't.-Gen.'s Office,<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i5">"Washington, Sept. 2, 1862.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"Major-General McClellan will have command of the
+fortifications of Washington, and of all the troops for the
+defense of the Capital.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i26">"By order of<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i1">"<span class="smcap">E. D. Townsend</span>,      "Maj.-Gen. <span class="smcap">Halleck.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i6">Ass't. Adj't.-Gen."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+</div>
+
+<p>At this time the Federal troops, under General Pope, were retreating in
+great disorder from the disastrous defeat in the Virginia campaign, and
+the roads leading to Washington were, for the second time during the
+war, filled with stragglers from the ranks, making their way to the
+capital. It will be remembered that while McClellan and the main Eastern
+army were in the Peninsula, the divisions of McDowell, Fremont<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_562" id="Page_562">[Pg 562]</a></span> and
+Banks were, by orders of the government, held near Washington, for the
+protection of the national capital. On the 26th day of July, these
+forces were consolidated as the Army of Virginia, and placed under the
+command of General Pope. This army was guarding the line of the Rapidan.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after the retreat of the Union army under General McClellan, the
+Confederates, in August, 1862, began to move towards Washington.
+Stonewall Jackson, leading the advance of the Southern army, attacked
+Banks' force at Cedar Mountain, on the 6th day of August. Banks,
+however, was able to hold Jackson in check for some time; but the main
+body of the rebels arriving, Banks was compelled to retreat. Lee now
+pressed heavily upon Pope, who retreated northward from every position
+then held by him.</p>
+
+<p>When this movement became known to the authorities, General McClellan
+was ordered to hastily ship the Army of the Potomac back to Washington,
+and so persistent was General Halleck in his orders to that effect, that
+at the second battle of Manassas McClellan found himself completely
+stripped of his army&mdash;literally without a command&mdash;and compelled to
+submit to the mortification of listening to the roar of the battle from
+afar, and without being allowed to participate in its conflicts. Some
+idea of his feelings may be learned from a dispatch sent by him to
+General Halleck at this time:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_563" id="Page_563">[Pg 563]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"I cannot express to you the pain and mortification I have
+experienced to-day, in listening to the distant sound of the
+fighting of my men. As I can be of no further use here, I
+respectfully ask that if there is a probability of the
+conflict being renewed to-morrow, I may be permitted to go
+to the scene of battle with my staff, merely to be with my
+own men, if nothing more; they will fight none the worse for
+my being with them. If it is not deemed best to intrust me
+with the command even of my own army, I simply ask to be
+permitted to share their fate upon the field of battle."</p></div>
+
+<p>These appeals, however, were utterly disregarded. Gen. Pope was to
+command the army, and to do the fighting, and in the end the
+contemptuous superiors of the heroic commander suffered a crushing
+defeat in the bloodiest battle of this campaign. The second battle of
+Manassas was a most disastrous one, and on August 29-30 Pope's army was
+utterly defeated.</p>
+
+<p>Lee was now pressing forward, flushed with victory, and threatening
+Washington. On the 1st of September the battle of Chantilly was fought,
+and in which those brave Generals, Kearney and Stevens, lost their
+lives.</p>
+
+<p>Learning by bitter experience the culpable folly of ignoring the genius
+and bravery of McClellan, and with the rebel army besieging the capital,
+General Halleck, in the excess of fear, was forced to again call for the
+services of the gallant commander of the Army of the Potomac, and
+General<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_564" id="Page_564">[Pg 564]</a></span> McClellan was once more placed in command of an army defeated
+and demoralized by the incompetency of its generals.</p>
+
+<p>The broken army of Pope was now united with that of the Army of the
+Potomac, and the army of Virginia ceased to exist as a separate
+organization. With the intense enthusiasm of the soldiers for McClellan,
+he soon brought order out of chaos, and in an incredibly short space of
+time he faced them about, in orderly columns, and started to repel the
+invading army of Lee, who was now crossing the Potomac.</p>
+
+<p>From reports made by my operatives at this time, it was ascertained that
+Lee had abandoned, if, indeed, he ever seriously entertained the idea of
+advancing directly upon the capital, and was now contemplating carrying
+the campaign into Maryland. Longstreet's division had left Richmond
+about the 5th day of August for Gordonsville, marching to Orange
+Court-house, he fell back to Gordonsville. Jackson fell back at the same
+time, and they both participated in the battle of Manassas, and in the
+fighting that followed. Jackson then crossed the river into Maryland,
+before Longstreet, who crossed a few days later, at or near Edwards'
+Ferry.</p>
+
+<p>On the 4th day of September, my operatives, who were watching the
+movement of the rebel army, reported that Lee had his headquarters on
+the Aldie turnpike, near Dranesville; while Jackson was near Fairfax
+Court-house. On the 9th, it was understood<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_565" id="Page_565">[Pg 565]</a></span> that the rebels had moved
+their entire army into Virginia, and it was presumed that his objective
+point was Baltimore.</p>
+
+<p>General McClellan left Washington on the 7th day of September, and
+established his headquarters at Rockville, having first made all
+arrangements for the defense of Washington, and placing General Banks in
+command of the troops at that place. By this time it was known that the
+mass of the rebel army had passed up the south side of the Potomac
+river, in the direction of Leesburg, and that a part of the army had
+crossed the river into Maryland.</p>
+
+<p>The uncertainty of Lee's intentions greatly distracted the authorities
+at Washington for the safety of that city, and they were fearful that he
+would make a feint towards Pennsylvania, and then suddenly seize the
+opportunity to attack the capital.</p>
+
+<p>Some writers have animadverted freely upon the alleged "slowness" of
+McClellan's movements up the Potomac, and his "delay" in offering battle
+to Lee before the latter had time to unite his army and occupy the
+strong position he held at Antietam; but they persistently ignore the
+fact that the dispatches from the commander-in-chief at Washington, to
+McClellan in the field, from the 7th to the 16th of September, were
+filled with cautions against a too hasty advance, and the consequent
+impropriety of exposing Washington to an attack. Indeed, it seems
+evident to me, when I regard the career of the Army<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_566" id="Page_566">[Pg 566]</a></span> of the Potomac,
+that had those in power in Washington been less concerned for their own
+safety, and trusted more to the skill and sagacity of the general in the
+field to direct its movements, the history of that army would have been
+widely different from what it is. The campaign of the Peninsula
+terminated disastrously to the Union arms, and it was mainly due to this
+real or assumed fear of the authorities for the safety of Washington.</p>
+
+<p>It is not presuming too much to say, that McClellan knew far better than
+those at Washington the movements and intentions of the enemy, and that
+he was apprised of them sooner; but it is equally true that a certain
+element in the Cabinet was unfriendly to the secret service branch of
+the army, and, with characteristic stubbornness, placed but little
+reliance upon the information obtained from this source.</p>
+
+<p>For instance, General Halleck was of the opinion, on the evening of the
+day before Antietam, that Lee's whole force had crossed the river, and
+so telegraphed McClellan, when the fact was that the rebel army was
+actually in our front, and ready for the battle that so speedily
+followed.</p>
+
+<p>Still, the importance of moving with extreme caution was kept constantly
+in view, and the army was moved so that it extended from the railroad to
+the Potomac River, the extreme left flank resting on that stream.</p>
+
+<p>On the twelfth of September, a portion of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_567" id="Page_567">[Pg 567]</a></span> right wing of the army
+entered Frederick, Md., and on the following day the main body of the
+right and the center wings arrived, only to find that the enemy had
+marched out of the place two days before, taking the roads to
+Boonesboro' and Harper's Ferry.</p>
+
+<p>Lee had left a force to dispute the possession of the passes, through
+which the roads across South Mountain ran, while he had dispatched
+Jackson to effect the capture of Harper's Ferry. In these plans he was
+partially frustrated, for, while Jackson succeeded in capturing Harper's
+Ferry, McClellan drove the rebel troops from the passes, after short but
+vigorous engagements at South Mountain, on September 14th, but failed in
+his efforts to relieve Harper's Ferry, and that place was surrendered on
+the following day.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately following the actions at South Mountain, Lee, being closely
+pressed by McClellan, turned at bay in the beautiful valley of the
+Antietam. Here he resolved to endeavor to hold his position until he
+could concentrate his army. His forces at this time numbered about forty
+thousand men.</p>
+
+<p>On the sixteenth, he was reinforced by Jackson's gallant corps,
+numbering about five thousand men, which, together with other
+reinforcements, received during the day, swelled his numbers to fifty
+thousand men, which, in the language of one of their own writers,
+constituted "the very flower of the Army of Northern Virginia."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_568" id="Page_568">[Pg 568]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Our own forces did not exceed eighty-five thousand men, and it is but
+correct to say that not seventy thousand were actually engaged on the
+day of the great battle. My own judgment is, that at no time during the
+fight was the Confederate army ever confronted by a force outnumbering
+their own.</p>
+
+<p>Confederate writers have sought to make it appear that Lee, at Antietam,
+fought and practically defeated a force in excess of his own in the
+ratio of three to one. This assertion is proven to be a glaring error,
+for the facts are that the odds were less than three to two, even in
+point of actual numerical strength present, while, all things
+considered, these were reduced until the two armies faced each other on
+the morning of Antietam pretty evenly opposed, and with no decided
+advantage in favor of either contestant.</p>
+
+<p>To explain: taking it for granted that McClellan had eighty-seven
+thousand men at roll-call on the morning of the seventeenth, it is now
+known that the battle was mainly fought by the First, Second, Ninth and
+Twelfth Corps, while the Fifth and Sixth Corps and the Cavalry Division
+were scarcely used at all. In addition to this, it should be remembered
+that ours was the attacking force; that the enemy occupied a chosen
+position, and therefore, in this view of the situation, the odds were by
+no means great in favor of the Federal troops.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 704px;">
+<img src="images/illus024.jpg" width="704" height="375" alt="&quot;My horse was shot under me while crossing the stream.&quot;
+P. 569" title="" />
+<span class="caption">&quot;My horse was shot under me while crossing the stream.&quot;
+P. 569</span>
+</div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_569" id="Page_569">[Pg 569]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>On the morning of the sixteenth, being then at headquarters, and
+desiring to learn from personal observation something of the position of
+the enemy, I accompanied a party of cavalry sent out to reconnoitre
+across the Antietam. Here it was discovered that the enemy had changed
+the position of some of their batteries, while their left and center
+were upon and in front of the Sharpsburg and Hagerstown turnpike, and
+their extreme left rested upon the wooded heights near the cross-roads
+to the north.</p>
+
+<p>While returning from this reconnoitering expedition, fire was opened
+upon us from a masked battery upon the hill, and my horse, a beautiful
+sorrel, that had carried me for months, and to which I was much
+attached, was shot from under me while I was crossing the stream.
+Several of the men who accompanied me were seriously wounded, and I
+narrowly escaped with my life.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, at early dawn, the battle commenced, and raged with
+unabated fury until nightfall, when the rebels withdrew, and our
+soldiers slept that night upon a dearly won, yet decisively victorious
+field. McClellan determined not to renew the attack upon the following
+day, for which his critics have censured him severely; yet, I am
+satisfied, that not a few writers, who have fought, <i>on paper</i>, the
+battle of Antietam, just as it should have been fought in their own
+estimation, have not, in a single instance, given the subject more
+painful and anxious thought than did the General himself, during all
+that night, while<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_570" id="Page_570">[Pg 570]</a></span> his weary troops lay resting on their arms, on a
+field covered with their own and their enemy's dead.</p>
+
+<p>No better reasons can be assigned, and, indeed, none better need be
+given for the course he pursued, than he, himself, has stated in his own
+report of that battle. He says: "I am aware of the fact, that, under
+ordinary circumstances, a General is expected to risk a battle if he has
+a reasonable prospect of success; but at this critical juncture, I
+should have had a narrow view of the condition of the country, had I
+been willing to hazard another battle with less than an absolute
+assurance of success. At that moment, Virginia lost, Washington menaced,
+Maryland invaded, the National cause could afford no risks of defeat.
+One battle lost, and almost all would have been lost. Lee's army might
+then have marched as it pleased on Baltimore, Washington, Philadelphia
+or New York. It could have levied its supplies from a fertile and
+undevastated country, extorted tribute from wealthy and populous cities,
+and nowhere east of the Alleghanies was there another organized force
+able to arrest its march."</p>
+
+<p>The day after the battle, however, General McClellan gave orders for a
+renewal of the attack on the morning of the nineteenth; but when morning
+dawned, it was discovered that the rebels had suddenly abandoned their
+position and retreated across the river, leaving nearly three thousand
+of their unburied dead on the late field of battle. Thirteen guns,
+thirty-nine<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_571" id="Page_571">[Pg 571]</a></span> colors, upwards of fifteen thousand stand of small arms,
+and more than six thousand prisoners, were taken in the battles of South
+Mountain, Crampton's Gap and Antietam, while not a single gun or color
+was lost by our troops in any of these encounters.</p>
+
+<p>The Battle of Antietam, in its effects, was a brilliant and decisive
+victory for the Union arms, as it was a terrible blow to the South, who
+had expected much from Lee's sudden and daring invasion of a loyal
+state; and their losses, from the time they first invaded Maryland until
+the end of the Battle of Antietam, were in the neighborhood of thirty
+thousand men.</p>
+
+<p>Whatever, therefore, has been said by unfriendly critics, concerning
+General McClellan's achievements, they must be regarded by the
+intelligent and fair-minded student of history, as far from being
+failures. Nor were they merely the achievements of an ordinary man. It
+is an easy, and no doubt a tempting task, nearly twenty years after a
+battle has occurred, and with the knowledge and materials now at hand,
+for writers to fight this battle over again, and point out alleged
+blunders here and there, and in their vivid, and not always truthful,
+imaginations conduct affairs as they should have been conducted.</p>
+
+<p>It may be safely asserted, that no General in the history of the Nation
+was ever so shamefully treated by his government, as was General
+McClellan. With a brave and noble devotion, and with a self-sacrificing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_572" id="Page_572">[Pg 572]</a></span>
+love for his country and her flag, he fearlessly offered his life and
+his services in sustaining the honor of the one, and the perpetuity of
+the other.</p>
+
+<p>Reviewing his career from the date of his taking command of all the
+armies, down to the close of the battle of Antietam, he received the
+bitter opposition of the Cabinet, and the ill-concealed enmity of the
+politicians; and scarcely had he been called to this important position,
+than his enemies began working to effect his downfall. With such
+persistence and success did they devote themselves to their task, that
+by the time he had his Army of the Potomac ready for the field, they had
+practically deposed him as the Commander-in-Chief.</p>
+
+<p>His plans of the campaign were required to be submitted to a body of
+twelve of his subordinates for approval, and this ridiculous proceeding
+ended in their adoption by a vote of eight to four. The next day the
+enemy abandoned Manassas, a move which was the result of direct treason,
+or, at least, criminal indiscretion on the part of some member of that
+commission, either directly or indirectly. After his plans were adopted,
+and their execution commenced, he was hampered and distressed by orders
+from his superiors at Washington, conflicting with his own well formed
+ideas and deranging his carefully prepared plans in the field.</p>
+
+<p>He, however, bore all these things patiently, and at all times
+faithfully endeavored to do the very best,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_573" id="Page_573">[Pg 573]</a></span> under the adverse
+circumstances which surrounded him. He, however, at all times, had the
+courage to speak his convictions, knowing the purity of his own actions,
+notwithstanding the fact that he was frequently called upon to execute
+orders that his own better judgment convinced him were conceived in
+ignorance or malice, and which could but do harm to him and to the cause
+he loved.</p>
+
+<p>On July 7, 1862, we find him writing to the President his views on the
+conduct of the war. He said:</p>
+
+<p>"In carrying out any system of policy which you may form, you will
+require a Commander-in-Chief of the army, one who possesses your
+confidence, understands your views, and who is competent to execute your
+orders by directing the military forces of the nation to the
+accomplishment of the objects by you proposed. I do not ask that place
+for myself, I am willing to serve you in such position as you may assign
+me, and I will do so as faithfully as ever subordinate served superior.
+I may be on the brink of eternity, and as I hope for forgiveness from my
+Maker, I have written this letter from sincerity towards you, and from
+love for my country."</p>
+
+<p>Through all his correspondence, while in the field, with his superiors,
+there breathed a spirit of earnest and sincere devotion to country; and
+rarely was he tempted to utter words which proved how sorely he was
+tried and how much he resented the interference of incompetent
+authority. When pushed beyond all<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_574" id="Page_574">[Pg 574]</a></span> control by the foolish, unfriendly
+and unjust course of those at Washington, and when their interference
+had caused the failure of his plans, he wrote to Secretary of War
+Stanton, "You have done your best to sacrifice this army," and even then
+the words were written more in a tone of regret than of anger.</p>
+
+<p>Nearly a month later, when the order was issued for the withdrawal of
+the Army of the Potomac before Richmond, under the full force of his
+convictions, he uttered a manly protest against such action, and
+entreated that the order might be rescinded. "All points," said he, "of
+secondary importance elsewhere should be abandoned, and every available
+man brought here. A decided victory here and the strength of the
+rebellion is crushed, it matters not what partial reverses we may meet
+with elsewhere. <i>Here is the true defense of Washington; it is here, on
+the banks of the James, that the fate of the Union should be decided.</i>
+Clear in my convictions of right, strong in the consciousness that I
+have ever been and still am actuated by love of my country,... I do now,
+what I never did in my life before, I entreat that this order may be
+rescinded."</p>
+
+<p>How true these words were, and how prophetic their scope, may be proven
+by the words of General Sheridan several years later. When Grant was
+compelled at last to adopt the very plans of McClellan, thus giving as
+practical a vindication of that general as could be desired, Sheridan
+sent a message<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_575" id="Page_575">[Pg 575]</a></span> to Grant, but a little while before the surrender,
+urging him to come with all the force he could command in pursuit of
+Lee, saying, "<i>Here is the end of the rebellion.</i>" A fit corollary to
+McClellan's dispatch from James River to Halleck: "<i>Here, directly in
+front of this army, is the heart of the rebellion.</i>"</p>
+
+<p>No general in this country, or in any other, was more universally
+beloved and admired by his troops, and no commander ever returned that
+affection with more warmth than did McClellan. Troops that under other
+commanders suffered defeat after defeat, until dismayed and discouraged
+they fled to Washington, followed by a pursuing and exultant enemy, were
+in a few days, by his magical influence over them, again transformed
+into brave and hopeful soldiers, ready to follow anywhere their trusted
+commander might lead.</p>
+
+<p>It is a strange fact, but a fact, nevertheless, that the Army of the
+Potomac received all its good words, words of cheer and encouragement,
+from McClellan alone. Those in power at the capital were painfully blind
+to its sufferings on the toilsome march, or its deeds of valor on the
+bloody field. After the battle of Antietam, and after the Army of the
+Potomac had driven Lee from Maryland, General McClellan telegraphed his
+chief as follows: "I have the honor to report that Maryland is entirely
+freed from the presence of the enemy, who has been driven across<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_576" id="Page_576">[Pg 576]</a></span> the
+Potomac. No fears need now be entertained for the safety of
+Pennsylvania; I shall at once occupy Harper's Ferry."</p>
+
+<p>Two days later, receiving no word of acknowledgement for his troops,
+whom he felt had earned them from the Commander-in-Chief, he, in a
+telegram of September 20th, said: "I regret that you have not yet found
+leisure to say one word in commendation of the recent achievements of
+this army or even to allude to them."</p>
+
+<p>Before this, he had taken occasion to remind General Halleck of the fact
+that the army deserved some credit for its labors, and appreciated any
+acknowledgment of the same which the Commander-in-Chief might make.</p>
+
+<p>On August 18th, 1862, and after the fighting before Richmond, he wrote
+to General Halleck as follows:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"Please say a kind word to my army, that I can repeat to
+them in general orders, in regard to their conduct at
+Yorktown, Williamsburg, West Point, Hanover Court-house, and
+on the Chickahominy, as well as in regard to the seven days,
+and the recent retreat. No one has ever said anything to
+cheer them but myself. Say nothing about me; merely give my
+men and officers credit for what they have done. It will do
+you much good, and strengthen you much with them, if you
+issue a handsome order to them in regard to what they have
+accomplished. They deserve it."</p></div><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_577" id="Page_577">[Pg 577]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Is it any wonder, then, that the army exhibited such splendid enthusiasm
+for their leader, when they, above all others, were fully acquainted
+with his character as a man and a general?</p>
+
+<p>Self was his last and least consideration. Always mindful of the comfort
+of his men, yet inculcating, by his splendid discipline, the essential
+requisites of the true soldier, he led his troops through the campaigns
+of the Peninsula and of Maryland, achieving a record that was a credit
+to him, his army, and the nation, and is an enduring monument to the
+faithful devotion and the gallant services of the Army of the Potomac. I
+cannot close this chapter in more fitting words than those used by
+General McClellan, in his brief and affectionate farewell to his
+officers and men, after the battle of Antietam, when, having won a
+victory at a critical period, he was, as a reward, relieved from his
+command.</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i36">"November 7th, 1862.<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Officers and soldiers of the Army of the Potomac:<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"An order of the President devolves upon Major-General
+Burnside the command of this army. In parting from you I
+cannot express the love and gratitude I bear you. As an
+army, you have grown up under my care. In you I have never
+found doubt or coldness. The battles you have fought under
+my command will proudly live in our nation's history. The
+glory you have achieved, our mutual perils and fatigues, the
+graves of our comrades fallen in battle and by disease, the
+broken forms of those whom<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_578" id="Page_578">[Pg 578]</a></span> wounds and sickness have
+disabled&mdash;the strongest associations which can exist among
+men&mdash;unite us still by an indissoluble tie. We shall ever be
+comrades in supporting the constitution of our country and
+the nationality of its people."</p></div>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 160px;">
+<img src="images/orn2.jpg" width="160" height="144" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_579" id="Page_579">[Pg 579]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn3.jpg" width="448" height="116" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><i>General Burnside in Command.&mdash;My Connection with the Secret Service
+Severed.&mdash;Reflections upon Important Events.&mdash;Conclusion.</i></h3>
+
+
+<p>On the evening of the seventh of November, following the battle of
+Antietam, General McClellan was removed from the command of the Army of
+the Potomac. After having spent weeks in the laborious effort of
+reorganizing his forces, which had been severely shattered and weakened
+by the hard marching and the still harder fighting in the recent battles
+with Lee, the brave commander, upon the eve of an important forward
+movement was deprived of his noble army. General Burnside was named as
+his successor. Again had the political cabal at Washington succeeded in
+their opposition to the noble commander of the Army of the Potomac, and
+this time effectually.</p>
+
+<p>McClellan's tardiness was the alleged cause of his removal. No one in
+authority seemed to consider for a moment the necessity, which was
+apparent to their immediate commander, of affording the Federal<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_580" id="Page_580">[Pg 580]</a></span> troops
+an opportunity to recuperate from their exhausted condition. The serious
+losses sustained at South Mountain, Crampton's Gap, and Antietam had
+left the army badly disorganized, and the privations and hardships to
+which they had been subjected, rendered a delay, for the purpose of
+allowing the worn and weary soldiers time to rest and recuperate, an
+absolute necessity. In the language of McClellan, "The Army had need of
+rest." After the terrible experiences of battles and marches, with
+scarcely an interval of repose, which they had gone through from the
+time of leaving the Peninsula; the return to Washington; the defeat in
+Virginia; the victory at South Mountain, and again at Antietam, it was
+not surprising that they were, in a large degree, destitute of the
+absolute necessities for effective duty. Shoes were worn out; blankets
+were lost; clothing was in rags; the army was unfit for duty, and time
+for rest and equipment was absolutely necessary.</p>
+
+<p>McClellan at once notified the authorities of the condition of his
+troops, and made the necessary requisitions on the proper departments
+for the needed supplies. For some unaccountable reason&mdash;unaccountable to
+this day&mdash;the supplies ordered were so slow in reaching the men, that
+when, on the seventh of October, the command came for him to cross the
+river into Virginia, and give battle to the enemy, a compliance with the
+order was practically impossible.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_581" id="Page_581">[Pg 581]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Then, too, re-enforcements were needed. In ordering the advance, the
+President, through the General-in-Chief, had submitted two plans, of
+which McClellan could take his choice. One was to advance up the valley
+of the Shenandoah with reenforcements of fifteen thousand troops, the
+other was to cross the river between the enemy and Washington, in which
+case he was to be reenforced with thirty thousand men. McClellan's first
+inclination was to adopt the movement up the Shenandoah Valley,
+believing, that, if he crossed the river into Virginia, Lee would be
+enabled to promptly prevent success in that direction by at once
+throwing his army into Maryland. Owing, however, to the delay of the
+supplies in reaching the army, it was nearly the end of October before
+the troops were ready to move. About the twenty-sixth, the army
+commenced to cross at Harper's Ferry, and by the sixth of November the
+advance upon the enemy was begun. On the night of the seventh,
+therefore, when the order came relieving him from the command,
+McClellan's advance guard was actually engaged with the enemy.</p>
+
+<p>I had already learned that Longstreet was immediately in our front, near
+Culpepper, while Jackson and Hill's forces were near Chester's and
+Thornton's Gap, west of the Blue Ridge. McClellan had formed the plan of
+attempting to divide the enemy, with the hope of forcing him to battle,
+when it was believed, an easy victory would be achieved.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_582" id="Page_582">[Pg 582]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>At this juncture, however, and when the army was in an excellent
+condition to fight a great battle, when officers and men were
+enthusiastic in their hopes of being able soon to strike an effective
+blow, McClellan was removed, and Stanton had, at last, accomplished his
+revenge. Not only this, but he had also secured the failure of, what was
+undoubtedly destined to be, a great and decisively victorious campaign.</p>
+
+<p>McClellan's plan on discovering the position of the enemy's forces, was
+to strike in between Culpepper Court House and Little Washington, hoping
+by this means to separate the rebel army, or at least to force their
+retreat to Gordonsville, and then advance upon Richmond, either by way
+of Fredericksburg or the Peninsula.</p>
+
+<p>Burnside, on assuming the command, submitted a plan of his own, which
+was to make a feint of doing, what McClellan really intended to do,
+before adopting the move upon Fredericksburg or the Peninsula, and then
+to advance from Fredericksburg.</p>
+
+<p>This plan, however, did not meet the approval of General Halleck. That
+General had a long conference with Burnside, at Warrenton. Here their
+various plans were discussed, without either agreeing to the plan of the
+other, and the matter was finally referred to the President for his
+decision. After a further delay of several days, Mr. Lincoln adopted
+Burnside's plan, and the advance was ordered.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_583" id="Page_583">[Pg 583]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The success of this plan depended upon the immediate possession of
+Fredericksburg by the Federal army. The intelligent student knows full
+well that this was not even <i>attempted</i> until Lee had ample time to
+heavily re-enforce the rebel army already there. The subsequent results
+show Burnside's delay to have been fatal to his success.</p>
+
+<p>There was a time when he could certainly have taken Fredericksburg, with
+but little loss; but that time was passed when he permitted the enemy to
+fully garrison the place, and make ample provision for its defense with
+an army of nearly ninety thousand men.</p>
+
+<p>At this time, however, my connection with the Army of the Potomac, and
+with the military concerns of the government, ceased. Upon the removal
+of General McClellan, I declined to act any further in the capacity in
+which I had previously served, although strongly urged to do so by both
+President Lincoln and the Secretary of War, Edwin M. Stanton.</p>
+
+<p>From my earliest manhood, I had been an ardent and active abolitionist,
+and I have endeavored to demonstrate this fact throughout these pages.
+My deep admiration, therefore, for General McClellan, was the result of
+my knowledge, of my intimate acquaintance with him, and a consequent
+high regard, based upon his innate and intrinsic qualities, both as a
+man and a soldier, and not from any political affinity whatever.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_584" id="Page_584">[Pg 584]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Refusing longer to continue with the army under its new commander, I was
+afterwards employed by the government in the work of investigating the
+numerous claims that were presented against the United States. While
+acting in this capacity, I was instrumental in unearthing a vast number
+of fraudulent claims, and, in bringing to justice a large number of men
+who were engaged in the base attempt to swindle and defraud the nation
+in the dark hours of her need and peril.</p>
+
+<p>In the Spring of 1864, I was transferred to the Department of the
+Mississippi, under General Canby, and my headquarters were located at
+New Orleans. Here I was engaged in looking after cotton claims, and the
+frauds which were sought to be perpetrated against the government in
+that region of the country.</p>
+
+<p>In 1865, I severed my connection with the "Secret Service of the United
+States," and returned to Chicago, where I have since been engaged in the
+active prosecution of my profession as a detective.</p>
+
+<p>Very often, as I sit in the twilight, my mind reverts back to those
+stirring scenes of by-gone days; to those years of war and its
+consequent hardships, and I recall with pleasure my own connection with
+the suppression of the rebellion. My subsequent life has been none the
+less happy because of my having assisted, as best as I could, in putting
+down that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_585" id="Page_585">[Pg 585]</a></span> gigantic act of attempted disunion, and in upholding the flag
+of our fathers. More than all do I rejoice in the freedom it brought to
+nearly half a million of people, who, prior to that time, had been held
+in inhuman bondage,&mdash;striking the shackles from their bruised limbs, and
+placing them before the law free and independent.</p>
+
+<p>My task is done. In a few brief pages I have attempted to depict the
+work of years. The war is over, the rebellion has been crushed, peace
+and plenty are everywhere apparent. The flag of the Union floats from
+every port in the United States, the slave is free, the South is
+recovering from the ravages of war, and the stories of those stirring
+times seem now like the legends of an olden time.</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>One more scene remains, and I will then draw the curtain.</p>
+
+<p>It is a Sabbath morning, the air is fragrant with blossom and flower,
+the birds are carolling sweetly a requiem for the dead. Around us,
+sleeping the sleep that knows no waking, lie the forms of those whom we
+knew and loved. We are in the "city of the dead." The wind sighs through
+the waving branches of the trees, with a mournful melody, suggestive of
+the place. Near by is the bustling city, but here we are surrounded only
+by the mute, though eloquent testimonies of man's eternal rest. Here
+beneath a drooping willow let us pause awhile. Flowers are blooming<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_586" id="Page_586">[Pg 586]</a></span>
+over a mound of earth, saturating the atmosphere with a grateful aroma.
+Let us lean over while we read what is inscribed upon the marble tablet.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 500px;">
+<img src="images/obit_p586.jpg" width="500" height="613" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" /><p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_587" id="Page_587">[Pg 587]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 448px;">
+<img src="images/orn7.jpg" width="448" height="148" alt="" title="" />
+</div>
+<h2>APPENDIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE HARDSHIPS AND PRIVATIONS OF A DETECTIVE'S LIFE</h3>
+
+
+<p>Every person who may have survived the experience has undoubtedly a
+lively recollection of the wild groups of people which the building of
+the Union and Central Pacific Railroads brought together from all
+directions, and from all causes.</p>
+
+<p>There were millions upon millions of dollars to be expended; and as the
+points of construction neared each other, and the twin bands of iron
+crept along the earth's surface like two huge serpents, spanning mighty
+rivers, penetrating vast mountains, and trailing through majestic
+forests, creeping slowly but surely towards each other, there was always
+the greatest dread at the most advanced points, which, like the heads of
+serpents, always contained danger and death; and the vast cities of a
+day that then<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_588" id="Page_588">[Pg 588]</a></span> sprang into existence, and melted away like
+school-children's snow-houses, were the points where such wild scenes
+were enacted as will probably never again occur in the history of
+railroad building.</p>
+
+<p>Everything contributed to make these places typical of Babelic
+confusion, or Pandemoniac contention. Foreigners were told of the
+exhaustless work, and the exhaustless wealth, of this new country which
+was being so rapidly developed, and they came; men&mdash;brave men, too&mdash;who
+had been on the wrong side during the late irritation, and who had lost
+all, having staked all on the result of the war, saw a possible
+opportunity of retrieving their fortunes rapidly, and they came; the
+big-headed youth of the village whose smattering of books at the
+academy, or the seminary, had enlarged his brain and contracted his
+sense so that he was too good for the common duties and everyday
+drudgeries which, with patience, lead to success, learned of the glory
+and grandeur of that new land, and he came; the speculating shirk and
+the peculating clerk came; the almond-eyed sons of the Orient in
+herds&mdash;herds of quick-witted, patient, plodding beings who could be
+beaten, starved, even murdered&mdash;came; the forger, the bruiser, the
+counterfeiter, the gambler, the garroter, the prostitute, the robber,
+and the murderer, each and every, came; there was adventure for the
+adventurous, gold for the thief, waiting throats for the murderer; while
+the few respectable people quickly became discouraged, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_589" id="Page_589">[Pg 589]</a></span> fell into
+the general looseness of habits that the loose life engendered, and
+gradually grew reckless as the most reckless, or quickly acquiesced in
+the wild orgies or startling crimes which were of common occurrence. In
+fact, as in the human system, when any portion of it becomes diseased
+and all the poison in the blood flows to it, further corrupting and
+diseasing it until arrested by a gradual purification of the whole body,
+or by some severe treatment, so from every portion of the country flowed
+these streams of morally corrupt people, until nearly every town west of
+Missouri, or east of the mountains, along these lines, became a terror
+to honest people, and continued so until an irresistible conflict
+compelled a moral revulsion, sometimes so sweeping and violent as to
+cause an application of that unwritten, though often exceedingly just
+law, the execution of which leaves offenders dangling to limbs of trees,
+lamp-posts, and other convenient points of suspension.</p>
+
+<p>As a rule, in these places, every man, whatever his business and
+condition, was thoroughly armed, the question of self-defense being a
+paramount one, from the fact that laws which governed older communities
+were completely a dead letter; and the law of might, in a few instances
+made somewhat respectable by a faint outline of ruffianly honor, alone
+prevailed, until advancing civilization and altered conditions brought
+about a better state of society; so that in these reckless crowds which
+pushed after the constantly changing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_590" id="Page_590">[Pg 590]</a></span> termini of the approaching roads,
+any instrument of bloodshed was considered valuable, and stores where
+arms and ammunition could be secured did quite as large a trade as those
+devoted to any other branch of business; while so outrageous was the
+price extorted for these instruments of aggression or defense, that they
+have often been known to sell for their weight in gold; and just as,
+during the war, the army was followed by enterprising traders who turned
+many an honest penny trafficking at the heels of the weary soldiers, so
+the same class of people were not slow to take advantage of such
+opportunities for gigantic profits which, though often lessened by the
+many risks run in such trading, were still heavy enough to prove
+peculiarly attractive.</p>
+
+<p>As a consequence, there were many firms engaged in this particular
+business, but probably the heaviest was that of Kuhn Brothers, who were
+reported to be worth upwards of one hundred thousand dollars, which had
+principally been made along the line of the road, and who, with
+headquarters at Cheyenne, had established various "stores" at different
+points as the Union Pacific was pushed on, always keeping the largest
+stock at the most advanced point, and withdrawing stocks from the paper
+cities which had been left behind, though only in those towns which had
+not been altogether destroyed by the periodical exodus occasioned by
+each change of terminus.</p>
+
+<p>For this reason the firms were obliged to entrust<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_591" id="Page_591">[Pg 591]</a></span> their business to the
+honesty of many different employ&eacute;s, who were subject to the vitiating
+influences and temptations, which were unusual and severe under the
+circumstances already mentioned, while the distances between the points,
+and the scarcity of secure means of safely keeping the large sums of
+money which would occasionally unavoidably accrue at certain points,
+left Kuhn Brothers, in many instances, really dependent on those
+dependent on them.</p>
+
+<p>In this condition of affairs, and after a slight defalcation had
+occurred at one of their smaller stores in the spring of 1867, the firm
+were seeking a man whom they could place in actual charge of one or two
+of their establishments at the larger towns, and give a sort of general
+supervision over the others, when the senior member of the firm, being
+in Laramie, casually met a young gentleman, who happened to be able to
+do him so great a favor that the incident led to a close friendship and
+ultimate business relations, eventually resulting in this narrative of
+facts.</p>
+
+<p>It was a pleasant May evening, and Mr. Kuhn had decided to returned to
+Cheyenne in order to secure a proper man for the superintendency nearer
+home. He was to have left Laramie for the East at a late hour of the
+evening and, being at a loss how to pass the intervening time, strolled
+out from the hotel with no particular destination in view and his mind
+fully occupied with the cares of his business,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_592" id="Page_592">[Pg 592]</a></span> only occasionally
+noticing some peculiarity or strange sight more than usually striking
+among the thousands of weird things, to which his frontier business had
+compelled him to become accustomed, when suddenly he found himself in
+front of a mammoth dance-house, and, yielding to a momentary impulse of
+curiosity, turned into the place with the stream of gamblers,
+adventurers, greasers, and, in fact, everybody respectable or otherwise,
+who, so far from civilization, found such a place peculiarly attractive.</p>
+
+<p>The dance-house was a sort of hell's bazaar, if the term may be
+allowed&mdash;and it is certainly the one most befitting it&mdash;and was really
+no "house" at all, being merely a very large board enclosure covered
+with a gigantic tent or series of tents, bedecked with flags and gaudy
+streamers. The entrance fee to this elegant place of amusement was one
+dollar, and you had only paid an initiatory fee when you had gained
+admission.</p>
+
+<p>On either side as you entered were immense bars, built of the roughest
+of boards, where every kind of liquid poison was dispensed at the
+moderate sum of twenty-five cents a drink, five-cent cigars selling at
+the same price, and the united efforts of a half-dozen murderous looking
+bar-tenders at each side were required to assuage the thirst of the
+quite as murderous looking crowd that swayed back and forth within the
+space evidently prepared for that purpose.</p>
+
+<p>Beyond this point, and to either side, as also<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_593" id="Page_593">[Pg 593]</a></span> down the center for some
+distance, could be found almost every known game of chance, dealt, of
+course, "by the house," while surrounding the lay-outs were every
+description of men crazed with drink, flushed with success, or deathly
+pale from sudden ruin; while everywhere the revolver or the bowie
+intimated with what terrible swiftness and certainty any trifling
+dispute, rankling grudge, or violent insult would be settled, one way or
+the other, and to be marked by the mere pitching of an inanimate form
+into the street!</p>
+
+<p>After these attractions came a stout partition which had evidently been
+found necessary, for beyond it there was the strikingly strange heaven
+of a mushroom city&mdash;a vast department where there were music and women;
+and it seemed that the "management" of this grand robbers' roost had
+shrewdly calculated on the fact that if a poor fool had not been
+swindled out of every dollar he might have had before he reached this
+point, those two elements, all powerful for good or evil the world over,
+would wring the last penny from him.</p>
+
+<p>Here was another but a finer bar, where more time was taken to prepare a
+drink and drug a man with some show of artistic excellence, and where a
+half dollar was changed for a single measure of poison; women,&mdash;shrewd,
+devilish women who could shoot or cut, if occasion required, with the
+nicety and effect of a man,&mdash;"steering" every person giving token of
+having money in his possession to the more<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_594" id="Page_594">[Pg 594]</a></span> genteelly gotten up
+"lay-outs," and acting in the same capacity, only with far more
+successful results, as the ordinary "ropers-in" of any large city; a
+wild, discordant orchestra that would have been hooted out of the lowest
+of the "varieties" east of the Missouri; but in this place, and to these
+ears, so long unused to the music of the far-away homes beyond the
+Mississippi, producing the very perfection of enchanting harmonies; but
+above all, and the crowning attraction before which every other thing
+paled and dwindled to insignificance, a score of abandoned women,
+dancing and ogling with every manner of man, robbing them while
+embracing, cheering and drinking with them, and in every way bedeviling
+them; the whole forming a scene viler than imagination or the pen of man
+can conceive or picture; grouping of wild orgies and terrible
+debaucheries, such as would put Lucifer to a blush, and compel a
+revolution in the lowest depths of Hades.</p>
+
+<p>Kuhn had strolled through the place, and now, out of compliment to
+general custom, purchased a cigar and was just turning to depart, when
+he suddenly found himself being hustled back and forth among several
+hard-looking fellows, who, evidently knowing his business, and surmising
+that he carried large sums of money upon his person, had determined to
+provoke him to resistance; when there would, according to the social
+codes then in existence at Laramie, have been a just cause for either
+robbing and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_595" id="Page_595">[Pg 595]</a></span> beating him, or murdering him outright and robbing him
+afterwards; when a tall, finely-formed man suddenly stepped into the
+crowd, and in a very decided tone of voice said:</p>
+
+<p>"I say, gentlemen, that won't do. You must stand back!"</p>
+
+<p>Then taking the terror-stricken ammunition dealer by the coat collar
+with his left hand, but keeping his right hand free for quick use and
+certain work, if necessary, he trotted him through the now excited
+throng and out into the open air, hastily telling him to "cut for the
+hotel," which were quite unnecessary instructions, as he made for that
+point at as lively a gait as his rather dumpy legs could carry him.</p>
+
+<p>The person who had thus prevented the merchant's being robbed, and had
+also possibly saved his life, was a tall, comely young man of about
+twenty-eight years of age, and with a complexion as fair as a woman's,
+pleasant, though determined, blue eyes, and a long, reddish, luxuriant
+beard, all of which, with a decidedly military cut to his gray, woollen
+garments, and long fair hair falling upon his shoulders&mdash;the whole
+crowned, or rather slouched over, by a white hat of extraordinary width
+of brim, gave him the appearance of an ex-Confederate officer, and right
+good fellow, as the term goes, perfectly capable of caring for himself
+wherever his fortune, or misfortune, might lead him, which proved the
+case as he turned and confronted the desperadoes, who had immediately<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_596" id="Page_596">[Pg 596]</a></span>
+followed him in a threatening manner, and whom he stood ready to receive
+with a navy revolver half as long as his arm, mysteriously whipped from
+some hiding-place, in each steady hand.</p>
+
+<p>A critical examination of the man as he stood there, and a very casual
+survey of him, for that matter, would have instantly suggested the fact
+to an ordinary observer that a very cool man at the rear ends of two
+navy revolvers huge enough to have been mounted for light-artillery
+service, was something well calculated to check the mounting ambition on
+the part of most anybody to punish him for the character of the
+interference shown; and the leader of the gang contented himself with
+remarking, "See here, Captain Harry, if it wasn't you, there'd be a
+reck'ning here; lively, too, I'm tellin' ye!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, but it <i>is</i> me; and so there won't be any reck'ning. Will there,
+now, eh?"</p>
+
+<p>The ruffians made no answer, but sullenly returned to the dance-house,
+when Captain Harry, as he had been called, rammed the two huge revolvers
+into his boot legs, which action displayed a smaller weapon of the same
+kind upon each hip; after which he nodded a pleasant "good-night" to the
+bystanders, and walked away leisurely in the direction Mr. Kuhn had
+taken, pleasantly whistling "The Bonnie Blue Flag," or "The Star
+Spangled Banner," as best suited him.</p>
+
+<p>The moment that Mr. Kuhn's protector appeared<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_597" id="Page_597">[Pg 597]</a></span> at the hotel, the former
+gentleman expressed his liveliest thanks for the opportune assistance he
+had been rendered, and introduced himself to the Captain, who already
+knew of him, and who in return gave his name as "Harry G. Taylor, the
+man from somewhere," as he himself expressed it with a pleasant laugh.</p>
+
+<p>It was easy to be seen that there was a stroke of business in Mr. Kuhn's
+eye, which his escape from the dance-house had suggested, as he told
+Taylor that he had intended to return to Cheyenne that night; but he
+further stated that as he had so unexpectedly been befriended, he should
+certainly be obliged to remain another day in order to secure a further
+acquaintance with the man to whom he already owed so much.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Kuhn then produced some choice cigars, and the gentlemen secured a
+retired place upon the hotel-porch, at once entering into a general
+conversation, which, from the merchant's evident unusual curiosity, and
+Taylor's quite as evident good-humored, devil-may-care disposition,
+caused it to drift into the Captain's account of himself.</p>
+
+<p>He told Mr. Kuhn that his family resided at that time in Philadelphia,
+where they had moved after his father had failed in business at Raleigh,
+N. C., but had taken so honorable a name with him to the former city
+that he had been able to retrieve his fortunes to some extent. The
+Captain was born at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_598" id="Page_598">[Pg 598]</a></span> Raleigh, and had received his education in the
+South, and, being unable to share in his father's regard for the North,
+even as a portion of the country best adapted for doing business, sought
+out some of his old college friends in Louisville, Atlanta, and New
+Orleans, who had been able to secure him a fine business position at
+Atlanta, where by care and economy in 1860, though but a mere boy yet,
+he had accumulated property that would have satisfied many a man twenty
+years his senior.</p>
+
+<p>Being impulsive, and a warm admirer of Southern institutions, he was one
+of the first men to join the Confederate army at Atlanta, and fought in
+a Georgia regiment under Johnson and Hood during the entire war, at
+Jonesville and Rough-and-Ready Station seeing the smoke ascend above the
+ruins of the once beautiful city, and realizing that the most of his
+earthly possessions had disappeared when the flames died away.</p>
+
+<p>Having been promoted to a captaincy, he had fought as bravely as he
+could against the "blue-coats," like a man, acknowledging their bravery
+as well as that of his comrades; and at the close of the war, which of
+course terminated disadvantageously to his interests, he had sold his
+lots at Atlanta for whatever he could get for them, and with thousands
+of others in like circumstances, had come West and taken his chances at
+retrieving his fortunes.</p>
+
+<p>This was told in a frank, straightforward way,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_599" id="Page_599">[Pg 599]</a></span> which seemed to
+completely captivate Mr. Kuhn, for he at once spoke to Taylor concerning
+his business in Laramie, and bluntly asked him, in the event of mutual
+and satisfactory references being exchanged, whether he would accept the
+engagement as superintendent of his business over that portion of the
+road, and take actual charge of the store in that place, and the one
+about to be established at Benton City.</p>
+
+<p>The result of the evening's interview was the engagement of Taylor by
+the firm at a large salary; his immediately taking supervision of the
+business without bonds or any security whatever; and for a time his
+management and habits were so able and irreproachable that, with the
+gratitude for his protection of Mr. Kuhn at Laramie still fresh and
+sincere, the firm felt that they had been most fortunate in their
+selection of an utter stranger, and were in every way gratified with the
+turn events had taken.</p>
+
+
+<h3>II.</h3>
+
+<p>During the early morning of a blustering December day of the same year,
+I was quite annoyed by the persistence of a gentleman to see me, on what
+he insisted, in the business office of my Chicago agency, on terming
+"important business."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_600" id="Page_600">[Pg 600]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>It was not later than half-past eight o'clock; and, as I have made it a
+life-long practice to get at business at an early hour, get ahead of it,
+and keep ahead of it during the day, I was elbow-deep in the mass of
+letters, telegrams, and communications of a different nature, which, in
+my business, invariably accumulates during the night, and felt anxious
+to wade through it before taking up any other matter.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman, who gave the name of Kuhn, seemed very anxious to see me,
+however; and letting drop the statements that he greatly desired to take
+the morning train for Cheyenne, where he resided; might not be able to
+be in Chicago again for some time; felt very desirous of seeing me
+personally; and would require but a few moments to explain his business,
+which he agreed to make explicit; I concluded to drop everything else
+and see him.</p>
+
+<p>On being ushered into my private apartments, he at once hastily gave me
+an outline of the facts related in the previous chapter, adding a new
+series of incidents which occasioned his visit, and to the effect that
+the firm had made the necessary arrangements for increasing their
+business under their new superintendent, having added largely to their
+stock at Laramie, and placed about twenty thousand dollars' worth of
+goods at Benton City.</p>
+
+<p>According to the agreement, he was required to forward money whenever
+the sales had reached a stated sum at each point, and was given
+authority to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_601" id="Page_601">[Pg 601]</a></span> take charge of goods or moneys on hand at any of the less
+important stations, when convinced that things were being run loosely,
+or whenever it in any way appeared for the interests of the firm for him
+to do so.</p>
+
+<p>It will be seen that under this arrangement, which was in every respect
+injudicious, no security having been given by Taylor, he immediately
+became possessed of great responsibility, as well as power; but appeared
+to appreciate the unusual confidence reposed in him, and conducted the
+business of Kuhn Brothers with unusual profit to them and credit to
+himself. Matters progressed in this way for some time, when suddenly,
+about the first of October, the firm at Cheyenne began to receive
+dispatches from different employees along the road, inquiring when
+Taylor was to return from Cheyenne, and intimating that business was
+greatly suffering from his absence. The members of the firm were
+astonished. They knew nothing of Taylor's being in Cheyenne. On the
+contrary, their last advices from him were to the effect that he should
+be at their city on the tenth of that month, with large collections; and
+the announcement was accompanied with glowing accounts of the prosperity
+of their business under his careful management.</p>
+
+<p>After the startling intelligence of Taylor's unaccountable absence, a
+member of the firm immediately left for Laramie, Benton City, and other
+points, to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_602" id="Page_602">[Pg 602]</a></span> ascertain the true condition of affairs, still unable to
+believe that the handsome, chivalrous captain had wronged them, and that
+everything would be found right upon examination of matters which was
+immediately and searchingly entered upon; but the first glance at
+affairs showed conclusively that they had been swindled, and it was soon
+discovered that he had gathered together at the stores under his own
+charge, and at different points along the line, under various pretexts,
+fully fourteen thousand dollars, and had been given two weeks in which
+to escape.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Kuhn did not desire to give the case into my hands on that morning;
+but explained that he had returned from a fruitless trip to Philadelphia
+in search of his former superintendent, and had been advised by a
+telegram from his brothers to lay the case before me and request my
+advice about the matter; at the same time securing information about the
+probable pecuniary outlay necessary for further prosecution of the
+search, and such other items of information as would enable him to
+counsel with the remainder of the firm concerning the case, and be able
+to give the case into my hands, should they decide to do so, without
+further delay.</p>
+
+<p>This was given him; and I, in turn, secured from Mr. Kuhn all the
+information possible concerning Taylor, which was scant indeed, as they
+had seen very little of him, could give but a very general description
+of the man, and here they had injudiciously given<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_603" id="Page_603">[Pg 603]</a></span> him over two months'
+start, during which time he might have safely got to the other side of
+the world.</p>
+
+<p>Only one item of information had been developed by which a clue to his
+whereabouts could by any possibility be imagined. He had often spoken to
+Mr. Kuhn in the most glowing terms of life in both Texas and Mexico, as
+he had passed, so he had said, a portion of a year in that part of
+America, since the close of the war, and in connection with the subject,
+he had stated that he should have remained there had he been supplied
+with sufficient capital to have enabled him to begin business.</p>
+
+<p>This was all; and I dismissed the swindled merchant with little
+encouragement as to the result of a chase for a thief who had got so
+much the advantage, or, rather, intimated to him that though I had no
+doubts of being able to eventually catch him, it would be rather a poor
+investment for the firm to expend the amount of money which might be
+necessary to effect his capture, unless, in looking into the matter
+further, I should be able to see opportunities for securing much better
+knowledge as to his present whereabouts, or clues which could be made to
+lead to them.</p>
+
+<p>With this not very cheering assurance, Mr. Kuhn returned to Cheyenne.</p>
+
+<p>Not hearing from the firm for several days, I finally dismissed the
+matter entirely from mind; but on arriving at the agency one morning, I
+received instructions<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_604" id="Page_604">[Pg 604]</a></span> from the Cheyenne firm to proceed in the matter,
+and with all expedition possible endeavor to cage the flown bird for
+them.</p>
+
+<p>I at once detailed William A. Pinkerton, my eldest son, and at present
+assistant superintendent of my Chicago agency, to proceed to Cheyenne,
+and look over the ground thoroughly there, and also, if necessary, to
+proceed along the line of the Union Pacific, and, after ascertaining who
+were Taylor's friends and companions, work up a trail through them,
+which would eventually bring him down.</p>
+
+<p>The latter course was not necessary to be followed, however, as on
+arriving at Cheyenne, with some little information gleaned from the
+firm, he was able to ascertain that a young lawyer there named La
+Grange, also originally from the South, had been a quite intimate friend
+of Taylor's&mdash;so much so, in fact, that La Grange had for the last six
+months regularly corresponded with the Captain's sister, who had been
+described to him as not only an exceedingly beautiful woman, but as also
+a lady possessed of unusual accomplishments and amiability.</p>
+
+<p>My son "cultivated" La Grange largely, but could secure but little
+information through him. He seemed to know nothing further concerning
+either Taylor or his family, save that he had incidentally met him along
+the line of the Union Pacific; they had naturally taken a sort of liking
+to each other, and in that way became friends in much the same manner<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_605" id="Page_605">[Pg 605]</a></span>
+that most friendships were made in that country. He further recollected
+that he had always directed his letters to a certain post-office box,
+instead of to a street number; but seemed perfectly mystified concerning
+the action of the brother. He had just returned from a three months'
+absence in Kentucky, and it was the first intimation he had had of the
+Captain's crime. La Grange also said that as he had been very busy, he
+had not written to Miss Lizzie (evidently referring to the sister), nor
+had he received any communication from her during that time. He had had
+a photograph of Harry, taken in full-dress uniform while stationed at
+Atlanta, which had been copied in Philadelphia, but a thorough search
+among his papers failed to reveal it.</p>
+
+<p>This was all that my son could secure, as La Grange, evidently
+suspecting that, in his surprise at Taylor's crime, he might say
+something to compromise himself and endanger Taylor or wound his
+beautiful sister, to whom he seemed greatly attached, positively refused
+to have anything further to say concerning the matter; and with what
+information he had, William returned to the hotel in a brown study,
+determined to take time to exhaust the material at Cheyenne before
+proceeding on the proposed trip along the Union Pacific.</p>
+
+<p>After summing up and arranging the points he had got hold of, he
+telegraphed me fully, adding his own impression that Taylor was in
+Texas, but expressing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_606" id="Page_606">[Pg 606]</a></span> a doubt as to whether he had better proceed along
+the Union Pacific for more information, or go on to Philadelphia at
+once, and in some way secure information of the family as to their son's
+whereabouts.</p>
+
+<p>On the receipt of this telegram, which arrived in Chicago about noon, I
+at once resolved upon a little strategy, being myself satisfied that
+Taylor had proceeded, <i>vi&acirc;</i> St. Louis and New Orleans into either Texas
+or Mexico, and was then engaged under his own or an assumed name, in
+some business agreeable to his taste, as formerly explained to Mr. Kuhn,
+and immediately telegraphed to my son:</p>
+
+<p>"Keep La Grange busied all day so he cannot write, or mail letters.
+Study La Grange's language and modes of expression. Get La Grange's and
+Taylor's handwriting, signatures, and Miss Taylor's address, and come
+next train."</p>
+
+<p>Agreeable to these instructions, he secured several letters from Taylor
+to Kuhn Brothers, concerning business matters, with the last one,
+containing the announcement that he would be in Cheyenne on the tenth of
+October with collections; and immediately sent by a messenger a
+courteous note to La Grange, desiring an outline of Taylor's life so far
+as he might feel justified in giving it, and requesting an answer, which
+was politely but firmly given in the negative over Adolph La Grange's
+own signature, which completed a portion of his work neatly.</p>
+
+<p>The balance was more difficult. He ordered a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_607" id="Page_607">[Pg 607]</a></span> sleigh, and after settling
+his hotel bill, but reserving his room for the night, at once drove to
+La Grange's office, where he in person thanked him for his courteous
+letter, even if he did not feel justified in giving him the information
+desired. A little complimentary conversation ensued during which time my
+son's quick eyes noticed in the lawyer's waste-basket an envelope
+evidently discarded on account of its soiled appearance, addressed to
+"Miss Lizzie Taylor, Post-office Box &mdash;&mdash;, Philadelphia," which on the
+first opportunity he appropriated. The next move was to <i>prevent</i> La
+Grange's mailing any letter, as it was evident he had written several,
+including one to Taylor's sister, which were only waiting to be mailed.</p>
+
+<p>Seeing that he had made a pleasant impression upon La Grange, who
+appreciated the courtesy of the call under the circumstances, and
+informing him that he had decided to make no further inquiries there,
+but was to proceed west on the following morning, he prevailed upon him
+to take a ride in his company about the city and its environs. In
+leaving his office, La Grange hesitated a moment as if deciding the
+propriety of taking the letters with him, or returning for them after
+the sleigh-ride; but evidently decided to do the latter, as he left
+them, much to my son's relief.</p>
+
+<p>The drive was prolonged as much as possible, and the outlying forts
+visited, where, having letters of introduction from myself to several
+army-officers stationed there, both he and his companion were so
+hospitably<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_608" id="Page_608">[Pg 608]</a></span> treated that the afternoon slipped away quickly, and the two
+returned to town evidently in high spirits. La Grange felt compelled to
+reciprocate as far as in his power, and billiards, with frequent drinks
+for the lawyer and a liberal supply of water for the detective, were in
+order until within a half hour of the eastern bound train time, when La
+Grange succumbed to an accumulation of good-fellowship, and on his own
+suggestion, as he "wash rising y'n'g 'torny y'know!" accepted the
+hospitalities of my son's room, at the Rawlins House, where he left him
+sweetly sleeping at a rate which would prevent the mailing of the
+letters he had left locked in his office for at least two days to come;
+as "rising young attorneys," as a rule, sober off in a carefully
+graduated diminishing scale of excesses of quite similar construction to
+the original.</p>
+
+<p>On the arrival of my son in Chicago, I immediately caused to be written
+a letter addressed to Miss Lizzie Taylor, at her post-office box in
+Philadelphia, of which the following is a copy:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i36">"<span class="smcap">Sherman House, Chicago</span>, Jan. 1868.<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"<span class="smcap">Miss Taylor</span>,<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"<span class="smcap">My Dear Friend</span>:&mdash;You know of my intended absence from
+Cheyenne in the South. During that trip, I really never had
+the time when I could write you so fully as I desired, and
+even now I am only able to send you a few words. I am <i>en
+route</i> to Washington on business, and have now to ask you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_609" id="Page_609">[Pg 609]</a></span>
+to send the street and number of your father's house, even
+if it is not a magnificent one, as you have told me, to my
+address, at the Girard House, in your city, on receipt of
+this, as I shall be in Washington but one day, and would
+wish to see both you and your people without delay. I not
+only greatly wish to see you for <i>selfish reasons</i>, which
+our long and pleasant correspondence will suggest to you as
+both reasonable and natural, but there are other good
+reasons, which you all will readily understand when I tell
+you that I met <i>him</i> accidentally just before my return to
+Cheyenne, and that I have a communication of a personal
+nature to deliver. While not upholding him in the step he
+has taken, I cannot forget that I am his friend, and he your
+brother.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i1">"In great haste,<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i5">"Your true friend,<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i10">"<span class="smcap">Adolph La G&mdash;&mdash;</span>,<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"P.S.&mdash;I leave here for the East this morning. Please answer
+on immediate receipt.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i36">A. L."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+</div>
+
+<p>This was posted on the eastern-bound train not an hour after my son's
+arrival from the West; and another note was written upon the back of an
+envelope which had passed through the mail, and had got a very much used
+appearance, and ran thus:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"<span class="smcap">Father of Lizzie</span>:<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"Treat Adolph well, you can trust him. Give him one of the
+'photos' taken at Atlanta in my full-dress uniform; keep one
+other of the same for yourselves; but destroy all the rest.
+Have been so hurried and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_610" id="Page_610">[Pg 610]</a></span> worried that I don't remember
+whether I have said anything about photographs before. But
+this is a matter of <i>imperative necessity</i>. Adolph will
+explain how he met me.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i1">"Good-by,<br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i1">"H. &mdash;&mdash;"<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+</div>
+
+<p>It was impossible to detect any difference between this handwriting and
+that of Captain Taylor's in his business correspondence to Kuhn
+Brothers; and, armed with this document, with the assistance of the
+epistolary self-introduction which had preceded it, I directed my son to
+leave for Philadelphia that evening, secure admission to Taylor's
+residence and the family's confidence, agreeable to the appointment made
+by mail, and thus not only secure the man's photograph, but other
+information that would be definite.</p>
+
+<p>On arrival at Philadelphia, he secured the services of an operative from
+my agency in that city, to follow any member of the Taylor family who
+might call for the letter, to their residence, in the event of an answer
+not being received at his hotel in due time from the one assumed to have
+been sent from the hotel in Chicago from La Grange, who found Taylor's
+home, an unpretentious house on Locust street, while my son remained at
+the hotel, fully expecting the coveted invitation to visit the Captain's
+beautiful sister, which arrived at his hotel only a half day after he
+did, and strongly urged him to call at his convenience.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_611" id="Page_611">[Pg 611]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He was satisfied from this that our theory regarding his being in Texas,
+or Mexico, was correct; that the family had not the slightest suspicion
+of his identity, and that, wherever Captain Taylor might be,
+communication with his people had been very infrequent, and that, with
+what he would be able to invent after being received at Taylor's house,
+he could secure at least sufficient information to put him upon his
+son's trail. Not desiring to play upon their feelings and friendship as
+another person any longer than necessary, however, he sent word by a
+messenger, not daring to trust his own handwriting, that he would call
+that evening, though necessarily at a late hour; and, accordingly, that
+evening, about nine o'clock, found him at the door of a pleasant Locust
+street cottage, ringing for admission.</p>
+
+<p>A tall, handsome young woman greeted him at the door, and accordingly
+bade him enter, saying pleasantly, as she ushered him into the cozy
+little parlor, that she was Miss Lizzie Taylor, and presumed he was Mr.
+La Grange, with whom she had had so long and so pleasant a
+correspondence; and of whom "poor Harry," as she said with a shade of
+sadness and tenderness in her voice, had so often written, before he had
+made his terrible mistake, and become a wanderer.</p>
+
+<p>After hastily satisfying her that he was the genuine La Grange, and
+profusely apologizing for his not having written for so long a time
+previous to his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_612" id="Page_612">[Pg 612]</a></span> arrival at Chicago, from Cheyenne, he took up the
+thread she had dropped, as quickly as possible, and said that he felt
+sure that Harry would retrieve himself soon, and return the money, as he
+had no bad habits, and everything would be all right again.</p>
+
+<p>"But yet, Mr. La Grange," she continued, "it makes me shudder whenever I
+think of all my brothers being away off there on the Rio Grande, among
+those terrible people!"</p>
+
+<p>"But, you must remember," he replied, encouragingly, "they are strong
+men, and can well defend themselves under any circumstances."</p>
+
+<p>"Harry is strong and brave, I know," answered Miss Taylor, rather
+admiringly; "but brother Robert is not fit for such a life. Why, he is
+but a boy yet."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, a younger brother?" he thought, making a mental note of it, in
+order to assist in shaping his conversation after which he said aloud:
+"I almost forgot to give you this note;" and he took the piece of
+envelope out of his note-book, as if it had been sacredly guarded, and
+handed it to her.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Taylor read the hastily written lines with evident emotion; and
+after studying a moment, as if endeavoring to reconcile matters, while
+her face was being searchingly read by an experienced detective, she
+rose, and, apologizing to him for the absence of her father, who was in
+New York, on business, and of her mother, who was confined to her
+apartment, a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_613" id="Page_613">[Pg 613]</a></span> confirmed invalid, she asked to be excused so as to show
+the note to her mother.</p>
+
+<p>The instant the door closed, my son had seized the album, which he had
+located during the preceding conversation; and rapidly turned its leaves
+to assure himself that he was not treading on dangerous ground. He found
+a half-a-dozen different styles of pictures of the Captain, including
+three of the copies taken in Philadelphia of the original Atlanta
+picture, and felt reassured beyond measure at the lucky turn things had
+taken. He would have abstracted one of these, but it was impossible, and
+had barely time to return the album to the table, and himself to his
+seat, when he heard the woman's step along the hall, and in a moment
+more she entered the room.</p>
+
+
+<h3>III.</h3>
+
+<p>Giving the door a little impulsive slam, as she closed it, Miss Taylor
+at once came to where my son was sitting upon the sofa, and seated
+herself beside him. She said that her mother was anxious beyond measure
+to learn how and where he had met Harry, how he was looking, and what he
+had said.</p>
+
+<p>The imagination and resources of the able detective are fully equal to
+those of the most brilliant<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_614" id="Page_614">[Pg 614]</a></span> newspaper reporters, and a pleasant and
+plausible fiction was invented, how he (as La Grange, of course), having
+taken a run from Louisville down to New Orleans, by boat, was just
+landing at the levee, when he suddenly came across Harry, who had
+hastily told him all; how great had been his transgression, how deeply
+he had regretted it; but that now he was situated in his business
+matters so that, if let alone, he would be able to return to Kuhn
+Brothers every dollar which he had taken, and have a fine business left;
+how it had been necessary for him to come to New Orleans on imperative
+business, and that he should not come east of the Mississippi again
+under any circumstances. He further said, that Harry seemed hopeful;
+that he had stated that his younger brother Robert was well and enjoying
+the frontier life; and that, further than that, he had no time or
+disposition to talk, as he was on the very eve of departure for Texas,
+only having time to write the little note concerning the photographs.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Taylor excused herself for a moment to convey the truthful
+intelligence to her anxious mother; and on her return suggested that
+they go through the album together at once, and attend to the
+photographs, an invitation which was accepted with unusual readiness.</p>
+
+<p>Every gentleman who has had the experience, and there are few who have
+not, know that looking over an album with a beautiful woman who has
+some<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_615" id="Page_615">[Pg 615]</a></span> interest in her companion, is a wonderfully pleasant diversion. In
+this instance it was doubly pleasant, for it meant success to my son,
+whose zeal is as untiring as my own when once on the trail of a
+criminal.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder why," asked Miss Taylor, as if wondering as much about Mr. La
+Grange as about any other subject; "I wonder why Harry desires those
+photographs destroyed?"</p>
+
+<p>He was turning the leaves for her and, as La Grange, of course, had a
+perfect right to take plenty of time to explain the matter soothingly
+and sympathetically.</p>
+
+<p>"But do those horrid detectives track a man out and run him down, when,
+if he were let alone, he might recover from his misfortune, and right
+the wrong he has done?"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. La Grange remarked that he had heard that some of them were very
+much lacking in sentiment and sensibility, and would go right forward
+through the very fire itself to trace the whereabouts of a criminal; and
+all those little things helped, he could assure her.</p>
+
+<p>She began to see how it was, she said; but suddenly firing up, she shook
+her pretty fist at some imaginary person, exclaiming:</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I could kill the man who would thus dog my brother Harry." And
+then, after a little April shower of tears, quite like any other woman's
+way of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_616" id="Page_616">[Pg 616]</a></span> showing how very desperate they can be under certain
+circumstances, began slowly taking the Captain's pictures from the
+album, commenting upon them, and then handing them to the bogus La
+Grange to burn, who would occasionally step to the fire-place for that
+purpose, where he would quickly substitute miscellaneous business cards,
+which answered the purpose excellently.</p>
+
+<p>An hour or two was passed with Miss Taylor in conversation upon various
+topics which might lead the really estimable young lady to divulge all
+she knew about the Captain, or concerning his whereabouts and business,
+which was certainly not much.</p>
+
+<p>It appeared that, immediately after the embezzlement, and while at St.
+Louis, Taylor had telegraphed to his brother Robert to meet him at New
+Orleans at a certain time, as he was going into business in that
+section, and should need his services, for which he would be able to pay
+him handsomely; the brothers had met there and had proceeded to some
+other point; the Captain claiming that it would be injudicious to make
+that fact known, as he had also sent a full and complete confession to
+his parents of his embezzlement from Kuhn Brothers, which he had
+directed them to burn, and which he finished by requesting his family
+not to write to either himself or his brother for some time to come; or
+at least until he should indicate to them that it would be safe to do
+so; and under no circumstances to give any<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_617" id="Page_617">[Pg 617]</a></span> person an iota of
+information concerning himself or his brother.</p>
+
+<p>My son left Miss Taylor's hospitable home with a pang of regret for the
+deception which had seemed necessary in this case; for whatever may be
+the opinion of the public regarding the matter, a detective has often
+quite as large and compassionate a soul as men of other and apparently
+more high-toned professions.</p>
+
+<p>So long as intelligent crime is the result of a high standard of mental
+culture and a low standard of moral conscience&mdash;conditions which now
+exist and have for some years existed&mdash;intelligent minds must be trained
+to battle criminals with their own weapons; and these two questions, of
+speedy detection of crime and swift punishment of criminals will be
+found quite as essential to a preservation of law and society as lofty
+arguments or high moral dissertations on the right or wrong of the
+expediencies necessary to bring wrong-doers to immediate and certain
+justice.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as I had received a full telegraphic report of the success of
+the Philadelphia experiment, I directed him to proceed to Louisville,
+where he would be met by operative Keating, from Chicago, who would
+bring letters of introduction from myself to Colonel Wood, commanding
+the First Infantry at New Orleans; Captain White, chief of the detective
+force of that city; General Canby, commanding the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_618" id="Page_618">[Pg 618]</a></span> Department of Texas,
+at Austin; Col. Hunt, Chief Quartermaster of the Department of Texas,
+and other army officers, requesting them to render my son and his
+assistant any aid in their power should the necessity for such
+assistance arise; the requisition from Governor Foulke, of Dakotah
+Territory, for Henry G. Taylor, upon Governor Pease, of Texas, and
+general instructions concerning his conduct of the search for the
+handsome captain after he had got beyond mail and telegraphic
+communication.</p>
+
+<p>I was sending him into a country which was at that time in many portions
+utterly unsafe for the securing of a criminal should the pursuer's
+mission become known, so as to allow the person desired time to apprise
+his friends of his danger, or give him even an opportunity to rally any
+number of acquaintances for defense; for the reason that, as Texas had
+become a sort of refuge for ruffians, they became clannish through the
+general peril of being pursued each experienced; and would, as a rule,
+on the slightest provocation, assist in the rescue of any person under
+arrest, not knowing how soon it might be their turn to cry for help; but
+I have invariably sent my sons into danger with the same expectation
+that they would do their duty regardless of consequences, as I have had
+when sending other men's sons into danger. Happily I have never mistaken
+their metal; and, in this instance, felt sure that I could rely upon him
+to exercise both discretion and intrepidity in exigencies to which<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_619" id="Page_619">[Pg 619]</a></span> his
+long experience and careful training have at all times made him equal.</p>
+
+<p>The two detectives met in Louisville, and at once proceeded to New
+Orleans, where they arrived early in the morning of the 7th of January,
+1868, and were driven to the St. Charles Hotel. No time was lost; and
+while my son presented his letters to different parties, and made
+cautious inquiries regarding the recent appearance in New Orleans of
+Taylor, Keating, in the character of a provincial merchant, investigated
+as far as possible the business houses dealing in stock, leather, or
+wool, as to whether any such person had made arrangement for
+consignments from the interior or seaport Texan cities. No trace of
+their man was found, however, until my son was able to get at the
+register of the St. Charles Hotel for the preceding three months, which
+was attended with some difficulty, on account of the crowded condition
+of things at that house; and any detective, or other expert, will
+understand how much time and patience are required to discover one
+signature from among ten thousand, when that one may be an assumed name,
+and perhaps five hundred of the ten thousand be so similar to the one
+sought, that a disinterested person could scarcely be convinced it was
+really not the person's handwriting desired; but after a good deal of
+trouble and searching, the names of "H. G. Taylor &amp; clerk," were
+discovered on the last half line at the bottom of a page under date of
+November 30th, 1867, which,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_620" id="Page_620">[Pg 620]</a></span> by constant wear and thumbing in turning
+pages, had been nearly defaced, but which, in his handwriting, beyond a
+doubt told the story of their presence.</p>
+
+<p>Further inquiry of the clerk on duty at that time, and with his memory
+refreshed by a glance at Taylor's photographs, developed the facts that
+he had certainly been at the St. Charles on the date shown by the
+register, and that he was accompanied by a young man about nineteen
+years of age, who was recognized as Taylor's clerk.</p>
+
+<p>The peculiar register then kept at the St. Charles Hotel in New Orleans
+was also instrumental in assisting the detectives. It gave the guest's
+name, residence, hour of arrival, and hour of departure, with name of
+conveyance at arrival and departure, in the following manner:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><i>H. G. Taylor and Clerk, | Mobile, | 12 m. | Ped.</i><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><i>2 Dec. | 7 a. m. | 'Bus.</i><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>This told anybody curious about the matter that H. G. Taylor and clerk,
+assuming to reside in Mobile, arrived at the St. Charles Hotel, New
+Orleans, at noon on Saturday, the thirtieth day of November, 1867,
+either afoot or by some mode of conveyance unknown to the clerk of the
+house, and that they left the house in an omnibus at seven o'clock on
+the morning of the third day following.</p>
+
+<p>Naturally the next inquiries were directed to ascertaining to what boat
+or railroad lines omnibuses<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_621" id="Page_621">[Pg 621]</a></span> could be ordered at that hour of the
+morning; if to different ones, then to discover who had driven the
+particular omnibus which conveyed Taylor and his brother from the hotel;
+and then make an effort to learn to what point they had been conveyed.
+This, however, proved less difficult than had been feared; for it was
+found that on the morning in question the omnibus had gone from the
+hotel to but one point, and that was to the ferry connecting with
+Berwick Bay route, by the New Orleans and Opelousas Railroad and the
+Gulf, to Galveston, although a large number of passengers had been
+booked, and it was impossible to ascertain whether Taylor and his
+brother had actually gone that route or not, though everything was in
+favor of that presumption.</p>
+
+<p>The death of General Rosseau had caused quite a commotion in New
+Orleans, and it seemed a pretty hard matter to get anything further of a
+definite character in that place; and I therefore instructed my son and
+detective Keating to proceed slowly to Galveston, stopping at Brashear
+City, where Taylor might have diverged,&mdash;supposing he had taken that
+route with the other passengers from New Orleans,&mdash;and to particularly
+search passenger lists aboard any lines of boats, and all hotel
+registers, before arriving at Galveston, so as to have the work done
+thoroughly nearest the base of operation; as I knew that for any party
+to get on the wrong scent in that vast state, thinly settled as it was,
+with no means of quickly conveying<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_622" id="Page_622">[Pg 622]</a></span> needful intelligence, was to enter
+upon both a needless waste of money for my patrons, and an objectless
+and wearying struggle against insurmountable obstacles for my
+detectives, whom, whatever may be said to the contrary, I have never in
+a single instance needlessly or injudiciously exposed to privation or
+danger.</p>
+
+<p>In Brashear conductors of trains were applied to; the hotel and omnibus
+men were questioned, the postmaster was appealed to, and even the
+passenger-lists of the boats which had been in port, and to which they
+were able to gain access for a period of three months, had been searched
+in vain. Every trace of the man seemed lost; and I was appealed to for a
+decision as to whether they should proceed to Galveston by boat, with
+the presumption that Taylor had taken passage under an assumed name, or
+take a few days' trip up along the line of the New Orleans and Opelousas
+Railroad and seek for information of their man at different points
+through Central Louisiana.</p>
+
+<p>I decided on the former course, and they accordingly embarked from
+Brashear immediately after the receipt of my telegram of instructions,
+on the handsome steamer "Josephine," the only boat whose books they had
+had no opportunity of examining; and, having received my telegram but a
+few minutes before the steamer left, were obliged to do some lively
+running to reach it; for, in anticipation of a message from me<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_623" id="Page_623">[Pg 623]</a></span> to take
+that route, my son had directed Keating to settle the hotel bill, and
+with both valises in hand wait at a convenient corner, where, should
+William receive a dispatch from me of the character expected, within a
+certain time, they might yet make the boat. Everything transpiring as my
+son had hoped, they were just in time, after a lively run, to be hauled
+up the gang-plank by two stalwart negroes, and were soon steaming down
+the bay and thence out to sea.</p>
+
+
+<h3>IV.</h3>
+
+<p>As the two ascended to the cabin they were congratulated by the officers
+of the boat and many of the passengers on their graceful and expeditious
+boarding of the steamer; and being something of objects of interest on
+account of the little incident, they concluded not to lose the
+opportunity to blend the good feeling evoked into a thoroughly pleasant
+impression, and consequently took the shortest way to accomplish that
+desired end by at once walking up to the bar where the assembled
+gentlemen, to a man, apparently in compliance to general custom, seemed
+to understand that they had been invited before a word had been uttered
+by either of the detectives, so that when my son asked, "Gentlemen,
+won't you join us?" it<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_624" id="Page_624">[Pg 624]</a></span> was an entirely superfluous request; for on
+either side, behind, and extending a solid phalanx beyond, the
+"gentlemen" had already joined and were describing the particular liquor
+that in their minds would do honor to the occasion in the most lively
+and familiar manner possible, and interspersing their demands upon the
+leisurely bar-keeper with such remarks as "Gen'lemen had narrow 'scape;"
+"Gen'lemen made a right smart run of it;" "Gen'lemen not down from
+Norlens (New Orleans), reckon come down Opelousas route," and other
+similar comments; but invariably prefacing each and every remark with
+the stereotyped word "Gen'lemen," which men were, without exception,
+assumed to be in that country at that time, at least in conversation; as
+any neglect to preface a remark with the word laid one liable to become
+immediately engaged in a discussion regarding the propriety of the use
+of the term, behind navy revolvers, rifles, double-barreled shot-guns,
+or any other available pointed or forcible means of argument.</p>
+
+<p>After the thirst of the crowd, which upon a Gulf-coasting steamer is
+something terrible to contemplate, had been in a measure assuaged, my
+son excused himself, and with Keating repaired to the office, remarking
+to the clerk:</p>
+
+<p>"I presume you would like to transact a little business with us now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Any time to suit your convenience," returned the clerk, but getting at
+his books with an alacrity<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_625" id="Page_625">[Pg 625]</a></span> which showed that he would be a little more
+willing to attend to the matter of fares then than at any other time.</p>
+
+<p>William handed him an amount of money large enough to pay for both the
+fares of himself and Keating from Brashear to Galveston; and, while the
+clerk was making change, said, by way of getting into conversation with
+him, "I'm afraid we're on a fool's errand out here."</p>
+
+<p>The clerk counted out the change, inked his pen to take the names, and
+then elevating his eyebrows, although not speaking a word, plainly
+asked, "Ah, how's that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you see," replied the detective, "we're hunting a man that's had
+right good luck."</p>
+
+<p>"He can't be in these parts," replied the clerk, with a slightly
+satirical smile. "Names?" he then asked.</p>
+
+<p>"James A. Hicks and Patrick Mallory."</p>
+
+<p>"Where from?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pittsburg."</p>
+
+<p>"Which is which?" asked the clerk, in a business tone of voice.</p>
+
+<p>"I am Hicks, and that pretty smart-looking Irishman by the baggage-room
+is Mallory," was the reply.</p>
+
+<p>"Your age and weight?" asked the clerk mechanically, at the same time
+looking at my son keenly, and getting the rest of his description at a
+glance.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_626" id="Page_626">[Pg 626]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>These questions were properly answered, and as the clerk was noting them
+he asked, "Might I ask what was the gentleman's good luck?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly; he has fallen heir to a coal mine in Pennsylvania, and we
+are endeavoring to hunt him up for the executors of the estate."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah?" said the clerk, driving away with his pen; "will you be so good as
+to ask Mr. Mallory to step this way?"</p>
+
+<p>My son stepped up to Keating and remarked aloud, "Mr. Mallory, Mr.
+Mallory, the clerk would like to see you;" and then as Keating stepped
+to his side, remarked as if for his better information, "He knows your
+name is Patrick Mallory and that we are from Pittsburg, hunting Taylor,
+so he can come home and enjoy the property the old man left him; but he
+wants your entire description."</p>
+
+<p>"Quite so," said the quick-witted Irishman, dryly.</p>
+
+<p>"You've got me, now," said Keating, winking familiarly at the clerk,
+"when we came over we went under; and so many of us was lost that those
+saved wasn't worth mendin' as to age, ye see; but concerning heft, why
+I'd not fear to say I'd turn an honest scale at a hundred an' sixty."</p>
+
+<p>The clerk smiled, but concluded not to ask Mr. Mallory from Pittsburg
+any more questions.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as he had made his notes, however, William told him that he had
+examined the lists of all<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_627" id="Page_627">[Pg 627]</a></span> other boats plying between Brashear and
+Galveston save those of the "Josephine," and requested him to look
+through them, concluding by describing Taylor, and stating that he might
+register either as H. G. Taylor and clerk, or under an assumed name, as
+he was somewhat erratic, and through family troubles, not necessary to
+explain, he had got into a habit of occasionally traveling <i>incognito</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The clerk readily complied with his request, scanning the pages closely,
+and repeating the name musingly as if endeavoring to recall where he had
+heard it. By the time he had got on with the examination of a few pages,
+William had selected a photograph of Taylor, and on showing it to the
+clerk the latter seemed to have a certain recollection of having seen
+him, but a very uncertain recollection as to where, or under what
+circumstances. He went on repeating the name, however, turning back the
+pages with his right hand and tracing the names back and forth with the
+index finger of his left hand, occasionally looking at the photograph as
+if to assist in forcing a definite recollection, but without any result
+for so long a time that Messrs. Hill and Mallory of Pittsburg became
+satisfied that their last hope before arriving at Galveston was gone,
+when suddenly the clerk carelessly placed the picture beside a certain
+name and in a manner very similar to a dry-goods clerk on securing a
+successful "match," in two pieces of cloth, quietly remarked:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_628" id="Page_628">[Pg 628]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, can't be mistaken. There you are; I've got him."</p>
+
+<p>"Then <i>we've</i> got him!" exclaimed my son, in the excess of his
+gratification, shaking the hand of Mr. Mallory, from Pittsburg.</p>
+
+<p>"It's a joy," said the latter, beaming.</p>
+
+<p>"Think of the immense property!" continued my son.</p>
+
+<p>"And the surprise to his friends!" murmured Keating.</p>
+
+<p>"The surprise to himself, I should say," interrupted the clerk.</p>
+
+<p>"Quite so," said Mr. Keating.</p>
+
+<p>It appeared that Taylor and his brother had missed one or two boats at
+Brashear from some cause, but had finally taken passage on the
+"Josephine," November 7th; and as the detectives had not been able to
+ascertain whether the "Josephine" had carried the fugitives or not, on
+account of her being belated by adverse weather, and was now returning
+to Galveston, after having had barely time to touch at Brashear, they
+had felt that perhaps they might be upon the wrong trail, which, with
+unknown adventures before them, had been peculiarly discouraging; so
+that now, when they ascertained that his apprehension was only a
+question of time and careful work, they could not repress their
+gratification.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing further worthy of note transpired on the voyage from Brashear to
+Galveston, save that the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_629" id="Page_629">[Pg 629]</a></span> trip was a pretty rough one, and they finally
+arrived in the latter city, hopeful and encouraged, notwithstanding the
+unusually dismal weather, which seemed to consist of one disconnected
+but never-ending storm, the "oldest inhabitants" of the place contending
+with great earnestness that "it 'peared like's they'd never had nothin'
+like it befoah!"</p>
+
+<p>Arriving in Galveston early Sunday morning, they went to the Exchange
+Hotel, and after breakfast set about examining the hotel registers of
+the place, ascertaining that Taylor and brother had been in the city,
+stopped a day or two, and then, so far as could be learned, had gone on
+to Houston. They were satisfied he had made no special efforts to cover
+his tracks, although he had not made himself at all conspicuous, as the
+difficulty encountered in getting those who would be most likely to
+recollect him, to recollect him at all, clearly showed; and it was quite
+evident that he had not anticipated pursuit, at least of any nature
+which he could not easily compromise, and intended going into some
+legitimate business under his own name, and with his brother's
+assistance.</p>
+
+<p>Before he could be arrested in Texas, however, it would be necessary to
+secure Governor Pease's warrant, which obliged a long, tedious trip to
+Austin, the capital of the State; nearly the whole distance having to be
+done by stage, which at that time seemed a forbidding piece of work, as
+it had rained every day of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_630" id="Page_630">[Pg 630]</a></span> the year, so far; and it might be a question
+of helping the stage through rather than being helped through by it.
+Besides this, according to my son's reports, which gave a true
+description of things in Texas at that time, everything beyond Houston
+had to be paid for in gold, as sectional sentiment and counterfeiting
+had pronounced a ban upon greenbacks, and not only in gold, but at
+exorbitant prices; hotel rates being five dollars per day; single meals
+from one to two dollars; railroad fares eight cents per mile, and stage
+rates nearly double that amount; with no assurance that you would ever
+reach a destination you had paid to be conveyed to; all attended by
+various kinds of danger, among which was the pleasant reflection that
+you might be called upon at any time to contribute to the benefit of
+that noble relic of chivalry, the Ku Klux Klan, who at that day were
+particularly busy in Texas.</p>
+
+<p>All of these pleasant considerations made the departure from Galveston
+for Austin, in a Pickwickian sense, unusually agreeable.</p>
+
+<p>At Houston they discovered from different persons, including the
+postmaster, that Taylor had been there, but had made inquiries about
+points further up country; and the general impression was that he had
+gone on, though at Brenham, the terminus of the railroad, where they
+arrived Monday evening, they could find no trace of him.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, when my son arose and looked<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_631" id="Page_631">[Pg 631]</a></span> on the vast sea of
+mud,&mdash;a filthy, black earth below; a dirty, black sky above; with
+nothing but driving rain and wintry gusts between; while the
+lackadaisical Texans slouched about with their hands in their pockets,
+with only energy enough to procure tobacco or "licker;" their sallow
+faces, down-at-the-heels, snuff-dipping wives desolately appearing at
+the doors and windows, only to retire again with a woe-begone expression
+of suspended animation in their leathery faces,&mdash;he fully realized the
+force of the remark attributed to General Sheridan, and more expressive
+than polite: "If I owned Texas and hell, I would live in hell and sell
+Texas!"</p>
+
+<p>The stage was crowded, however, and the dreary conveyance splashed and
+crunched on until noon, when dinner was taken at Wilson's Ranche, a
+long, low, rambling, tumbledown structure, which, like its owner, who
+had at one time been a "General" of something, and now retained the
+thriving title out of compliment to his departed glory, had gone to a
+genteel decay with a lazy ease worthy of its master's copy. The dinner
+was one long to be remembered by the detectives, as it was their first
+genuine Texan dinner, and consisted merely of fat boiled pork, and hot
+bread of the consistence of putty cakes of the same dimensions, which,
+when broken open after a mighty effort, disclosed various articles of
+household furniture, such as clay pipes, old knife handles, and various
+other invoices, probably playfully<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_632" id="Page_632">[Pg 632]</a></span> dumped into the flour barrel by some
+one of the half-score of tow-headed, half-clad children, which the
+"General" and his buxom helpmeet had seen fit to provide for torturing
+another generation with rare Texan dinners at a dollar a plate.</p>
+
+<p>It was an all-day's labor getting to La Grange, but thirty-five miles
+from Brenham, where they arrived at ten o'clock, tired and exhausted
+from the day's banging about in the stage and out of it, for they were
+obliged to walk many times in order to rest the jaded horses so that
+they could get through to La Grange at all; but before retiring made all
+the inquiries necessary to develop the fact that their man had not been
+at that point.</p>
+
+<p>The next day, Wednesday, was rather more trying than the previous one.
+Two miles out of town the stage got "bogged," and the entire load of
+passengers were obliged to get out and walk through three miles of
+swamps, the stage finally sticking fast, necessitating prying it out
+with rails. After this Slough of Despond was passed, the Colorado river
+had to be forded three times, and then came a "dry run," which now, with
+every other ravine or depression, had became a "wet run," and was "a
+booming" as the drunken driver termed it between oaths. There was at
+least four feet of water in the dry run, and the horses balking, the
+buckskin argument was applied to them so forcibly that they gave a
+sudden start, and broke the pole off short, which further<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_633" id="Page_633">[Pg 633]</a></span> complicated
+matters. My son, being on the box, sprang to the assistance of the
+driver, and stepping down upon the stub of the pole, quickly unhitched
+the wheel horses, so that the stage could not be overturned, and then
+disengaged the head team, finally appropriating a heavy wheel horse,
+with which he rode back to Keating, who was perched upon a rear wheel to
+keep out of the water, which was rushing and seething below, sweeping
+through the bottom of the stage, and at every moment seeming to have
+lifted the vehicle preparatory to sweeping it away like feathers, and
+also holding on to the baggage, which he had got safely upon the roof of
+the stage; and, taking him aboard his improvised ferry, after securing
+the valises, rode to the muddy shore, forming with his companions about
+as fine a picture of despairing "carpet-baggers" as the South has ever
+on any occasion been able to produce. The bedraggled passengers
+ascertained that the next town, Webberville, was several miles distant,
+and that there was no house nearer, save on the other side of the
+rapidly rising stream; and as night had come on, the best thing that
+could be done was to penetrate the woods, build a rousing fire, and
+shiver and shiver through as long, wet and weary a night as was ever
+experienced.</p>
+
+<p>There was never a more longed-for morning than the next one, and the
+moment that the sickly light came feebly through the mist and rain, and
+straggled into the dense cottonwood trees, where the discouraged<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_634" id="Page_634">[Pg 634]</a></span>
+passengers had a sort of fervent out-doors prayer-meeting, they started
+forward for Webberville, hungry, drenched, and so benumbed as to be
+scarcely able to walk. It was five miles into town, but one mile of that
+distance stretched over a quagmire known and described in that section
+as "Hell's half-acre;" and the truthful inhabitants of Webberville
+related of this delectable ground that during the rainy season its
+powers of absorption were so great that it would even retain the
+gigantic Texan mosquito, should it happen to take a seat there.</p>
+
+<p>This bog was impassable to the travelers, who finally bartered with the
+owner of a hog wagon to be carried over the marsh for a silver half
+dollar each. This was far better than remaining on the other side, and
+they finally trudged into the town more dead than alive.</p>
+
+<p>Fortunately for the detectives, the brother of ex-Governor Lubbock, of
+Texas, was one of the party, and as they had all become so thoroughly
+acquainted, as common misery will quickly make travelers, he took my son
+and Keating to the residence of Colonel Banks, a merchant of
+Webberville, whose good wife never rested until she had provided the
+party with a splendid meal, something with which to wash it down, and
+beds which seemed to them all to have been composed of down.</p>
+
+<p>After they had a good rest, the passengers for Austin were got together,
+and explained the situation<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_635" id="Page_635">[Pg 635]</a></span> of things. The creek the other side of
+Webberville was a mighty river. The driver thought he could possibly get
+the stage across, but was certain he could not do so with any passengers
+or baggage to make it drag more heavily; but he thought that if once on
+the other side, they might get to Austin the same day. William was
+anxious to push ahead, and looking about town discovered a rather
+venturesome negro who owned a monstrous mule, and at once entered into
+negotiations with him for the transfer of the party and baggage, sink or
+swim. So when the stage arrived at the creek, the baggage was unloaded,
+and the stage successfully forded the stream. But as the water covered
+so broad an expanse, was so deep and rapid, and altogether presented
+such a forbidding appearance, the passengers refused to try the mule
+experiment unless William, who had proposed the mode of transfer, and
+had secured the novel ferry, which stood with the grinning negro upon
+its back ready for passengers, would first cross the Rubicon to
+demonstrate the convenience and safety of the passage. So, handing the
+captain one of the valises, he mounted the mule, which after a few
+whirls, a little "bucking," several suspicious sidewise movements, and a
+shouted "Ya-a-oop, da, Dani-el!&mdash;done quit dis heyah foolishness!"
+plunged into the current without further ceremony.</p>
+
+<p>The passengers saw that Dani-el and his master were up to a thing or two
+in that section of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_636" id="Page_636">[Pg 636]</a></span> country; and after seeing Keating cross the
+stream in safety also, they one by one ventured upon the transfer, which
+was finished without accident, but with a good deal of merriment; and
+the colored clown paid even beyond his contract price, the stage was
+enabled to go lumbering on to Austin, where it arrived at a late hour of
+the same day.</p>
+
+
+<h3>V.</h3>
+
+<p>Rain, drizzle and mist; mist, drizzle and rain. It seemed all that the
+country was capable of producing; and the same preface to the befogged
+condition of the English chancery courts used by Dickens, in his
+introduction to "Bleak House," with a few of the localisms expunged,
+would have fitly applied to the condition of things in Texas, which
+afterward culminated in a flood which swept everything before it.</p>
+
+<p>In Austin&mdash;though the seat of the State government and the headquarters
+of the military department of Texas, full of legislators, lobbyists,
+officers and soldiers, everything had the appearance of having been
+through a washing that had lasted an age, and had been prematurely wrung
+out to dry, but had been caught on the lines by an eternal rain day.
+Involuntarily, with the spatters and dashes of rain and the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_637" id="Page_637">[Pg 637]</a></span> morning
+wind, Longfellow's "Rainy Day" came drifting into the mind, and the
+lines:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"The day is cold and dark and dreary;<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">It rains, and the wind is never weary;<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The vine still clings to the mouldering wall,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">While at very gust the dead leaves fall.<br /></span>
+<span class="i4">And the day is dark and dreary!"<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>were never more appropriate than when applied to any portion of Texas
+during the months of January and February, 1868.</p>
+
+<p>The very first man my son met in the office of the hotel, the next
+morning, was a member of the Legislature from Besar county, who, hearing
+his inquiries of the clerk concerning Taylor, informed him that he had
+been introduced to him in San Antonio a few weeks previous; that he was
+in company with a much younger man whom he represented as his brother,
+and that he had ostensibly come to San Antonio to make some inquiries
+concerning the hide and wool trade; but whether with an idea of settling
+at that point, or whether he could yet be found in San Antonio, he was
+unable to state.</p>
+
+<p>In any event this was cheering news; for it assured my detectives that
+their long and weary search would not prove unavailing; and William
+directed Keating to make himself useful about the different hotels and
+hide and stock dealers,&mdash;as it is a detective's business to work all the
+time, and the slightest cessation of vigilance after the beginning of an
+operation<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_638" id="Page_638">[Pg 638]</a></span> might at the most unexpected moment cause the beginning of a
+series of circumstances eventually permitting a criminal's
+escape,&mdash;while he himself sought out General Potter, who escorted him to
+General Canby's headquarters, where he was most cordially received, and
+not only given an order for military aid, should it be required, but
+General Canby himself went with him to the capitol and introduced him to
+Governor Pease, vouching for the reliability of any statement made in
+connection with the business which had brought him so far from home; as,
+while I had charge of the secret service of the Government, during the
+war, with myself and sons had had an intimate acquaintance with, and
+personal friendship for him.</p>
+
+<p>Governor Pease frankly stated to William that the affidavits were rather
+weak, and that should some of the "shysters" of that state, who did a
+thriving business in <i>habeas corpus</i> releases, get an inkling of his
+business and the nature of the papers, they might give him a deal of
+trouble, even if they did not get his man away from him eventually. He
+said he would make the requisition as strong as possible, however, and
+expressed his hope that the reputation for ingenuity in devising and
+executing expedients possessed by Pinkerton's men would be more than
+sustained in this instance; and General Canby terminated the interview
+by giving the document approval over his own signature.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_639" id="Page_639">[Pg 639]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>My son thanked them both for their kindness, and withdrew, only too
+anxious to get to where his man was before any information that he was
+being sought for should reach him, and either scare him beyond the Rio
+Grande, or enable him to act on the defensive, as only a man can act who
+has plenty of money, plenty of friends, and, as we already knew, a great
+plenty of bravery on his own account.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after he had returned to the hotel, Keating came in with undoubted
+information that Taylor had a permanent residence at or near Corpus
+Christi; that either he or his brother owned a sheep ranche near the
+coast, not far from that city, while the other dealt in hides and wool
+there; and that one or the other penetrated into the interior as far as
+San Antonio, soliciting consignments.</p>
+
+<p>My son at once concluded that it was the Captain who had done the
+dealing, as well as stealing, and whose money and business ability had
+been brought to bear upon the trading at Corpus Christi, and upon the
+ranche in the country near it; the brother, though probably entirely
+innocent of complicity in the robbery, or even a knowledge of the source
+from whence the money had come, only being used for a convenient
+repository for his ill-gotten funds in case of Kuhn Brothers following
+him before he was ready to meet them.</p>
+
+<p>He therefore decided to get through to Corpus Christi in the very
+shortest time in which the trip<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_640" id="Page_640">[Pg 640]</a></span> could be made <i>vi&acirc;</i> New Braunfels, San
+Antonio, Victoria, and Port Lavaca, hoping that he might be able to pick
+him up along some portion of that route, as it was quite evident he made
+frequent trips in that direction; and, at whatever point he might be
+started, should he seem to be going much farther into the
+interior,&mdash;which would be improbable, as San Antonio at that time was
+quite a frontier city,&mdash;arrest him at once, and hurry him back to
+Galveston along the route he was already familiar with; but, should he
+be going toward the coast, to let him take his own course, keeping him
+well in hand until he had reached Corpus Christi or some other seaport
+city, and, waiting a favorable opportunity, arrest him and get him
+aboard a boat before he could recover from the surprise.</p>
+
+<p>Not a half hour before they left Austin, he fortunately met Judge Davis
+of Corpus Christi, who was there attending some political convention,
+and who gave him a letter to his law partner at home, should his
+services in any way be needed, as I had been of some service to him on a
+previous occasion; so that when my two detectives left Austin on the
+seventeenth of January, they felt perfectly satisfied of ultimate
+success, though the same terrible experiences as to staging were again
+encountered.</p>
+
+<p>It required the entire day to traverse the few miles between Austin and
+Blanco Creek, where they secured a sort of a supper; the Onion Creek and
+its<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_641" id="Page_641">[Pg 641]</a></span> branches having been waded and forded numberless times. At Manchell
+Springs, the stage pole being again broken, they were only able to
+proceed after improvising a tongue out of a sapling, chopped from the
+roadside with a very dull hatchet. At Blanco Springs a good rest was
+taken, and the driver, having the day's experience in his mind, objected
+to going further that night; but the detectives insisted that they had
+paid their money to be taken to a certain destination, and, as they had
+shown a disposition to more than earn their passage besides, no excuse
+for their detention should be offered.</p>
+
+<p>After a good deal of grumbling, fresh horses were got out, a new pole
+put in the stage, and the procession again took up its weary march over
+the then most horrible of roads, crossing the innumerable brooks and
+runs which now pushed torrents into York's Creek. All night long they
+slushed and splashed, and tramped and cursed; though the rain had ceased
+for a time, there was but little light from the sky, which seemed full
+of black heavy clouds ready to burst asunder, to again drench them and
+swell the torrents afresh. My son, Keating, and a man sent along from
+Blanco Creek, "took turns," trudging along ahead of the lead-team, and,
+with lanterns, picked out the way. Often they would be misled where the
+ground was so bad as to almost defy a passage over it, when the patient
+animals behind them, steaming from the toil of straining along with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_642" id="Page_642">[Pg 642]</a></span>
+nothing but an empty coach, would stop, as if guided by a keener
+instinct, where they would quietly remain until the united search of the
+three men had discovered the road, when the intelligent creatures
+docilely plodded along again.</p>
+
+<p>And so, through seemingly bottomless quagmires; over corduroys, where
+the shaky ends of timbers, struck by a horse's hoof, would mercilessly
+splash those walking beside the useless vehicle, or, suddenly relieved
+from the weight of the ponderous wheel, would fly upwards to heave
+gallons of slime upon the coach; laboring around the bases of
+far-extending mounds of sandy loam; descending into unexpected and
+sometimes dangerous depressions, along creeks, and plunging into
+streams, where drift and changing, sandy bottoms always made it a
+question whether the coach could ever be got across; they marched only
+as Sherman taught soldiers to march, or as honest detectives will crowd
+all obstacles between themselves and their duty, and came with the gray
+of the morning to the beautiful, forest-shaded Guadaloupe.</p>
+
+<p>Fording this river without nearly the trouble presented at some of the
+petty runs and creeks which had been passed, they came to New Braunfels
+with the sun, which had shown itself for the first time since their
+arrival in Texas, and which also shone upon the first city which had
+shown any of that wide-awake "go-aheaditiveness" and thrift so common to
+nearly all northern cities.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_643" id="Page_643">[Pg 643]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The reason that New Braunfels differed so materially from the ordinary
+Texan towns lay in the fact that it was almost exclusively settled by
+Germans; and it was a welcome sight to the detectives to be able to
+enter a place where, from suburb to center, up and down long,
+finely-shaded avenues, it was plain to be seen that the most had been
+made of everything.</p>
+
+<p>From the pleasantest cottage of the extreme suburb, and past the more
+pretentious residences,&mdash;every home being provided with an exterior
+bake-oven, the same as in Germany, Pennsylvania, or portions of
+Wisconsin and Minnesota, to the shops, stores, hotels and public
+buildings, every yard, in many instances, fenced with stone gleaned and
+cleaned from the soil, and, for that matter, every spot upon which the
+eye rested showed that thrift and not whisky-drinking ruled that place;
+and that fact alone entitles the little German city to respectable
+elevation from the obscurity which has heretofore surrounded it.</p>
+
+<p>As nothing at this point could be learned regarding Taylor, though
+leaving the town and its extraordinary attractions with some reluctance,
+they immediately proceeded to San Antonio, the roads to which place were
+quite passable, and arrived at that city Friday afternoon. I had
+telegraphed to Colonel Lee, of San Antonio, to hold himself in readiness
+to assist my son and Keating, on the score of personal friendship,
+whenever they might arrive there, not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_644" id="Page_644">[Pg 644]</a></span> knowing, from the terrible
+condition of the roads, at what time it would be possible for them to
+reach that point, and he, being ignorant from what direction they might
+come, where they might stay, or under what name they might register, had
+caused an advertisement to be inserted in the San Antonio <i>Herald</i>, of
+which the following is a copy:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>PERSONAL.&mdash;<span class="smcap">Whenever the son of A. P.</span>, of Chicago, may arrive
+in San Antonio, he will learn of something to his advantage
+by calling upon Lieut.-Col. Lee, at the Mengler House.</p></div>
+
+<p>Keating's sharp eyes first saw the item at the supper table of the
+Mengler House, where they were stopping, and they both learned, by
+listening to the conversation about them, that the Colonel was sitting
+at the same table.</p>
+
+<p>After supper William made himself known to Colonel Lee without
+attracting attention, the latter kindly offering him any help needed,
+after which inquiries of a guarded character were instituted for the
+object of their search. The landlord of the Mengler House stated that
+Taylor had called upon him about three weeks before to inquire for
+letters; but as he was stopping elsewhere but little attention had been
+paid to him or his questions; all of which William had reason to believe
+absolutely true, on account of the strong corroborative testimony which
+would lie in the statement of any landlord that no civility was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_645" id="Page_645">[Pg 645]</a></span> shown
+to a man who quartered at any hostelry save his own.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning he called upon Chief of Police, H. D. Bonnet, who
+extended every imaginable courtesy, went with him to the offices of the
+different stage-lines, and assisted in examining their lists for some
+time previous with a view to ascertaining what direction Taylor had
+taken when he left San Antonio; introduced him to the Mayor and Chief
+Marshal, and even went with him on an extended tour through the old
+Mexican quarter of the town; but no other information was secured save
+through the German landlady of a hotel, who was as positive as her
+limited knowledge of the English language would allow her to be, that
+Taylor had stopped at her house without registering at all, and had gone
+directly from San Antonio to Port Lavaca or Corpus Christi on horseback,
+which, after all, in the exceptional condition of the weather that year
+in Texas, seemed quite probable.</p>
+
+<p>It was evident nothing was to be gained by remaining any longer at San
+Antonio, and was quite as plain that all possible expedition should be
+used in getting on to the coast.</p>
+
+<p>As if the fates were ordained perverse, the moment the two left San
+Antonio a steady drenching rain again began to fall, and as the stage
+was crowded, the discomfort of those within could not very well be
+increased. About twelve miles from San Antonio<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_646" id="Page_646">[Pg 646]</a></span> the driver succeeded in
+tipping over the stage, and giving the occupants "an elegant mud varnish
+all over," as operative Keating aptly expressed it. The driver remarked
+that he was "going up the new road," but some of the more profane
+passengers swore that, if so, he was hunting it three feet under the old
+one. On arriving at Lavernia station the dismal announcement was made by
+the lean, long stage agent, who seemed to have never done anything from
+time immemorial save sit in the door of his tumbledown hovel to make
+dismal announcement that "the Cibolo (pronounced there 'C'uillou') is
+just a scootin' and a rippin' up its banks like a mad buffler bull!
+ye'll all be back to stay at my tavern all night."</p>
+
+<p>It was the contemplation of this man's pure cussedness, as he sat there
+doting on the big bills he would charge when the Cibolo should drive
+back a stage load of hungry travelers, that nerved them to push on at
+all hazards and attempt a crossing at some point where the Cibolo
+"scooted and ripped up its banks" with less ardor than across the
+regular route to Victoria; but on reaching Southerland Springs, seven
+miles distant, it was found that it would be necessary to wait until
+Thursday morning, when they might possibly make a passage, as the stream
+was running down to within something like ordinary bounds very fast.</p>
+
+<p>Thursday afternoon came before an attempt to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_647" id="Page_647">[Pg 647]</a></span> ford the stream was made,
+when the driver agreed to land the passengers in the middle of the
+stream on an immense fallen tree, from which point they could reach the
+other side, when they might be able to get the empty stage across also.</p>
+
+<p>The trial was made, and was successful so far as landing the passengers
+was concerned, but while this was being done the wheels of the coach
+sank deeper and deeper into the mucky bed of the stream, and though but
+a few minutes had elapsed, the strange action of the water had caused
+deposits to form about the coach so rapidly that it became firmly
+imbedded, and could not be moved by the four horses attached. At this
+juncture an old farmer came along, who carried the evidences of some of
+his propensities strongly marked in his face, which was a thin one, like
+his conscience, but with bright tips on his cheek bones and as red a
+nose as ever the devil-artist in alcohol tipped with crimson. No
+importunities or amount of money could prevail on him to assist the
+discouraged travelers with his fine mule train; but a pint of good
+whiskey, to be delivered the moment the stage had been drawn from its
+peril, with a small drink by way of retainer, accomplished what would
+not have been done in any other manner, and set the travelers joyfully
+on their way again. They journeyed on at a snail's pace until one
+o'clock Friday morning, when they arrived at Kelly's ranche, kept by
+Bill Kelly, uncle of the "Taylor boys," notorious for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_648" id="Page_648">[Pg 648]</a></span> their connection
+with the Ku Klux and various other gangs of villainous desperadoes.</p>
+
+<p>The family were unceremoniously awakened, and at once good-humoredly
+proceeded to provide the ravenous passengers with something to eat;
+after which they made a "shake-down" on the floor, into which substitute
+for a bed everybody turned, and slept late into the morning, awakening
+stiff in every joint and scarcely able for that day's journey, which,
+with its complement of accidents and delays, took them safely over
+Esteto creek and into Yorktown early in the evening, where the
+detectives secured certain information that Taylor had been in Corpus
+Christi the week previous, and was undoubtedly there at that time, as
+Texas by this time had become a net-work of resistless streams, almost
+impassible quagmires and far-reaching lagoons.</p>
+
+
+<h3>VI.</h3>
+
+<p>Late the next morning they left Yorktown, having taken on a passenger of
+no less importance than ex-Confederate Governor Owens, of Arizona. He
+was a pleasant, voluble old fellow, and my son at once fell in with his
+ways, and treated him so courteously<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_649" id="Page_649">[Pg 649]</a></span> that it perhaps averted a greater
+disaster than had at any previous time occurred.</p>
+
+<p>Governor Owens was largely engaged in the Rio Grande trade of supplying
+frontier points with provisions and merchandise, and was just on his way
+to Indianola, on the coast, where he was to meet his Mexican freighters,
+comprising thirty wagons and carts, of all characters and descriptions,
+driven by the inevitable lazy Greaser. Even as late as the same period,
+1867-8, a vast amount of freighting was done between St. Paul,
+Minnesota, and Fort Garry, Manitoba, in the famed Red River carts,
+driven by the inevitable, lazy half-breed.</p>
+
+<p>William, knowing the position held by Governor Owens during a portion of
+the war, and realizing that an ex-office-holder will never lose his
+tenderness for the political regime which made him titled, assumed to be
+a Mississippian, from Vicksburg, with an Irish acquaintance, on a trip
+of inspection through Texas, and, so far, terribly disappointed with the
+State.</p>
+
+<p>During those periods when, owing to the depth of the mud, the passengers
+were obliged to walk, they would fall behind or walk ahead of the stage,
+when they would chat pleasantly upon general subjects. On one of these
+occasions Governor Owens eyed his companion sharply a moment, and then
+asked:</p>
+
+<p>"Can I trust you, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly."</p>
+
+<p>"On the word and honor of a gentleman?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_650" id="Page_650">[Pg 650]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and an honest man, too," William answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you; thank you. You know stages are robbed out this way?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever see it done?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; nor have I any desire to be around on such an occasion," he
+replied, laughing.</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon you hadn't better, either," said the Governor earnestly. "It
+wouldn't make so much difference if they would do the work a trifle
+genteelly, in a gentlemanly way; but the fact is, we have low fellows
+along our Texas stage-lines. They have no regard for a man's family.
+Why," he continued, warmly, "they'll just pop out from behind the trees,
+or up through some clumps of bushes, ram a double barreled shot-gun,
+loaded to the muzzle with slugs and things, into the coach from both
+sides at once, and just blaze away&mdash;all that are not killed outright are
+scared to death. There's nothing fair about it!"</p>
+
+<p>William expressed his curiosity to know if the drivers were ever killed.</p>
+
+<p>"Drivers? Never, sir, never. Why, those ruffians are too smart for that.
+Let it be known that they have begun killing drivers, and there isn't a
+stage company in Texas that could send a coach past the first timber.
+They couldn't afford to kill stage-drivers, for the moment they began
+it, that would be the end of staging."</p>
+
+<p>My son expressed his thanks at learning so much<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_651" id="Page_651">[Pg 651]</a></span> of the business
+principles of these land pirates, and the old gentleman continued:</p>
+
+<p>"You see, it takes a peculiar kind of a driver for a Texas coach. You
+want one, first, that can drink right smart of whiskey, for the water
+isn't good along some of these branches. You want one that can swear a
+hoss's head square off, too. He's got to be a coward, or he would help
+put this robbing down; and yet, he has got to be rather brave to drive
+right along up to a spot where he knows he is to see his passengers
+butchered! and that," continued the Governor, earnestly, "is just what I
+want to talk to you about, as I feel sure that I can trust you."</p>
+
+<p>The Governor then explained to him that a certain member of the Ku Klux,
+whom he was sorry to say was too intimate with those roadside
+plunderers, had informed him that morning, just as he was leaving
+Yorktown, that preparations had been made to rob their stage at a point
+between Clinton and Mission Valley; and that he very much desired some
+organization among the passengers for defense, as he himself had upwards
+of thirty thousand dollars, to be paid out at Indianola, for goods, and
+to his freighters for wages.</p>
+
+<p>On the receipt of this alarming intelligence, my son took the
+responsibility of informing the rest of the passengers what might
+possibly be expected; and, as Governor Owens had six fine carbines,
+which he was also taking down to Indianola for the protection of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_652" id="Page_652">[Pg 652]</a></span> his
+freighters on the Rio Grand, preparatory to any attack that might be
+made.</p>
+
+<p>About six miles from Mission Valley the stage route traversed a low
+piece of bottom-lands covered with timber, and a considerable growth of
+underbrush. A corduroy road had been built through the place, and as the
+coach was obliged to be driven slowly across it, the locality offered
+particularly fine inducements for a robbery of the character described
+by the Governor; so that the precaution was taken of walking along with
+the coach, three on either side, with carbines ready for instant use.</p>
+
+<p>Just before entering the timber, two men were seen prowling about, and,
+evidently fearing their actions might cause suspicion and frustrate the
+plan they had in view, made a great effort to appear to be two
+respectable hunters in search of only wild game; and, before leaving the
+timber at the other side, two more persons were seen, who, evidently,
+not having been given any signal, had come as near to the stage as they
+dared, to ascertain for themselves why their comrades had failed in
+their calculations; but skulked away after seeing the force which grimly
+trudged along, guarding the empty vehicle, into which the passengers
+were glad enough to climb when the danger was gone by, and be carried
+with sound bodies and whole pockets to the supper which had been some
+time in waiting when they reached Mission Valley.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_653" id="Page_653">[Pg 653]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Dinner the next day was taken at Victoria, from which city William and
+Keating expected to be able to go by railroad to Port Lavaca, only
+twenty-eight miles distant. They were doomed to disappointment in this,
+as the railroad had been abandoned since the war, either the Union or
+Confederate soldiers having taken it up bodily and turned it upside
+down, like a gigantic furrow, from Victoria to the sea.</p>
+
+<p>After many years somebody had come along and turned it back; but to this
+day the steam-engine has never thundered over it again; the most that
+has ever been done having been to drag an occasional freight car over
+the road by the not peculiarly thrilling application of mule power; and
+so it was said a hand-car, worked by a gang of negroes, was used for
+transporting passengers, the trips being made back and forth whenever a
+load could be got, and not before.</p>
+
+<p>As they were obliged to remain for this new mode of conveyance, their
+time was entirely unoccupied, and they could not but have leisure to
+make something of a study of Texan life, as it then existed; and on
+Sunday afternoon were witnesses to one of those little episodes which
+sometimes make extremely lively certain periods that would otherwise
+remain humdrum and ordinary.</p>
+
+<p>The bar-room of the hotel had been crowded all day, and a good deal of
+liquor had been drunk, while there had also been a large amount of money
+lost and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_654" id="Page_654">[Pg 654]</a></span> won over cards, so that there was that feverish, explosive
+condition of things which always follows large winnings or losses at
+games of chance, although there had as yet been no disturbance of a
+serious character.</p>
+
+<p>At one of the little gaming tables, John Foster, county clerk of
+Victoria County, and another person, named Lew Phillips, who had been
+one of the Andersonville prison-keepers during the war, but had drifted
+out to Victoria and had secured charge of a large livery-stable there,
+were engaged at a game of poker, when Foster was heard to quietly say:</p>
+
+<p>"See here, Lew Phillips, you stole that card!"</p>
+
+<p>"You're a liar!" was retorted, with an oath.</p>
+
+<p>The two men were up over the card-table in a twinkling, looking at each
+other, and both very white.</p>
+
+<p>"Apologize!" demanded Foster, still quiet, but with a terrible
+earnestness in his voice.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't do that sort of business, you white-livered coward!" shouted
+Phillips.</p>
+
+<p>Without another look or word, the two parted, one passing out one door
+and the other out of another, while the crowd in the hotel canvassed the
+matter as coolly as though there had been no difficulty worth
+mentioning, while a few quietly laid wagers on who would get the first
+shot.</p>
+
+<p>In about fifteen minutes more, Foster was seen returning with a
+double-barreled shot-gun, and Phillips, who had a wooden leg, came
+stumping up<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_655" id="Page_655">[Pg 655]</a></span> another street, with an immense navy revolver in his hand.
+It was noticeable that the space between the advancing men was made very
+clear, so that nothing should interfere with their sociability. In a
+moment more, Phillips had fired at Foster, and evidently hit him; for,
+as he was bringing his gun to his shoulder, his aim had been badly
+disturbed, and before he had time to fire, Phillips had fired again and
+wounded his man the second time. Foster now leaned against a porch
+column, desperately resolved to get a good aim,&mdash;his antagonist, all the
+while advancing, attempted to fire again, but missed this time, the cap
+refusing to communicate the deadly flash to the chamber of the
+revolver,&mdash;then there was a blinding flash from Foster's gun,
+accompanied by a thunderous report, and the two men fell almost
+instantaneously.</p>
+
+<p>Foster had discharged both barrels of his weapon, heavily loaded with
+buck-shot, at Phillips, the entire charge having entered his wooden leg,
+and sent him spinning to the ground, like the sudden jerk and whirl of a
+nearly spent top, the recoil of the gun also "kicking" Foster flat as a
+Tennessee "poor white's" corn pone.</p>
+
+<p>The "gentlemen" who had been looking on and quietly criticising the
+little by-play, now rushed forward and surrounded the combatants, the
+anxiety of each of whom was to be assured of the other's death; or, in
+case of his being alive, to have some one to be the immediate bearer of
+tender regards and profuse<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_656" id="Page_656">[Pg 656]</a></span> expressions of friendship; thus terminating
+satisfactorily to all parties what the chivalrous inhabitants of
+Victoria informed my detectives was called a "stag duel," the most
+common and effective method known for settling the little difficulties
+liable at any time to occur among gentlemen, the only conditions imposed
+by custom being that neither party shall offer to shoot in a crowded
+room, or be allowed to fire at his opponent unless he is also prepared,
+when other citizens who may be using the streets at those times withdraw
+from them as rapidly as consistent with the proprieties, when the
+occasion is immediately made interesting to the participants, who
+advance and fire upon each other as rapidly as a liberal practice in
+this and other "codes" of taking human life will permit.</p>
+
+<p>As the next sensation to a "stag duel" in Victoria was the arrival of
+the "train" from Lavaca, in the shape of the hand-car manned by four
+burly negroes, who with the original superintendent of the road had
+formed a soulless corporation with which nothing could compete, it was
+not long before the detectives had secured seats with four other
+passengers, making ten persons in all, to be conveyed twenty-eight miles
+on a broken-down hand-car over probably the most villainous excuse for a
+railroad ever known.</p>
+
+<p>The fare was six dollars in gold for each passenger, which might seem to
+have a shade of exorbitance about it when it was considered that the
+accommodations<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_657" id="Page_657">[Pg 657]</a></span> consisted of two very insecure seats, constructed over
+the wheels, upon each of which three persons might cling with a constant
+expectation of being jolted off by the unevenness of the road, or of
+falling off from sheer fatigue in endeavor to cling to the ramshackle
+boards beneath them.</p>
+
+<p>"All abo'd!" shouted the negro conductor, with all the style and unction
+of the diamond-pinned aristocrat of a New York Central train; and then,
+as the "train" started out of Victoria the passengers and the admiring
+lookers-on were greeted with the following song, tuned to the
+"Ra-ta-tat" of the wheels upon the rails, and sturdily sung, or chanted
+rather, by the jolly but powerful crew:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Heave ho!<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Away we go&mdash;<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">Winds may wait, or de winds may blow!<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Heave ho!<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Away we go&mdash;<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">For to cotch de gals at Lavac&mdash;o!"<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>In the sense that this mode of traveling had the charm of novelty and
+the thrilling attraction of danger combined, it was a success. There was
+freshness and variety about it, too; for, whenever one of the negroes
+had "done gin out," the conductor would call for volunteers from among
+the passengers, and give the demand a peculiar emphasis by the remark,
+"Takes brawn 'n sinyew to pump dis hy'r train into 'vacca; 'n de' Lo'd
+never did make no men out o' cl'ar iron 'n steel!"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_658" id="Page_658">[Pg 658]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The argument was so forcible that some one would work with the negroes
+while the "clean done gone" man and brother rested and meditated upon
+"catchin' the gals of 'vacca!" which the song brought out so feelingly.</p>
+
+<p>Besides this, new interest would be added to the excursion whenever the
+wind was favorable; for, stopping the car, a mast, to which a sort of
+"mutton-leg sail," as they termed it, would be attached; the conductor
+would brace himself and would lengthen or shorten the sail as was most
+judicious, and then the hand-car ship would speed along the billowy
+tract like a majestic thing of life for a mile or two, when the party
+were again forced into a realizing sense of the plodding nature of the
+means of transit, which, after all, at times became monotonous.</p>
+
+<p>On one of these occasions of momentary fair sailing and enthusiasm, they
+were also favored with a down grade of quite a stretch; and, as
+everybody was happy at the wonderful rate of speed acquired, while the
+negroes were singing snatches of songs in the gayest manner possible, a
+"spread" of the track let the car upon the ties, from which it leaped at
+one bound into the swamp, completely immersing several of its occupants
+in the muddy slime.</p>
+
+<p>No damage was done, however, as the spot where everything and everybody
+alighted was too soft to cause anything to be broken; and after righting
+the car, and repairing the disaster as much as possible,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_659" id="Page_659">[Pg 659]</a></span> William and
+Keating safely arrived in Lavaca early in the afternoon, were at once
+driven to Indianola, where they cleaned up, including a most welcome
+bathing and shaving, at the Magnolia House; embarked on a little
+schooner carrying the government mail down the coast; were becalmed in
+Aranzas Bay, and late during the night of the twenty-seventh of January
+the light from a quaint seaport city danced along the waves of its
+beautiful harbor, and welcomed the worn-out but indefatigable detectives
+to Corpus Christi.</p>
+
+
+<h3>VII.
+</h3>
+<p>Going ashore, the two proceeded to a sort of hotel or boarding-house on
+the beach, where they found Judge Carpenter, formerly of Chicago, who
+had become district judge there, and who, on learning my son's name,
+inquired if he were not a relative of Allan Pinkerton the detective.</p>
+
+<p>He replied that he was very <i>distantly</i> related, which was a literal
+truth at that time, when the Judge, claiming an acquaintance, proffered
+any assistance which might be desired, whatever his business. The
+courtesy was courteously accepted, but no questions were asked
+concerning Taylor.</p>
+
+<p>After breakfast the next morning, they strolled<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_660" id="Page_660">[Pg 660]</a></span> up-town with Judge
+Carpenter, when passing a Mr. Buckley's store, Keating, while catching
+step, took occasion to nudge my son, who carelessly looked into the
+place, as any stranger might, and there saw the object of his long
+search pleasantly chatting with one of the clerks; but they walked on
+quietly with the Judge as far as the post-office, when he kindly
+introduced them to another Mr. Taylor, the postmaster.</p>
+
+<p>After a few moments' pleasant conversation, William asked the postmaster
+if he could direct him to ex-Sheriff John McLane's residence. It proved
+to be but a block distant, but on inquiring there, it was ascertained
+that he was absent at his store, farther down-town. He was the only
+person in that city, besides Keating, whom my son felt that he could
+trust, as I had not only previously rendered him service, but also held
+him in the light of a friend; and he had already been requested by me to
+render him any service in his power, should William pass that way, so
+that he knew the first thing he should do was to go to him, explain his
+business fully and secure his immediate advice and assistance.</p>
+
+<p>Finding him, he told him that he did not feel justified in arresting
+Taylor unless the mail-boat in which he had arrived was, in some way,
+detained for an hour. McLane said he would attend to that, and brought
+Captain Reinhart to the store, but not telling him why the delay was
+desired, arranged for the same, and at once hunted up Sheriff Benson, to
+whom my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_661" id="Page_661">[Pg 661]</a></span> son delivered the warrant and demanded the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>Benson at first hesitated, expressing the utmost surprise, as Taylor was
+a fellow-boarder, and he could not realize, so he said, that he was
+other than a brave and chivalrous gentleman, and began to question the
+validity of the requisition, but William told him that there was the
+order of Governor Pease approved by General Canby, and that he did not
+propose to be dallied with or imposed upon in any manner.</p>
+
+<p>Seeing that my son had come too far and undergone too many hardships to
+be trifled with, he went with him to Buckley's store, where they found
+Taylor, who was given into the detectives' hands, though utterly
+astounded and completely unnerved at the idea that the strong hand of
+the law was upon him.</p>
+
+<p>In this condition, and before he could collect his scattered senses and
+decide to make a legal resistance, which would have caused my son a vast
+amount of trouble, if indeed it had not resulted in the liberation of
+the elegant swindler, he was placed on board the schooner.</p>
+
+<p>After they had left Corpus Christi behind, William began a system of
+soothing argument, with the end in view of convincing Taylor, who was
+now becoming nervous and restless, and evidently ashamed of being
+carried away so ingloriously, that it would be the best thing for
+himself, his brother, and even his people in Philadelphia, to go along
+quietly, without<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_662" id="Page_662">[Pg 662]</a></span> creating any disturbance, as, should he do so, he
+would treat him like a gentleman in every instance; but should he give
+him any trouble whatever he would be obliged to put him in irons, and
+not only treat him like a criminal, but would serve him roughly in every
+particular.</p>
+
+<p>Taylor saw that he was in my power, and that I had put two men after him
+who would have gone to Cape Horn for him, and that his only chance of
+escape lay in strategy.</p>
+
+<p>He had the perfect freedom of the boat, and, when he desired, chatted
+with the captain and the crew, who were not apprised by my son of the
+character of his new companion, and everything was done to make him
+comfortable.</p>
+
+<p>At first he kept entirely to himself, but of a sudden his manner changed
+entirely, and he became particularly pleasant, especially to the captain
+of the boat; and as they were nearing the little barren Saluria Island,
+at the entrance to Matagorda Bay, William accidentally overheard the
+captain say to Taylor, "The tide is high enough, and I will be able to
+run close to the island." This caused him to have no particular
+suspicion of Taylor, as the remark might equally apply to a hundred
+other subjects besides the one to which it did; but in a few moments
+after, he noticed the schooner, which had hugged the island pretty
+closely, now suddenly take a still closer tack, and rapidly neared the
+barren coast. Feeling alarmed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_663" id="Page_663">[Pg 663]</a></span> lest the helmsman was not attending to
+his duty, my son yelled:</p>
+
+<p>"Captain, what under heaven do you mean? Don't you see that in another
+moment you'll have us beached?"</p>
+
+<p>He had scarcely uttered the words when Taylor was seen to spring into
+the waves, and then disappear, and the boat at the same moment stood off
+from the island, as if in obedience to the warning my son had given.</p>
+
+<p>The truth flashed into his mind in an instant: Here, after this hard,
+unremitting toil, the discomforts, the annoyances, the dangers,
+everything through which they had been obliged to pass, after their
+hopes for success, and after they had earned it&mdash;if two men ever had
+earned success&mdash;just when they were beginning to feel the pleasure of
+work well done, and be able to experience the genuine satisfaction it is
+to any man who is honest enough to acknowledge it, in securing the
+regard of the public for assisting in its protection, the commendation
+of one's employer for good sturdy care for his interests, and the
+self-respect one gains in doing one's duty, even if it has led him a
+hard life of it,&mdash;they were to be cheated and outwitted. Half crazed, my
+son, with anger and indignation, and a perfect flood of humiliating
+thoughts filled his brain in the first great question, "What was to be
+done?"</p>
+
+<p>His first impulse was to plunge in after him, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_664" id="Page_664">[Pg 664]</a></span> in pursuance of that
+impulse he had freed himself of his boots and coat, when, seeing Taylor
+rise to the surface and make but little headway against the tide, which
+was ebbing strongly, he call to the captain to round to, and began
+firing with considerable rapidity, so as to strike the water within a
+few feet of the man who was so unsuccessfully struggling against the
+tide, but whom he could not blame for making so brave and desperate an
+effort to free himself.</p>
+
+<p>He was provided with two magnificent English Trenter revolvers, which
+will carry a half-ounce ball a fourth of a mile with absolute accuracy;
+and as he could use it with great precision he could easily have killed
+the man in the water. Both the captain and Taylor were terribly scared,
+and as Taylor held up his hand, and yelled&mdash;"I surrender!" the balls
+were cutting into the water all about him savagely, and the captain
+shouted, "For God's sake, don't kill the man! Don't you see I'm rounding
+to?"</p>
+
+<p>Keating, who had been almost worn out from the Texas trip, had been
+sleeping in a bunk below, and who had been roused by William's firing
+and the strange motion of the schooner, now came on deck rather thinly
+clad, and the two detectives covered Taylor with their revolvers; while
+the captain, himself at the wheel, handled the schooner so that it was
+only necessary for him to keep himself above water in order to float
+with the tide against the side of the boat, when my son, rather too
+indignant to be particularly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_665" id="Page_665">[Pg 665]</a></span> tender, grabbed him by the hair and his
+luxuriant whiskers, drew him aboard, and soundly kicked him into the
+cabin, where he began crying from excitement and fright, even going to
+such depths of discouragement that he begged for a revolver with which
+to kill himself, which being handed him by my son for that purpose, he
+very properly refused, and was put to bed for the purpose of drying his
+clothes like a truant school-boy.</p>
+
+<p>It was my son's intention to take the steamer at Indianola for Galveston
+immediately upon arriving at the former place; but on account of a heavy
+"Norther," which had blown all day Friday, the steamer had been obliged
+to put out to sea, and the party were consequently compelled to put up
+at the Magnolia House, and wait there until the following Monday; and it
+required all the detective's shrewdness to keep Taylor quiet, as he had
+learned from some source that the creation of Wyoming Territory, which
+occurred a short time before his capture, had caused Cheyenne to be a
+city of quite a different Territory than when the requisition was
+issued, which would have amounted to so grave a technical flaw that the
+requisition would not have held against a <i>habeas corpus</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Court had just set at the place, and Indianola was full of lawyers,
+hungry as vultures for just such a rich case; but by constant
+persuasions, partial promises, leading to a hope, at least, that a
+compromise<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_666" id="Page_666">[Pg 666]</a></span> might be effected at New Orleans, and dark hints of irons,
+and that, should his brother come on there and create any disturbance he
+would be immediately arrested as accessory both before and after the
+crime; with constant drives out into the country, rambles down the
+sea-shore, and every pretext known to the mind of the ingenious
+detective, everything was managed successfully; a receipt for nearly two
+thousand dollars in specie secured; the turning over of the money to
+Taylor's brother stopped; and Taylor himself taken to New Orleans
+without an attempt at rescue; and receiving a dispatch there from me to
+the effect that a compromise could not be for a moment considered, the
+party left that city Thursday, February 4th, arriving in Cheyenne six
+days later, my son accounting for his prisoner to the authorities into
+whose hands the case then passed; the last being seen of "Harry G.
+Taylor, the Man from Somewhere," being behind the bars of the
+guard-house at Fort Russell, where he had been placed for safe-keeping
+previous to his trial;&mdash;and I have related these facts, not so much to
+show any startling phase of crime, as to give the public a single
+illustration, out of thousands upon my records, of how men must overcome
+every known obstacle while leading the hard life of the detective.</p>
+
+
+<h4>THE END.</h4>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Spy of the Rebellion, by Allan Pinkerton
+
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+</body>
+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Spy of the Rebellion, by Allan Pinkerton
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Spy of the Rebellion
+       Being a True History of the Spy System of the United States
+       Army during the Late Rebellion,
+
+Author: Allan Pinkerton
+
+Release Date: January 15, 2011 [EBook #34973]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE SPY OF THE REBELLION ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell, Josephine Paolucci and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE SPY OF THE REBELLION
+
+[Illustration: _Frontispiece._ P. 158.
+
+_Allan Pinkerton and General McClellan in Private Consultation._]
+
+
+
+
+THE
+
+SPY OF THE REBELLION;
+
+BEING
+
+A TRUE HISTORY
+
+OF THE
+
+SPY SYSTEM OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+ARMY
+
+DURING THE LATE REBELLION.
+
+REVEALING MANY SECRETS OF THE WAR HITHERTO NOT MADE PUBLIC.
+
+_COMPILED FROM OFFICIAL REPORTS_
+
+PREPARED FOR
+
+PRESIDENT LINCOLN, GENERAL McCLELLAN AND THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL.
+
+BY
+
+ALLAN PINKERTON,
+
+WHO
+
+(UNDER THE NOM-DE-PLUME OF MAJOR E. J. ALLEN)
+
+WAS
+
+CHIEF OF THE UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE.
+
+_WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS._
+
+Introduction by Patrick Bass
+
+University of Nebraska Press
+Lincoln and London
+
+Introduction copyright (C) 1989 by the University of Nebraska Press
+
+All rights reserved
+
+Manufactured in the United States of America
+
+First Bison Book printing: 1989
+
+Most recent printing indicated by the last digit below:
+
+10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
+
+Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
+Pinkerton, Allan, 1819-1884.
+
+The spy of the rebellion: being a true history of the spy system of
+the United States Army during the late rebellion, revealing many
+secrets of the war hitherto not made public / by Allan Pinkerton:
+introduction by Patrick Bass.
+
+p. cm.
+
+"Compiled from official reports prepared for President Lincoln,
+General McClellan, and the provost-marshal-general."
+
+Reprint. Originally published: Hartford, Conn.: M. A. Winter &
+Hatch, 1883.
+
+ISBN 0-8032-3686-7 (alk. paper) ISBN 0-8032-8722-4 (pbk.)
+
+1. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Secret service.
+2. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Personal narratives.
+3. Pinkerton, Allan, 1819-1884. I. Title.
+E608.P65 1989
+
+973.7'86--dc20 89-33081 CIP
+
+Reprinted from the 1883 edition published by M. A. Winter & Hatch,
+Hartford, Connecticut. An appendix, "Rebel Forces before Richmond,"
+has been omitted from this Bison Book edition.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+_Introduction_                                                        17
+
+_Preface_                                                             23
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+                                                                    PAGE
+
+_An Unwritten Page of History.--A Political Resume.--Abraham
+Lincoln is Elected President._                                        33
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+_Opposition to Mr. Lincoln's Inauguration.--A Plot to
+Assassinate him.--The Journey from Springfield,
+Illinois._                                                            45
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+_The Conspirators at Work.--Detectives on their Trail.--Webster
+as a Soldier._                                                        58
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+_The Conspirators in Council.--My Operative Joins the
+Conspiracy._                                                          74
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+_The Presidential Party Arrives in Philadelphia.--Independence
+Hall.--The Departure from Harrisburg.--Telegraph
+Wires Cut.--Through the Lines of Treason.--Safe
+Arrival at Washington._                                               81
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+_My Connection with the Rebellion.--Timothy Webster
+Accepts a Mission._                                                  104
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+_Webster on his Way to the Capital.--Wrecked Trains
+and Broken Bridges.--An Adventure with a Cavalryman.--A
+Rebel Emissary.--President Lincoln
+and Timothy Webster_.                                                114
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Washington.--The Return to Philadelphia.--I
+go to the Capital.--An Important Letter_.                            131
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+_An Adventure in Pittsburg.--A Mob at Bay.--An Explanation.--Good
+Feeling Restored._                                                   142
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+_General McClellan in Command of Ohio.--I am Engaged
+for the War.--The Secret Service.--A Consultation.--Webster
+Starts for Rebeldom._                                                151
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+_Webster Fraternizes with the Rebel Officers.--A Secession
+Hat.--A Visit to a Rebel Camp.--"The Committee
+of Safety."--A Friendly Stranger.--A
+Warning.--The Escape._                                               168
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+_I Take a Trip to the South.--Danger in Memphis.--A
+Timely Warning.--A Persistent Barber.--An Unfortunate
+Memory.--Return to Cincinnati._                                      182
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+_East and West Virginia.--Seceding from Secession.--My
+Scouts in Virginia.--A Rebel Captain Entertains
+"My Lord."--An Old Justice dines with
+Royalty.--A Lucky Adventure.--A Runaway Horse.--A
+Rescue._                                                             203
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+_The Rebels Attempt to Occupy West Virginia.--General
+McClellan Ordered to Drive Them Out.--Early
+Battles.--The Federals Victorious.--West Virginia
+Freed from Rebel Soldiers._                                          227
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+_General McClellan is Called to Washington, and Placed
+in Command of the Armies after the Battle of Bull
+Run.--The Secret Service Department.--Its Duties
+and Responsibilities._                                               237
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+_A Female Traitor.--Suspicious Correspondence.--A Close
+Watch under Difficulties.--I am Arrested.--Exposure
+of the Treason of a Trusted Officer.--A Disgraced
+Captain._                                                            250
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Baltimore.--An Encounter with a
+Fire-eater.--Webster Defends Himself.--Treason
+Rampant in the Monumental City._                                     271
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+_Webster Makes a Journey to the South.--A Secret Organization.--The
+"Knights of Liberty."--Webster Becomes
+a Member.--A Sudden Intrusion of the Military.--The
+Conspiracy Broken Up._                                               283
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+_Suspicions in Washington.--"Uncle Gallus."--Property
+Searched.--A Rebel Family sent South.--Webster
+Starts for Richmond._                                                301
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+_The Spy at Richmond.--Earthworks Around the Rebel
+Capital.--An Unexpected Meeting.--Pistols for Two.--A
+Reconciliation.--Safe Return to Washington._                         314
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+_Again in Baltimore.--A Warning.--The Spy is Arrested.--And
+Escapes._                                                            326
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+_Webster and Scobell.--A Negro as a Spy.--A Traitor
+Deserts from the Army.--He Carries Dispatches to
+the Rebels.--Which Fail of Their Destination.--An
+Attack in the Woods.--"The Loyal League."--Slaves
+as Patriots._                                                        343
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+_A Negro Spy.--Passage on a Steam-Packet.--Lyrical
+Melodies.--Scobell Deserts the Ship.--His Tramps
+Through Rebeldom._                                                   358
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+_A Perilous Ride.--A Suspicious Peddler.--Uncle Gallus
+Again.--Scobell Investigating.--Doubts and Suspicions._              367
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+_The Journey Resumed.--A Midnight Pursuit.--A Brave
+Woman.--A Deadly Encounter.--Scobell Defends
+Himself.--Death of a Rebel Spy._                                     381
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+_A Woman's Discoveries.--An Infernal Machine.--The
+Shipping in Danger.--Discovery and Destruction of
+the Submarine Battery._                                              394
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+_"Stuttering Dave."--His Tramp Through the Rebel
+Lines.--An Ammunition Train.--"Dave's" Plan
+Succeeds in its Destruction.--A Man who Stuttered
+and "Had Fits."_                                                     404
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+_Another Trip to Richmond.--A Rebel General Taken In.--Curtis
+Makes Valuable Acquaintances.--"The
+Subterranean Headquarters."_                                         414
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+_A Virginia Home.--Unwelcome Visitors.--Mr. Harcourt
+Arrested and Released.--Dan McCowan makes Forcible
+Love to Mary Harcourt.--The Girl in Peril.--A
+Timely Rescue.--The Villain Punished._                               429
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+_Curtis Again on His Travels.--A Loving Episode.--Dan
+McCowan Again Turns up.--The Capture of Curtis.--A
+Fight for Life.--And Escape.--A Bit of Matrimony._                   445
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+_McClellan and his Enemies.--The Peninsula Campaign.--The
+Rebel Forces Before Richmond.--The Union
+Forces Outnumbered by the Enemy, and their Commander
+Hampered by Superiors.--An Honest Opinion._                          457
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+_Webster's Expedition.--His Gallantry.--A Stormy Passage.--A
+Mysterious Package.--Treason Discovered and Punished._               468
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+_Activity in Washington.--Webster's Journey Through the
+South.--His Return to the Capital._                                  481
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+_Webster's Last Mission.--Anxiety at his Long Absence.--No
+Tidings of the Faithful Scout.--Operatives Sent
+in Search of Him.--Webster Ill in Richmond._                         485
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+_McClellan and the Government.--Lewis and Scully Arrested
+as Spies.--An Attempted Escape.--Trial and
+Conviction.--Condemned to Die.--Before the Gallows
+their Mouths are Opened._                                            498
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+_Webster Arrested as a Spy.--A Woman's Devotion, and
+a Patriot's Heroism.--Webster is Convicted.--The
+Execution.--A Martyr's Grave._                                       530
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+_The Defeat of General Pope at the Second Battle of
+Manassas.--McClellan Again Called to the Command.--The
+Battle of Antietam.--A Union Victory.--A Few
+Thoughts About the Union Commander.--McClellan's
+Removal from Command, and His Farewell
+Address._                                                            561
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+_General Burnside in Command.--My Connection with the
+Secret Service Severed.--Reflections upon Important
+Events.--Conclusion._                                                579
+
+_APPENDIX._                                                        587
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+PAGE
+
+ALLAN PINKERTON AND GENERAL MCCLELLAN
+IN PRIVATE CONSULTATION.                  _Frontispiece_
+
+THE OATH TO ASSASSINATE THE PRESIDENT.                 65
+
+SWEARING IN OF HOWARD.                                 76
+
+LINCOLN RAISING THE OLD FLAG.                          87
+
+THE DEPARTURE FOR WASHINGTON.                          94
+
+SAFE ARRIVAL.                                          98
+
+ATTEMPT TO CAPTURE WEBSTER.                           146
+
+A VISIT TO A REBEL CAMP.                              171
+
+TIMELY WARNING.                                       195
+
+THE BARBER'S RECOGNITION.                             201
+
+AN ENGLISH LORD AND A REBEL CAPTAIN.                  215
+
+CAPTURED BY THE GUARDS.                               260
+
+AN ENCOUNTER WITH A FIRE-EATER.                       277
+
+A SUDDEN INTRUSION OF THE MILITARY.                   299
+
+THE SPY IS ARRESTED.                                  334
+
+ESCAPE OF THE SPY.                                    339
+
+SCOBELL ENGAGED AS DECK-HAND ON A STEAMBOAT.          364
+
+DEATH OF A REBEL SPY.                                 389
+
+TIMELY INTERRUPTION TO A LOVE SCENE.                  441
+
+WEBSTER'S GALLANT BRAVERY.                            474
+
+WEBSTER DISCOVERS A MYSTERIOUS PACKAGE.               475
+
+THE PRISONERS RECAPTURED.                             522
+
+WEBSTER'S DEATH WARRANT.                              542
+
+A NARROW ESCAPE.                                      569
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+Nearly a score of years have passed since the occurrence of the events
+related in the following pages. The "Rebellion," with its bloody scenes,
+has ended, and the country is at peace. The grass is waving green and
+beautiful over many Southern fields that once ran with human blood, as
+the contending forces met in the deadly encounter. The birds are
+carolling sweetly in the air, which then was laden with the clarion
+notes of the trumpet; the fierce, wild yell of assaulting soldiery; the
+booming of cannon, and the groans of the wounded and dying. The
+merchant, the mechanic, and the husbandman have returned to the pursuits
+which they followed before the dark clouds of war had overshadowed this
+fair land, and they shouldered their muskets in defense of the Union.
+From the desolation and the ravages of war, the country has emerged into
+the sunshine of abiding peace, and now, in the evening twilight, the
+gray-haired veterans gather around their family hearthstones to repeat
+the stories of bravery and devotion associated with those trying hours
+of their country's history.
+
+In the twilight of my days I have been tempted to the recitals which
+follow, and in relating my experiences as the Chief of the Secret
+Service of the Government during the Rebellion, I have been governed by
+a desire to acquaint the public with the movements of those brave men
+who rendered invaluable service to their country, although they never
+wore a uniform or carried a musket. Working quietly, and frequently
+under disguises, their assistance to the Union commanders was of
+incalculable advantage, and many acts of courage and daring were
+performed by these men which, until now, have never been revealed.
+Indeed, as to my own _nom-de-plume_, "E. J. Allen," many of the officers
+of the army and officials of the Government, with whom I was in constant
+communication, never knew me by any other name, and the majority of them
+are to this day in ignorance of the fact that E. J. Allen, late Chief of
+the Secret Service, and Allan Pinkerton are one and the same person.
+
+During the progress of the struggle, and the years which have since
+elapsed, many of my old acquaintances, who held important positions in
+the army and in governmental departments, have passed away from earth.
+Some of them falling in the heat of battle, in the courageous discharge
+of duty, while others, passing through the fiery ordeal, have died amid
+the comforts and the charms of home.
+
+President Lincoln, Edwin M. Stanton, William H. Seward and Salmon P.
+Chase, all giants in their day, have departed from the sphere of their
+usefulness, and have gone to their long home. Soldiers and civilians,
+generals and privates, with whom I was connected, and their name is
+legion, have taken up their journey to "that bourne from whence no
+traveler e'er returns."
+
+In detailing the various events which follow, I have been careful to
+offer nothing but that which actually transpired. I have avoided giving
+expression to any thoughts or feelings of antagonism to the South,
+because the time for such utterances has passed. Indeed, except for the
+existence of slavery, I always cherished a warm affection for the
+Southern people. But this institution of human bondage always received
+my most earnest opposition. Believing it to be a curse to the American
+nation, and an evidence of barbarism, no efforts of mine were ever
+spared in behalf of the slave, and to-day I have not a single regret for
+the course I then pursued.
+
+Many times before the war, when I was associated with those
+philanthrophic spirits who controlled the so-called "Underground
+Railroad," I have assisted in securing safety and freedom for the
+fugitive slave, no matter at what hour, under what circumstances, or at
+what cost, the act was to be performed. John Brown, the white-haired
+abolitionist of Kansas fame, was my bosom friend; and more than one dark
+night has found us working earnestly together in behalf of the fleeing
+bondman, who was striving for his liberty. After his gallant effort at
+Harper's Ferry, and while he was confined in a Virginia prison, my
+efforts in his behalf were unceasing; and had it not been for the
+excessive watchfulness of those having him in charge, the pages of
+American history would never have been stained with a record of his
+execution. As it is, though his fate may have been in accordance with
+the decrees of the laws then existing, I can recall with all the old
+enthusiasm that I then experienced, the thundering effect of thousands
+of our brave "boys in blue," joining in that electric war cry, the
+refrain of which was:
+
+    "John Brown's body lies mouldering in the grave,
+    But his soul goes marching along,"
+
+while they hurried in solid phalanx to meet the enemy upon the field of
+battle.
+
+In the preliminary chapters, I have detailed with accuracy the facts
+connected with the conspiracy to assassinate Abraham Lincoln, when he
+was first elected to the Presidency. The part I took in discovering the
+existence of that plot and the efforts of my men in ferreting out the
+prime movers of that murderous compact, are told for the first time in
+these pages, and the correctness of their relation is undoubted; though
+in the dark days that followed, the bullet of the assassin removed the
+martyred President, while engaged in the fulfillment of his mission. I
+cannot repress a sense of pride in the fact, that at the commencement of
+his glorious career I had averted the blow that was aimed at his honest,
+manly heart.
+
+In the events which transpired during the years 1861 and 1862, I took an
+active part. From the early days of April until after the battle of
+Antietam had been fought and won, I was connected with the military
+operations of the government. In Washington I acted under the directions
+of the Secretaries of War, and Colonel Andrew Porter, the
+provost-marshal; and in the field, I was under the immediate direction
+of General George B. McClellan.
+
+My relations with the various departments were always of the most
+cordial and confidential character. To particularize in this matter is
+almost impossible; but I cannot refrain from mentioning, in the highest
+terms of respect and friendship, Colonel Thomas A. Scott of
+Pennsylvania. In the early days of the nation's peril, he occupied the
+position of Assistant Secretary of War. In him I always found a warm
+friend and advocate, and in many emergencies his prompt and intelligent
+action was most potent in accomplishing good results in that era of
+confusion, of doubt and hesitation.
+
+Of my service with the military department while in active duty, little
+needs to be said here. From the time of his commission by Governor
+Dennison of Ohio, to the day when he was relieved, after his splendid
+victory at Antietam, I followed the fortunes of General McClellan. Never
+doubting his ability or his loyalty--always possessing his confidence
+and esteem, I am at this time proud and honored in ranking him foremost
+among my invaluable friends. When secret enemies were endeavoring to
+prejudice the mind of the President against his chosen commander; when
+wily politicians were seeking to belittle him in the estimation of the
+people, and when jealous minded officers were ignorantly criticising his
+plans of campaign, General McClellan pursued his course with
+unflinching courage and with a devotion to his country unsurpassed by
+any who have succeeded him, and upon whose brows are entwined the
+laurels of the conqueror.
+
+His marvelous reorganization of the army, the enthusiasm with which his
+presence invariably inspired the soldiers under his command, and the
+grand battles which he fought against enemies in front and in rear, have
+all passed into history--and to-day the intelligent and unprejudiced
+reader finds in a calm and dispassionate review of his career, an ample
+and overwhelming justification of his course as a loyal and capable
+commander-in-chief.
+
+Self-constituted critics, whose avenues of information were limited and
+unreliable, have attempted to prove that the force opposed to General
+McClellan was much less than was really the case; and upon this
+hypothesis have been led into unjust and undeserved censure of the
+commanding general. From my own experience, I _know_ to the contrary. My
+system of obtaining knowledge upon this point was so thorough and
+complete, my sources of information were so varied, that there could be
+no serious mistake in the estimates which I then made and reported to
+General McClellan. From every available field the facts were gleaned.
+From prisoners of war, contrabands, loyal Southerners, deserters,
+blockade-runners and from actual observations by trustworthy scouts, my
+estimates were made, and to-day I affirm as strongly as I then did, that
+the force opposed to General McClellan before Richmond approximated
+nearer to 200,000 men, than they did to the numerous estimates of
+irresponsible historians who have placed the strength of the rebel
+forces at that time below 100,000 men. In this connection I must refer
+also to the valuable assistance rendered both General McClellan and
+myself by that indefatigable Aid-de-camp Colonel Key. Though he no
+longer mingles with the things of earth, the memory of his devotion and
+his intelligent services to the cause of the Union is imperishable. No
+truer, braver man ever drew a sword than did this noble and efficient
+staff officer, now deceased.
+
+Of Timothy Webster, who so ably assisted me in my various and delicate
+duties, and whose life was sacrificed for the cause he held so dear, I
+have only words of warmest commendation. Brave, honest and intelligent,
+he entered into the contest to perform his whole duty, and right nobly
+did he fulfill his pledge. No danger was too great, no trust too
+responsible, no mission too delicate for him to attempt, and though
+executed as a spy in a Richmond prison, his name shall ever be
+cherished with honor and friendship by those who knew his worth, and who
+appreciated the unswerving devotion of a loyal heart. No dishonor can
+ever attach to the memory of a patriot who died in the service of his
+country.
+
+The events narrated have all occurred. The record is a truthful one.
+Although not so complete as I could wish, they must serve the purpose
+for which they are intended. In the disastrous fire which swept over
+Chicago in 1871, my records were mainly destroyed, and to this fact must
+be attributed the failure to more elaborately detail the multitudinous
+operations of my men. With the able assistance of Mr. George H. Bangs,
+my efficient General Superintendent, "we did what we could," and the
+approbation of our commanding officers attest the efficiency of our
+efforts.
+
+After leaving the service, the conduct of the war passed into other
+hands. Other men were chosen to the command of the armies, and other
+sources of information were resorted to. Succeeding battles have been
+fought, defeats have been sustained, victories have been achieved, and
+the war is happily ended. The slave is free, and in the enjoyment of the
+rights of citizenship. The country is at peace, her prosperity is
+assured, and now that passion and prejudice have died away, and honest
+judgments are given of the events that have transpired, I leave to the
+impartial reader, and historian, the question whether the course I
+pursued, and the General whom I loved and faithfully served, are
+deserving of censure, or are entitled to the praises of a free and
+enlightened people.
+
+                              ALLAN PINKERTON.
+
+
+
+
+THE SPY
+
+OF
+
+THE REBELLION.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+"_An Unwritten Page of History."--A Political Resume.--Mr. Lincoln is
+Elected President._
+
+
+Many years have elapsed since the occurrence of the events which I am
+about to relate. Years that have been full of mighty import to the
+nation. A bitter, prolonged and bloody war has laid its desolating hands
+upon a once united country. For years the roar of cannon and the clash
+of steel reverberated through the bright valleys and the towering hills
+of the fruitful South. In those years when brother arose against his
+brother, when ties of kindred and association were broken asunder like
+frail reeds, glorious deeds were wrought and grand results have been
+accomplished. America has taught the world a lesson of bravery and
+endurance; the shackles have been stricken from the slave; an error of
+a century has been crushed, and freedom is now no longer an empty name,
+but a beautiful and enduring realism.
+
+To-day peace spreads her broad, sheltering arms over a reunited and
+enlightened nation. The roll of the drum and the tramp of armed men are
+now no longer heard. North and South have again clasped hands in a
+renewal of friendship and in a perpetuity of union.
+
+But a short time ago a Republican President elected by but a slight
+majority of the voters of this great community, left his peaceful home
+in the West and journeyed to the capital of the nation, to take the oath
+of office and to assume the high duties of a chief magistrate. As he
+passed through the towns and cities upon his route a general plaudit of
+welcome was his greeting, even noted political foes joining in the
+demonstrations. His road was arched with banners and his path was strewn
+with flowers. Everywhere he found an enthusiasm of welcome, a universal
+prayer for success, and the triumphal train entered the capital amid the
+ovations of the populace, which reached almost a climax of patriotic and
+effervescing joy.
+
+Twenty years ago witnessed a different condition of affairs. The
+political horizon was dark and obscured. The low mutterings of the storm
+that was soon to sweep over our country, and to deluge our fair land
+with fratricidal blood, were distinctly heard. Sectional differences
+were developing into widespread dissensions. Cherished institutions were
+threatened with dissolution, and political antagonism had aroused a
+contented people into a frenzy of hate.
+
+On the twenty-second of May, 1856, an American Senator was assaulted in
+the Senate-house by a political opponent for daring to give utterance to
+opinions that were hostile to the slave-holding interests of the South.
+Later in the same year a Republican candidate, with professed
+anti-slavery views, was nominated for the presidency, and although
+defeated, gave evidence of such political strength that Southern leaders
+became alarmed.
+
+At this time the Hon. Stephen A. Douglas was a prominent leader of the
+Democratic party, but through his opposition to what was known as the
+Lecompton Bill, he incurred the displeasure of his political friends of
+the South, who vainly endeavored to enact such legislation as would
+practically lead to his retirement from the party.
+
+In 1858 the famous contest between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A.
+Douglas for the United States Senatorship from Illinois took place, and
+during its progress absorbed public attention throughout the country.
+The two candidates indulged in open discussions of questions of public
+policy, which were remarkable for their brilliancy and for the force and
+vigor with which their different views were uttered. It was during this
+canvass that Mr. Lincoln made the forcible and revolutionizing
+declaration that: "_The Union cannot permanently endure half slave and
+half free._" Mr. Lincoln was defeated, however, and Mr. Douglas was
+returned to the Senate, much against the wishes of those Democrats who
+desired the unlimited extension of the institution of Slavery.
+
+In the following year occurred the slave insurrection in Virginia, under
+the leadership of that bold abolitionist, John Brown. The movement was
+frustrated, however, and John Brown, after a judicial trial for his
+offense, was sentenced to be hung. Up to the day of his execution he
+remained firm in the belief that he had but performed his duty toward
+enslaved humanity, and he died avowing the justice of his cause and the
+hope of its ultimate success.
+
+All of these occurrences tended to engender a spirit of fierce
+opposition in the minds of the Southern leaders. The growing sentiment
+of abolitionism throughout the North, and the manifest disposition to
+prevent its increase or extension, aroused the advocates of Slavery to a
+degree of alarm, which led to the commission of many actions, both
+absurd and unjustifiable.
+
+The year of 1860 opened upon a scene of political agitation which
+threatened to disrupt long united associations, and to erect sectional
+barriers which appeared almost impossible to overcome.
+
+In April, 1860, the Democratic National Convention assembled in
+Charleston, South Carolina, for the purpose of nominating a candidate
+for the presidency. During its session loud and angry debates occurred,
+in which the Southern element endeavored to obtain a strong indorsement
+of the institution of Slavery, and of the right to carry slaves into the
+Territories of the United States. They were met by the more conservative
+portion of the party, who desired to leave the question to be decided by
+the States themselves. After a prolonged discussion the majority of the
+Southern States withdrew their delegates from the convention, and the
+remainder proceeded to ballot for a candidate of their choice.
+
+After a protracted sitting, during which several ballots were taken and
+no decided result obtained, the convention adjourned, to meet in the
+city of Baltimore on the eighteenth day of June succeeding. Stephen A.
+Douglas, of Illinois, received a large percentage of the votes that were
+cast, but failed to obtain a sufficient number to secure his nomination.
+
+The withdrawing delegates organized a rival convention, but, without
+transacting any business of a decisive character, also adjourned, to
+meet in Baltimore at a date nearly coincident with that of the regular
+body.
+
+On the nineteenth day of May, the Constitutional Union (being the old
+American) party held their convention in the city of Baltimore, and
+nominated John Bell, of Tennessee, for President, and Edward Everett,
+of Massachusetts, for the Vice-Presidency.
+
+The Republican Convention was held on the sixteenth day of May, in the
+city of Chicago, and upon the third ballot nominated Abraham Lincoln, of
+Illinois, for the office of President, and Hannibal Hamlin, of Maine,
+for the second office.
+
+This convention also adopted a platform very pronounced upon the subject
+of Slavery, and which was calculated to give but little encouragement to
+the extension or perpetuity of the slave-holding power.
+
+On the eighteenth day of June the regular Democratic Convention
+assembled, pursuant to adjournment, in the city of Baltimore, and named
+Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois, and Herschel V. Johnson, of Georgia, as
+their standard-bearers in the political conflict that was to ensue.
+
+On the twenty-eighth day of the same month the seceding delegates met in
+the same city, and after pronouncing their ultra views upon the question
+of Slavery, nominated John C. Breckinridge, of Kentucky (then the
+Vice-President of the country), and General Joseph Lane, of Oregon, as
+the candidates of their choice.
+
+The lines of battle were now drawn, and from that time until the
+election, in November, a fierce contest was waged between the opposing
+parties. Never before in the history of parties was a canvass conducted
+with more bitterness or with a greater amount of vituperation. The
+whole country was engrossed with the gigantic struggle. Business
+interests, questions of finance and of international import were all
+made subservient to the absorbing consideration of the election of a
+national President.
+
+The Southern "Fire-eaters," as they were called, fully realized their
+inability to elect the candidates they had named, but strove with all
+their power to prevent the success of the regular Democratic nominees,
+and when at last the day of election came, and the votes were counted,
+it was found that the Republican party had been victorious and that
+Abraham Lincoln had been elected.
+
+In many portions of the South this result was hailed with joyful
+enthusiasm. The anti-slavery proclivities of the successful party was
+instantly made a plausible pretext for secession and the withdrawal of
+the slave-holding States from the Union was boldly advocated.
+
+The same power that threatened in 1856, in the words of Governor Wise of
+Virginia: "That if Fremont had been elected, he would have marched at
+the head of twenty thousand men to Washington, and taken possession of
+the capital, preventing by force Fremont's inauguration at that
+place"--was again aroused, and an open opposition to the Republican
+inauguration was for a time considered.
+
+The absorbing and exciting question in the South was: "Would the South
+submit to a Black Republican President and a Black Republican
+Congress?" and the answer to the question was a loud and decisive
+negative.
+
+Among the bolder advocates of secession the election of Mr. Lincoln was
+regarded with pleasure, and meetings were held in Charleston, rejoicing
+in the triumph of the Republican party. Secession and disunion were
+loudly advocated, and the slave oligarchy of South Carolina regarded
+this event as the opportunity to achieve her long-cherished purpose of
+breaking up the Union, and forming a new confederacy, founded upon the
+peculiar ideas of the South.
+
+Says Horace Greeley: "Men thronged the streets, talking, laughing,
+cheering, like mariners long becalmed upon a hateful, treacherous sea,
+when a sudden breeze had swiftly wafted them within sight of their
+looked for haven, or like a seedy prodigal, just raised to affluence by
+the death of some far-off, unknown relative, and whose sense of decency
+is not strong enough to repress his exultation."
+
+Open threats were made to withdraw at once from the Union, and these
+demonstrations seemed to find sympathy among other nations than our own,
+and soon foreign intrigue was hand and glove with domestic treason, in
+the attempt to sap the foundations of our government, and seeking
+peculiar advantages from its overthrow.
+
+It is unnecessary to detail the various phases of this great agitation,
+which, firing the Southern heart with the frenzy of disunion, finally
+led to the secession of the Southern States. Various compromises were
+attempted, but all failed of beneficial result. The "masterly
+inactivity" of the administration contributed in no small degree to the
+accomplishment of this object, and in the end the Southern Confederacy
+was organized and Jefferson Davis was elected as its President.
+
+The Palmetto waved over the custom-house and post-office at Charleston;
+government forts and arsenals were seized by the volunteers to the
+Southern cause, and on February 1, 1861, the Federal mint and
+custom-house at New Orleans were taken possession of by the
+secessionists.
+
+The removal of Major Anderson from Fort Moultrie to the more secure
+stronghold of Fort Sumter, in Charleston harbor, had been accomplished,
+and as yet no measures had been taken by the government to prevent
+further demonstrations of a warlike character on the part of the
+Southern Confederacy. The administration remained passive and inert,
+while every effort was being made to calm the public fears of
+hostilities, and the organization of an open revolt.
+
+The city of Baltimore was, at this time, a slave-holding city, and the
+spirit of Slavery was nowhere else more rampant and ferocious. The
+mercantile and social aristocracy of that city had been sedulously and
+persistently plied, by the conspirators for disunion, with artful and
+tempting suggestions of her future greatness and advancement as the
+chief city of the new government.
+
+If a Confederacy composed of the fifteen slave-holding States was
+organized, Baltimore, it was urged, would naturally be the chief city of
+the new Republic. In time it would become the rival of New York, and
+occupy to the Confederacy the same relations which New York does to the
+Union, and would be the great ship-building, shipping, importing and
+commercial emporium.
+
+These glittering prophecies had not been uttered without effect. The
+ambition of the aristocracy was aroused. Already they saw the ocean
+whitened with her sails, and the broad domain of Maryland adorned with
+the palaces reared from her ample and ever-expanding profits. Under
+these hallucinations, their minds were corrupted, and they seemed eager
+to rush into treason.
+
+Being a border State, Maryland occupied a position of particular
+importance. Emissaries were sent to her from South Carolina and
+elsewhere, and no effort was spared to secure her co-operation in these
+revolutionary movements. It is to be regretted that they were too
+successful, and the result was that the majority of the wealthier
+classes and those in office were soon in sympathy with the rebellion,
+and the spirit of domestic treason, for a time, swept like a tornado
+over the State.
+
+Added to the wealthier classes was the mob element of the city of
+Baltimore--reckless and unscrupulous, as mobs generally are--and this
+portion of her community were avowedly in full accord with the
+prospective movement, and ready to do the bidding of the slave power.
+Between these, however, there existed a great middle class, who were
+loyally and peacefully inclined. But this class, large as it was, had
+hitherto been divided in their political opinions, and had as yet
+arrived at no common and definite understanding with regard to the novel
+circumstances of the country and the events which seemed to be visibly
+impending.
+
+The government of the city of Baltimore was under the control of that
+branch of the Democracy who supported Breckinridge, and who had attained
+power under a popular cry for reform, and it was soon learned that these
+leaders were deep in the counsels of the secessionists.
+
+The newspaper press was no small factor of this excitement--their
+utterances had much to do in leading public opinion, and though their
+efforts "to fire the Southern heart," many were led to sanction the
+deeds of violence and outrage which were contemplated.
+
+Especial efforts had been made to render Mr. Lincoln personally odious
+and contemptible, and his election formed the pretexts of these reckless
+conspirators, who had long been plotting the overthrow of the Union. No
+falsehood was too gross, no statement too exaggerated, to be used for
+that purpose, and so zealously did these misguided men labor in the
+cause of disunion, and so systematically concerted was their action,
+that the mass of the people of the slave States were made to believe
+that this pure, patient, humane, Christian statesman was a monster whose
+vices and passions made him odious, and whose political beliefs made him
+an object of just abhorrence.
+
+This was the condition of affairs at the dawning of the year 1861.
+
+[Illustration: A COUNCIL OF WAR.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+_Opposition to Mr. Lincoln's Inauguration.--A Plot to Assassinate
+him.--The Journey from Springfield._
+
+
+With the opening of the new year, the political condition evinced
+alarming symptoms. As the day of the inauguration of the new President
+drew near, the excitement became intense. Loud threats were made that
+Mr. Lincoln should never be permitted to take the oath of office, and
+the hostility of the South manifested itself in such a manner as to
+excite the fears of those who desired the peaceful solution of the
+important question of continued union.
+
+The events about to be related have been for a long time shrouded in a
+veil of mystery. While many are aware that a plot existed at this time
+to assassinate the President-elect upon his contemplated journey to the
+capital, but few have any knowledge of the mode by which the conspiracy
+was detected, or the means employed to prevent the accomplishment of
+that murderous design.
+
+Considerations which affected the personal safety of those who actively
+participated in this detection, precluded a disclosure at the time, but
+that such a conspiracy existed no doubt can be entertained. Now,
+however, that the dark clouds have passed away, and the bright sunshine
+of an enduring peace is throwing its beneficent rays over a united
+country, the truth may be disclosed, and a desire to peruse a hidden
+page of history may now be gratified.
+
+Early in the year 1861 I was at my headquarters in the city of Chicago,
+attending to the manifold duties of my profession. I had, of course,
+perused the daily journals which contained the reports of doings of the
+malcontents of the South, but in common with others, I entertained no
+serious fears of an open rebellion, and was disposed to regard the whole
+matter as of trivial importance. The same tones had been listened to
+before, and although the disunionists had hitherto never taken such
+aggressive steps, I was inclined to believe that with the incoming of
+the new administration, determined or conciliatory measures would be
+adopted, and that secession and rebellion would be either averted or
+summarily crushed.
+
+At this time I received a letter from Mr. Samuel H. Felton, the
+president of "The Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad,"
+requesting my presence in Philadelphia upon a matter of great
+importance. From his communication it appeared that rumors were afloat
+as to the intention of the roughs and secessionists of Maryland to
+injure the road of which he was the President. From what had already
+been learned, it was feared that their designs were to prevent travel
+upon the road either by destroying the ferry-boats which then carried
+the trains across the Susquehanna river at Havre de Grace or by
+demolishing the railroad bridges over the Gunpowder river and other
+streams. This road was the great connecting link between the metropolis
+of the country and the capital of the nation, and it was of the utmost
+importance that no interruption should be permitted to the free
+communication between Washington and the great cities of the North and
+West.
+
+This letter at once aroused me to a realization of the danger that
+threatened the country, and I determined to render whatever assistance
+was in my power towards preventing the successful operation of these
+ill-advised and dangerous men.
+
+I lost no time, therefore, in making my arrangements, and soon after
+receiving Mr. Felton's communication, in company with four members of my
+force was upon the train speeding towards Philadelphia. Upon arriving in
+that city, I went directly to the office of Mr. Felton and obtained from
+him all the information he possessed of the movements and designs of the
+Maryland secessionists. I also had a consultation with Mr. H. F. Kenney,
+the superintendent of the road, with reference to a plan of operation
+which I proposed, and which was considered would result in obtaining the
+information so much to be desired.
+
+I resolved to locate my men at the various towns along the road,
+selecting such places where, it was believed, disaffection existed.
+With a view, therefore, of acquiring the facts necessary for an
+intelligent prosecution of the inquiry, I took passage on one of the
+trains of the road, intending to see for myself how affairs stood, and
+to distribute my men in such a manner as to me seemed best.
+
+At the city of Wilmington, in Delaware, I found evidences of a great
+political excitement, but nothing that indicated a hostile disposition
+or which led me to believe that any danger was to be apprehended at this
+place. Nothing that savored of organization was apparent, and I was
+therefore compelled to look further for the existence of any antagonism
+to the railroad or any desire to prevent the running of their trains.
+
+At Perryville I found the same excitable condition of affairs, but
+nothing of a more aggressive character than at Wilmington. Men indulged
+in fierce arguments, in which both sides were forcibly represented, but
+aside from this I discovered no cause for apprehension, and no occasion
+for active detective work as yet.
+
+At Havre de Grace, however, the lines were more clearly drawn and the
+popular feeling much more bitter. It was at this point that the boats
+which carried the trains crossed the Susquehanna river, and where
+serious damage might be done to the company, should the ferries be
+destroyed. I therefore left one man at this place, with instructions to
+become acquainted with such men as he might, on observation, consider
+suspicious, and to endeavor to obtain from them, by association, a
+knowledge of their intentions.
+
+At Perrymansville, in Maryland, the feeling was considerably more
+intense. Under the influence of bad men the secession movement had
+gained many supporters and sympathizers. Loud threats were uttered
+against the railroad company, and it was boastfully asserted that "no
+d--d abolitionist should be allowed to pass through the town alive."
+
+I have always found it a truism that "a barking dog never bites," and
+although I had but little fear that these blatant talkers would perform
+any dangerous deeds, I considered it best to be fully posted as to their
+movements, in order to prevent a catastrophe, if possible.
+
+I accordingly directed Timothy Webster, a daring and discreet man upon
+my force, to locate himself at this point, and to carefully note
+everything that transpired which had any relation to attempted violence
+or a disposition to resort to aggressive measures.
+
+As I neared the city of Baltimore the opposition to the government and
+the sympathy with secession was manifestly more intense. At Magnolia,
+particularly, I observed a very dangerous feeling, and among men of all
+classes the general sentiment was in favor of resistance and force.
+Another operative, John Seaford, was accordingly left at this place,
+with instructions similar to those which had been given to the others.
+
+I then proceeded on to Baltimore, and there I found the greatest amount
+of excitement that I had yet experienced. I took quarters at the Howard
+House, and proceeded to inquire closely and carefully into the political
+situation. I soon found that the fears of the railroad officials were
+not wholly without foundation. The opposition to Mr. Lincoln's
+inauguration was most violent and bitter, and a few days' sojourn in
+this city convinced me that great danger was to be apprehended, and that
+the sentiment of disunion was far more widespread and deeply rooted than
+I had before imagined.
+
+The police force of the city was under the control of Marshal George P.
+Kane, and was almost entirely composed of men with disunion
+proclivities. Their leader was pronouncedly in favor of secession, and
+by his orders the broadest license was given to disorderly persons and
+to the dissemination of insurrectionary information. This individual was
+subsequently arrested, and, after a brief sojourn in Fort McHenry, fled
+in 1863 to the more congenial associations of Richmond.
+
+From the knowledge I gained of the situation in Baltimore, I resolved to
+establish my headquarters in that city. I accordingly engaged a building
+situated on South street, and in a position where I could receive prompt
+reports from all quarters of the metropolis. I also sent for an
+additional force of men, whom I distributed among the people of all
+grades and conditions of life. The building I had selected was admirably
+adapted for my purpose, and was so constructed that entrance could be
+gained to it from all four sides, through alleyways that led in from
+neighboring streets.
+
+Day by day, the reports of my men contained many important revelations
+of the designs of the opposition, and as a matter of additional
+precaution, I advised Mr. Felton to employ a small number of men to
+guard the various bridges and ferries, who could be warned in time to
+resist attack should such be made.
+
+The chief opposition seemed to be to the inauguration of President
+Lincoln, and the plan of the conspirators was to excite and exasperate
+the popular feeling against the President-elect to the utmost, and so
+successfully had this been done that a majority of the wealthier
+classes, with few exceptions--those in office--and the mob element in
+general were in full accord in their desire to prevent the inauguration
+from taking place.
+
+On the eleventh day of February, Mr. Lincoln, with a few of his personal
+friends, left his quiet home in Springfield to enter upon that
+tempestuous political career which eventually carried him to a martyr's
+grave. Among the party who accompanied the President were Norman B.
+Judd, Esq., Col. Ward H. Lamon, Judge Davis, Col. Sumner, a brave and
+impetuous officer, Major Hunter, Capt. John Pope, Col. Ellsworth, whose
+heroic death took place shortly afterwards, and John G. Nicolay, the
+President's private secretary.
+
+As the President was about leaving his home, the people turned out en
+masse to bid him farewell, and to them Mr. Lincoln addressed the
+following pathetic words of parting:
+
+     "My Friends: No one who has never been placed in a like
+     position can understand my feelings at this hour, nor the
+     oppressive sadness I feel at this parting. For more than a
+     quarter of a century I have lived among you, and during all
+     that time I have received nothing but kindness at your
+     hands. Here I have lived from youth until now I am an old
+     man; here the most sacred ties of earth were assumed; here
+     all my children were born, and here one of them lies buried.
+     To you, dear friends, I owe all that I have, and all that I
+     am. All the strange checkered past seems now to crowd upon
+     my mind. To-day I leave you. I go to assume a task more
+     difficult than that which devolved upon Washington. Unless
+     the great God who assisted him shall be with me and aid me,
+     I must fail; but if the same Omniscient Mind and Almighty
+     Arm that directed and protected him shall guide and support
+     me, I shall not fail--I shall succeed. Let us all pray that
+     the God of our fathers may not forsake us now. To Him I
+     commend you all. Permit me to ask that with equal sincerity
+     and faith you will invoke His wisdom and guidance for me.
+     With these few words I must leave you, for how long I know
+     not. Friends, one and all, I must bid you an affectionate
+     farewell."
+
+How touchingly simple and earnest seem these words. A strange and almost
+weird presentiment of grief and suffering give his utterances a pathos
+that becomes profoundly impressive when linked with subsequent events.
+How prophetic too--full of tears and fraught with the prescience of a
+future terrible and bloody war--they bear yet an echo like that of the
+voice that sounded in the ear of Halleck's dying hero--for surely in
+their tones are heard the thanks of millions yet to be. How more than
+prophetic they seemed when, four years later, "a funeral train, covered
+with the emblems of splendid mourning, rolled into the same city,
+bearing a corpse whose obsequies were being celebrated in every part of
+the civilized world."
+
+From Springfield the passage was a perfect continuous ovation. Cities
+and towns, villages and hamlets, vied with each other in testifying
+their devotion to Union and their determination to uphold the chief
+magistrate in the great trial before him. Immense crowds surrounded the
+stations at which the special train halted, and in the cities of
+Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, Pittsburg, Cleveland, Erie, Buffalo,
+Albany, New York, Trenton, Newark, Philadelphia and Harrisburg, public
+demonstrations of an imposing character were given in his honor, and
+vast concourses of people assembled to greet him. Everywhere he was
+received and honored as the chief of a free people, and in reply to
+complimentary addresses which he day by day received, the President
+endeavored to utter cheering words, and indicated a disbelief in any
+bloody issue of our domestic complications.
+
+On the day prior to the departure of Mr. Lincoln from his home, I
+received a letter from the master mechanic of the railroad, of which the
+following is an extract:
+
+     "I am informed that a son of a distinguished citizen of
+     Maryland said that he had taken an oath with others to
+     assassinate Mr. Lincoln before he gets to Washington, and
+     they may attempt to do it while he is passing over our road.
+     I think you had better look after this man, if possible.
+     This information is perfectly reliable. I have nothing more
+     to say at this time, but will try to see you in a few days."
+
+This communication was confirmatory of reports of an indefinite
+character which had reached me prior to this, and the information was
+far too important to be disregarded. I determined, therefore, to probe
+the matter to the bottom, and obtaining the authority of Mr. Felton for
+such action, I immediately set about the discovery of the existence of
+the conspiracy and the intention of its organization, and then, if
+coolness, courage and skill could save the life of Mr. Lincoln, and
+prevent the revolution which would inevitably follow his violent death,
+I felt sure of accomplishing it.
+
+My plans were soon perfected, and they were to have several of my men,
+together with myself, announced as residents of Charleston and New
+Orleans, and by assuming to be secessionists of the most ultra type, to
+secure entrance into their secret societies and military organizations,
+and thus become possessed of their secret designs. In looking over the
+qualifications of the members of my corps I found two men admirably
+adapted to the object I had in view. They were both young and both fully
+able to assume and successfully carry out the character of a
+hot-blooded, fiery secessionist.
+
+One of these men, whom I shall call Joseph Howard, was a young man of
+fine personal appearance, and of insinuating manners. He was of French
+descent, and in his youth had been carefully educated for a Jesuit
+priest, but finding the vocation distasteful to him, he had abandoned
+it. Added to his collegiate studies, he possessed the advantage of
+extensive foreign travel, and the ability to speak, with great facility,
+several foreign languages. He had a thorough knowledge of the South, its
+localities, prejudices, customs and leading men, which had been derived
+from several years residence in New Orleans and other Southern cities,
+and was gifted with the power of adaptation to persons whom they wish to
+influence, so popularly attributed to the Jesuits.
+
+Howard was instructed to assume the character of an extreme
+secessionist, to obtain quarters at one of the first-class hotels, and
+register his name, with residence at New Orleans. This was done because
+he was well acquainted with the city, having resided there for a long
+time, and was consequently enabled to talk familiarly of prominent
+individuals of that city whom he had met.
+
+The other man whom I selected for this important work was Timothy
+Webster. He was a man of great physical strength and endurance, skilled
+in all athletic sports, and a good shot. Possessed of a strong will and
+a courage that knew no fear, he was the very man to operate upon the
+middle and lower classes who composed the disunion element.
+
+His subsequent career as a Union spy--one of the most perilous and
+thankless positions--and his ignominious death at Richmond, at the hands
+of the rebels, have passed into history, but no historian will ever
+relate the thousand perils through which he passed in the service of his
+country; of his boldness and ingenuity in acquiring information that was
+of incalculable value to the Union officers, nor of his wonderful
+fertility of invention, which frequently enabled him to escape from
+dangers which would have appalled a less brave or less devoted man.
+Arrested at last, he was condemned as a spy, and on the thirtieth day of
+April, 1862, he was executed in the City of Richmond, by order of
+Jefferson Davis. Even then he would have succeeded in effecting a
+well-devised plan of escape, had he not been rendered incapable of
+movement by reason of a prostrating sickness. His name is unknown to
+fame, but fewer hearts beat truer to the Union, and fewer arms performed
+more devoted service in its cause, and a record of his daring and
+romantic adventures as a Union spy, would certainly equal, if not
+surpass, those of the Harvey Birch of Cooper.
+
+It was not long before I received undoubted evidence of the existence of
+a systematized organization whose avowed object was to assist the
+rebellious States, but which was in reality formed to compass the death
+of the President, and thus accomplish the separation of the States. I
+learned also that a branch of this conspiracy existed at Perrymansville,
+under the guise of a company of cavalry, who met frequently and drilled
+regularly. Leaving Harwood to operate in Baltimore with the others, I
+dispatched Timothy Webster back to Perrymansville, and in twenty-four
+hours thereafter he had enrolled himself as a member of the company, and
+was recognized as a hail fellow among his rebel associates.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+_The Conspirators at Work.--Detectives on Their Trail.--Webster as a
+Soldier._
+
+
+Every day reports would be brought to me from the numerous men I had
+detailed along the line of the railroad, and regularly on alternate days
+I would make the journey from Baltimore to Philadelphia for consultation
+with the officers of the company.
+
+At every visit which I made to the suspected localities, I could not
+fail to notice an increase in the excitement and the indications of a
+disposition to open revolt became more evident. Everywhere the ruling
+principle seemed to be opposition to the new administration and a
+decided inclination to aid the Confederacy. As the daily papers, which
+chronicled the events which occurred upon the journey of Mr. Lincoln
+towards Washington, or the desperate movements of the Southern
+ringleaders, were perused by the people, or were read aloud in tavern or
+store, they would be greeted by alternate expressions of hate and
+malignity for the abolitionist and wild cheers for the rebellion.
+
+This feeling, too, was largely increased by the visits which prominent
+villagers would make to Baltimore, and who, upon their return, would
+relate marvelous stories of what they had seen and heard of the courage,
+the unity and the determination of the Southern people. Everything
+calculated to inflame the popular mind was seized upon, and the
+wonderful spirit of invention which these men evinced was simply
+astonishing. As a consequence, the ignorant residents of these villages
+and towns, having no authoritative information of their own, relied
+implicitly upon the exaggerated statements and untruthful reports of
+their leaders, and were kept in a condition of excitement that made them
+ready tools of their unscrupulous and better-informed managers. As far
+as could be learned, however, no definite plan of action had been
+arranged, and no public outbreak had as yet occurred.
+
+Barnum's Hotel, in Baltimore, appeared to be the favorite resort of the
+Southern element. The visitors from all portions of the South located at
+this house, and in the evenings the corridors and parlors would be
+thronged by the tall, lank forms of the long-haired gentlemen who
+represented the aristocracy of the slave-holding interests. Their
+conversations were loud and unrestrained, and any one bold enough or
+sufficiently indiscreet to venture an opinion contrary to the
+righteousness of their cause, would soon find himself in an unenviable
+position and frequently the subject of violence.
+
+As this hotel was so largely patronized by the so-called "Fire-eaters,"
+I instructed Howard to go there in order to secure quarters and to
+ingratiate himself with these extremists. It was not long after this,
+that, joining a company of gentlemen who were loudly declaiming against
+the ruling powers of the country, he entered into their discussion, and
+by blatant expressions of the most rebellious nature, he was warmly
+welcomed by the coterie and instantly made one of their number.
+
+Hailing as he did from New Orleans, his residence was a ready passport
+to their favor and confidence, and his fine personal appearance,
+gentlemanly address and the fervor of his utterances soon won the favor
+of those with whom he associated. To a general inquiry he stated that
+private affairs of a financial nature required his presence in
+Baltimore, but as his acquaintance with the trustworthy emissaries of
+rebeldom increased, he quietly insinuated that affairs of a national
+character were far more dear to him than individual interests or private
+concerns.
+
+By continued intercourse with these men, he greatly increased the circle
+of his acquaintances, and soon became a welcome guest at the residences
+of many of the first families of that refined and aristocratic city.
+Here his accomplishments appeared to the best advantage. His romantic
+disposition and the ease of his manner captivated many of the
+susceptible hearts of the beautiful Baltimore belles, whose eyes grew
+brighter in his presence, and who listened enraptured to the poetic
+utterances which were whispered into their ears under the witching spell
+of music and moonlit nature.
+
+He gradually neared the circle of which Marshal George P. Kane appeared
+to be the leader, and in a short time he had succeeded in entirely
+winning his confidence, and from this gentleman Howard acquired many
+important items of information. The entire police force of the
+city--officers and men--were in full sympathy with the rebellion, and it
+became apparent to him that a strict watch was kept over every man who
+expressed Northern opinions, or who was not identified with the cause
+which they had espoused.
+
+To all of these arrangements Howard signified his hearty indorsement,
+and by every means in his power he sought to convince the leaders of his
+full sympathy with their efforts and his resolve to take a leading part
+in the struggle that seemed to be impending.
+
+Accepting the invitation of Mr. Kane, he one evening accompanied that
+gentleman to a meeting of one of the secret societies that then existed,
+the first one he had succeeded in gaining entrance to. Arriving at the
+place of assembly, he was surprised at the many familiar faces which
+greeted him. Men whose aristocratic doors had opened to his entrance and
+whose social positions were unquestioned; young men who traced their
+lineage through several generations, and whose wealth and intelligence
+gave them a social status of no ordinary character, were found in full
+accord and upon perfect equality with tradesmen, artificers, and even
+with those whose vocation was decidedly doubtful, and some of whom had
+heard the key of a prison lock turned upon them for offenses committed
+in days gone by.
+
+The leader and President of this society was a Captain Fernandina, who
+was known as one of the most active of the conspirators. This individual
+at one time occupied the exalted position of a barber at Barnum's Hotel,
+but treason and conspiracy had elevated him to the station of a military
+captain whose orders were to be obeyed, and a leader whose mandates
+compelled respect. He was an Italian or of Italian descent, and having
+lived in the South for a number of years he was thoroughly impressed
+with the idea of Southern wrongs, and that the election of Mr. Lincoln
+was an outrage which must not be tamely submitted to by the high-toned
+and chivalrous people of the South.
+
+He was an enthusiast and fanatic, a dangerous man in any crisis, and
+particularly so in the one now impending, which threatened a civil war
+and all its direful consequences. Educated with Italian ideas and
+possessed of the temperament of his people, he openly justified the use
+of the stiletto, and fiercely advocated assassination as the means of
+preventing the President-elect from taking his seat in the executive
+chair. He was also the captain of a military company which drilled
+regularly and whose members were believed to fully indorse the views of
+their chief.
+
+At this meeting Fernandina delivered an address which, for its
+treasonable nature and its violent opposition to all laws, human or
+divine, has scarcely a parallel. He boldly advocated the doctrine of
+State rights; he fiercely denounced the party who had succeeded in
+obtaining power; he inveighed in violent language against the policy of
+the so-called abolitionists, and his arraignment of Mr. Lincoln was most
+vile and repulsive. As these words fell from his lips the excitement
+became intense. Faces were eagerly turned towards him, eyes glistened
+with the fires of hate, and hands were clenched as though each one
+present was imbued with the same feelings which animated their
+sanguinary leader.
+
+As he proceeded, overcome by the violence of his emotions, he drew from
+his breast a long, glittering knife, and waving it aloft, exclaimed:
+
+"This hireling Lincoln shall never, never be President. My life is of no
+consequence in a cause like this, and I am willing to give it for his.
+As Orsini gave his life for Italy, I am ready to die for the rights of
+the South and to crush out the abolitionist."
+
+As he stood before them, his black eyes flashing with excitement, his
+sallow face pale and colorless and his long hair brushed fiercely back
+from his low forehead, he seemed a fitting representative of so
+desperate a cause, and his influence over the assemblage was wonderful
+to behold. Loud cheers and wild clapping of hands greeted his
+utterances, and all seemed in perfect accord with his declared
+intentions.
+
+There could be no mistaking the fact, that the object of these men was
+dangerous, and that they had fully determined to oppose and prevent the
+inauguration of Mr. Lincoln, but the exact plan of operation had not as
+yet been agreed upon.
+
+Upon these facts being conveyed to me by Howard on the following
+morning, I resolved to interview this desperate leader of the conspiracy
+myself, and endeavor to learn from him further particulars of their
+movements and designs.
+
+In the immediate vicinity of Barnum's Hotel at that time there was a
+famous restaurant, popularly known as "Guy's," and this place was much
+frequented by the secessionists who were in the city. Fernandina spent
+much of his time there, either in drinking or in consultation with his
+numerous political friends, who all seemed to regard him as an important
+personage, and one who was eventually to perform giant service in the
+cause.
+
+[Illustration: "_He must die, and if necessary we will die together!_"
+P. 65]
+
+Howard having effecting an introduction to Fernandina, and convinced him
+of his devotion to the interests of the South, I experienced no
+difficulty in obtaining the desired interview. About three o'clock on
+the following afternoon Howard and myself carelessly entered the saloon,
+and were gratified to perceive that Fernandina was also there,
+accompanied by several members of the military company which he
+commanded. Walking directly up to these gentlemen, Howard introduced me
+as a resident of Georgia, who was an earnest worker in the cause of
+secession, and whose sympathy and discretion could be implicitly relied
+upon.
+
+Fernandina cordially grasped my hand, and we all retired to a private
+saloon, where, after ordering the necessary drinks and cigars, the
+conversation became general, and to me, absorbingly interesting.
+
+The question of assassinating the President was freely discussed, and
+Captain Fernandina expressed himself vehemently in its favor.
+
+Some one in the party remarked:
+
+"Are there no other means of saving the South except by assassination?"
+
+"No," replied Fernandina; "as well might you attempt to move the
+Washington Monument yonder with your breath, as to change our purpose.
+He must die--and die he shall. And," he continued, turning to Captain
+Trichot, a fellow-conspirator who stood near, "if necessary, we will die
+together."
+
+"There seems to be no other way," interposed Howard, "and while
+bloodshed is to be regretted, it will be done in a noble cause."
+
+Fernandina gazed approvingly at Howard, and then added:
+
+"Yes, the cause is a noble one, and on that day every captain will prove
+himself a hero. With the first shot the chief traitor, Lincoln, will
+die, then all Maryland will be with us, and the South will be forever
+free."
+
+"But," said I, "have all the plans been matured, and are there no fears
+of failure? A misstep in so important a direction would be fatal to the
+South and ought to be well considered."
+
+"Our plans are fully arranged," answered the Captain, "and they cannot
+fail; and," he added, with a wicked gleam in his eyes--"if I alone must
+strike the blow, I shall not hesitate or shrink from the task. Lincoln
+shall certainly not depart from this city alive."
+
+"Yes," added Captain Trichot, "it is determined that this G--d d--d
+Lincoln shall never pass through here alive, and no d--d abolitionist
+shall ever set foot upon Southern soil except to find a grave."
+
+"But about the authorities"--I asked--"is there no danger to be
+apprehended from them?"
+
+"Oh, no," said the Captain, assuringly, "they are all with us. I have
+seen Col. Kane, the Chief Marshal of Police, and he is all right. In a
+week from to-day the North shall want another President, for Lincoln
+will be a corpse."
+
+All the company gave approving responses to these threats, with but one
+exception, and he remained silent, with a doubtful, troubled expression
+upon his face. This young man was one of the fast "bloods" of the city,
+who proudly wore upon his breast a gold Palmetto badge, and who was a
+Lieutenant in the Palmetto Guards, a secret military organization of
+Baltimore, and I determined to select this man for the purpose of
+obtaining the information I so much desired; and as the company shortly
+afterwards broke up, Howard and myself accompanied Lieutenant Hill from
+the saloon.
+
+Hill soon proved a pliant tool in our hands. Being of a weak nature and
+having been reared in the lap of luxury, he had entered into this
+movement more from a temporary burst of enthusiasm and because it was
+fashionable, than from any other cause. Now that matters began to assume
+such a warlike attitude, he was inclined to hesitate before the affair
+had gone too far, but still he seemed to be enamored with the glory of
+the undertaking.
+
+By my directions Howard, the ardent secessionist from Louisiana, and
+Hill, of the Palmetto Guards, became bosom friends and inseparable
+companions. They drank together, and visited theaters and places of
+amusement in each other's company.
+
+By reason of his high social position Hill was enabled to introduce his
+friend to the leading families and into the most aristocratic clubs and
+societies of which the city boasted, and Howard made many valuable
+acquaintances through the influence of this rebellious scion of
+Baltimore aristocracy.
+
+Finally the young man was induced to open to his companion the secrets
+of the plot to assassinate the President. It was evident, however, that
+Hill was playing his part in the conspiracy with great reluctance, and
+one day he said to Howard:
+
+"What a pity it is that this glorious Union must be destroyed all on
+account of that monster Lincoln." From Hill it was learned that the
+plans of the conspirators were first to excite and exasperate the
+popular feeling against Mr. Lincoln to the utmost, and thus far this had
+been successfully accompanied. From the published programme Mr. Lincoln
+was to reach Baltimore from Harrisburg by the Northern Central Railroad
+on the twenty-third day of February, now but a few days distant. He
+would, therefore, reach the city about the middle of the day. A vast
+crowd would meet him at the Calvert street depot, at which point it was
+expected that he would enter an open carriage and ride nearly half a
+mile to the Washington depot. Here it was arranged that but a small
+force of policemen should be stationed, and as the President arrived a
+disturbance would be created which would attract the attention of these
+guardians of the peace, and this accomplished, it would be an easy task
+for a determined man to shoot the President, and, aided by his
+companions, succeed in making his escape.
+
+Agents of the conspirators had been dispatched to all the principal
+Northern cities, to watch the movements of the presidential party, and
+ready to telegraph to Baltimore any change of route or delay in arrival.
+A cipher had been agreed upon between them, so that the conspirators
+could communicate with each other without the possibility of detection,
+and everything seemed to be satisfactorily arranged except to depute one
+of their number to commit the fatal deed. This was to be determined by
+ballot, and as yet no one knew upon whom might devolve the bloody task.
+
+Meanwhile, the idea of assassination was preying heavily upon the mind
+of the Lieutenant of the Palmetto Guards; he grew sad and melancholy,
+and plunged still deeper into dissipation. Howard had now become a
+necessity to him and they were scarcely ever separated. Under the
+influence of the master spirit, the disposition of Hill underwent
+wonderful changes. At times, he would be thoughtful and morose, and then
+would suddenly break out into enthusiastic rhapsodies. His sleep became
+tormented with dreams in which he saw himself the martyr to a glorious
+cause and the savior of his country.
+
+At such times he would address himself to Howard, in the most
+extravagant language.
+
+"I am destined to die," said he one day, "shrouded with glory. I shall
+immortalize myself by plunging a knife into Lincoln's heart."
+
+Howard endeavored to calm his transports, but without avail. Raising
+himself to his full height, he exclaimed: "Rome had her Brutus, why
+should not we? I swear to you, Howard, if it falls to me I will kill
+Lincoln before he reaches the Washington depot, not that I love Lincoln
+less, but my country more."
+
+As the day drew nearer for the arrival of the President, he became more
+nervous and excited, and would more frequently indulge in extravagant
+expressions, which would have been regarded as absurd, but for the fact
+that he was but one of a large number of fanatics, who seriously
+entertained the same ideas of murder, and his expressions but the reflex
+of others, more determined.
+
+Timothy Webster was still at Perrymansville, and by this time had fully
+identified himself with the rebel cause, and the company of cavalry of
+which he was a member. On several occasions he had given undoubted
+indications of his loyalty and devotion to the South, and was generally
+looked upon as a man who could be trusted. He became quite intimate with
+the officers of the company, and succeeded in gaining their entire
+confidence. As yet, however, he had learned but little of the important
+movement which we believed was in contemplation, as all conversations
+upon that subject appeared to be between the officers of the company, at
+their secret meetings, to which he had not been able as yet to gain an
+entrance.
+
+At length one morning, after the usual daily drill, and when the
+company had been dismissed, the Captain addressed Webster and requested
+him to be present at his house that evening, as he desired to consult
+with him upon important affairs, at the same time cautioning him to say
+nothing to any one concerning the matter.
+
+Promptly at the time appointed Webster presented himself at the
+residence of the Captain, and was ushered into a room upon the upper
+floor, where there were several men already assembled. The curtains had
+been drawn close, and heavy quilts had been hung over the windows, which
+effectually prevented any one from the outside from discovering a light
+in the room. On his entrance he was introduced to the gentlemen present,
+three of whom were unknown to him, who were members of the secret league
+from Baltimore, and who were evidently impressed with the solemnity and
+importance of their undertaking. They greeted Webster cordially,
+however, and made room for him at the table around which they were
+sitting.
+
+A few minutes satisfied Webster as to the nature of the meeting, and
+that it was a conclave of the conspirators, who had met to discuss a
+plan of action. Intensely eager as he was to acquire all possible
+information, he was obliged to restrain his impetuosity and to listen
+calmly to the developments that were made. From what transpired that
+evening there could be no doubt of the desperation of the men engaged
+in the conspiracy, or of the widespread interest which was taken in
+their movements.
+
+The plans for the assassination of the President had been fully matured,
+and only needed the selection of the person to perform the deed, in
+order to carry them into effect. In the meantime, however, other
+important measures required attention and consideration. If the affair
+stopped simply with the assassination of the President, but little, if
+any, good would be accomplished. The North would rise as one man to
+avenge the death of their leader, and they would only hasten a disaster
+they were anxious to avoid. It was necessary, therefore, that the work
+should be thoroughly done, and the plan suggested was as follows:
+
+As soon as the deed had been accomplished in Baltimore, the news was to
+be telegraphed along the line of the road, and immediately upon the
+reception of this intelligence the telegraph wires were to be cut, the
+railroad bridges destroyed and the tracks torn up, in order to prevent
+for some time any information being conveyed to the cities of the North,
+or the passage of any Northern men towards the capital.
+
+Wild as the scheme was, it found instant favor with the reckless men
+assembled together, and all signified their hearty assent to the
+propositions and offered their aid in successfully carrying them out.
+Among the most earnest in their protestations was Timothy Webster, and
+as he announced his intention to perform his duty in the affair he was
+warmly congratulated.
+
+Matters were evidently getting warm, and but little time was left for
+action.
+
+[Illustration: "WARMING UP."]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+_The Conspirators in Council.--My Operative Joins the Conspiracy._
+
+
+I had already written to Mr. Norman B. Judd as the party reached
+Cincinnati, informing him that I had reason to believe that there was a
+plot on foot to murder the President on his passage through Baltimore,
+and promising to advise him further as the party progressed eastward.
+
+This information Mr. Judd did not divulge to any one, fearing to
+occasion undue anxiety or unnecessary alarm, and knowing that I was upon
+the ground and could be depended upon to act at the proper time.
+
+When the party reached Buffalo another note from me awaited Mr. Judd,
+informing him of the accumulation of evidence, but conveying no
+particulars. The party were now journeying towards New York city, and I
+determined to learn all that there was to learn before many hours.
+
+Previous to this, in addition to the men engaged in Baltimore, I had
+sent for Mrs. Kate Warne, the lady superintendent of my agency. This
+lady had arrived several days before, and had already made remarkable
+progress in cultivating the acquaintance of the wives and daughters of
+the conspirators.
+
+Mrs. Warne was eminently fitted for this task. Of rather a commanding
+person, with clear-cut, expressive features, and with an ease of manner
+that was quite captivating at times, she was calculated to make a
+favorable impression at once. She was of Northern birth, but in order to
+vouch for her Southern opinions, she represented herself as from
+Montgomery, Alabama, a locality with which she was perfectly familiar,
+from her connection with the detection of the robbery of the Adams
+Express Company, at that place. Her experience in that case, which is
+fully detailed in "The Expressman and the Detective," fully qualified
+her for the task of representing herself as a resident of the South.
+
+She was a brilliant conversationalist when so disposed, and could be
+quite vivacious, but she also understood that rarer quality in
+womankind, the art of being silent.
+
+The information she received was invaluable, but as yet the meetings of
+the chief conspirators had not been entered. Mrs. Warne displayed upon
+her breast, as did many of the ladies of Baltimore, the black and white
+cockade, which had been temporarily adopted as the emblem of secession,
+and many hints were dropped in her presence which found their way to my
+ears, and were of great benefit to me.
+
+As I have said, the Presidential party were in Buffalo, and I had
+resolved upon prompt and decisive measures to discover the inward
+workings of the conspirators. Accordingly I obtained an interview with
+Howard, and gave him such instructions as I deemed necessary under the
+circumstances. He was to insist upon Hill taking him to the meeting at
+which the ballots were to be drawn, and where he, too, would have an
+opportunity to immortalize himself, and then, that being accomplished,
+the rest would be easy and all further danger would be over.
+
+Accordingly, that day Howard broached the matter to Hill in a manner
+which convinced him of his earnestness, and the young Lieutenant
+promised his utmost efforts to secure his admission. At five o'clock in
+the afternoon they again met, and Hill joyfully informed his companion
+that his request had been granted, and that, upon his vouching for the
+fidelity of his friend, he had succeeded in obtaining permission for him
+to enter their society.
+
+That evening Howard accompanied his friend Hill to the rendezvous of the
+league, and as they entered the darkened chamber, they found many of the
+conspirators already assembled. The members were strangely silent, and
+an ominous awe seemed to pervade the entire assembly. About twenty men
+comprised the number, but many entered afterward. After a few
+preliminary movements, Howard was conducted to the station of the
+President of the assembly and duly sworn, the members gathering around
+him in a circle as this was being done.
+
+[Illustration: "_Howard was conducted to the station of the President,
+and duly sworn._" P. 76.]
+
+Having passed through the required formula, Howard was warmly taken by
+the hand by his associates, many of whom he had met in the polite
+circles of society. After quiet had been restored, the President, who
+was none other than Captain Fernandina, arose, and in a dramatic manner
+detailed the particulars of the plot.
+
+It had been fully determined that the assassination should take place at
+the Calvert street depot. A vast crowd of secessionists were to assemble
+at that place to await the arrival of the train with Mr. Lincoln. They
+would appear early and fill the narrow streets and passages immediately
+surrounding it. No attempt at secrecy was made of the fact that the
+Marshal of Police was conversant with their plans, and that he would
+detail but a small force of policemen to attend the arrival, and
+nominally clear and protect a passage for Mr. Lincoln and his suite. Nor
+was the fact disguised that these policemen were in active sympathy with
+the movement. George P. Kane's animus was fully shown when he was
+subsequently arrested by General Banks, and afterwards became an officer
+in the rebel army.
+
+When the train entered the depot, and Mr. Lincoln attempted to pass
+through the narrow passage leading to the streets, a party already
+delegated were to engage in a conflict on the outside, and then the
+policemen were to rush away to quell the disturbance. At this
+moment--the police being entirely withdrawn--Mr. Lincoln would find
+himself surrounded by a dense, excited and hostile crowd, all hustling
+and jamming against him, and then the fatal blow was to be struck.
+
+A swift steamer was to be stationed in Chesapeake Bay, with a boat
+awaiting upon the shore, ready to take the assassin on board as soon as
+the deed was done, and convey him to a Southern port, where he would be
+received with acclamations of joy and honored as a hero.
+
+The question to be decided this evening was: "Who should do the deed?"
+"Who should assume the task of liberating the nation of the foul
+presence of the abolitionist leader?" For this purpose the meeting had
+been called to-night, and to-night the important decision was to be
+reached.
+
+It was finally determined that ballots should be prepared and placed in
+a box arranged for that purpose, and that the person who drew a _red_
+ballot should perform the duty of assassination.
+
+In order that none should know who drew the fatal ballot, except he who
+did so, the room was rendered still darker, and every one was pledged to
+secrecy as to the color of the ballot he drew. The leaders, however, had
+determined that their plans should not fail, and doubting the courage of
+some of their number, instead of placing but _one red ballot_ in the
+box, they placed _eight_ of the designated color, and these eight
+ballots were drawn--each man who drew them believing that upon him, his
+courage, strength and devotion, depended the cause of the South--each
+supposing that he alone was charged with the execution of the deed.
+
+After the ballots had been drawn the President again addressed the
+assembly. He violently assailed the enemies of the South, and in glowing
+words pointed out the glory that awaited the man who would prove himself
+the hero upon this great occasion, and finally, amid much restrained
+enthusiasm, the meeting adjourned, and their duties had thus far been
+accomplished.
+
+My time for action had now arrived; my plans had been perfected and I
+resolved to act at once. Taking Mrs. Warne with me I reached New York
+city on the same day that the presidential party arrived there, and
+leaving Mrs. Warne to perfect arrangements, I proceeded at once to
+Philadelphia. That evening Mrs. Warne repaired to the Astor House and
+requested an interview with Mr. Judd. Her request being granted, Mrs.
+Warne informed that gentleman, that, fearing to trust the mail in so
+important a matter, she had been delegated by me to arrange for a
+personal interview, at which all the proofs relating to the conspiracy
+could be submitted to him. It was suggested that immediately after the
+arrival of the party in Philadelphia, I should inform Mr. Judd of my
+plans for an interview, and that he would be governed accordingly.
+
+While they were conversing, Col. E. S. Sandford, President of the
+American Telegraph Company, called, and was introduced by Mrs. Warne to
+Mr. Judd. This gentleman had been made fully acquainted with what I had
+learned, and had promised all the assistance within his power, and he
+accordingly tendered to Mr. Judd his own personal service and the
+unlimited use of the telegraph lines under his control, for any
+communications he might desire to make.
+
+On arriving at Philadelphia, I proceeded directly to the office of Mr.
+Felton, and acquainted him with all the information I had received, of
+the designs of the conspirators with regard to Mr. Lincoln, and of their
+intention to destroy the railroad should their plot be successful. The
+situation was truly alarming, and cautious measures were absolutely
+necessary. It was therefore resolved to obtain an interview with Mr.
+Lincoln, submit the facts to him, and be governed by his suggestions,
+whatever they might be.
+
+This interview took place on the 20th day of February, and Mr. Lincoln
+was expected to arrive on the following day. Great preparations had been
+made for his reception, and the military, of which Philadelphia was
+justly proud, were to escort the President-elect from the depot to the
+Continental Hotel, where quarters had been engaged for him, and where he
+would receive the congratulations of the people.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+_The Presidential Party arrives in Philadelphia.--Independence
+Hall.--The Departure from Harrisburg.--Telegraph wires Cut.--Through the
+Lines of Treason and Safe Arrival at Washington._
+
+
+The twenty-first dawned bright and sunny, and the streets were alive
+with the eager populace, all anxious to do honor to the new President,
+and to witness the scenes attendant upon his reception. In due time the
+train containing the party arrived, and after an informal welcome they
+took carriages, and, escorted by the troops, the procession took up the
+line of march for the hotel. Vast crowds lined the sidewalks and the
+enthusiasm of the people was unbounded. The President graciously
+acknowledged their courtesies as he passed along. On each side of the
+carriage in which Mr. Lincoln was seated, accompanied by Mr. Judd, was a
+file of policemen, whose duty it was to prevent the mass of people from
+pressing too closely to the vehicle. As the procession reached the
+corner of Broad and Chestnut streets, a young man approached the file of
+policemen and endeavored to attract the attention of the occupants of
+the carriage. Finding this impossible, he boldly plunged through the
+ranks of the officers, and coming to the side of the carriage, he handed
+to Mr. Judd a slip of paper, on which was written:
+
+    "_St. Louis Hotel, ask for J. H. Hutchinson._"
+
+This young man was Mr. George H. Burns, an attache of the American
+Telegraph Company and confidential agent of E. S. Sandford, Esq., who
+acted as my messenger, and who afterwards distinguished himself for his
+courage and daring in the rebellion. It is needless to add that J. H.
+Hutchinson was the name I had assumed in registering at the hotel, in
+order to avoid any suspicion or curiosity in case any emissary of the
+conspirators should ascertain my real name and thus be warned of the
+discovery of their scheme.
+
+Shortly after the arrival of Mr. Lincoln at the Continental, Mr. Judd
+was announced at the St. Louis Hotel as desiring to see me. Mr. Felton
+was with me at the time, and in a few minutes Mr. Judd made his
+appearance. More than an hour was occupied in going over the proofs
+which I produced of the existence of the conspiracy, at the end of which
+time Mr. Judd expressed himself fully convinced that the plot was a
+reality, and that prompt measures were required to secure the safety of
+the President.
+
+"My advice is," said I, after I had succeeded in convincing Mr. Judd
+that my information was reliable, "that Mr. Lincoln shall proceed to
+Washington this evening by the eleven o'clock train, and then once safe
+at the capital, General Scott and his soldiery will afford him ample
+protection."
+
+"I fear very much that Mr. Lincoln will not accede to this," replied Mr.
+Judd; "but as the President is an old acquaintance and friend of yours
+and has had occasion before this to test your reliability and prudence,
+suppose you accompany me to the Continental Hotel, and we can then lay
+this information before him in person and abide by his decision."
+
+This idea was at once adopted and we proceeded to the hotel. Here we
+found the entrances blocked up by a surging multitude which effectually
+prevented our admission, and we were obliged to enter by the rear of the
+building through a door used by the servants.
+
+On reaching the room occupied by Mr. Judd that gentleman summoned Mr.
+Nicolay, the President's private secretary, and dispatched him with a
+note requesting the presence of Mr. Lincoln upon a matter of urgent
+importance.
+
+The President at that time was in one of the large parlors surrounded by
+a number of ladies and gentlemen, all eager to extend to him the
+hospitalities of the city and to express their good wishes for the
+success of his administration. Upon receiving the message, however, he
+at once excused himself, and forcing his way through the crowd came
+directly to us.
+
+Up to this time Mr. Lincoln had been kept in entire ignorance of any
+threatened danger, and as he listened to the facts that were now
+presented to him, a shade of sadness fell upon his face. He seemed loth
+to credit the statement, and could scarce believe it possible that such
+a conspiracy could exist. Slowly he went over the points presented,
+questioning me minutely the while, but at length finding it impossible
+to discredit the truthfulness of what I stated to him, he yielded a
+reluctant credence to the facts.
+
+After he had been fully made acquainted with the startling disclosures,
+Mr. Judd submitted to him the plan proposed by me, that he should leave
+Philadelphia for Washington that evening.
+
+"But," added Mr. Judd, "the proofs that have just been laid before you
+cannot be published, as it will involve the lives of several devoted men
+now on Mr. Pinkerton's force, especially that of Timothy Webster, who is
+now serving in a rebel cavalry company under drill at Perrymansville in
+Maryland."
+
+Mr. Lincoln at once acknowledged the correctness of this view, but
+appeared at a loss as to what course to pursue.
+
+"You will therefore perceive"--continued Mr. Judd--"that if you follow
+the course suggested--that of proceeding to Washington to-night--you
+will necessarily be subjected to the scoffs and sneers of your enemies,
+and the disapproval of your friends who cannot be made to believe in
+the existence of so desperate a plot."
+
+"I fully appreciate these suggestions," replied Mr. Lincoln, "and I can
+stand anything that is necessary, but," he added rising to his feet, "I
+cannot go to-night. I have promised to raise the flag over Independence
+Hall to-morrow morning, and to visit the legislature at Harrisburg in
+the afternoon--beyond that I have no engagements. Any plan that may be
+adopted that will enable me to fulfill these promises I will accede to,
+and you can inform me what is concluded upon to-morrow."
+
+Saying which Mr. Lincoln left the room and joined the people in the
+parlor. During the entire interview, he had not evinced the slightest
+evidence of agitation or fear. Calm and self-possessed, his only
+sentiments appeared to be those of profound regret, that the Southern
+sympathizers could be so far led away by the excitement of the hour, as
+to consider his death a necessity for the furtherance of their cause.
+
+From his manner, it was deemed useless to attempt to induce him to alter
+his mind, and after a few minutes' further conversation, which was
+participated in by Mr. Sandford, who had entered the room, I left for
+the purpose of finding Thomas A. Scott, Esq., the Vice-President of the
+Pennsylvania Central Railroad, in order to make arrangements for the
+carrying out of a plan which had occurred to me, and which would enable
+Mr. Lincoln to fulfill his engagements.
+
+I was unable, however, to find Mr. Scott, but succeeded in reaching Mr.
+G. C. Franciscus, the general manager of the road, and at twelve o'clock
+that night, in company with that gentleman and Mr. Sandford, we called
+again upon Mr. Judd.
+
+At this meeting a full discussion of the entire matter was had between
+us, and after all possible contingencies had been considered, the
+following programme was agreed upon.
+
+After the formal reception at Harrisburg had taken place, a special
+train, consisting of a baggage-car and one passenger-coach, should leave
+there at six o'clock P. M. to carry Mr. Lincoln and one companion back
+to Philadelphia; this train was to be under the immediate control of Mr.
+Franciscus and Mr. Enoch Lewis, the general superintendent. In order to
+avoid the possibility of accident, the track was to be cleared of
+everything between Harrisburg and Philadelphia from half-past five
+o'clock until after the passage of the special train. Mr. Felton was to
+detain the eleven o'clock P. M. Baltimore train until the arrival of the
+special train from Harrisburg, Mrs. Warne in the meantime engaging
+berths in the sleeping-car bound for Baltimore.
+
+[Illustration: "_Mr. Lincoln raising the flag on Independence Hall._" P.
+87]
+
+I was to remain in Philadelphia in order that no accident might occur in
+conveying the President from one depot to another, and Mr. Judd was to
+manage the affair at Harrisburg. Everything that could be suggested in
+relation to this matter was fully considered, and having at length
+perfected our plans, the party separated at half-past four o'clock in
+the morning, fully prepared to carry out the programme agreed upon.
+
+At six o'clock on the morning of the 22d, a vast concourse of people
+assembled in front of Independence Hall on Chestnut street, and at
+precisely the hour appointed, Mr. Lincoln made his appearance. With his
+own hands he drew to the top of the staff surmounting the edifice a
+beautiful new American flag, and as its Stripes and Stars floated out
+gracefully to the breeze, the air was rent with the shouts of the
+multitude and the music of the band.
+
+Mr. Lincoln's speech upon this occasion was the most impressive and
+characteristic of any which he had delivered upon his journey to the
+capital, while a tinge of sadness pervaded his remarks, never noticed
+before, and which were occasioned no doubt by the revelations of the
+preceding night. He gave a most eloquent expression to the emotions and
+associations which were suggested by the day and by the historic old
+hall where he then stood. He declared that all his political sentiments
+were drawn from the inspired utterances of those who had sat within the
+walls of that ancient edifice. He alluded most feelingly to the dangers
+and toils and sufferings of those who had adopted and made good the
+Declaration of Independence--a declaration which gave promise that "in
+due time the weight would be lifted from the shoulders of all men."
+Conscious of the dangers that threatened his country, and feeling also
+that those dangers originated in opposition to the principles enunciated
+in the Declaration of Independence, knowing that his own life was even
+then threatened because of his devotion to liberty, and that his way to
+the national capital was beset by assassins, he did not hesitate to
+declare boldly and fearlessly "that he would rather be assassinated on
+the spot than surrender those principles" so dear to him.
+
+After these proceedings, Mr. Lincoln was driven back to the Continental
+Hotel, and sending for Mr. Judd, he introduced him to Mr. Frederick H.
+Seward, a son of the late William H. Seward, who was in the room with
+the President. Mr. Lincoln then informed Mr. Judd that Mr. Seward had
+been sent from Washington by his father and General Scott to warn him of
+the danger of passing through Baltimore, and to urge him to come direct
+to Washington.
+
+From whom this information was originally obtained did not appear, but
+the facts were deemed of sufficient moment to be brought to the ears of
+the President, and hence Mr. Seward's visit to Philadelphia. Mr. Lincoln
+evinced no further hesitancy in the matter, and signified his readiness
+to do whatever was required of him. Mr. Judd then directed Mr. Seward to
+inform his father that all had been arranged, and that, so far as human
+foresight could predict, Mr. Lincoln would be in Washington before the
+evening of the following day, and cautioned him to preserve the utmost
+secrecy in regard to the matter. No particulars were given and none were
+asked.
+
+At the time appointed Mr. Lincoln started for Harrisburg, and I busied
+myself with the preparations that were necessary to successfully carry
+our plans into operation. From reports which I received from Baltimore,
+the excitement in that city had grown more intense, and the arrival of
+the President was awaited with the most feverish impatience. The common
+and accepted belief was that Mr. Lincoln would journey from Harrisburg
+to Baltimore over the Northern Central Railroad, and the plans of the
+conspirators were arranged accordingly.
+
+It became a matter of the utmost importance, therefore, that no
+intimation of our movements should reach that city. I had no doubt but
+that trusty agents of the conspirators were following the presidential
+party, and after the absence of Mr. Lincoln had been discovered, the
+telegraph would be put into active operation to apprise the movers of
+this scheme of the change that had been made. To effectually prevent
+this I determined that the telegraph wires which connected Harrisburg
+with her neighboring cities should be so "fixed" as to render
+communication impossible.
+
+To arrange this matter Capt. Burns was sent to the office of the
+American Telegraph Company, and obtaining from Mr. H. E. Thayer, the
+manager of the company, a competent and trustworthy man for the purpose,
+departed for Harrisburg, in order to carry out the proposed measures.
+Mr. Thayer, in the meantime, was to remain in the office during the
+night, in order to intercept any dispatches that might be sent over the
+wires from any point between Harrisburg and Baltimore, and to
+immediately deliver any messages that might be sent to me.
+
+Mr. W. P. Westervelt, the superintendent, and Mr. Andrew Wynne, the
+line-man of the telegraph company, were delegated to Harrisburg to "fix"
+the wires leading from that place in such a manner as to prevent any
+communication from passing over them, and to report to Capt. Burns upon
+their arrival.
+
+After the train containing Mr. Lincoln and his party had left
+Philadelphia, Mr. Judd sought the first favorable opportunity of
+conversing with Mr. Lincoln alone, and fully detailed to him the plan
+that had been agreed upon, all of which met with the hearty approval of
+the President, who signified a cheerful willingness to adapt himself to
+the novel circumstances.
+
+It was evident, from the manner of several of the gentlemen of the
+party, that they suspected something was transpiring of which they had
+not been advised, but they all very judiciously refrained from asking
+any questions. Mr. Judd, however, who felt the responsibility of his
+position, finally suggested to Mr. Lincoln the propriety and
+advisability of informing them of what had taken place, and of
+consulting with them upon the proper carrying out of the contemplated
+journey. To this Mr. Lincoln yielded a ready assent, adding, with an
+amused smile:
+
+"I suppose they will laugh at us, Judd, but I think you had better get
+them together."
+
+It was therefore arranged that after the reception at the State House
+had taken place, and before they sat down to dinner, the matter should
+be fully laid before the following gentlemen of the party: Judge David
+Davis, Col. Sumner, Major David Hunter, Capt. John Pope and Ward H.
+Lamon, Esq.
+
+Mr. Lincoln arrived at Harrisburg at noon, and was introduced to the
+people from the balcony of the Jones House, where an address was
+delivered by Gov. Andrew G. Curtin, whose fame became widespread during
+the dark days of the rebellion that followed, as the "War Governor of
+Pennsylvania." From the hotel the party proceeded to the House of
+Representatives, where he was welcomed by the Speaker, to which he
+replied in a few well-chosen words.
+
+After a short time spent in congratulations and hand-shaking they
+returned to the hotel, and the gentlemen who have been previously named
+were invited (in company with the Governor) to confer with the
+President in the parlor. At this meeting the information of the
+discovery of the plot to assassinate the President was laid before them,
+and also the details of the proposed journey to Washington. After the
+matter had been fully explained, a great diversity of opinion manifested
+itself among the gentlemen present, and some warm discussion was
+indulged in. Finally, Judge Davis, who had expressed no opinion upon the
+subject as yet, addressed the President, saying:
+
+"Well, Mr. Lincoln, what is your own judgment upon this matter?"
+
+"I have thought over this matter considerably since I went over the
+ground with Mr. Pinkerton last night," answered Mr. Lincoln, "and the
+appearance of Mr. Frederick Seward, with warning from another source,
+confirms my belief in Mr. Pinkerton's statement; therefore, unless there
+are some other reasons than a fear of ridicule, I am disposed to carry
+out Mr. Judd's plan."
+
+Judge Davis turned to the others, and said:
+
+"That settles the matter, gentlemen."
+
+"So be it," exclaimed Col. Sumner. "It is against my judgment, but I
+have undertaken to go to Washington with Mr. Lincoln, and I shall do
+it."
+
+Mr. Judd endeavored in vain to convince the gallant old soldier that
+every additional person only added to the risk, but the fiery spirit of
+the veteran was aroused and debate was useless.
+
+Having arranged the matter thus satisfactorily the party, at about four
+o'clock in the afternoon, repaired to the dining-room for dinner.
+
+All the preliminaries had now been successfully arranged. The special
+train, ostensibly to take the officers of the railroad company back to
+Philadelphia, was waiting upon a side track just outside of the town.
+The telegraph operators had performed their work admirably. Walking out
+of the city nearly two miles, Mr. Wynne climbed the poles and placing
+fine copper ground wires upon the regular lines, the city was soon
+entirely isolated from her neighbors. No message could possibly be sent
+from Harrisburg, and the capital of Pennsylvania was cut off temporarily
+from the rest of the world.
+
+The preparations in Philadelphia had also been fully made. Mrs. Warne
+had succeeded in engaging the rear half of a sleeping-car for the
+accommodation of her invalid brother, and that portion of the car was to
+be entirely separated from the rest by a curtain, so arranged that no
+one in the forward part of the car would be aware of the occupants of
+the same coach.
+
+In order to detain the Baltimore train until the arrival of Mr. Lincoln,
+the conductor was directed not to start his train until he received
+personal instructions to that effect from Mr. H. F. Kinney, the
+superintendent, who would hand him an important parcel, which President
+Felton desired should be delivered early on the following morning to Mr.
+E. J. Allen at Willard's Hotel, in Washington. (E. J. Allen was the
+nom-de-plume I generally used when on detective operations.)
+
+At a quarter to six o'clock everything was in readiness. A carriage was
+in waiting at the side entrance of the hotel, and the entire party were
+still at the table. A message was delivered to the President by Mr.
+Nicolay, and upon receiving it, he immediately arose, and, accompanied
+by Mr. Curtin, Mr. Lamon and Mr. Judd, he left the dining-room. Mr.
+Lincoln exchanged his dinner dress for a traveling suit, and soon
+returned with a shawl upon his arm and a soft felt hat protruding from
+his coat pocket.
+
+The halls, stairways and pavement were filled with a mass of people,
+who, seeing the President in company with the Governor, at once imagined
+that they were going to the executive mansion, where a reception was to
+be held in the evening.
+
+Mr. Judd whispered to Mr. Lamon to proceed in advance, adding:
+
+"As soon as Mr. Lincoln is in the carriage, drive off."
+
+As the party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin, and Mr. Lamon,
+entered the carriage, Col. Sumner attempted to follow them, but Mr. Judd
+gently put his hand upon the old gentleman's shoulder, and as he turned
+quickly around to inquire what was wanted, the carriage was driven
+rapidly away.
+
+[Illustration: "_The party, consisting of Mr. Lincoln, Governor Curtin
+and Mr. Lamon, entered the carriage._" P. 94.]
+
+Thus far everything had passed off admirably, and in a short time Mr.
+Lincoln was upon the special train, accompanied only by Mr. Lamon and
+the railroad officials, and speeding along toward Philadelphia.
+
+Without accident the party arrived at the Quaker City shortly after ten
+o'clock, where I was waiting with a carriage, in company with Mr.
+Kinney. Without a word Mr. Lincoln, Mr. Lamon and myself entered the
+vehicle, while Mr. Kinney seated himself alongside of the driver, and we
+proceeded directly to the depot of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and
+Baltimore Railroad.
+
+Driving up to the sidewalk on Carpenter street, and in the shadow of a
+tall fence, the carriage was stopped and the party alighted. As we
+approached the train, Mrs. Warne came forward, and, familiarly greeting
+the President as her brother, we entered the sleeping-car by the rear
+door without unnecessary delay, and without any one being aware of the
+distinguished passenger who had arrived.
+
+A carefully inclosed package, which resembled a formidable official
+document, but which contained only some neatly folded daily papers, was
+placed in the hands of the unsuspecting conductor--the whistle sounded,
+and soon the train was in motion, whirling on towards the capital of the
+nation.
+
+So carefully had all our movements been conducted, that no one in
+Philadelphia saw Mr. Lincoln enter the car, and no one on the train,
+except his own immediate party--not even the conductor, knew of his
+presence, and the President, feeling fatigued from the labors and the
+journeys of the day, at once retired to his berth.
+
+In order to prevent the possibility of accident, I had arranged with my
+men a series of signals along the road. It was barely possible that the
+work of destroying the railroad might be attempted by some reckless
+individuals, or that a suspicion of our movements might be entertained
+by the conspirators, and therefore, the utmost caution must be observed.
+
+As the train approached Havre de Grace, I went to the rear platform of
+the car, and as the train passed on a bright light flashed suddenly upon
+my gaze and was as quickly extinguished, and then I knew that thus far
+all was well.
+
+From this point all the way to Baltimore, at every bridge-crossing these
+lights flashed, and their rays carried the comforting assurance "All's
+Well!"
+
+We reached Baltimore at about half-past three o'clock in the morning,
+and as the train rumbled into the depot an officer of the road entered
+the car and whispered in my ear the welcome words "All's Well!"
+
+The city was in profound repose as we passed through. Darkness and
+silence reigned over all. Perhaps, at this moment, however, the reckless
+conspirators were astir perfecting their plans for a tragedy as infamous
+as any which has ever disgraced a free country--perhaps even now the
+holders of the _red_ ballots were nerving themselves for their part in
+the dreadful work, or were tossing restlessly upon sleepless couches.
+
+Be that as it may, our presence in Baltimore was entirely unsuspected,
+and as the sleeping-car in which we were, was drawn by horses through
+the streets from the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore depot, until
+we reached the Washington station, no sign of life was apparent in the
+great slumbering city. At the depot, however, a number of people were
+gathered, awaiting the arrival and departure of the various trains, and
+here the usual bustle and activity were manifested.
+
+We were compelled to remain here fully two hours, owing to the detention
+of the train from the West, and during that time, Mr. Lincoln remained
+quietly in his berth, joking with rare good humor with those around him.
+
+Ever and anon some snatches of rebel harmony would reach our ears, as
+they were rather discordantly sung by the waiting passengers in and
+around the depot. "My Maryland" and "Dixie" appeared to be the
+favorites, and once, after an intoxicated individual had roared through
+one stanza of the latter song, Mr. Lincoln turned quietly and rather
+sadly to me and said:
+
+"No doubt there will be a great time in Dixie by and by."
+
+How prophetic his words were, the succeeding years too fully proved.
+
+At length the train arrived and we proceeded on our way, arriving in
+Washington about six o'clock in the morning. Mr. Lincoln wrapped his
+traveling shawl about his shoulders, and in company with Mr. Lamon,
+started to leave the car. I followed close behind, and on the platform
+found two of my men awaiting our arrival. A great many people were
+gathered about the depot, but Mr. Lincoln entirely escaped recognition,
+until as we were about leaving the depot, Mr. Washburne, of Illinois,
+came up and cordially shook him by the hand.
+
+The surprise of this gentleman was unbounded, and many of those standing
+around, observing his movements, and the tall form of Mr. Lincoln
+exciting curiosity, I feared that danger might result in case he was
+recognized at this time. I accordingly went up to them hurriedly, and
+pressing between them whispered rather loudly:
+
+"No talking here!"
+
+Mr. Washburne gazed inquiringly at me, and was about to resent my
+interference, when Mr. Lincoln interposed:
+
+"That is Mr. Pinkerton, and everything is all right."
+
+Thus satisfied, Mr. Washburne quickly led the way to a carriage in
+waiting outside, where we met Mr. Seward, who warmly greeted the
+President, and then the party were rapidly driven down Pennsylvania
+Avenue to Willard's Hotel--I following closely behind them with my men,
+in another vehicle.
+
+[Illustration: "_The safe arrival at Washington._" P. 98.]
+
+On his arrival at the hotel Mr. Lincoln was warmly greeted by his
+friends, who were rejoiced at his safe arrival, and leaving him in the
+hands of those whose fealty was undoubted, I withdrew, and engaged
+temporary quarters at another hotel.
+
+During the forenoon I received a note from Mr. Lincoln requesting an
+interview, and received his warm expressions of thankfulness for the
+part I had performed in securing his safety, after which, finding that
+my object had been fully accomplished, I took the train and returned to
+Baltimore.
+
+Here I found the utmost excitement prevailing. The news of the safe
+arrival of Mr. Lincoln had already reached there, and a general
+sentiment of rage and disappointment pervaded the entire circle of
+conspirators and secessionists. I lost no time in securing an interview
+with Howard, and learned from him the particulars attendant upon the
+discovery that Mr. Lincoln had outwitted his enemies and was now safely
+quartered in Washington. Finding that their plans had been discovered,
+and fearing that the vengeance of the government would overtake them,
+the leading conspirators had suddenly disappeared. All their courage and
+bravado was gone, and now, like the miserable cowards that they were,
+they had sought safety in flight.
+
+A curious episode occurred at Harrisburg immediately after the
+departure of Mr. Lincoln from that city. Two newspaper correspondents
+connected with prominent New York journals had accompanied the party
+from Springfield, and had faithfully noted the incidents which had
+occurred upon the journey. As soon as the train which carried Mr.
+Lincoln away from Harrisburg was on its way, a gentlemanly individual,
+_well-known to me_, went to the room occupied by these journalists, and
+found them engaged in preparations to witness the further proceedings of
+the presidential party.
+
+The visitor quickly informed the gentlemen that Mr. Lincoln had left the
+city and was now flying over the road in the direction of Washington,
+which he would no doubt reach in the morning. This was the signal for
+renewed activity, and both gentlemen hastily arose, and, grasping their
+hats, started for the door. Their visitor however, was too quick for
+them, and standing before the door with a revolver in each hand, he
+addressed them: "You cannot leave this room, gentlemen, without my
+permission!"
+
+"What does this mean?" inquired one of the surprised gentlemen, blinking
+through his spectacles.
+
+"It means that you cannot leave this room until the safety of Mr.
+Lincoln justifies it," calmly replied the other.
+
+"I want to telegraph to the _Herald_," said the second
+correspondent--"what is the use of obtaining news if we cannot utilize
+it?"
+
+"You cannot utilize anything at present, gentlemen. The telegraph will
+not be of any service to you, for the wires are all down, and Harrisburg
+will be separated from the rest of the world for some hours yet."
+
+"When do you propose to let us out?" humbly asked one.
+
+"Well, I'll tell you, gentlemen. If you will sit down calmly, and bide
+your time and mine, I will make matters interesting for you, by
+informing you all about this flank movement on the Baltimoreans."
+
+Their indignation and fright subsided at once, and they quietly sat
+down. Refreshments were sent for, and soon the nimble pencils of the
+reporters were rapidly jotting down as much of the information as was
+deemed advisable to be made public at that time. After they had heard
+all, they prepared their dispatches for New York, both correspondents
+writing long and interesting accounts of the affair.
+
+When daylight dawned, and the gladsome tidings had been received that
+Mr. Lincoln was safe, these knights of the quill were liberated, and,
+rushing to the telegraph offices, which were now in running order again,
+the news was transmitted to New York and in less than an hour the types
+were being set which would convey to the public the startling news of
+the discovered conspiracy, and the manner in which the conspirators had
+been outwitted.
+
+As the later train arrived at Baltimore, I went to the depot and found
+the remaining members of the President's party, who also brought Mrs.
+Lincoln with them.
+
+Mr. Judd was jubilant at the success of the adventure, but Col. Sumner
+had not yet recovered his good humor. I have no doubt, however, that Mr.
+Lincoln succeeded in placating his irascible friend, and I know that in
+the bloody scenes which followed Col. Sumner bore an honorable and
+courageous part.
+
+Thus ends the narration of this important episode in one of the most
+interesting epochs of the country's history, and a truthful record has
+been given. Exaggerated stories and unauthorized statements have been
+freely made with regard to this journey of Mr. Lincoln. The caricaturist
+has attempted to throw ridicule upon the great man who now sleeps in a
+martyr's grave. A silly story of his being disguised in a Scotch cap and
+plaid obtained a temporary currency, but the fact remains that Mr.
+Lincoln, as a gentleman, and in the company of gentlemen, successfully
+passed through the camp of the conspirators and reached in safety the
+capital of the country.
+
+Now the war is ended. Peace reigns throughout the borders of the great
+Republic. And when, during the last dying throes of the rebellion, this
+great man was stricken down by the hand of an assassin, North and South
+alike united in lamenting his death, and in execrating the damnable
+deed and its reckless perpetrators.
+
+I had informed Mr. Lincoln in Philadelphia that I would answer with my
+life for his safe arrival in Washington, and I had redeemed my pledge.
+
+[Illustration: A CAMP SONG.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+_My Connection with the Rebellion.--Timothy Webster Accepts a Mission._
+
+
+My connection with the "Great Rebellion" of 1861 began almost from the
+inception of that gigantic struggle. During the days that intervened
+between the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln and the memorable 12th day
+of April, 1861, treason was busy in the South, and secession resolved
+itself into an accomplished fact. Scarcely had the reverberating tones
+of the guns upon the batteries in Charleston Harbor died away upon the
+air, than I was called into the service of the military branch of the
+government. At that time I was engaged in the energetic practice of my
+profession as a detective, which, large as it was, and constantly
+increasing, required a personal supervision, which absorbed my undivided
+attention. When, however, it became evident that a conflict was
+unavoidable, I soon found my services were needed, and putting aside all
+considerations of a private or business nature, I yielded a ready and
+cheerful response to the call, and during my connection with what was
+afterwards known as the secret service of the government, I rendered
+every assistance that lay in my power to further the cause of union, and
+to serve the country of my adoption.
+
+The month of April, 1861, was an important one in the history of the
+country. Whatever fears and apprehensions had filled the minds of the
+Northern people as to the solution of the great political questions then
+pending, a resort to arms had, until that time, been regarded as not
+likely to occur. A people who had been reared amid the blessings of a
+long and undisturbed peace, and whose lives, under this benign
+influence, had been prosperous and happy, they were almost entirely
+unprepared for a serious contest or a warlike struggle. Many times
+before the political horizon had grown dark and threatening, but the
+storm had subsided almost instantly, under that wise yielding of
+obedience to law and to the will of majorities, which it was hoped would
+now exercise its power for the preservation and continuance of amity.
+
+When, therefore, on the 12th of April, the attack upon Fort Sumter in
+Charleston Harbor was made, the Northern people were almost startled by
+surprise. Though entirely unprepared for such an event, it was clearly
+demonstrated to all that war could now no longer be honorably avoided.
+It was now too late to inquire into original causes of the contest; it
+remained only for the loyal heart to resent the insult to a nation's
+flag, and to sustain the government in upholding its constitution and
+in enforcing its laws. This act fired the patriotic heart and solidified
+the patriotic ranks, and, with the crumbling of the walls upon Fort
+Sumter, were shattered all the hopes previously entertained of a
+peaceful solution of the problems which were then before the country. I
+have very little doubt that the assault upon Fort Sumter was ordered by
+the rebel government, under the fallacious hope and groundless belief
+that it would not provoke immediate or widespread civil war. The
+Southern leaders were well aware of the fact that the frontier could not
+be entirely stripped of regulars, and assuming, or pretending to, that
+the existing laws contained no provision authorizing a call of the
+militia, they inferred that it would be difficult for the new
+administration to obtain at once legislation of a coercive character.
+Then, too, they relied, in a great measure, upon a friendly feeling
+toward the South from their late political associates in the North; but
+in this their reckoning was at fault, and the roar of Beauregard's guns
+in Charleston Harbor cleared up the political horizon as if by magic.
+
+There could no longer be any doubt as to the position and intentions of
+the Confederates. Seven disloyal States, with all their machinery of a
+separate government, stood behind those batteries, and the cool
+deliberation of the assault gave evidence of plan, of purpose and of
+confidence. What had been believed to be a mere conspiracy for the
+gaining of certain political ends, now gave way to a revolution, which
+menaced the perpetuity of the government and which required the armed
+force of the government to combat and subdue.
+
+The news of the assault upon Sumter reached Washington on Saturday, the
+13th day of April, and on the following day, Sunday though it was,
+President Lincoln assembled his Cabinet to discuss the duty of the hour,
+and on Monday morning a proclamation was issued, calling forth an army
+of seventy-five thousand men, for objects entirely lawful and
+constitutional.
+
+The effect of this proclamation upon the people of the North was almost
+electrical, and the heart of the whole nation throbbed with its
+patriotic emotions as that of a single individual. The general sentiment
+appeared to be in entire accord with the utterance of Stephen A.
+Douglas, a live-long Democrat, that "every man must be for the United
+States, or against it; there can be no neutrals in this war--only
+patriots and traitors." More than double the number of men that were
+required tendered their services, and before the lapse of forty-eight
+hours armed companies and regiments of volunteers were in motion toward
+the expected border of conflict. Nor was there exhibited that division
+of Northern sentiment that had been so boastfully predicted by the
+Southern leaders, and all men, of every belief, Democrats and
+Republicans, Conservatives and Radicals, natives and foreigners, from
+Maine to Oregon, responded to the call, and came to the defense of the
+constitution, the government and the Union.
+
+At this time the position of Maryland was rather a precarious one. There
+could be no doubt that the Unionists were greatly in the majority, but
+it was also true that there was a large and influential minority of her
+people in favor of secession. Here, as elsewhere, conspiracy had been at
+work for months, and many of the prominent political leaders were in
+full accord with the rebel government. The legislature was believed to
+be unreliable, and treason had obtained so firm a foothold in the
+populous city of Baltimore, that a secret recruiting office was sending
+enlisted men to Charleston. The venomous germ of treason, once planted,
+grew in magnitude and virulence, until it finally culminated in the
+infamous riot of April 19th, when the blood of the citizen soldiery of
+Massachusetts was first shed in defense of the Union. A spirit of
+opposition to the passage of Northern troops through the city, on their
+way to the seat of government, had been engendered among the "rough"
+element of Baltimore, and the excitement reached its climax upon the
+arrival of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment, which was the first to
+answer the call for troops. When their presence became known the
+traitorous element could no longer be restrained, and while the men were
+passing quietly through the city, on their way from one railroad
+station to another, they were murderously attacked by a reckless,
+howling mob, which resulted in bloodshed and carnage, and some of the
+most fiendish outrages were perpetrated that ever blackened a page of
+American history.
+
+The crowning act of disloyalty, and one which threatened the most
+serious consequences to the government, was committed about midnight of
+the same day. A secret order was issued by the mayor and police officers
+to burn the nearest bridges on the railroads leading into Baltimore from
+the free States, and parties, under the command of the police
+authorities were dispatched to execute the order.
+
+Before daylight the following morning, the bridges at Melvale, Relay
+House and Cockeysville, on the Harrisburg road and over the Bush and
+Gunpowder rivers and Harris Creek, were completely destroyed by fire,
+thus effectually severing railroad communication with the North. The
+telegraph wires leading to and from the capital were also cut,
+completely shutting off Washington, and the government from the loyal
+Northern States. These acts, committed by the orders of the very men who
+that morning had risked their lives in defending the soldiers of the
+Union, are sufficient to show the rapid and overmastering influence of
+revolutionary madness.
+
+Of course, the news of these outrages spread far and wide over the
+country, and while they aroused universal indignation, they
+nevertheless were the occasion of grave fears for the safety of the
+capital.
+
+It was on the 21st of April, two days after the occurrence of these
+events that my services were required. Several gentlemen of prominence
+in Chicago, intimate friends of President Lincoln, and men of influence
+and intelligence in the State, desired to communicate with the President
+upon questions connected with the existing condition of affairs, and
+applied to me for the purpose of having letters and dispatches conveyed
+directly to Washington by the hands of a trusty messenger.
+
+I at once accepted the duty, and selected a man for its performance.
+Experience proved that I was not mistaken in my selection, and as the
+messenger chosen for this duty is to bear an important part in the
+event, which I am about to relate, a description of him will at once
+acquaint the reader with his personal appearance.
+
+He was a tall, broad-shouldered, good-looking man of about forty years
+of age. In height he was about five feet ten inches; his brown hair,
+which was brushed carelessly back from a broad, high forehead,
+surmounted a face of a character to at once attract attention.
+
+There was such a decided mixture of sternness and amiability, of innate
+force and gentle feelings, of frankness and resolution stamped upon his
+features, that he instinctively impressed the beholder at a glance.
+
+The deep gray eyes could twinkle and sparkle with good humor, or they
+would grow dark and menacing, and seem to flash under the influence of
+anger. The mouth, almost concealed by the heavy brown mustaches which he
+wore, and the square, firm chin evinced a firmness that was
+unmistakable. His nose, large and well-formed, and the prominent cheek
+bones all seemed in perfect harmony with the bold spirit which leaped
+from the eyes, and the strong will that lurked about the set lips. In
+figure, he was rather stout, but his shoulders were so broad, his feet
+and hands so shapely, and the lithe limbs so well formed, that he did
+not appear of as full habit as he really was. A casual observer on
+meeting this man would almost immediately and insensibly be impressed
+with the conviction that he was a man who could be trusted; that any
+duty devolving upon him would be sacredly kept; and as he stood before
+me on this sunny afternoon in April, I felt that I could implicitly rely
+upon him in any emergency in which he might be placed, and to perform
+any service for which he might be selected.
+
+This man was Timothy Webster, a faithful officer, a true friend, and an
+ardent patriot.
+
+I had known this man for years. He had been in my employ for a long
+time, and had been engaged upon operations of a varied and diverse
+nature, consequently I knew precisely what his capabilities were, and
+how entirely he could be trusted. Though not a man of great
+enlightenment, he was gifted with a large amount of natural shrewdness,
+which enabled him to successfully meet any emergency which might arise.
+From his association with people in the various walks of life, he had
+acquired that habit of easy adaptation which made him appear, and feel,
+perfectly at home in almost any society, whether in the drawing-room or
+the tavern, in the marts of trade, or laboring at the plow.
+
+From my knowledge of Timothy Webster, and my confidence in his wisdom
+and reliability, I had chosen him to be the bearer of the dispatches to
+Mr. Lincoln. I therefore called him into my office and explained to him
+the nature of the duties he was to perform, the possible dangers he
+would encounter, and the importance of the trust that was to be reposed
+in him, and when I had concluded, I asked:
+
+"Timothy, knowing what you do of the task before you, will you undertake
+its performance?"
+
+"I understand all perfectly," he replied, drawing himself up to his full
+height, while his eyes flashed with a patriotic fire, "I know that my
+country demands my services, and that, if it shall cost me my life, I am
+ready to perform my full duty."
+
+The preparations for his departure did not occupy a very long time; the
+services of Miss Kate Warne, my female superintendent, were requested,
+and in a few minutes the important dispatches, some twelve in number,
+were securely sewed between the linings of his coat collar, and in the
+body of his waistcoat, and Timothy Webster was on his way to the capital
+of the country.
+
+[Illustration: A COLORED CONTRABAND]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+_Webster on his Way to the Capital.--Wrecked Trains and Broken
+Bridges.--An Adventure with a Cavalryman.--Rebel Emissary.--President
+Lincoln and Timothy Webster._
+
+
+Everywhere along the route the greatest excitement prevailed, and the
+people were in a state of wildest commotion. A rumor had spread
+throughout the country that the government, indignant at the riotous
+conduct of the Baltimoreans, had ordered the guns of Fort McHenry to
+fire upon the city, that the bombardment was now going on, and that half
+the town was reduced to ashes. This rumor was false, as Webster learned
+on arriving in Philadelphia, although even in the staid old Quaker City
+there was manifest a degree of excitement scarcely to be expected in a
+community so sedate and easy-going as Philadelphians usually are.
+
+Leaving the train at Philadelphia, Webster made his way through the
+crowded streets to the center of the city. He deemed it best to take
+counsel with some of the railroad and express officials, with whom he
+was very well acquainted, by reason of his connection with the discovery
+of the conspiracy to assassinate President Lincoln in Baltimore in the
+month of February immediately preceding.
+
+At that time Webster had been enrolled as a member of a volunteer
+company of cavalry at Perrymansville, in Maryland, and, gaining the
+confidence of his officers, had assisted in discovering the plans of the
+conspirators, and partly through his efforts, I had been successful in
+frustrating their murderous designs. This operation had brought him in
+close association with several gentlemen who were connected with the
+railroad and express companies, whose travel lay between Philadelphia
+and the now riotous and isolated city of Baltimore. As he was walking
+leisurely down Chestnut street he was accosted by Mr. Dunn, a gentleman
+who was connected with a leading express company in the city, and who
+was now upon his return from a visit to the Philadelphia, Wilmington and
+Baltimore depot. After an interchange of salutations, Webster inquired
+of Mr. Dunn the condition of affairs in and around Baltimore.
+
+"Very bad, indeed," replied that gentleman; "the bridges are all down,
+and the tracks have been torn up all along the road from Perrysville to
+Baltimore. The telegraph-wires have been cut, and no communications have
+been received from Baltimore or Washington except through couriers. The
+roads are guarded with soldiery, whose sympathies are with the
+rebellion, and it is almost impossible for any one who cannot identify
+himself as a Southern man to pass the guards who are stationed along
+the highways."
+
+"It does not look very favorable for my reaching Washington to-morrow,
+then?" said Webster, inquiringly.
+
+"No, sir. I am afraid that you will find it difficult, if not dangerous,
+to attempt such a journey, particularly by the way of Baltimore; and
+perhaps you had better delay your departure until it can be more safely
+accomplished," said Mr. Dunn.
+
+"It may be as you say," replied Webster, "but I left Chicago for
+Washington, and my line of travel was laid out through Baltimore. I will
+obey my orders to the letter, and I will arrive in Washington to-morrow
+night, or lose my life in attempting it!"
+
+"I see that you are determined to go," said Mr. Dunn, "and further
+argument would be of no avail; but I assure you, that you cannot travel
+further by rail than Perrysville; you may succeed in getting across the
+river to Havre de Grace, but after that you will have to rely entirely
+upon yourself."
+
+"Never fear for me," replied Webster, with a smile, "I will get through
+all right, I feel confident. I will have but little time now to catch
+the train, Mr. Dunn, and if you will be kind enough to telegraph to Mr.
+Pinkerton according to my directions, I will esteem it a great favor."
+
+"Certainly, Webster; anything I can do for you, or Mr. Pinkerton, will
+be done cheerfully."
+
+Writing out a message, informing me of his arrival in Philadelphia and
+of his intentions, he requested Mr. Dunn to forward the same, and then,
+bidding that gentleman good-bye, he made his way to the Baltimore depot,
+and was soon on the road to that city.
+
+As the train went speeding along upon its journey, Webster had ample
+time for the consideration of his plans. He was pretty well acquainted
+with the country between Havre de Grace and Baltimore, and had no fear
+of losing his way, even if the journey must be made by foot. He was
+impressed, however, with the necessity of using the utmost caution.
+While he did not fear for his own personal safety--for fear was an
+element entirely unknown to him--he realized the importance of his
+mission too well to rashly imperil its success by any useless exposure,
+or unnecessary risk. To reach Washington, however, he was determined,
+and to accomplish that object no danger would be too great, no hardship
+too severe. He nevertheless felt that he must rely solely upon himself,
+that he would have no one to advise him, and his own discretion and
+wisdom would have to be depended upon under all circumstances. Arriving
+at the Perrysville station, he found that the train could go no further,
+and that, to reach Havre de Grace, upon the opposite side of the
+Susquehanna River, the passengers would be required to take small boats
+and be rowed over, after which each man must make his way as best he
+could.
+
+As the boat touched the land Webster sprang ashore, and, going directly
+to the hotel, inquired for the landlord. He found that gentleman engaged
+in earnest conversation with an individual who at once instinctively
+awakened the suspicions of my operative. This gentleman was a tall,
+fine-looking man, with the erect carriage and self-reliant air of the
+soldier, but there was something in the nervousness of his manner, and
+in the furtive glances of his eyes, which convinced Webster that he was
+concealing something and would bear watching.
+
+Approaching the spot where the two men were conversing, Webster at once
+addressed the landlord in a hearty manner. "Landlord, I must get to
+Baltimore to-day. How am I going to do it?"
+
+"I do not know," replied the hotel-keeper, "this gentleman is anxious to
+do the same thing, but I am afraid I cannot help either of you."
+
+The gentleman thus referred to turned to Webster, saying:
+
+"Yes, I am very anxious to get through. I am a bearer of dispatches to
+the British Consul at Washington, and it is of the utmost importance
+that they should be delivered at once."
+
+While he was speaking a man drove up to the front of the hotel with a
+fine, strong team of horses attached to a covered road wagon, and
+throwing the reins across the back of his horses, leaped lightly to the
+ground.
+
+"Here is a man who can help you," said the landlord, as the new-comer
+entered the room; and then he called out:
+
+"Harris, come here!"
+
+The driver of the team came over to where the three men were standing,
+and the landlord at once made known to him the wishes of Webster and the
+messenger of the British Consul.
+
+"Harris, these gentlemen want to get to Baltimore to-day. Do you think
+you can manage it for them?"
+
+The man addressed as Harris gazed at Webster and his companion in a
+scrutinizing manner, and finally, apparently satisfied with his
+investigation, signified his willingness to make the attempt, provided
+the price he demanded, which was fifty dollars, was agreed to.
+
+Both men assented to the payment of the sum named, and after dinner had
+been partaken of, the two men took their seats in the vehicle, the
+driver cracked his whip, and they were upon their way.
+
+"I cannot promise to take you through to Baltimore," remarked the
+driver, after they had started; "I was stopped twice on the road
+yesterday, and I may not be able to pass the guards to-day."
+
+"Do the best you can," said Webster, good-naturedly, "and we will take
+the risk of a safe arrival."
+
+Webster then turned to his companion, who had remained silent and
+watchful ever since they had set out, and endeavored to engage him in
+conversation. The bearer of dispatches, however, was very little
+inclined to be sociable, and Webster had great difficulty in breaking
+through the reserve which he resolved to maintain.
+
+The further they journeyed, the more Webster became convinced that this
+man was not what he assumed to be, but he vailed his suspicions
+carefully, and appeared as frank and cordial in his manner as though
+they were brothers.
+
+Nothing worthy of note transpired upon the route until the party arrived
+at the outskirts of Perrymansville, which had been the scene of
+Webster's first experience in military service, and where, a few months
+before, he had been a member of a company of cavalry. They were trotting
+along quietly, and as the day was balmy and bright the ride was quite an
+enjoyable one, and for a moment the detective forgot the grave duties
+which he had undertaken and the dangers that might surround him, and
+gave himself up to the full enjoyment of the scenes around him. His
+pleasant reflections were short-lived, however, for just as they were
+entering the town they saw a mounted cavalryman approaching, who, as he
+reached the carriage, commanded them to halt.
+
+The driver suddenly pulled up his horses, and then the soldier, in a
+tone of authority: "Who are you, and where are you going?"
+
+"We are residents of Baltimore," answered Webster, not at all dismayed
+by the stern appearance and manner of his soldierly interlocutor, "and
+we are endeavoring to get home."
+
+"You will have to go with me," replied the soldier, decisively, "you
+can't go any further without permission."
+
+Here was a detention as unwelcome as it was unexpected, but Webster had
+recognized the uniform worn by the soldier as that of the very company
+of cavalry he had previously been a member of, and a duplicate of one in
+which he had previously arrayed himself. The man who had accosted him,
+however, was unknown to him, and he could, therefore, do nothing but
+submit quietly to his orders and await a favorable operation of
+circumstances.
+
+As Webster glanced casually at his companion, the British messenger, he
+was surprised at the change which was apparent in the expression of his
+features. Instead of the calm, dignified air of watchful repose which he
+had observed before, his face had grown pale, and there was such an
+unmistakable evidence of fear about the man, that Webster's suspicions
+were confirmed, and come what might he resolved to ascertain the nature
+of his business before they parted company.
+
+They had traveled but a short distance under the escort of their guard
+when they met another man dressed in a similar uniform, and evidently a
+member of the same company, and as Webster gazed at the new-comer he
+experienced a sensation of relief and joy, for in him he recognized an
+old companion in arms.
+
+As this man approached nearer, Webster called out from the carriage, in
+a cheery voice:
+
+"Hello, Taylor! how are you?"
+
+Thus suddenly accosted, the soldier rode up to the vehicle, and after a
+momentary glance at the features of the detective, he reached forth his
+hand and cordially saluted him.
+
+"Why, Webster, how do you do? The boys said you would not come back, now
+that the war had commenced, but I knew better, and I am glad to see
+you."
+
+The face of the reputed Englishman cleared in an instant, as he found
+that his companion was among friends, and this effect was not lost upon
+Webster, who had been furtively observing him. He turned his attention,
+however, to the soldier who had addressed him.
+
+"Oh, yes," he replied, "I have come back; and my friend here and I are
+anxious to get to Baltimore as soon as possible."
+
+"That will be all right," said the soldier; and then, turning to his
+comrade, he said: "These men are all right, you will permit them to
+pass."
+
+After a few minutes spent in a pleasant conversation, the soldier handed
+to Webster a pass which would prevent further interruption to their
+journey, and with a mutual pull at a flask with which Webster had
+provided himself before starting, the parties separated, and they
+proceeded on their way.
+
+This little incident produced a marked change in the demeanor of
+Webster's companion, and on being informed that the soldiers were
+Southerners, and not Federals, he seemed quite relieved.
+
+By the time they were approaching the suburbs of Baltimore the stranger
+had grown exceedingly communicative, and upon Webster hinting to him
+that he also was engaged in the cause of the South, he without
+hesitation informed my operative that he was similarly employed, and
+that he was at present carrying dispatches to prominent Southern
+sympathizers then residing in Washington.
+
+As he communicated this important item of information Webster grasped
+him warmly by the hand, and greeted him as a fellow-patriot, after
+which, with rare good humor, they cemented their acquaintance and
+confidence with a friendly draught from the spirit bottle.
+
+Several times on their journey they were halted by the guards along the
+roads, but the talismanic pass obtained at Perrymansville avoided all
+questioning, and gained for the travelers a safe passage to their
+destination. Arriving safely at the outskirts of Baltimore, the two men
+left the carriage, and walking a short distance, they entered a street
+car, and were driven to a retired hotel, where Webster had frequently
+stopped when in the city on former occasions. Here they engaged quarters
+for the night, and Webster's companion had by this time formed such an
+attachment for his fellow-traveler that communicating rooms were
+engaged, and after partaking of a hearty repast, the two men lighted
+their cigars and strolled out through the city.
+
+There were still many evidences of the riotous affrays which had but
+lately taken place. The people were in a feverish state of excitement,
+the drinking saloons and the corridors of the hotels were filled with
+crowds of excited men, each of whom seemed to vie with the other in
+giving loud expressions of their opinions, and of denouncing the attempt
+of the government to transport armed troops through the streets of a
+peaceful city. Ever mindful of the important duty devolving upon him,
+Webster wisely forebore to engage in any conversation with those whom he
+met, and among the number of the most outspoken of the Southern
+sympathizers were many whom he had previously met, and to whom he was
+known as an adherent of the South. At an early hour he and his newly
+found companion returned to their hotel, and shortly afterward retired
+for the night.
+
+Arising early on the following morning, they found the same difficulty
+was to be encountered that had been successfully overcome at the
+commencement of their journey. The railroads between Baltimore and
+Washington had also been torn up, so as to render the running of the
+trains an impossibility. This fact necessitated the procuring of a team
+that would convey them to the capital; but this time Webster's
+acquaintance with the proprietors of the hotel, and several of the
+permanent guests of the house, enabled them without difficulty or delay
+to secure a pair of horses and a road wagon, with a trusty driver, who
+guaranteed to carry them to Washington for the same amount which had
+been paid upon the other portion of their journey, and at an early hour
+they were upon the road to the seat of government.
+
+Meantime Webster had been seriously considering his course of action
+with regard to his fellow-passenger. That he was an agent of the
+Confederacy he had already admitted, and that he was the bearer of
+dispatches to prominent sympathizers with the South who were now living
+in Washington, was also well known to the detective. How, therefore, to
+arrange his plans, so that these papers would be intercepted and the
+ambassador detained without arousing his suspicion? It must be
+accomplished so that no delay should result to his own journey, as he
+had resolved that his dispatches must be delivered that day. Just before
+starting out an idea occurred to him, and requesting the driver to wait
+a few minutes, as he had forgotten something in his room, he re-entered
+the hotel, and going to the room they had occupied the evening before,
+he hurriedly wrote a note which he folded up and placed in his pocket.
+The note was as follows:
+
+
+    "TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+     "My companion is an emissary of the Confederacy, carrying
+     dispatches to Southern sympathizers in Washington. Apprehend
+     him, but do so discreetly and without compromising me.
+
+                                            T. W."
+
+
+
+He then descended the stairs, and entering the wagon, they were driven
+away towards Washington. The day was exceedingly warm, and the horses,
+unused to long journeys, early began to show signs of weakness, but they
+kept on without incident, save an occasional question from a passer-by
+as to their destination, and about noon arrived at a hotel known as the
+"Twelve-Mile House," so called from its being located at that distance
+from Washington.
+
+Here the party halted for dinner, and while engaged at their repast
+Webster noticed at an opposite table a friend of years ago, who wore the
+uniform of a Lieutenant of infantry. Fortunately, however, the officer
+did not appear to recognize him, and during the progress of the dinner
+Webster kept his face hidden as much as possible from his new-found
+friend. As the Lieutenant ceased eating and arose from the table,
+Webster, who also had about completed the bill of fare, arose, and
+excusing himself to the driver and his companion, passed out into the
+hallway and met the officer face to face. Cordial greetings were
+interchanged, and in a few minutes Webster had detailed to his friend
+the circumstances attending his meeting with the so-called British
+messenger, and his suspicions concerning them. It was not long before a
+plan had been arranged for the carrying out of the project of arresting
+the pseudo Englishman without occasioning the slightest suspicion to
+fall upon Timothy Webster, and shortly afterwards the Lieutenant mounted
+his horse and rode off in the direction of Washington.
+
+After smoking their after-dinner cigars, Webster and his companion again
+resumed their journey. By this time they had become thoroughly
+acquainted, and they enlivened their drive with many a pleasing anecdote
+of experience or of invention, until they came in sight of Washington
+city. Here a difficulty awaited them, apparently unexpected by both
+travelers. A Lieutenant at the head of eight men emerged from a house by
+the wayside, and in a voice of authority directed the driver to stop his
+horses, after which he advanced to the vehicle and saluted the occupants
+with the utmost courtesy, saying:
+
+"Gentlemen, I am sorry to discommode you, but I have orders to intercept
+all persons entering the city, and hold them until they can
+satisfactorily account for themselves. You will be kind enough to
+consider yourselves under arrest and follow me."
+
+Blank astonishment was depicted on the countenances of both Webster and
+his companion, but realizing that to parley would be useless, the two
+men dismounted and followed the lieutenant and his men into the
+building, which proved to be a military guard-house.
+
+Here they were separated and conducted to different apartments, where
+they were securely locked in, Webster's companion standing outside of
+the door of the room in which Webster was placed, and after witnessing
+the operation which confined Webster a prisoner, he was conducted to the
+room assigned to him, and the key was turned upon him.
+
+In a few minutes afterwards Webster was quietly released by the
+Lieutenant who had effected his arrest, and who was none other than the
+friend to whom he had given the information. In less than half an hour
+thereafter my detective was ascending the steps of the White House,
+inquiring for his Excellency, the President of the United States.
+
+Having also been provided with a letter to the President's private
+secretary, Mr. Nicolay, Webster was soon ushered into the presence of
+Mr. Lincoln, to whom he made known the nature of his business, and
+taking off his coat and vest, he removed the dispatches and letters, and
+handed them to the President, who had been silently watching his
+movements with a great deal of amused interest.
+
+"You have brought quite a mail with you, Mr. Webster," said the
+President, "more, perhaps, than it would be quite safe to attempt to
+carry another time."
+
+"Yes, sir," replied Webster. "I don't think I would like to carry so
+much through Baltimore another time."
+
+The President carefully looked over the papers he had just received, and
+finding that they required more consideration than could be given to
+them at that time, he turned to Webster and said:
+
+"Mr. Webster, I have a Cabinet conference this evening, and I will not
+be able to give these matters my attention until to-morrow. Come to me
+at ten o'clock and I will see you at that time."
+
+Again thanking the detective for the service he had so successfully
+rendered, he bade him good evening, and Webster sought his hotel,
+thoroughly exhausted with his journey, and soon after he was sound
+asleep.
+
+The next morning, on repairing to the White House, he was at once
+admitted, and the President greeted him with marked evidences of
+cordiality.
+
+"Mr. Webster, you have rendered the country an invaluable service. The
+bearer of dispatches who was arrested last evening by your efforts,
+proved, as you suspected, to be an emissary of the South, and the
+letters found upon him disclose a state of affairs here in Washington
+quite alarming. Several prominent families here are discovered to be in
+regular communication with the Southern leaders, and are furnishing
+them with every item of information. Until this time we had only a
+suspicion of this, but suspicion has now resolved itself into a
+certainty. You have performed your duty well, and before many days there
+will be an account demanded of some of these people which they are far
+from expecting."
+
+"I am glad to be of any service," replied Webster; "and I have done
+nothing more than my duty. If you have any further commands for me, Mr.
+President, I am ready to obey them."
+
+"Very well," said the President; "take these telegrams, and when you
+have reached a point where communication is possible, send them to
+General McClellan, at Columbus, Ohio; they are important and must be
+sent without delay. Also telegraph to Mr. Pinkerton to come to
+Washington at once; his services are, I think, greatly needed by the
+government at this time."
+
+Rolling up the papers which he received, Webster placed them in the
+center of a hollow cane, which he carried; then, replacing the handle,
+and promising to attend faithfully to the duties assigned him, he left
+the executive mansion.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Washington.--The Return to Philadelphia.--I go to
+the Capital.--An Important Letter._
+
+
+After leaving the White House, Timothy Webster went immediately in quest
+of a conveyance that would enable him to reach Baltimore without
+unnecessary delay. He expected to encounter greater difficulties in
+obtaining what he desired here in Washington than he had met with in
+Baltimore, for the reason that in the capital he was a comparative
+stranger, while in the latter city he had numerous friends, who believed
+him to be in sympathy with the Confederacy, and whose assistance he
+could rely upon on that account. His only hope, therefore, lay in his
+being able to find some friendly Baltimorean, upon whose influence he
+could depend to procure him a mode of conveyance for his return. Having
+arrived late on the preceding evening and being terribly fatigued by the
+journey he had made, Webster had retired almost immediately after he
+reached his hotel, and consequently he was surprised at the busy scenes
+which greeted him now. The capital was swarming with soldiers and
+civilians. Regiments continually arriving and were being assigned to
+quarters and positions around the city, and the streets were filled with
+eager and excited multitudes. The position which Maryland had assumed
+was vehemently discussed everywhere, and the riotous conduct of the
+Baltimoreans was loudly denounced by Northern men, and secretly
+applauded by those whose sympathies were with the cause of the South.
+The prompt action of General Butler, with his regiment of Massachusetts
+soldiers, who followed quickly after the sixth, in going by boat
+directly to Annapolis, in order to reach Washington without hindrance or
+delay, and his patriotic and determined response to those in authority,
+who sought to induce him to change his plans for reaching the capital,
+were everywhere warmly commended. There could be no doubt that the North
+was thoroughly aroused, and were dreadfully in earnest in their
+determination to suppress a rebellion which they believed to be
+causeless, unlawful and threatening the future of a great country.
+
+As Webster walked along Pennsylvania Avenue, carefully scanning the
+faces of every one he met in the hope of discovering some one whom he
+knew and who might be of service to him, he recognized the driver who
+had brought him from Baltimore on the day before, and who started in
+astonishment at finding the man whom he had last seen a prisoner in the
+hands of United States troops now walking the streets free and
+unattended. This man was accompanied by three others, with two of whom
+Webster was slightly acquainted, and he at once advanced toward them and
+greeted them cordially.
+
+"Why, Webster, is that you?" inquired the foremost of the party, a
+well-known "sympathizer" of the name of John Maull. "We heard you had
+been taken prisoner--how did you get out so soon?"
+
+"That is easily accounted for," said Webster, with a laugh; "I was
+simply arrested on suspicion, and when they could find nothing about me
+that was at all suspicious, they were compelled to let me go."
+
+"This country is coming upon strange times," remarked a sallow-faced
+Baltimorean who boasted of having been one of the most prominent of the
+rioters a few days before, "when a man can be arrested in this way and
+have no means of redress."
+
+"That is very true," replied Webster, "but we will have a decided change
+before long, or I am very much mistaken. 'Uncle Jeff' means business,
+and there will be long faces in Washington before many days."
+
+"Give me your hand, old boy," exclaimed Maull heartily, "you are of the
+right stripe; but don't talk so loud; let us go around the corner to a
+quiet little place where we can talk without danger."
+
+The party repaired to a drinking saloon, in a retired neighborhood, and
+on entering it they were greeted warmly by several parties who were
+standing before the bar. Webster was immediately introduced to these
+gentlemen, and it was not long before he had firmly established himself
+in their good opinions as a devoted friend of the South.
+
+The conversation soon became general, and the most extravagant ideas
+were expressed with regard to the wonderful achievements that were
+expected of the Southern soldiers, and no doubt was entertained that the
+Yankees, as they called the Northern men, would be quickly vanquished by
+the chivalrous armies of the "Sunny South."
+
+To all of these suggestions Webster yielded a ready assent, and not one
+among the number was more pronounced in his belief in the needs of the
+Southern cause than was my trusty operative, who, in the cane he
+flourished so conspicuously, carried important dispatches from the
+President of the United States to a General in command of Northern
+soldiers.
+
+All the time, however, he was growing very restive under the enforced
+delay in his journey, and seeking a favorable opportunity during a lull
+in the conversation, he turned to the driver of the wagon and inquired
+of him when he was going to return to Baltimore.
+
+"Not for a day or two, at least," replied the man.
+
+"That is very bad," said Webster. "I must get there this evening; it is
+of the utmost importance that I should do so."
+
+At this one of the party approached Webster and informed him that he
+was going back that day and had engaged a conveyance for that purpose,
+and as there was room enough for two, he would be most happy to have his
+company. Webster at once accepted the invitation, and having thus
+relieved his anxiety upon the point of reaching Baltimore, he joined
+heartily in the conversation that was going on around him. No one, to
+have heard him, would doubt for a moment his loyalty to the South, or
+his firm belief in the eventual triumph of her armies.
+
+After remaining in the saloon for some time, Webster noticed that the
+men were becoming intoxicated, and fearing that they would become noisy
+and probably get into trouble, he suggested to the gentleman with whom
+he was to drive to Baltimore the propriety of leaving the rest to their
+enjoyment while they arranged matters for their departure. His advice
+was at once accepted, and the two men bade their associates farewell and
+repaired to the hotel, where they had their dinner, and about two
+o'clock they were upon their journey. Webster's fears were proven to be
+well-founded, for as they were passing the locality where they had spent
+the morning, they saw their former companions between a file of
+soldiers, and there was little doubt that they had allowed their
+libations to overcome their judgments, and that they would be allowed to
+recover their reason in a guard-house.
+
+The journey was made without event, the carriage and driver being
+apparently very well known along the route, and Webster arrived in
+Baltimore late that evening. He was desirous of pushing on without
+delay, as it was important that the dispatches which he carried should
+be forwarded at once, and he therefore went immediately to the hotel he
+had occupied when he first arrived in the city. Requesting the landlord
+to use his best efforts to procure him a conveyance to Havre de Grace,
+he sat down to his supper, and did ample justice to a plenteous repast.
+When he had finished the landlord entered the room and informed him that
+he had succeeded in providing a team for his service, but that grave
+doubts were entertained whether he would succeed in reaching his
+destination. Expressing his willingness to assume any responsibility of
+that kind, Webster bade his entertainer good-bye, and entering the
+wagon, he started upon his midnight journey to Havre de Grace.
+
+Again fortune favored him, and although repeatedly halted, he was able
+to give such a straightforward account of himself that they were allowed
+to proceed, and he arrived in Havre de Grace in time for breakfast.
+Crossing the river, he went directly to the headquarters of Colonel
+Dare, who was in charge of the Union troops at Perrysville, and
+requested that officer to forward the telegram to General McClellan at
+once. This the Colonel promised to do, and in a few minutes the
+important message was flying over the wires to its destination at
+Columbus, Ohio, and the President's request for my appearance at
+Washington followed soon after, and was received by me in due time.
+
+Recognizing the importance of the call, I lost no time in answering the
+dispatch of Mr. Lincoln, and started at once on my journey to
+Washington, accompanied only by a trusty member of my force. Before
+leaving I left orders that should I fail to meet with Webster upon the
+way he should be directed to await my return in the city of Pittsburg.
+
+On my arrival at Perrysville I found that a mode of communication had
+been hurriedly established with Washington, by means of a boat which
+sailed down the Chesapeake Bay and landed their passengers at Annapolis,
+from which point the railroad travel to Washington was uninterrupted.
+
+Arriving at the capital I found a condition of affairs at once peculiar
+and embarrassing, and the city contained a strange admixture of
+humanity, both patriotic and dangerous. Here were gathered the rulers of
+the nation and those who were seeking its destruction. The streets were
+filled with soldiers, armed and eager for the fray; officers and
+orderlies were seen galloping from place to place; the tramp of armed
+men was heard on every side, and strains of martial music filled the
+air. Here, too, lurked the secret enemy, who was conveying beyond the
+lines the coveted information of every movement made or contemplated.
+Men who formerly occupied places of dignity, power and trust were now
+regarded as objects of suspicion, whose loyalty was impeached and whose
+actions it was necessary to watch. Aristocratic ladies, who had
+previously opened the doors of their luxurious residences to those high
+in office and who had hospitably entertained the dignitaries of the
+land, were now believed to be in sympathy with the attempt to overthrow
+the country, and engaged in clandestine correspondence with Southern
+leaders. The criminal classes poured in from all quarters, and almost
+every avenue of society was penetrated by these lawless and unscrupulous
+hordes. An adequate idea can be formed of the transformation which had
+been effected within a few short weeks in this city of national
+government.
+
+On the day following my arrival I wended my way to the White House and
+sought an interview with the President. Around the executive mansion
+everything was in a state of activity and bustle. Messengers were
+running frantically hither and thither; officers in uniform were
+gathered in clusters, engaged in animated discussions of contemplated
+military operations; department clerks were bustling about, and added to
+these was a crowd of visitors, all anxious, like myself, to obtain an
+interview with the Chief Executive.
+
+I was not required to wait an unusual length of time, and I was soon
+ushered into the presence of Mr. Lincoln, who greeted me cordially and
+introduced me to the several members of the Cabinet who were engaged
+with him. I was at once informed that the object in sending for me was
+that the authorities had for some time entertained the idea of
+organizing a secret-service department of the government, with the view
+of ascertaining the social, political and patriotic status of the
+numerous suspected persons in and around the city. As yet, no definite
+plans had been adopted, and I was requested to detail my views upon the
+subject, in order that the matter might be intelligently considered, and
+such action taken as would lead to definite and satisfactory results. I
+accordingly stated to them the ideas which I entertained upon the
+subject, as fully and concisely as I was able to do at the time, and,
+after I had concluded, I took my departure, with the understanding that
+I would receive further communications from them in a few days.
+
+It was very evident to me, however, that in the confusion and excitement
+which were necessarily incident to the novel and perplexing condition of
+affairs then existing, that anything approaching to a systematized
+organization or operation would be for a time impossible. The necessity
+for war had come so suddenly upon a peaceful community that there had
+been as yet but little time for thorough preparation or system. The
+raising of a large army, with all the various contingencies of
+uniforming, arming and drilling; the furnishing of supplies, and the
+assigning of quarters, were occupying the attention of the rulers of the
+government, and I felt confident that I would be required to wait a
+longer time than I could then conveniently spare from my business, ere I
+would be favored with any definite instructions from those in authority.
+This opinion was fully confirmed, after several unsuccessful attempts to
+obtain satisfying particulars from the heads of several of the
+departments, and leaving my address with the secretary of the President,
+I returned to Philadelphia.
+
+I had directed, prior to leaving Chicago, that all important
+communications addressed to me should be forwarded to that city, and on
+my arrival there I found a number of letters which required immediate
+attention.
+
+Among the number was the following, which had been somewhat delayed in
+its transmission.
+
+
+                                        "COLUMBUS, OHIO,
+                                           April 24, 1861.
+     "ALLAN PINKERTON, Esq.,
+                "Dear Sir:--
+
+     "I wish to see you with the least possible delay, to make
+     arrangements with you of an important nature. I will be
+     either here or in Cincinnati for the next few days--here
+     to-morrow--Cincinnati next day. In this city you will find
+     me at the Capitol, at Cincinnati at my residence.
+
+     "If you telegraph me, better use your first name alone. Let
+     no one know that you come to see me, and keep as quiet as
+     possible.
+
+     "Very truly yours,
+
+            "GEO. B. MCCLELLAN,
+
+      "Maj. Gen'l Comd'g Ohio Vols.
+
+
+
+This letter at once decided me. Anxious as I was to serve the country in
+this, the hour of her need, I sought the first opportunity for active
+duty that presented itself, and I left Philadelphia at once, in order to
+comply with the instructions contained in this message of Gen.
+McClellan.
+
+[Illustration: STORMING A FORT.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+_An Adventure in Pittsburg.--A Mob at Bay.--An
+Explanation.--Good-feeling Restored._
+
+
+Several influences operated in my mind to induce me to respond at once
+to this letter, and some of them of a directly personal nature. I had
+been acquainted with General McClellan for a long time before this, and
+had been intimately associated with him while engaged upon various
+important operations connected with the Illinois Central and the Ohio
+and Mississippi Railroads, of the latter of which he was then president.
+From the friendship and esteem I entertained for him growing out of my
+relations with him in those matters, both as an individual and as an
+executive officer, I felt the more anxious to enter into his service,
+now that he had assumed the command of a military department, and was
+about to take an active part in the impending struggle.
+
+At Philadelphia I ascertained that Timothy Webster had already departed
+for Pittsburg, according to previous instructions, and hastily
+telegraphing to the General that I would instantly respond to his letter
+in person, I took the first train leading westward and was soon upon my
+way.
+
+Timothy Webster, meanwhile, had proceeded on his journey from
+Perrysville, and arrived without accident or adventure in Philadelphia.
+He immediately repaired to the office of Mr. Dunn, who informed him that
+he had just received a dispatch for him from Chicago. Webster hastily
+opened the message and found my directions for him to await my return at
+the city of Pittsburg. Remaining in the Quaker City until the following
+day, he took the western train and in due time arrived at his
+destination. On inquiring at the telegraph office in Pittsburg he
+received another message to the same effect as the first one, and he
+therefore engaged quarters at a hotel, patiently awaiting my coming. On
+the second day after his arrival in the Smoky City, which was Sunday, he
+again went to the telegraph office, where he received information that I
+would probably arrive there in the course of that day.
+
+Returning to the hotel, Webster entered the bar-room, and while he was
+being attended to two men came in, apparently engaged in excited
+conversation. They advanced to the bar and requested drinks. The
+excitement in the city, attendant upon the news from Baltimore, had not
+abated in the least since Webster had passed through several days
+before, and these two men were discussing the action of the government
+in regard to this matter. One of them, an excitable, empty-headed
+fellow, was cursing the President and General Scott, in very loud tones
+and in unmeasured terms, for not burning the city of Baltimore to
+ashes, and thus teaching the rebels a lesson they would be apt to
+remember. The remonstrances of his friend seemed only to excite him
+still more, and Webster, feeling desirous of avoiding any controversy at
+that time, started to leave the saloon, when the angry disputant turned
+to him, and arrogantly demanded his opinion of the matter.
+
+"I think," said Webster, "that the President and General Scott
+understand their duties much better than I can inform them, and I
+suppose they do not wish to destroy the property of many who are true to
+the government."
+
+"That is all nonsense," replied the other, sharply, "there is not a
+single Union man in the whole city."
+
+"I think you are mistaken," said Webster, coolly. "I am sure there are
+thousands of them there."
+
+This answer seemed to infuriate the man, and striding up to Webster, he
+asked, with an air of impertinence:
+
+"Are you a Southern man?"
+
+"No, sir, I was born in New York," was the reply.
+
+"What is your name?" impudently demanded the fellow.
+
+"You will find my name upon the register of the hotel, if you desire it,
+and as I do not wish to have any further controversy with you, I bid you
+good morning," replied Webster, still remaining cool and unruffled.
+
+By this time a crowd of about twenty men had gathered about them, and
+as Webster turned to leave the room, one of them demanded to know the
+contents of the telegram he had just received.
+
+This demand, added to the previous suggestion that Webster was a
+Southern man, was sufficient to excite the entire crowd, who had been
+living upon excitement for more than a week, and they began to press
+around him in a threatening manner, one of them calling out:
+
+"I believe he is a d--d spy; let us see what he has got!"
+
+Webster broke loose from those nearest to him, and retreating backwards
+toward the door, exclaimed, in a determined voice:
+
+"Gentlemen, I am no spy, and if any of you attempt to trouble me
+further, some of you will assuredly get hurt!"
+
+At this the crowd grew boisterous and violent, and several called out,
+"Hang him!" "Hang the spy!" while some of them made a rush toward where
+he stood.
+
+Drawing his revolver, Webster faced his angry assailants, who drew back
+involuntarily when they saw that he was both well armed and undismayed.
+
+"Gentlemen, we have had enough of this nonsense. You can talk about
+hanging me, and perhaps there are enough of you to do it, but, by God,
+the first one that attempts to put his hands upon me is a dead man!"
+
+Matters began to look serious. It seemed evident that these excited
+people were determined to resort to violence, and that there would be
+bloodshed in consequence. Webster, whose relations with the government
+were of so intensely loyal a character, was filled with regret at having
+allowed himself to become a party to a conversation which would lead to
+such serious consequences. He was resolved, however, to maintain his
+position. To show signs of weakness, therefore, would be dangerous, if
+not fatal, to him, and he stood bravely in front of the angry mob, who
+had drawn back at the sight of the revolver which was leveled so
+menacingly at them.
+
+Only for a moment, however, did the crowd stand awed and irresolute--one
+moment of silence, in which every man appeared to be deciding for
+himself his course of action. Then one tall, stalwart man stepped from
+their midst, and waving his hand toward his companions, he cried out:
+
+"Come on, he is only one against twenty, and we will take him dead, or
+alive!"
+
+The crowd took a few steps in advance, and Webster had braced himself to
+receive their attack, when suddenly, close beside him stood a form, and
+a loud voice called out:
+
+"Stop, gentlemen, where you are! This man is no traitor, and I will
+defend him with my life!" and the muzzles of two revolvers ranged
+themselves beside that presented by the suspected, but undismayed
+detective.
+
+[Illustration: "_Stop, Gentlemen, where you are._" P. 146.]
+
+Involuntarily the crowd stood still at this unexpected arrival of
+reinforcements, and Webster, who had recognized the voice, looked up in
+surprise and relief at this unlooked-for, though timely, assistance.
+
+I had arrived just in the nick of time, and I was resolved to defend my
+undaunted operative to the last.
+
+At this moment the proprietor of the hotel entered the saloon, and in a
+calm voice and quiet manner attempted to subdue the angry feelings of
+the bystanders.
+
+"Gentlemen," said he, "there need be no trouble about this matter; Mr.
+Webster can fully explain his position, and I think the best plan would
+be for you all to repair to the office of the mayor, where any
+explanation can be given."
+
+"I am perfectly willing to do that," said I; "I know this man, and will
+answer for him under any circumstances; we will accompany you to the
+office of the mayor at once, and I think I can convince him that he is
+no spy."
+
+This proposition was eagerly accepted by some, and reluctantly by
+others, and finally the entire party marched out of the hotel on their
+way to the office of the chief magistrate of the city; Webster and
+myself walking together.
+
+The crowd increased as we went on, and frequent calls were still made to
+"hang the traitor," but no further attempts were made to molest us, and
+we reached the office without any event of a troublesome nature
+occurring.
+
+The noise of the crowd attracted the attention of the chief of police,
+who, during the temporary absence of the mayor, was in charge of affairs
+of this nature, and he came to the door to ascertain the occasion of the
+tumult.
+
+As the crowd, with Webster and myself in the van, reached the steps
+which led up to the municipal office, I at once recognized the chief of
+police, having been connected with him some time before in the detection
+of some burglars from the city of Pittsburg, and that officer was not
+slow to identify me as the detective, who had frequently enabled him to
+secure the desperate criminals whom the law had at various times
+pursued.
+
+As we reached the platform where the officer was standing, I stretched
+forth my hand, which the chief cordially grasped.
+
+"Why, Mr. Pinkerton, what are you doing here?" inquired the chief, with
+some surprise.
+
+"I have come to defend one of my men, whom these people insist upon
+hanging as a rebel spy, but who is loyal to the core," I answered,
+laughingly.
+
+"I will take care of that," replied the chief, "and your word is
+sufficient for me," at the same time extending his disengaged hand and
+warmly greeting Webster, who stood beside me.
+
+As the crowd noticed the evident acquaintance and good-feeling that
+existed between the reputed spy and their chief of police, they drew
+back instinctively, while some of them looked as if they were not
+insensible to a feeling of shame. The chief realized the state of
+affairs at once, and turning to the now crestfallen and subdued
+gathering, he addressed them:
+
+"Gentlemen, I will be responsible for the loyalty and integrity of these
+gentlemen, and you will instantly disperse."
+
+The leaders of this assault on Webster looked terribly ashamed of
+themselves when they found how ridiculously they had been acting, and as
+the door of the chief's office closed on our retreating figures, they
+slowly and silently retired.
+
+In an hour afterwards, when Webster and I returned to the hotel, we
+found the gentlemen who a short time before were anxious to hang him,
+awaiting our arrival, and we received from them their heartfelt
+apologies for their hasty and inconsiderate conduct, all of which were
+received with a spirit of good nature that won the regards of all
+present, and when the time of our departure arrived, they accompanied us
+to the depot in a body, and cheered us lustily as the train slowly moved
+away.
+
+Thus an adventure, which promised to be very serious in its results,
+terminated in a manner satisfactory to all, and Webster and myself,
+instead of being lynched by a Pittsburg mob, departed in safety on our
+journey, and arrived in Cincinnati upon the following day, prepared to
+receive from General McClellan such instructions as were deemed
+necessary by him for the furtherance of the cause in which he was
+engaged.
+
+[Illustration: BETRAYED BY HIS BOOTS.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+_General McClellan in Command of Ohio.--I am Engaged for the War.--The
+Secret Service.--A Consultation.--Webster starts for Rebeldom._
+
+
+At the outbreak of the rebellion many difficulties were encountered
+which the people and their leaders were ill-prepared to surmount, and
+many expedients were resorted to in order to equip and officer the
+troops as they arrived. The State of Ohio, the militia of which General
+McClellan had been called upon to command by Governor Dennison, was no
+exception to this rule; but that gentleman realized the importance of
+calling some one to the command of the volunteers, upon whose knowledge,
+judgment and experience he could place implicit reliance. He therefore
+turned to Captain McClellan, who was a graduate of West Point, and had
+been a captain in the regular army, but who had for some years past been
+devoting himself to the management of a prominent railroad enterprise in
+the State.
+
+The Governor at once sent a communication to the general government,
+requesting that McClellan should be restored to his old rank in the
+army, and that the duty of organizing the Ohio volunteers should be
+assigned to him. To this request no answer was received, and it was
+afterwards learned that the Governor's letter, owing to the interruption
+of communications with Washington from all points, had not reached its
+destination. Failing, therefore, to receive any reply from the general
+government, and being thus forced to rely upon his own resources,
+Governor Dennison at once summoned McClellan to Columbus, where the
+latter applied himself earnestly to the work of organizing the numerous
+volunteer regiments which offered their services to the country. The
+State laws were changed in such a manner as to allow the Governor to
+select commanding officers for these volunteers outside of the members
+of the State militia, and very soon afterward the Ohio troops were
+commanded by thoroughly competent men, who had made military movements
+the subject of scientific study.
+
+On the third day of May a "Department of the Ohio" was formed,
+consisting of the combined forces of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, and
+this department, by order of General Scott, was placed under the command
+of General McClellan.
+
+The Ohio troops, as they arrived, were mainly located at Camp Dennison,
+which was situated in a valley about sixteen miles northwesterly from
+the city of Cincinnati. This was the largest and the chief camp in the
+State, and here the volunteers received that thorough instruction and
+training so essential in preparing for the rigors of war.
+
+As I have stated, my personal acquaintance with George B. McClellan had,
+from its earliest incipiency, been of the most agreeable and amicable
+nature, and when I called at his house in Ludlow street, as I did
+immediately upon my arrival in Cincinnati, I was received with genuine
+cordiality. After we were closeted together I explained fully to him the
+character of the business that had called me to Washington, and how the
+complication of affairs at the seat of government necessitated so much
+delay that I had found it imperative upon me to leave without arriving
+at any definite understanding with the President.
+
+The General had already been advised of his elevation in rank, and among
+other things desired to consult with me in relation to his affairs at
+the War Department.
+
+I need not stop to give the details of that interview. His object in
+sending for me was to secure my aid and co-operation in the organization
+of a secret service for his department, and finding me more than willing
+to do all in my power to help along the cause of the Union, he
+immediately laid before me all his plans.
+
+Our business was settled. It arranged that I should assume full
+management and control of this new branch of the service, and that I
+should at once enter upon the discharge of the multifarious duties
+attending so responsible a position. The General then informed me that
+he would write to General Scott for permission to organize this
+department under his own personal supervision; and he also agreed to
+submit the project to Governor Dennison, of Ohio, with a request to that
+gentleman to solicit the co-operation of the Governors of Illinois,
+Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, in sustaining the organization.
+
+To this arrangement I gave a ready assent, and we then entered upon the
+discussion of affairs requiring immediate attention. Several measures,
+more or less important, had suggested themselves to my mind while the
+General was talking, and in the course of the conversation which
+followed, I presented them for his consideration. It was a relief to me
+to find that at the outset there was no clash of opinion between us, and
+I felt confident that there was not likely to be any in the future.
+
+For several days my time was principally taken up in private
+consultations with General McClellan, in laying out a line of
+operations, by which I was to assist in making arrangements for bringing
+my own force into active duty at the earliest possible hour. I rented a
+suite of rooms and fitted up an office in Cincinnati, where I called
+about me some of the most capable and trustworthy detectives in my
+employ, and impressed upon them the great importance of the tasks that
+were about to be imposed upon them.
+
+The general informed me that he would like observations made within the
+rebel lines, and I resolved to at once send some scouts into the
+disaffected region lying south of us, for the purpose of obtaining
+information concerning the numbers, equipments, movements and intentions
+of the enemy, as well as to ascertain the general feeling of the
+Southern people in regard to the war. I fully realized the delicacy of
+this business, and the necessity of conducting it with the greatest
+care, caution and secrecy. None but good, true, reliable men could be
+detailed for such service, and knowing this, I made my selections
+accordingly; my thoughts reverting first of all to Timothy Webster.
+
+Within six hours after the commander had expressed his wishes to me,
+Timothy Webster was on his way to Louisville, with instructions to
+proceed southward from that city to Memphis, stopping at Bowling Green
+and Clarkesville on the way.
+
+In Webster's case it was not necessary to devote much time to
+instructions, except as to his line of travel, for he was a man who
+understood the whole meaning of a mission like this, and one who would
+perform his duty with that faithfulness and ability by which he had
+fairly earned the confidence I now reposed in him.
+
+Within a few days I also sent out other scouts, singly and in pairs, on
+the different routes that had been carefully prepared for them, and in a
+short time quite a number of my best operatives were engaged upon more
+or less difficult and dangerous tasks, all tending to the same end.
+
+In organizing and controlling this secret service, I endeavored to
+conceal my own individual identity so far as my friends and the public
+were concerned. The new field of usefulness into which I had ventured
+was designed to be a secret one in every respect, and for obvious
+reasons I was induced to lay aside the name of Allan Pinkerton--a name
+so well known that it had grown to be a sort of synonym for detective. I
+accordingly adopted the less suggestive one of E. J. Allen; a _nom de
+guerre_ which I retained during the entire period of my connection with
+the war. This precautionary measure was first proposed by the General
+himself, and in assenting to it I carried out his views as well as my
+own. This ruse to conceal my identity was a successful one. My true name
+was known only to General McClellan, and those of my force who were in
+my employ before the breaking out of the rebellion, and by them it was
+sacredly kept. Indeed, I doubt if McClellan has ever divulged it to this
+day, if I may judge by the frequent occurrence of such incidents as the
+following:
+
+A short time since, while on a visit to my New York agency, I chanced to
+meet one of my old army friends, General Fitz-John Porter. He recognized
+me, gave me a hearty greeting, and proceeded to address me as Major
+Allen, after the custom of by-gone days. I permitted the conversation
+to go on for some time, and then said:
+
+"Are you not aware, General, that the name of E. J. Allen, which I used
+during the war, was a fictitious one?"
+
+He looked at me, as if to satisfy himself that I was not jesting, and
+then exclaimed:
+
+"Fictitious! You are not in earnest, Major?"
+
+I assured him that I was never more so.
+
+"Why, I never suspected such a thing. What, then, is your true name?"
+
+"Allan Pinkerton," I replied.
+
+"Allan Pinkerton!" he ejaculated.
+
+His astonishment knew no bounds, and he declared it was the first
+intimation he had ever had that Allan Pinkerton and Major Allen were one
+and the same person.
+
+It was on the thirteenth of May that Timothy Webster left Cincinnati on
+his trip southward. He arrived at Louisville, Ky., late in the night,
+and remained there until the following day, when he pursued his course
+into the heart of that self-satisfied State which only desired to be
+"let alone."
+
+It is not my purpose to give in detail all the events of Webster's
+journey, as there was much that would only prove tedious at this late
+day, though at that time regarded as of the utmost importance to the
+country. Shrewd, wide-awake, and keen as a blood-hound on the scent, he
+allowed nothing to escape him, but quietly jotted down every item of
+intelligence that could possibly be of advantage to the Union army, and
+picked up many important points, which would have escaped the notice of
+a man of less detective experience and ability.
+
+He stopped a day or two at Bowling Green, Ky., and then proceeded on to
+Clarkesville, Tenn. He made friends of all he met, and cleverly
+ingratiated himself into the good graces of those whom he believed might
+be of service to him. He was a "Hail, fellow! well met," "A prince of
+good fellows," a genial, jovial, convivial spirit, with an inexhaustible
+fund of anecdote and amusing reminiscences, and a wonderful faculty for
+making everybody like him. He partook of soldiers' fare in the rebel
+camp, shook hands warmly with raw recruits, joked and laughed with petty
+officers, became familiar with colonels and captains, and talked
+profoundly with brigadier-generals. He was apparently an enthusiastic
+and determined rebel, and in a few cunningly-worded sentences he would
+rouse the stagnant blood of his hearers till it fairly boiled with
+virtuous indignation against Yankees in general, and "Abe Linkin" in
+particular.
+
+Webster's talent in sustaining a _role_ of this kind amounted to
+positive genius, and it was this that forced me to admire the man as
+sincerely as I prized his services. Naturally, he was of a quiet,
+reserved disposition, seldom speaking unless spoken to, and never
+betraying emotion or excitement under any pressure of circumstances.
+His face always wore that calm, imperturbable expression denoting a
+well-balanced mind and a thorough self-control, while the immobile
+countenance and close-set lips showed that he was naturally as
+inscrutable as the Sphinx. Many of his associates were of the opinion
+that he was cold and unfeeling, but _I_ knew there could be no greater
+mistake than this; _I_ knew that a manlier, nobler heart never existed
+than that which beat within the broad breast of Timothy Webster; and I
+knew that, reserved and modest as he was, he was never wanting in
+courtesy, never derelict in his duty, never behind his fellows in acts
+of kindness and mercy.
+
+It was when he was detailed for such operations as the one in question
+that his disposition underwent a complete metamorphosis. Then his
+reserve vanished, and he became the chatty, entertaining boon companion,
+the hero of the card-table, the story-teller of the bar-room, or the
+lion of the social gathering, as the exigencies of the case might
+require. He could go into a strange place and in one day surround
+himself with warm friends, who would end by telling him all he desired
+to know. In a life-time of varied detective experience, I have never met
+one who could more readily and agreeably adapt himself to circumstances.
+
+Webster represented himself as a resident of Baltimore, and gave graphic
+accounts of the recent troubles in that city; of the unpleasant position
+in which the "friends of the cause" were placed by the proximity and
+oppression of Northern troops, and of the outraged feelings of the
+populace when the "Lincoln hirelings" marched through the streets of the
+Monumental City. His eyes seemed to flash with indignation during the
+recital, and it would have been difficult indeed to induce his audience
+to believe that he was acting a part, or that his heart was not with the
+South.
+
+On the morning of his departure from Clarkesville quite a number of
+soldiers and citizens, who had become attached to him during his brief
+sojourn with them, accompanied him to the depot, shook him warmly by the
+hand at parting, and earnestly wished him God-speed. He told them all
+that he hoped to see them again soon, and waved them a smiling adieu
+from the platform of the car, as the train whirled him away toward
+Memphis.
+
+As the train stopped on the east bank of the Tennessee river, and the
+passengers swarmed out of the cars, Webster noticed a man take the
+conductor aside and engage in earnest conversation with him for a few
+moments. This man was a dark-complexioned, sharp-visaged, long-haired
+individual, clad in civilian's garb, and wearing a broad-brimmed hat.
+There was an air of mystery about him which attracted more than a
+passing glance from the scout, and caused the latter to keep an eye on
+him thereafter.
+
+The passengers were obliged to cross the river in a ferry-boat. The
+train going south was in waiting on the other side, and its conductor
+stood on the bank alone, making entries in his memorandum-book. As soon
+as the boat touched the land the man with the long hair and
+broad-brimmed hat sprang ashore and approached the conductor, to whom he
+began to talk in the same hurried, nervous manner that he had done to
+the one on the other side. As the time for starting approached, the
+mysterious stranger and the conductor walked toward the train together,
+conversing excitedly as they went.
+
+"There's something up," thought Webster, as he boarded the train.
+"Perhaps that fellow is on the look-out for new-comers like myself; but
+we'll see whether he is sharp enough to catch a weasel asleep."
+
+For the first twenty miles after leaving the Tennessee river, the road
+lay through an uncultivated region of swamps and heavy timber. At every
+station along the route uniformed men, heavy guns, car-loads of muskets
+and ammunition were seen, indicating general and active preparations for
+war, while the secession flag was flying in the breeze, and the music of
+fife and drum was frequently borne to the ear. At Humboldt, where the
+train arrived at four o'clock in the afternoon, they were delayed for
+some time, and Webster improved the opportunity to look around him and
+to procure his dinner. The man with the broad-brimmed hat seated himself
+almost opposite Webster at table, who noticed that his restless,
+inquisitive eyes were kept busy scrutinizing every face that came within
+range of his vision. He did not address himself to any one during the
+progress of the repast, and after hurriedly satisfying his own appetite,
+he walked out upon the platform of the depot, where he stood intently
+watching the other passengers as they returned to the train.
+
+Webster, as he crossed the platform, instinctively felt that those
+searching eyes were riveted upon him as if they would pierce him
+through, but he did not evince the slightest degree of trepidation or
+uneasiness under the ordeal. Assuming an air of quiet unconsciousness,
+he sauntered past the man without seeming to notice him, and entered the
+smoking-car, coolly lighted a cigar, drew a Nashville newspaper from his
+pocket, and settled himself to his reading. He saw no more of the
+mysterious stranger during the remainder of the journey, but on
+alighting from the train at the Memphis depot, the first object that met
+his gaze was the wearer of the broad-brimmed hat.
+
+Arriving in Memphis at nine o'clock in the evening, Webster went
+directly to the Worsham House, where he intended to stay while in the
+city. While registering his name he observed a military officer in full
+uniform standing at his elbow, watching him closely as he wrote. Several
+other new arrivals placed their signatures after Webster, and he then
+noticed that the officer was engaged in making a copy of names and
+addresses on a piece of paper.
+
+While watching this proceeding, his attention was distracted by some one
+hastily entering the hotel office. It was his mysterious
+fellow-traveler, who, stepping into the center of the room, glanced
+quickly around, apparently looking for some particular face. The search
+was evidently successful, for, walking up to one of the men who had just
+arrived on the train from the North, he tapped him on the shoulder and
+beckoned him.
+
+After a few moments' conversation, during which the new-comer appeared
+to be both surprised and frightened, the two left the hotel together and
+walked up the street arm in arm.
+
+Two citizens who were lounging near the door had been interested
+spectators of this incident, and Webster heard one of them inquire:
+
+"What does that mean?"
+
+"It means that the stranger is under arrest," replied his companion.
+
+"Under arrest? And who is the man who arrested him?"
+
+"Oh, he is a member of the safety committee."
+
+"But what crime has the stranger committed, that he should thus be taken
+into custody?"
+
+"Nothing, perhaps; but the fact that he is a stranger from the North, is
+sufficient to mark him as an object of suspicion."
+
+"Isn't that a little severe?"
+
+"Severe? It's a necessity in these times. For my part, I am in for
+hanging every Northern man who comes here, unless he can give the most
+satisfactory proof that he is not a spy."
+
+The rest of the conversation did not reach Webster's ear, and, being
+much fatigued by his day's journey, he soon retired, to seek that much
+needed rest which slumber only could afford.
+
+He rose at an early hour in the morning, feeling much refreshed. On
+entering the dining-room he found it crowded with guests, the majority
+of whom wore the uniform and shoulder-straps of Confederate officers.
+The conversation around the table was upon the all-absorbing theme which
+at that time was uppermost in every mind, and the scout was both amused
+and edified by what he heard. He did not long remain a silent listener,
+but taking his cue at the proper moment he entered easily and naturally
+into the conversation himself, and his pleasing address and intelligent
+observations commanded at once the respectful attention of those around
+him.
+
+After breakfast Webster determined to ascertain whether or not he was
+under the surveillance of the vigilance committee, and he accordingly
+left the hotel, and wended his way toward the post-office.
+
+He had not proceeded far when he noticed a man who appeared to be
+following him on the opposite side of the street. Desiring to satisfy
+himself upon this point he walked on for several blocks, and then
+dropped into a saloon. Remaining there a sufficient length of time for
+the man to pass from view, in case he did not stop in his onward course,
+he emerged from the saloon and retraced his steps toward the hotel. As
+he did so he noticed the stranger on the other side of the street,
+dogging him as before. This left no doubt in his mind that he was being
+shadowed, and he resolved to be guarded in his movements, to refrain
+from writing any reports or making any notes that could possibly betray
+him. He returned to the office and bar-room of the Worsham Hotel, and
+spent an hour or two reading and smoking. While thus occupied, three
+military officers entered and stood near the bar engaged in animated
+conversation. Webster sauntered toward them, and heard one of the
+trio--a man whom the others addressed as "Doctor"--remark emphatically:
+
+"Yes, gentlemen, that is a true principle. It will not do to let a man
+set foot on Kentucky soil until the Northern troops disregard the
+neutrality of that State."
+
+Catching the drift of the conversation, Webster stepped forward and
+said:
+
+"I beg pardon, sir; will you permit me to ask one question?"
+
+The three officers turned toward him, with expressions of mild surprise
+in their faces, and the Doctor replied:
+
+"Certainly, sir; certainly."
+
+"Do you suppose," added Webster, "that Kentucky will allow the Northern
+army to march through the State without showing fight?"
+
+"Not by a jug-full," was the prompt response. "The moment the Northern
+army crosses the Ohio river, Kentucky will rise in arms and take sides
+with the South."
+
+"If she doesn't," said Webster, with much apparent warmth, "she will
+prove herself unworthy of the respect of any true Southern men!"
+
+The Doctor's face brightened up, and he laid his hand approvingly on the
+scout's shoulder.
+
+"May I ask where you are from?"
+
+"I was born in Kentucky and reared in Maryland," was the quiet reply,
+"and I am now direct from Baltimore."
+
+"Baltimore!" ejaculated the whole trio in chorus; and the next moment
+were all shaking hands in the most vigorous fashion.
+
+"Baltimore!" repeated the Doctor, his face red with his recent exertion.
+"My friend, we are always glad to meet a Baltimorean, for we know there
+is many a true man in that city who would help us if he could. May I ask
+your name, sir?"
+
+"Webster--Timothy Webster."
+
+"A devilish good name. Mine is Burton. My friends all call me Doctor
+Burton. Allow me to introduce you to Colonel Dalgetty and to Captain
+Stanley of the Arkansas Rifles."
+
+The introduction was cordially acknowledged on both sides, and Webster
+then said:
+
+"Gentlemen, I was about to call for a drink when I heard you speak of
+Kentucky. I am happy to know that there is still hopes for that State.
+Will you drink her health with me?"
+
+And in the clinking of the glasses, and the quaffing of their favorite
+beverages, the new link of friendship was forged.
+
+[Illustration: RUN DOWN BY CAVALRY.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+_Webster Fraternizes with the Rebel Officers.--A Secession Hat.--A Visit
+to a Rebel Camp.--"The Committee of Safety."--A Friendly Stranger.--A
+Warning.--The Escape._
+
+
+Webster's new friends were men whom he believed he could use to good
+advantage, and he determined to improve the chance that had thrown him
+in contact with them. He found them not only very well informed, but
+disposed to be communicative, and he therefore applied the "pumping"
+process with all the skill at his command. He experienced no difficulty
+in making this mode of operation effectual, for these officers were
+exceedingly willing to air their knowledge for the benefit of their
+Baltimore friend, and enjoyed his frequent expressions of agreeable
+surprise at the extent of the preparations made by the people of the
+South to defend their rights.
+
+Dr. Burton was the most conspicuous one of the group, from his very
+pompousness. He wore a superfluity of gorgeous gold lace on his uniform,
+and assumed the dignity of a major-general. He was a flabby-faced,
+bulbous-eyed individual, with a wonderful stomach for harboring liquor,
+and that unceasing flow of spirits arising from a magnified sense of
+his own importance. It was evident, even upon a short acquaintance, that
+the doctor found his chief entertainment in listening to himself talk, a
+species of recreation in which he indulged with great regularity,
+sharing the pleasure with as many others as would grant him a hearing.
+
+In Webster he found an attentive auditor, which so flattered his vanity
+that he at once formed a strong attachment for my operative, and placed
+himself on familiar and confidential terms with him.
+
+"Webster, we've got to do some hard fighting in these parts, and that
+before we are many days older," said the Doctor, with a wise shake of
+the head.
+
+"I think you are right," conceded the scout. "We must fight it out. From
+what you have told me, however, I am sure the Lincoln troops will find
+you fully prepared to give them a warm reception here."
+
+"That they will, sir; that they will!" was the emphatic rejoinder. "We
+have one full regiment and four or five companies besides, at Camp
+Rector, and General Pillow has thirty-seven hundred men at the camp in
+the rear of Fort Harris, which is a little above us on this side of the
+river. We expect to move with him, and if there is an attack made upon
+us every man in the town will instantly become a soldier."
+
+"Have you arms enough for all of them?"
+
+"Arms? Let the Yankees count on our not having arms, and they will meet
+with a surprise party. In two hours' notice we can have from eight to
+ten thousand men ready to march."
+
+"No doubt of it, Doctor; but how do you expect to get two hours'
+notice?"
+
+"Lord bless you, Webster, we have men watching the movements of the
+Yankees at Cairo, and the minute they make a move we are notified. Then
+our signal gun is fired, and every man is mustered."
+
+"A good arrangement, truly," said the detective quietly.
+
+"You look as if you could do some hard fighting yourself, Mr. Webster,"
+remarked Colonel Dalgetty.
+
+The detective smiled.
+
+"I have been fighting against great odds for the past two months in
+Baltimore. The last battle I fought was to get away from there with my
+life."
+
+"Yes, and we are confounded glad to receive you here," exclaimed the
+enthusiastic Doctor, shaking Webster by the hand for the twentieth time.
+"Come, gentlemen, we must have another drink. Step up and nominate your
+'pizen.'"
+
+The glasses were filled, and some one proposed the toast: "Death to the
+Yankees!" Under his breath, however, the detective muttered, "Confusion
+to the rebels!" and drained his glass. The toast was no sooner drank
+than Lieutenant Stanley, who was evidently beginning to feel the
+influence of the liquor he had drank, took off his uniform hat and put
+it on Webster's head.
+
+[Illustration: "_Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself
+perfectly at home!_" P. 171.]
+
+"Excuse me, Mr. Webster," he said, "I merely wish to see how you look in
+one of our hats." Then stepping back, he added: "By the gods, nothing
+could be more becoming! My dear fellow, you must have one by all means,
+if you stay among us."
+
+Webster endeavored laughingly to object, but they all refused to accept
+"no" for an answer. So, finding it impossible to resist, he went with
+them to a neighboring hat store.
+
+"Fit a hat to Mr. Webster's head--a hat just like mine," said Dr.
+Burton, to the proprietor; then turning to the scout, he added: "We will
+have you a cord and tassel of blue, as that will show that you are true
+to the cause, although you do not belong to the military."
+
+The hatter produced a secession chapeau of the kind and size required,
+and Webster at once put it on, much to the delight of the Doctor, who
+slapped Webster familiarly on the shoulder, with the exclamation:
+
+"Now, my dear fellow, you can consider yourself at home!"
+
+"Perfectly at home," echoed Colonel Dalgetty.
+
+"Henceforward you are one of us," put in the Lieutenant.
+
+Webster thanked them cordially for their kindness, and promised to wear
+it in preference to any other. As they stepped outside of the store,
+however, all thoughts of the new hat were temporarily driven from his
+mind, for, standing on the sidewalk, within a few yards of the store
+door, and looking directly at him, was the identical individual whom he
+had noticed on the train, who had arrested the Northern stranger the
+night before.
+
+The gaze which this vigilant agent of the safety committee now bent upon
+Webster was full of dark suspicion, but after one swift glance at him
+the detective turned away with an air of perfect composure and
+unconcern, and walked off between his companions. To say that he felt
+some uneasiness at this evidence that he was still being closely
+followed, would be only to tell the truth. His first impulse was to
+speak to his companions about it, but a second thought decided him not
+to mention the matter to any one, nor to betray by word or act that he
+had the slightest hint of a suspicion that he was being watched.
+
+The three officers introduced Webster to a large number of soldiers and
+citizens, and before the day was over he had quite an extended circle of
+acquaintance in Memphis. Dr. Burton, who had conceived a fancy for him,
+as sudden as it was pronounced, assumed a sort of paternal control over
+Webster, hovering about him with an air of protection and solicitude,
+and drawing the scout's arm through his when they walked together.
+
+That afternoon, Webster, desiring to be alone for awhile, hired one of
+the hackmen at the door of the hotel to drive him three or four miles
+into the country. He went down the river road, and as it was a beautiful
+day, he enjoyed himself admiring the picturesque scenery along the way.
+
+Just below the town, on the bank of the river, he found a small
+encampment of soldiers with a battery, who were on the lookout for boats
+coming up the river, and during his ride he saw several encampments of
+the same nature. After spending several hours inspecting the
+fortifications along the river, Webster returned to the hotel, which he
+reached about dark.
+
+The next day Doctor Burton and several of his military friends sought
+out the detective, and urged him to go with them to Camp Rector.
+
+"Gentlemen, I am at your service," said Webster, earnestly. "I think I
+would enjoy a visit to your camp to-day above all things."
+
+They went to the levee, and at ten o'clock were on the boat, steaming up
+the river toward Mound City, where Camp Rector was located.
+
+A distance of some six or seven miles, passing on their way up, various
+objects of interest, among them Fort Harris, which was merely an
+embankment thrown up, to answer the purpose. Arriving at Mound City, the
+party disembarked and walked to the hotel. After dinner the party
+visited the camp-ground, a distance of about one-fourth of a mile from
+the hotel, and here Dr. Burton and the other officers took much pride
+in showing Webster around. They talked volubly about the unexampled
+bravery of the Confederate soldier; had much to say on the subject of
+Southern chivalry as opposed to Northern braggadocio; told how well they
+were prepared to meet the onslaught of the enemy; and found a special
+delight in exhibiting to the visitor a portion of General Bragg's
+artillery, which they had in the camp.
+
+After that they seated themselves around a table in one of the larger
+tents, to rest and enjoy the grateful shade, as it was a warm and sunny
+afternoon. While engaged in the most bombastic utterances of their
+prowess, and of the wonderful exploits that might be expected of the
+Southern army, their conversation was interrupted by a shadow falling
+across the strip of sunlight that streamed in through the opening of the
+tent. Every one around the table glanced up, and there at the entrance
+stood the man with the broad-brimmed hat! The intruder did not tarry a
+moment, but turned and walked away. Evidently he had stopped only to
+look in; but in that single instant he had shot a keen, and apparently
+satisfactory, glance at Timothy Webster, which was fortunately not
+observed by any one save the detective himself.
+
+"That fellow is one of the safety committee," said Dr. Burton, filling
+his glass.
+
+"He appears to be looking for some one," remarked Lieutenant Stanley.
+
+"Reckon he is," answered the Doctor. "He's always looking for some one.
+And, by-the-bye, those chaps are doing a heap of good for the cause just
+now. A Northern man stands no show for his life in these parts if the
+safety committee spots him. They hang 'em on suspicion."
+
+"That's right," said Webster, coolly. "I believe in hanging every
+Northern man that comes prowling around. They don't deserve a trial, for
+they have no right here anyway."
+
+But cool and collected as Webster outwardly appeared, it must be
+admitted that he was inwardly ill at ease. There was now no longer the
+shadow of a doubt in his mind that this long-haired agent of the safety
+committee was following him and watching his every movement, and that
+any attempt on his part to return to the North would betray him and
+cause his arrest.
+
+"The only reason I have not already been arrested," mused the scout, "is
+because they are not sure whether I came from the North or not. They
+merely _suspect_, and are watching me to see if I undertake to return
+northward. Such an act would confirm their suspicions, and I would be
+arrested and probably put to death as a spy. It stands me in hand to
+give them the slip before I take the back track."
+
+After spending a very pleasant day at the camp, he returned to Memphis
+on the latest boat that night, informing Dr. Burton that he was going to
+Chattanooga to look up a brother whom he had not seen in twelve years.
+
+"You'll come back?" said the Doctor, as he wrung his hand.
+
+"Oh, certainly," was the cheerful response. "I'll be with you again
+before long."
+
+Colonel Gaines, of the artillery, who heard this conversation, now
+grasped the scout's hand.
+
+"Webster, you'd make a good soldier," he said, bluntly. "Hang me if I
+wouldn't like to have you on my force."
+
+Webster smiled good-naturedly.
+
+"I have some family business to attend to before I could think of
+entering the army. After that I may remind you of your remark."
+
+"All right," said the Colonel, "any time that you are ready, come; I
+will make room for you."
+
+On his way down the river Webster found, to his relief, that the man
+with the broad-brimmed hat was not aboard the boats. He now had a hope
+of being able to give his shadow the slip by leaving Memphis on early
+train in the morning.
+
+Arriving in sight of their destination, the passengers on the ferry-boat
+were surprised to see that the levee was crowded with people. Shortly
+after, they learned that this unusual gathering was caused by the
+capture of the steamboat "Prince of Wales" by the rebels.
+
+Webster went to the Worsham Hotel, where he spent the night, and at
+five o'clock in the morning, after making a few preparations, and
+dispatching an early breakfast, he repaired to the depot. Arriving there
+he looked carefully about on all sides, but saw no one who seemed to
+take any interest in his movements. "So far, so good," he muttered, as
+he boarded the train; and the next minute he was leaving the scene of
+his most recent exploits with the speed of the wind.
+
+He was himself too shrewd and cunning to feel absolutely sure that he
+was not followed. His own experience in the art of "shadowing" told him
+he had not yet escaped the vigilant eyes of the safety committee, but he
+resolved to elude them if it was possible to do so.
+
+Innumerable troops were being transported at this time, and the train
+was crowded with soldiers. Webster amused himself by making the
+acquaintance of the officers, and skillfully drawing on their fund of
+information, until the train arrived at Grand Junction, where he decided
+to change cars for Jackson, Tennessee.
+
+Accordingly, he abandoned the Chattanooga cars and boarded the
+north-bound train, which was in waiting at the junction, and again he
+was whirled away across the verdure-clad country, this time toward the
+"land of the free." But no sooner was the train well under way than
+something which came under Webster's observation removed from his mind
+all doubt as to whether he would be permitted to pursue his journey
+unmolested. He occupied a seat in the forward part of the car, and on
+turning carelessly away from the window after gazing out upon the
+landscape for awhile, he was somewhat surprised at seeing an individual
+standing on the front platform of the car, looking in through the glass
+door.
+
+It was a person whose face and figure had already become quite familiar
+to him, being no other than the man who had so persistently followed him
+for the past few days.
+
+"He seems determined not to let me get away," thought the scout; but
+neither in his face nor manner did he betray any of the disappointment
+he felt.
+
+He noticed that his pursuer was not alone this time, but was accompanied
+by another person--an ill-looking man of herculean proportions--with
+whom he conversed in an earnest, confidential way.
+
+When the train arrived at Jackson, Webster stepped out upon the platform
+of the depot, and the two agents of the safety committee did the same.
+The conductor stood near by, and Webster spoke to him in a tone which he
+meant his shadows to hear, asking:
+
+"How soon will there be a train for Humboldt?"
+
+"In twenty minutes," replied the conductor.
+
+"Do you know anything about the hotels there?" inquired the scout. "I've
+got to stop two or three days in the town, and it's a strange place to
+me."
+
+The conductor recommended him to a good house convenient to the depot,
+and thanking him for the information, Webster turned away. He had spoken
+in a tone that he knew must have been distinctly heard by his enemies,
+and he hoped this bit of stratagem would have the desired effect.
+
+He boarded the train for Humboldt, and the brace of shadows promptly
+followed him, taking seats in the same car.
+
+While the train was speeding on its way, Webster was aroused from a
+reverie by the voice of a woman saying:
+
+"Pardon me, sir; may I occupy a portion of this seat?"
+
+He looked up; a tall, very respectable looking lady was standing in the
+aisle, and he saw in an instant that she was the person who had
+addressed him.
+
+"Certainly, madam, certainly;" he replied; and quickly made room for
+her.
+
+She sat down beside him, and then, to his great surprise, she began to
+talk to him in a low, earnest tone, without once turning her face toward
+him.
+
+"You are going to Humboldt?" she inquired.
+
+"I am," he answered, surprised at the question.
+
+"You are a Northern man?"
+
+"Madam!" A suspicion flashed, lightning-like, across his mind.
+
+"Believe me, I am not an enemy," the lady went on, "I have been sitting
+in the rear part of this car I heard two men talking, and have reason to
+believe they were speaking about you. They said they would stop at the
+same hotel with you in Humboldt, and keep a close watch over you, and if
+you attempt to go northward they will arrest you, take you back to
+Memphis, and deal with you as they would with any Northern spy. I advise
+you to be very careful, sir, for your life depends upon it."
+
+The train by this time was approaching Humboldt, and the lady arose and
+disappeared before the astonished detective could tender his thanks for
+the warning. She was destined to remain an utter stranger to him for all
+time to come, for he never heard of her afterwards. As they entered the
+depot, Webster passed out at the rear end of the car, and he noticed,
+with a smile of satisfaction, that his attendant shadows were making
+their way out at the front. As he stepped from the car he noticed a pile
+of baggage near him, and quickly stepping behind this, he watched the
+movements of the two men. Apparently fully satisfied that their game
+would be safely bagged at the hotel, they left the depot and walked
+rapidly away in the direction of the public-house. His ruse worked to a
+charm. A violent shower happened to be passing over at this time, and it
+was only natural for the two "safety" men to suppose that Webster had
+stopped to seek shelter in the depot for a few minutes.
+
+The express train from Memphis was soon due, and as it came dashing in
+"on time," Webster jumped aboard, and was on his way toward Louisville,
+smiling in his sleeve as he thought of those two crafty foxes, whose
+cunning had overreached themselves, patiently awaiting his arrival at
+the hotel in Humboldt.
+
+Before crossing the Kentucky line, Webster put his rebel hat out of
+sight, and once more donned the one he had worn from the North.
+
+The remainder of his journey was made without incident, and in due time
+he arrived in Cincinnati, and reported to me.
+
+[Illustration: A HOT LUNCH.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+_I take a Trip to the South.--Danger in Memphis.--A Timely Warning.--A
+Persistent Barber.--An Unfortunate Memory.--Return to Cincinnati._
+
+
+Timothy Webster had scarcely departed upon his trip to Memphis, when I
+was summoned for consultation with General McClellan. Upon repairing to
+his office, which I did immediately on receiving his message, I found
+him awaiting my arrival, and in a few minutes I was informed of his
+wishes. He was desirous of ascertaining, as definitely as possible, the
+general feeling of the people residing South of the Ohio river, in
+Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana, and requested that
+measures be at once taken to carry out his purposes.
+
+It was essentially necessary at the outset to become acquainted with all
+the facts that might be of importance hereafter, and no time offered
+such opportunities for investigations of this nature as the present,
+while the war movement was in its incipiency, and before the lines
+between the opposing forces had been so closely drawn as to render
+traveling in the disaffected district unsafe, if not utterly impossible.
+
+As this mission was of a character that required coolness and tact, as
+well as courage, and as most of my men had been detailed for duties in
+other sections of the rebellious country, I concluded to make the
+journey myself, and at once stated my intention to the General, who
+received it with every evidence of satisfaction and approval.
+
+"The very thing I should have proposed, Major," said he; "and if you
+will undertake this matter, I have no fears of a failure, and every
+confidence in obtaining important developments."
+
+My action had been prompted by two impelling reasons. The first was the
+absence of the men whom I had thus far engaged, and who, as I have
+before stated, had been detailed upon missions of investigations in
+various parts of the South and West, and the other was a desire to see
+for myself the actual condition of affairs as they existed at that time.
+I have invariably found that a personal knowledge is far more
+satisfactory than that gleamed from others, and whenever it was
+possible, I have endeavored to acquire my information by such means.
+Another advantage to be derived from a personal observation was that I
+would be necessarily forced to rely in many matters to which it would be
+impossible for me to devote my personal attention.
+
+Having arranged everything to my satisfaction, in order that my absence
+would occasion no disarrangement in the proper conduct of the
+investigations already commenced, I left my office in the charge of Mr.
+George H. Bangs, my general superintendent, and started upon my journey,
+intending to be as rapid in my movements as circumstances would permit,
+and to return at as early a date as I could, consistently with the
+proper performance of the duties intrusted to me.
+
+My first objective point was the city of Louisville, in Kentucky. The
+position of this State at the present time was a peculiar one. Her
+Governor, if not a Southern conspirator, was, if his own language was to
+be relied upon, both in opinion and expectation, a disunionist. He had
+at first remonstrated against the action of the Cotton States, but after
+that action had been taken, he was unqualifiedly opposed to coercing
+them back to obedience, and in addition to this, he had endeavored to
+excite his own people to a resistance to the principles and policy of
+the party in power.
+
+The people, however, did not sustain his views, and while the popular
+sentiment was deeply pro-slavery, and while her commerce bound her
+strongly to the South, the patriotic example and teachings of Henry Clay
+had impressed upon them a reverence and love for Union higher and purer
+than any mere pressing interests or selfish advantage.
+
+At Louisville, therefore, I found a degree of excitement prevailing that
+was naturally to be expected from the unsettled condition of public
+affairs. The Governor had refused to comply with the President's call
+for troops, and the State had been in a state of hopeless bewilderment
+and conflict of opinion in consequence. A strong minority, arrogating to
+themselves an undue importance, were endeavoring, by self-assertion and
+misapplied zeal, to carry the State into the secession fold, but thus
+far they had made no substantial progress against an overwhelming
+undercurrent of Union sentiment. Failing in this, their energies were
+now devoted to an effort to place the State in a neutral attitude, which
+would prevent her from taking a decided stand upon the question of
+supporting the Union. Thus far they had been temporarily successful, and
+on the 16th day of May the house of representatives passed resolutions
+declaring that Kentucky "should during the contest occupy the position
+of strict neutrality."
+
+This was the existing condition of affairs when I arrived in Louisville,
+and which I found prevalent throughout all the sections of the State I
+passed.
+
+Representing myself as a Southern man, a resident of Georgia, I had no
+difficulty in engaging in conversation with the prominent men of both
+elements, and I decided then, from my own observations, that Kentucky
+would not cast her fortunes with the South, but that, after the bubble
+of unnatural excitement had burst and expended itself, the loyal heart
+would be touched, and "Old Kaintuck" would eventually keep step to the
+music of the Union. Results proved that I was not mistaken, and not many
+weeks elapsed before Union camps were established within her domain,
+and the broad-shouldered Kentuckians were swearing allegiance to the old
+flag, and, shouldering their muskets, entered into the contest with a
+determination to support the government.
+
+Passing on undisturbed, but everywhere on the alert, and making copious
+notes of everything that transpired, that I considered at all material
+to the furtherance of the loyal cause, I reached Bowling Green.
+
+At this place I found a very decided Union sentiment, the Stars and
+Stripes were floating from the various buildings, and the Union men were
+largely in the majority. There was one great cause for disquietude,
+however, which was very manifest even to a casual observer. Many
+residents of Bowling Green and the vicinity were slave owners, and the
+impression had become general throughout the negro communities that the
+opening of the war naturally and inevitably involved their freedom, an
+opinion, however, without sure foundation, at that time, but which was
+eventually to be justified by subsequent events. The slaves had heard
+their masters discussing the various questions which naturally grew out
+of a conflict of this chance character, and in which it was generally
+admitted, that emancipation must follow the commencement and continuance
+of hostilities between the two sections. It was not surprising
+therefore, that this opinion should spread among the entire colored
+element, or that it should be greedily accepted by these down-trodden
+blacks as the harbinger of a freedom for which they had been praying. In
+conversation with one of the leading men of Bowling Green, I was
+thoroughly impressed with the importance of this phase of circumstances.
+
+"Mr. Allen," said he, "you have no idea of the danger we are
+apprehending from the blacks. We know that the moment that Lincoln sends
+his abolition soldiers among our niggers, they will break out and murder
+all before them. Why, sir," continued he, "we cannot sleep sound at
+nights for fear of the niggers. They think Lincoln is going to set them
+free."
+
+"Why," I interrupted, "what can they know about Lincoln?"
+
+"They know too much about him," he replied; "there has been so much talk
+about this matter all through the State, that the niggers know as much
+about it as we do."
+
+"You should not talk before your niggers; it is not safe, and I never do
+it." As I never owned a negro this was perfectly true.
+
+"I know we should not, but it is too late now; they know as much as we
+do, and too much for our safety or peace of mind. Why, sir, we are
+compelled to mount guard at nights ourselves for mutual protection, and
+though there has been no outbreak as yet, and I believe that this is the
+only thing that keeps them in check."
+
+"It would be a good plan," said I, anxious to preserve my reputation as
+a Southern pro-slavery man, "to take all the men and boys over fifteen
+years of age and sell them South."
+
+"That's the devil of it," he replied, "we cannot do that; it was tried
+only last week, and a nigger that I was offered $1,500 for last year, I
+could not sell at any price."
+
+Already, it seemed, the fruits of the slavery agitation were being made
+apparent. The very institution for which these misguided men were
+periling their lives, and sacrificing their fortunes, was threatened
+with demolition; and the slaves who had so long and so often felt the
+lash of their masters, were now becoming a source of fear to the very
+men who had heretofore held them in such utter subjection.
+
+This state of affairs I found to be prevalent all over the country which
+I visited. Bright visions of freedom danced before the eyes of the
+slaves, and they awaited anxiously the dawning of the day, when the
+coming of the soldiers of the North would strike from their limbs the
+shackles they had worn so long. In the after years of this bloody
+struggle, many deeds of self-sacrifice were performed by these slaves,
+when, resisting the dazzling opportunities to obtain their coveted
+liberty, they cast their lot with the families of their old masters,
+whose male members were fighting to continue their bondage. Many cases
+could be cited where, but for the faithful labors and devotion of the
+despised slave, the families of many of the proud aristocrats would have
+starved. But the faithful heart of the negro ever beat warmly for those
+whom he had served so long, and disregarding the tempting allurements of
+freedom, he devoted himself to the service and to the maintenance of
+those who had regarded him as so much merchandise, or simply as a beast
+of burden.
+
+At Bowling Green I purchased a splendid bay horse, whose swiftness and
+powers of endurance I felt assured could be relied upon, intending to
+make the rest of my journey on horseback. By this means I would be the
+better able to control my movements than if I were compelled to depend
+upon the railroads for transportation. I would also be enabled to stop
+at any place where I might find the necessity, or a favorable
+opportunity for observation. I had no cause to regret the purchase I had
+made, for right nobly did the spirited animal which I had selected
+perform the arduous duties that were imposed upon him. Day after day he
+would be urged forward, and under his flying feet the distance sped away
+almost imperceptibly, and each morning found my charger rested and
+refreshed, and ready for the day's journey, be the weather fair or foul,
+or the roads easy or rugged.
+
+I reached Nashville, Tennessee, in due season, and resolved to devote
+several days to my investigations. Here the disunion element was more
+united and outspoken, but even here, I detected evidences of a Union
+sentiment which was none the less profound, because of the danger which
+its utterances would have incurred. There could be no doubt that this
+State had resolved to cast her fortunes with the confederacy, and the
+rebel General Pillow had been for some time engaged in fortifying the
+city of Memphis. At Nashville I met a number of officers of the rebel
+army, all of whom were full of enthusiasm, and whose bombastic
+utterances in view of the eventual results, seem at this time almost too
+absurd to be repeated. Here also I came in contact with an army surgeon,
+whose head was full of wild _Quixotic_ schemes for destroying the
+Northern armies by other processes than that of legitimate warfare. One
+of his plans I remember was to fill a commissary wagon with whisky, in
+which had been previously mixed a generous quantity of strychnine. The
+wagon was then to be broken and abandoned and left upon the road so as
+to fall into the hands of the Union soldiers. Of course, the liquor
+would be consumed by the finders, and the valiant Doctor, with evident
+satisfaction to himself, but to the equally evident disgust of his
+companions, loudly vaunted his death-dealing and barbarous scheme. This
+brave warrior, however, I learned afterward, had fled in terror at the
+first fire, and was afterwards dishonorably dismissed from the service
+he was so well calculated to disgrace. So far as I was afterward able to
+learn, this grand project for wholesale slaughter, of the valorous
+Doctor, received no sympathy or support from his more honorable
+associates, and the soldiers were enabled to drink their whiskey
+untainted with any other poisonous influences than is naturally a part
+of its composition.
+
+Leaving Nashville, I spurred on in the direction of Memphis, and in due
+time reached the city, which now presented a far different aspect than
+when I visited it only a few years before. Then the country was at
+peace. The war cloud had not burst with all its fury over a happy land,
+and the people were quietly pursuing their avocations. I was engaged in
+a detective operation which required my presence in the city, and had
+been in consultation with some of the express company's officials, for
+whom I was attempting to discover the perpetrators of a robbery of one
+of their safes. Turning a corner I came upon a scene that stirred my
+feelings to the utmost.
+
+It was the market square, and the merchandise disposed of were human
+beings. There was the auction-block and the slave-pen. Men, women and
+children were being knocked down to the highest bidder. Wives were sold
+away from their husbands, and children from their parents. Old and young
+were submitted to the vulgar speculators in flesh and blood, and their
+value was approximated by their apparent age, strength and
+healthfulness. My blood boiled in my veins as I witnessed, for the first
+time, the heart-rendering scenes which I had only heard or read of
+before. The cold cruelty of the buyers and abject misery of the sold,
+filled me with a spirit of opposition to this vile traffic that gave me
+renewed strength to fulfill my duty as an active abolitionist, and to
+labor earnestly in the cause of emancipation. I shall never forget the
+events of that day, and I can recall the feeling of intense satisfaction
+which I experienced on my second visit, when even then, I could see the
+dawning of that liberty for which I had labored, and I knew that the day
+of emancipation could not be far distant. Then the fair fame of
+independent America would no longer be blackened by the pressure of the
+slave or the master, but all men under the protection of the starry
+banner would be free and equal under the law.
+
+Now the streets were filled with soldiers, some of them fully armed and
+equipped, and others provided with but ordinary clothing, and furnished
+with such inefficient arms as they had brought with them from their
+homes. A most motley gathering they were, and their awkward and
+irregular evolutions at this time gave but little promise of the
+splendid army of which they were destined in the near future to form so
+important a part. The work of fortifying the city had been progressing
+in earnest; earthworks had been thrown up all along the banks of the
+Mississippi, and batteries were already in position, whose guns frowned
+threateningly upon the river.
+
+Here to be known or suspected as a Union man was to merit certain death,
+and to advocate any theory of compromise between the two sections was to
+be exiled from the city. Here rebeldom was rampant and defiant, and I
+had some difficulty in evading the suspicions of the watchful and alert
+Southron, who regarded all strange civilians with doubtful scrutiny, and
+whose "committee of safety" were ever on the _qui vive_ to detect those
+whose actions savored in the least of a leaning towards the North.
+Fearlessly, however, I mingled with these men, and as I lost no
+opportunity in pronouncing my views upon the righteousness of the cause
+of secession, and of my belief in its certain triumph, I obtained a
+ready passport to the favor and confidence of the most prominent of
+their leaders. I talked unreservedly with the private soldier and the
+general officer, with the merchant and the citizen, and by all was
+regarded as a stanch Southern man, whose interests and sympathies were
+wedded to rebellion.
+
+General Pillow was in command at this point, and almost every citizen
+was enrolled as a soldier, whose services would be cheerfully and
+promptly rendered whenever the call should be made upon them.
+
+Even this redoubtable chieftain was not proof against my blandishments,
+and he little dreamed when on one occasion he quietly sipped his brandy
+and water with me, that he was giving valuable information to his sworn
+foe, and one to whom every idea gained was an advantage to the
+government he was attempting to destroy.
+
+It is needless to relate the valuable items of information which I was
+enabled to glean upon this journey--information which in later days was
+of vast importance to the Union commanders, but which at this time would
+only burden a narrative of the events which they so ably assisted to
+successful results.
+
+Here, as in many other places, I found that my best source of
+information was the colored men, who were employed in various capacities
+of a military nature which entailed hard labor. The slaves, without
+reserve, were sent by their masters to perform the manual labor of
+building earthworks and fortifications, in driving the teams and in
+transporting cannon and ammunition, and, led by my natural and
+deep-seated regard for these sable bondsmen, I mingled freely with them,
+and found them ever ready to answer questions and to furnish me with
+every fact which I desired to possess.
+
+Here and there I found an unassuming white man whose heart was still
+with the cause of the Union, but whose active sympathy could not at this
+time be of service to the country, as he dared not utter a voice in
+defense of his opinions. From all these sources, however, I was
+successful in posting myself fully in regard to the movements and
+intentions of the rebel authorities and officers, and, as I believed,
+had also succeeded in concealing my identity.
+
+[Illustration: "_Fo' God, Massa Allen, ye'll be a dead man in de
+mo'nin'!_" P. 195.]
+
+On the third evening of my sojourn in Memphis, however, my dreams of
+fancied security were suddenly dispelled, and I was brought face to face
+with the reality of danger.
+
+I had retired early to my room, according to my general custom, and had
+scarcely been seated when I was disturbed by a faint but quick and
+distinct knocking at my door. I arose hastily, as it was something
+unusual for me to receive visitors after I had retired, and throwing
+open the door, I was somewhat surprised to see, standing before me, in a
+state of unmistakable excitement, the colored porter of the hotel.
+
+Before I had time to question him, he sprang into the room and closed
+the door behind him. His countenance evinced a degree of terror that
+immediately filled me with alarm. His eyes were fixed wildly upon me,
+his lips were quivering, and his knees trembled under him, as though
+unable to sustain the weight of his body. Indeed, so frightened was he,
+that he appeared to be struggling forcibly to do so.
+
+"What is the matter, Jem?" I inquired, in as calm a tone as I could
+assume, and with a view of reassuring him. "What has happened to
+frighten you so?"
+
+"'Fore God, Massa Allen," ejaculated the black, succeeding by a great
+effort in finding his voice, "you done can't sleep in this housn
+to-night, ef ye do, ye'll be a dead man before morning."
+
+As may be imagined, this information was not of a very agreeable nature,
+indefinite as it was; I felt assured that my informant could be relied
+on that something had occurred to endanger my safety, and I became
+impatient to learn what he knew.
+
+"Out with it, Jem," said I, "and let me know what it is all about." I
+spoke cheerfully and confidently, and the coolness of my manner had the
+effect of restoring the equilibrium of my sable friend, and, recovering
+himself with an effort, he began to explain:
+
+"I tell you what it is, Massa Allen, and I'se gwan to tell it mighty
+quick. Ye see, de General hab got a lot of spies up de river at Cairo, a
+watching of the Linkum sogers, and one o' dem fellows jes came in as you
+were going up stairs. De berry minit dat he seed you he said to de man
+what was wid him, 'Dat man is 'spicious; I seed him in Cincinnati two
+weeks ago, and he ain't down here for no good,' and he started right off
+for de General, to tell him all about it. I kem right up heah, massa,
+and you must git away as fast as ye can."
+
+This was too important to be ignored. I had no desire to be captured at
+that time, and I had no doubt of the correctness of the porter's story.
+I resolved to act at once upon the suggestion, and to make good my
+escape before it was too late. My admonitory friend was fearfully in
+earnest about getting me away, and he quickly volunteered to procure my
+horse, which I had quartered in close proximity to the hotel, and to
+furnish me with a guide who would see me safely through the lines and
+outside of the city. Bidding Jem make all possible haste in his
+movements, I gathered together my few belongings, and in a few minutes I
+descended the stairs and made my exit through the rear of the house.
+Through the faithfulness of Jem, and the careful guidance of the
+watchful negro he had provided me with, I was soon riding away from
+threatened danger and ere morning broke I had proceeded far upon my way.
+How much service these faithful blacks had been to me, I did not fully
+learn until some time afterwards, when I was informed by Timothy
+Webster, who arrived in Memphis following my departure, and who thus
+learned the full particulars of the exhausting pursuit of one of
+Lincoln's spies, who had mysteriously disappeared from the chief hotel,
+while a guard was being detailed to effect his arrest.
+
+I met the faithful Jem several years later, when he had worked his way
+as a refugee from his native State and entered the Union lines in
+Virginia, and he was soon afterwards attached to my force, where he
+proved his devotion in a manner that was quite convincing. My faithful
+steed, who had become thoroughly rested after his long journey, bore me
+safely through this danger, and in due time I entered the State of
+Mississippi. Here rebellion and disunion were the order of the day, and
+a widespread determination existed to fight the cause of the South to
+the bitter end. Stopping one night at Grenada, I pushed on my way to
+Jackson, and here I resolved to remain a day or two, in order to make a
+thorough investigation of the place and its surroundings.
+
+Putting up my horse, I engaged quarters for myself at the principal
+hotel in the city, and feeling very much fatigued with my long journey,
+I retired early to my room and passed a long night in refreshing sleep.
+
+In the morning I arose about five o'clock, as is my general custom. I
+was feeling in excellent health and spirits; my journey had thus far
+been fully as successful as I could have desired; and safely concealed
+about my person I had items of value that would amply repay me for the
+fatigues I had undergone and the dangers I had passed. I had plans of
+the roads, a description of the country, a pretty correct estimate of
+the troops and their various locations and conditions, and altogether I
+felt very well satisfied with myself and with the results of my mission.
+
+As I descended the stairs, I noticed a fine soldierly officer standing
+in the doorway, and after bidding him a hearty good-morning, I invited
+him to accompany me to the saloon of the hotel, where we mutually
+indulged in a decoction as is the universal custom in Southern cities.
+After I had obtained my breakfast, it occurred to me that, before
+attempting any active measures for the day, I owed it to myself to
+procure the services of a barber for a much-needed shave. I had been
+traveling for a number of days, and my face had been a stranger to a
+razor for a long time, and I concluded I would be more presentable if I
+consulted a tonsorial artist.
+
+This was an unfortunate idea, and I soon had occasion to regret having
+entertained it for a moment. I would have been far more contented if I
+had bestowed no thoughts upon my grizzled beard, and allowed nature to
+take its course with my hirsute appendage.
+
+Entirely unconscious, however, of what was in store for me, I entered
+the well-fitted saloon of the hotel, and patiently waited my turn to
+submit myself to the deft fingers of the knight of the razor.
+
+In response to the universal and well-understood call of "next!" I took
+my seat in the luxuriously upholstered chair, and in a few minutes my
+face was covered with the foamy lather applied by the dapper little
+German into whose hands I had fallen.
+
+I noticed when I sat down that the man wore a puzzled and speculative
+look, as though he was struggling with some vexing lapse of memory, and
+as he drew the keen edge of the razor across my face, his eyes were
+fixed intensely upon my features. His manner annoyed me considerably,
+and I was at a loss to account for his strange demeanor. Whatever ideas
+I may have entertained with regard to this singular action were,
+however, soon set at rest, only to give place to a feeling of unrestful
+anger.
+
+He had just cleared one side of my face of its stubby growth of hair,
+when a smile irradiated his face, and with a look of self-satisfied
+recognition and pride, he addressed me:
+
+"Vy, how do you do, Mr. Bingerdon?"
+
+Had a thunderbolt fallen at my feet I could not have been more perfectly
+amazed, and for a moment I could scarcely tell whether I was afoot or on
+horseback. I devoutly wished that I was anywhere than with this Dutch
+barber, whose memory was so uncomfortably retentive.
+
+I had been too accustomed to sudden surprises, however, to lose my
+self-control, and I replied to him, with an unmoved face and as stern a
+voice as I could command:
+
+"I am not Mr. Bingerdon, and I don't know the man."
+
+"Oh yes, your name is Bingerdon, and you leev in Geecago."
+
+The face of the German was so good-natured, and he appeared quite
+delighted at recognizing me, but for myself I was feeling very
+uncomfortable indeed. I did not know the man, nor what he knew of me. I
+knew, however, that he was perfectly right about my identity, and I knew
+also that it would be very dangerous for his knowledge to become
+general.
+
+"I tell you I don't know the man you are speaking of," said I, sternly.
+
+[Illustration: "_If you say another word to me, I'll whip you on the
+spot._" P. 201.]
+
+"Oy, Mr. Bingerdon," he replied, in a grieved tone, "I know you well.
+Don't you mind me shaving you in the Sherman House in Geecago, you was a
+customer of mine."
+
+The pertinacity of the man was simply exasperating, and fearing that his
+memory would be likely to get me into trouble, as several people were
+listening to our conversation, I resolved to end the difficulty at once.
+Jerking the towel from around my neck and wiping the lather from the
+unshaved portion of my face, I leapt from the chair, exclaiming angrily:
+
+"I tell you I know nothing of you Mr. Bingerdon, or any other d----d
+Yankee abolitionist, and if you say another word to me upon this
+subject, I'll whip you on the spot!"
+
+The barber presented a most ridiculous appearance; he was utterly
+frightened at my manner, and yet so convinced was he that I was the man
+he took me for, that he appeared more amazed at my denial, than at my
+threats of violence.
+
+Meanwhile, the occupants of the saloon began to crowd around us, and
+several came in from the adjoining rooms. Turning to them with
+well-simulated anger, I told them the story I had invented; I lived near
+Augusta, Georgia; never was in Chicago, did not know Mr. Pinkerton or
+any of his gang. Then I denounced the discomfited barber in round terms,
+and finished by inviting the entire crowd to take a drink with me.
+
+This they all did with alacrity, and by the time they had drained their
+glasses, every one of the party were strong adherents of mine. We then
+returned to the barber-shop, and so thoroughly was the crowd convinced
+of my truthfulness, that they were eager to punish the innocent occasion
+of my anger. One impetuous individual wanted to hang him on sight, and
+his proposition was received with general favor; but finding I had
+succeeded in evading detection for myself, I interfered in the poor
+fellow's behalf and he was finally let off.
+
+After another drink all round I managed to get away from the party, and
+it was not long before I was upon my horse, and traveling away from the
+possibility of a recurrence of such an accidental discovery. I procured
+a razor and shaving materials, and performed that operation for myself,
+as I did not care to excite curiosity by exhibiting my half-shaved face
+to any more inquisitive barbers.
+
+A few miles outside of the town I sold my horse, and concluding that I
+had obtained as much information as was desirable at that time, and as I
+had already been absent from headquarters longer than I had intended, I
+made my way back to Cincinnati by a circuitous route, and reached there
+in safety, well pleased with my work, and quite rejoiced to find that
+General McClellan was fully satisfied with what I had learned.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+_East and West Virginia.--Seceding from Secession.--My Scouts in
+Virginia.--A Rebel Captain Entertains "My Lord."--An old Justice Dines
+with Royalty.--A Lucky Adventure.--A Runaway Horse.--A Rescue._
+
+
+At this time the condition of affairs in the State of Virginia--the "Old
+Dominion," as it was generally denominated--presented a most perplexing
+and vexatious problem. The antagonistic position of the two sections of
+that state demanded early consideration and prompt action on the part of
+the Federal Government, both in protecting the loyal people in the
+Western section, and of preserving their territory to the Union cause.
+Within the borders of this commonwealth there existed two elements,
+directly opposed to each other, and both equally pronounced in the
+declaration of their political opinions. The lines of demarkation
+between these diverse communities were the Allegheny Mountains, which
+extended through the very middle of the state, from north-east to
+south-west, and divided her territory into two divisions, slightly
+unequal in size, but evidently different in topographical features and
+personal characteristics.
+
+From the nature of its earlier settlement, and by reason of climate,
+soil and situation, Eastern Virginia remained the region of large
+plantations, with a heavy slave population, and of profitable
+agriculture, especially in the production of tobacco. West Virginia, on
+the contrary, having been first settled by hunters, pioneers, lumbermen
+and miners, possessed little in common with her more wealthy and
+aristocratic neighbors beyond the mountains. They made their homes in
+the wilds of the woods, and among the rocky formations, under which was
+hidden the wealth they were seeking to develop, and in time this western
+country became the seat of a busy manufacturing industry, with a
+diversified agriculture for local consumption, while the east was
+largely given up to the production of great staples for export. As a
+natural result, the population and wealth of the eastern portion, which
+was thus made to stand in the relation of a mere tributary province to
+her grasping neighbor, who selfishly absorbed the general taxes for
+local advantage.
+
+The slave interest also entered largely into the creation and
+continuance of this antagonistic feeling. According to a census, which
+had been recently taken, it was ascertained that Eastern Virginia held
+but a few thousands. It was not a matter of surprise, therefore that
+secessionism should be rampant in the east, and that a Union sentiment
+should almost universally prevail in the west. As the institution of
+slavery was more or less the cause of the war, here, as in other parts
+of the South, secession reared its most formidable front where the slave
+interest predominated, and treason was more alert in the centers of
+accumulated wealth and family pride, whose foundations were laid by the
+suffering and the toil of the African bondsmen. The war had been waged
+to defend the "Divine institution," and it was scarcely to be expected
+that such a cause would be valiantly championed by men whose
+self-reliance and personal independence had endeared to them the rights
+of free and honorable manhood.
+
+When the Convention of Virginia met to consider the question of
+secession, the slave-holding dignitaries were somewhat startled by the
+logical, but novel, declaration of one of the western members, that "the
+right of revolution can be exercised as well by a portion of the
+citizens of a State against their State government, as it can be
+exercised by the whole people of a State against their Federal
+Government." This was followed by another, more pointed and
+revolutionary, "that any change in the relation Virginia now sustains to
+the Federal Government, against the wishes of even a respectable
+minority of her people, would be sufficient to justify them in changing
+their relation to the State government by separating themselves from
+that section of the State that had thus wantonly disregarded their
+interests and defied their will."
+
+The convention, however, denying the pertinency of this logic, passed
+its secret ordinance of secession on the 17th day of April, and within a
+week popular movements were on foot in the various towns and counties of
+Western Virginia, to effect a division of the State. The people united
+in a unanimous protest against the efforts of the slave-holding
+aristocrats to carry them into a cotton confederacy, and a determination
+to "secede from secession," was manifested everywhere. The loyal
+determination was rapidly followed by popular organization, an appeal
+for assistance was made to the government at Washington, who promised
+them countenance and support, and on the 13th day of May, delegates from
+twenty-five counties of West Virginia met at Wheeling, to devise such
+action as would enable them to fully and finally repudiate the
+treasonable revolt of East Virginia.
+
+Many circumstances favored their position. The state of Ohio,
+immediately adjoining, was organizing her military force of volunteers,
+and Western Virginia was, not long after, attached to the department of
+the Ohio under command of General McClellan. The blockade of Washington,
+and other events, had operated to keep the Western troops on the Ohio
+line, and the Unionists of West Virginia found a protecting military
+force at once in their immediate vicinity, with a commanding officer who
+was instructed to give them every encouragement and support.
+
+Meanwhile, Governor Letcher, of Virginia, ignoring the attitude assumed
+by the people of the West, had issued his proclamation calling for the
+organization of the state militia, and including Western Virginia in the
+call. Prompted by a spirit of arrogance or over-confidence, he at an
+early day dispatched officers to that locality to collect and organize
+the militia of Western Virginia. Owing to the sparsity of the
+population, and the hilly and mountainous situation of the country,
+there were but two principal localities or lines of travel, where a
+concentration of forces could be best effected--one of these being the
+line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and the other the valley of the
+Great Kanawha river. In these districts Governor Letcher sent his
+recruiting agents, but they soon returned reports of a very discouraging
+character. The rebel emissaries found the feeling very bitter: that
+Union organizations existed in most of the counties, and that while
+fragments of rebel companies were here and there springing up, it was
+very evident that no local force sufficient to hold the country, would
+respond to the Confederate appeal, while the close proximity of Union
+forces at several points along the Ohio, pointed to a short tenure of
+Confederate authority.
+
+This information was not at all cheering to the rebel Governor of the
+State, and he determined to maintain his authority in the disaffected
+districts with armed forces from the eastern portion of the State. To
+accomplish this, he detailed a few available companies from Staunton to
+march toward Beverly, from which point they could menace and overawe the
+town of Grafton, the junction of the main stem of the Baltimore and Ohio
+Railroad, with its branches extending to Parkersburg and Wheeling. The
+inhabitants showed more alacrity, however, to take up arms for the
+government than for Governor Letcher or General Lee. A Union Western
+Virginia regiment, under the command of Colonel Kelley, began to gather
+recruits rapidly at Wheeling, while the rebel camps between Beverly and
+Grafton were comparatively deserted, and Colonel Porterfield, who had
+been sent under orders of Governor Letcher, found his efforts at
+recruiting decidedly unsuccessful.
+
+On the 23rd day of May the State voted upon the ordinance of secession,
+and East Virginia, under complete military domination, accepted the
+ordinance, while West Virginia, comparatively free, voted to reject the
+idea of secession.
+
+Immediately after the result was ascertained, the rebel troops became
+aggressive, and Colonel Porterfield dispatched several of his companies
+to burn the bridge on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.
+
+The appearance of these troops was quickly brought to the notice of the
+Federal authorities at Washington. On the 24th day of May the Secretary
+of War and General Scott telegraphed this information to General
+McClellan, and inquired "whether its influence could not be
+counteracted." General McClellan at once replied in the affirmative,
+and this was the sole order he received from Washington regarding a
+campaign in Virginia.
+
+On the 26th, the General ordered two regiments to cross the river at
+Wheeling, and two others at Parkersburg. They were to move forward
+simultaneously by the branch railroads from each of these points to
+their junction at Grafton. The burnt bridges were restored in their
+passage, and after a most brilliant strategic movement, Porterfield was
+completely surprised, and the rebels were forced to disperse, in utter
+rout and confusion.
+
+This complete success of the first dash at the enemy had the most
+inspiriting effect upon the Union troops, and also encouraged and
+fortified the Western Virginia unionists, in their determination to
+break away from the East and to form a new State. This movement was
+successfully accomplished, and early in July they elected two United
+States senators, who were admitted to, and took part in the national
+legislature.
+
+Governor Pierpont, who was head of this provisional State government,
+organized at Wheeling, made a formal application to the United States
+for aid to suppress the rebellion and protect the people against
+domestic violence. General McClellan, in furtherance of this object,
+ordered additional forces into the State from his department.
+
+In order to act intelligently in the matter, it was necessary that some
+definite information should be derived respecting the country which was
+now to be protected, and from which it was necessary the invading rebels
+should be driven. For this purpose the General desired that I should
+dispatch several of my men, who, by assuming various and unsuspicious
+characters, would be able to travel over the country, obtain a correct
+idea of its topography, ascertain the exact position and designs of the
+secessionists.
+
+For this duty I selected a man named Price Lewis, who had just returned
+from a trip to the South, and whom I had reason to be satisfied was
+equal to the task. I resolved, therefore, that he should be one of the
+party to make this journey, together with several others who were
+delegated for the same purpose. In order to afford variety to the
+professions of my operatives, and because of his fitness for the
+character, I decided that Price Lewis should represent himself as an
+Englishman traveling for pleasure, believing that he would thus escape a
+close scrutiny or a rigid examination, should he, by any accident, fall
+into the hands of the rebels.
+
+Procuring a comfortable-looking road-wagon and a pair of strong gray
+horses, which were both substantial-looking and good roadsters, I
+stocked the vehicle with such articles of necessity and luxury as would
+enable them to subsist themselves if necessary, and at the same time
+give the appearance of truth to such professions as the sight-seeing
+Englishman might feel authorized to make. I provided him also with a
+number of English certificates of various kinds, and I also supplied him
+with English money which could be readily exchanged for such currency
+that would best suit his purposes in the several localities which he
+would be required to visit.
+
+Lewis wore a full beard, and this was trimmed in the most approved
+English fashion, and when fully equipped for his journey he presented
+the appearance of a thorough well-to-do Englishman, who might even be
+suspected of having "blue blood" in his veins. In order that he might
+the more fully sustain the new character he was about to assume, and to
+give an added dignity to his position, I concluded to send with him a
+member of my force who would act in the capacity of coachman, groom and
+body servant, as occasion should demand. The man whom I selected for
+this role was a jolly, good-natured, and fearless Yankee named Samuel
+Bridgeman, a quick, sharp-witted young man, who had been in my
+employment some time, and who had on several occasions proved himself
+worthy of trust and confidence in matters that required tact as well as
+boldness, and good sense as well as keen wit.
+
+Calling Sam into my office, I explained to him fully the nature of the
+duties he would be required to perform, and when I had concluded I saw
+by the merry twinkle in his eyes, and from the readiness with which he
+caught at my suggestions, that he thoroughly understood and had decided
+to carry out his part of the programme to the very letter.
+
+In addition to these, I arranged a route for two other men of my force.
+They were to travel through the valley of the Great Kanawha river, and
+to observe carefully everything that came under their notice, which
+might be of importance in perfecting a military campaign, in case the
+rebels should attempt hostile measures, or that General McClellan might
+find it necessary to promptly clear that portion of Virginia from the
+presence of secession troops. These two men were to travel ostensibly as
+farm laborers, and their verdant appearance was made to fully conform to
+such avocations.
+
+Everything being in readiness, the two parties were started, and we will
+follow their movements separately, as they were to travel by different
+routes.
+
+Price Lewis, the pseudo Englishman, and Sam Bridgeman, who made quite a
+smart-looking valet in his new costume, transferred their horses, wagon
+and stores on board the trim little steamer "Cricket," at Cincinnati,
+intending to travel along the Ohio River, and effect a landing at
+Guyandotte, in Western Virginia, at which point they were to disembark
+and pursue their journey overland through the country.
+
+I accompanied Lewis to the wharf, and after everything had been
+satisfactorily arranged, I bade him good-bye, and the little steamer
+sailed away up the river.
+
+There were the usual number of miscellaneous passengers upon the boat,
+and added to these were a number of Union officers, who had been
+dispatched upon various missions throughout that portion of the State of
+Ohio. These men left the steamer as their points of destination were
+reached, and after they had departed, several of the passengers who had
+hitherto remained silent, became very talkative. They began in a
+cautious manner to express their opinions, with a view of eliciting some
+knowledge of the sympathies of their fellow-travelers in the important
+struggle that was now impending. Lewis had maintained a quiet, dignified
+reserve, which, while it did not forbid any friendly approaches from his
+fellow-passengers, at the same time rendered them more respectful, and
+prevented undue familiarity. Sam Bridgeman contributed materially to
+this result; his deference to "my lord" was very natural, and the
+respect with which he received his commands convinced the passengers at
+once that the English-looking gentleman was a man of some importance.
+
+The passengers all appeared to be Union men, and while they expressed
+their regrets that the war had commenced, they regarded their separation
+from Eastern Virginia, with undisguised satisfaction.
+
+At midnight, on the second evening, the boat landed at Guyandotte, and
+Samuel, with a great deal of importance, attended to the transfer of his
+master and the equipage from the boat to the wharf. Here they found a
+number of men in uniform, who were ascertained to be representatives of
+the "Home Guard," and in a few minutes Bridgeman had secured the
+services of two of them, to assist him in safely landing their effects.
+This being satisfactorily accomplished, he, apparently in a sly manner,
+treated them to a drop of good whisky, which formed part of the stores
+they had been provided with. Stopping at the hotel over night, they
+continued their journey on the following morning. They drove leisurely
+along, and at about ten o'clock they stopped at a farm-house to rest
+their horses. They remained here until nearly three o'clock in the
+afternoon, conversing with the old farmer, who seemed to be much pained
+at the condition of affairs, but who had two sons who had joined the
+rebel army. They renewed their journey in the afternoon, and in about
+two hours reached the little village of Colemouth, where there was a
+rebel encampment. On passing this they were halted by the guard, who
+inquired their business and destination. Lewis told him he was an
+Englishman, accompanied only by his servant, and that he was traveling
+through the country for pleasure. The guard informed them that he could
+not let them pass, and asked Lewis to go with him to the Captain's
+headquarters, which was located in a large stone house, a few hundred
+yards distant. My operative willingly consented, and leaving Sam in
+charge of his carriage, he accompanied the soldier to the officer's
+quarters. He was ushered into a large and well-furnished apartment on
+the second floor, and in a few minutes the Captain came in.
+
+[Illustration: _An English Lord and a Rebel Captain._ P. 215.]
+
+He greeted my operative pleasantly, and informed him that he regretted
+the necessity of detaining him, but orders had to be obeyed. Lewis
+related in substance what he had already stated to the guard, which
+statement the Captain unhesitatingly received, and after a pleasant
+conversation, he invited the detective to accept the hospitality of the
+camp.
+
+An English gentleman traveling for pleasure was not to be treated with
+discourtesy, and upon Lewis' accepting of his invitation, a soldier was
+dispatched to bring the horses and carriage and their impatient driver
+into camp.
+
+Supper was ordered, and in a short time the Captain and his guest were
+discussing a repast which was far more appetizing than soldiers' fare
+usually is. During the meal Sam stood behind the chair of Lewis, and
+awaited upon him in the most approved fashion, replying invariably with
+a deferential,
+
+"Yes, my lord."
+
+After full justice had been done to the repast, Price directed Bridgeman
+to bring in from the carriage a couple of bottles of champagne, and by
+the time the hour of retiring had arrived the detective had succeeded in
+impressing his entertainer with a very exalted opinion of his rank and
+standing when at home.
+
+Lewis, being an Englishman by birth, was very well posted about English
+affairs, and he entertained his host with several very well invented
+anecdotes of the Crimea, in which he was supposed to have taken an
+active part, and his intimacy with Lord Raglan, the commander of the
+British army, gained for him the unbounded admiration and respect of the
+doughty Captain.
+
+From this officer Lewis learned that there were a number of troops in
+Charleston, but a few miles distant, and that General Wise, who was then
+in command, had arrived there that day.
+
+After a refreshing sleep and a bounteous breakfast, Lewis informed the
+Captain that he would continue his journey toward Charleston, and
+endeavor to obtain an interview with General Wise. The Captain cordially
+recommended him to do so, and furnished him with passports which would
+carry him without question or delay upon the road. As they were about
+taking their leave the Captain put into Lewis' hands an unsealed letter,
+at the same time remarking with great earnestness:
+
+"My lord, I beg of you to accept the inclosed letter of introduction to
+General Wise; as I am personally acquainted with him, this letter may be
+of some service to you, and I should be only too happy if it will be
+so."
+
+"Thank you," replied Lewis, "but you have been far too kind already, and
+believe me I shall always recall my entertainment at your hands with
+pleasure."
+
+The valiant Captain was not aware that he had been furnishing very
+valuable information to his gentlemanly visitor, and that while he was
+unsuspectingly answering his well-directed questions, his servant, the
+quiet Sam Bridgeman, was unobservedly making notes of all that he heard
+in relation to the situation of affairs and with regard to the probable
+movements of the rebel troops.
+
+A rather ridiculous incident occurred to our two travelers after leaving
+the camp. They had proceeded but a short distance upon their way, when
+one of the horses they were driving cast a shoe, which made it necessary
+for them to stop at a little village and secure the services of a
+blacksmith.
+
+Driving up to the hotel, Lewis alighted from the wagon, while Bridgeman
+drove to the blacksmith-shop in order to have his horse attended to. As
+Lewis ascended the steps of the hotel he noticed a tall, rather
+commanding-looking gentleman seated upon the porch, who was evidently
+scrutinizing his appearance, very carefully. The stranger was a man
+about sixty years of age, but remarkably well preserved, and the lines
+on his face scarcely gave but little indication of his years. There was
+an air of seeming importance about him which impressed Lewis with the
+fact that he must be one of the dignitaries of the place, and as he
+approached him he very politely raised his hat and saluted him.
+
+The old gentleman returned the salutation with an inquiring gaze, and
+Lewis, in order to pave the way to his acquaintance, invited him to
+partake of a drink, which was cordially accepted. In a few minutes,
+under its influence, the two men were conversing with all the freedom of
+old friends.
+
+Lewis ascertained that his companion was a justice of the peace, an
+office of some importance in that locality, and that the old gentleman
+was disposed to give to his judicial position all the dignity which a
+personal appreciation of his standing demanded. In a quiet manner, Lewis
+at once gave the justice to understand his appreciating the honor he had
+received in meeting him, and by a few well-administered flatteries,
+succeeded in completely winning the kind regards of the old gentleman.
+Their pleasant conversation was progressing with very favorable success,
+when Sam Bridgeman drove up with the team, having succeeded in finding a
+smithy and in having the lost shoe replaced.
+
+With a deferential, semi-military salute, he addressed Lewis:
+
+"We are all ready, my lord." At the mention of the title the old fellow
+jumped to his feet in blank amazement, and in the most obsequious
+manner, and with an air of humility, that, compared with his bombastic
+tone of a few moments before, was perfectly ridiculous. Jerking off his
+hat and placing it under his left arm, he advanced, and said:
+
+"If my lord would do me the honor to accept my poor hospitality, I would
+only be too happy to have the pleasure of his company for dinner; my
+house is only a short distance off, on the road to Charleston, and will
+detain you no longer than to rest and feed your horses, and partake of a
+true Southern meal."
+
+Lewis hesitated a moment, and then remembering that he had represented
+himself as traveling purely for pleasure, he did not see how he could
+avoid accepting his kind invitation.
+
+"I have heard, sir, of the hospitable character of the Southern
+gentlemen, and I assure you I shall be most happy to avail myself of
+your kindness."
+
+The old Justice could not conceal his pleasure at the prospect of
+entertaining a "live lord" in his own house, and with evident delight he
+accepted a seat in Lewis' carriage. He directed the way to his dwelling,
+which stood back from the road, surrounded by a grove of lofty pines,
+and then invited his guest within; intrusting the care of the team to
+the care of Sam and one of the servants, they entered the house, and
+were soon engaged in discussing the situation of affairs, both North and
+South. Lewis informed the old Justice that his name was Henry Tracy, of
+Oxford, England, and that his object was to reach Charleston, but that
+he was not aware that the country was so unsettled, or he would not
+have ventured on this trip. He then related his adventure of the day
+before, and commented favorably on the gentlemanly bearing of the
+Captain, and the manner in which he had been treated. They indulged in
+pleasant conversation, on various topics, until dinner was announced.
+
+When they had done justice to an excellent repast, they repaired to a
+shaded porch in the rear of the house, and Lewis instructed Sam to bring
+out a bottle of champagne and a bottle of brandy. These, as already
+intimated, had been labeled with foreign wrappers, so that the deception
+was complete. The brandy was a very ordinary article, and the wine of an
+inferior quality, but the old gentlemen went into ecstasies over it, and
+under its mellowing influence, he became familiar and confidential, and
+gave to my shrewd operative much valuable information. Finally the
+justice grew profusely demonstrative, and leaning across the table, he
+said:
+
+"My lord, I have never tasted such brandy as you carry in all my life, I
+have a couple of warm friends outside whom I have taken the liberty to
+send for, and whom I know will be delighted to see you, and still more
+pleased to taste this excellent liquor."
+
+"Certainly," replied Lewis, "bring them in; I shall be happy to meet
+them."
+
+Lewis supposed, of course, that the two men whom he had referred were
+planters and neighbors, but imagine his surprise when the justice
+returned, accompanied by the blacksmith and cobbler of the village.
+
+After being introduced to "my Lord Tracy," Lewis invited them to take a
+glass with them, and with evident pleasure, yet with visible
+embarrassment, they accepted the invitation and seated themselves at the
+table.
+
+It was now that the old gentleman grew loquacious; he was loud and
+profuse in his praises of the brandy; he asserted again and again, that
+it had never been his good fortune to taste such liquor, in which
+encomiums the blacksmith and cobbler heartily joined. As the afternoon
+wore away, and the present supply was exhausted, Sam was dispatched
+after another bottle, and the social meeting continued until evening.
+Lewis was careful as to the amount he drank, and intensely enjoyed the
+whole affair. The idea of the blacksmith and cobbler hobnobbing with an
+English lord, struck him as being so ridiculously funny, that he laughed
+again and again at the absurdity of the situation. Often during the
+evening he laughed immoderately, at what they supposed their own jokes
+and wit, when he was really thinking of the ridiculous comedy in which
+he was playing the leading part. When the hour for retiring arrived, the
+old man begged as a special favor that he would be allowed to keep one
+of the empty bottles, as a memento of the occasion of his lordship's
+dining with him, and to remind him of the pleasure he had enjoyed of
+drinking some rare old imported brandy (made in Cincinnati). The
+blacksmith and cobbler also looked so longingly at the empty bottles
+before them, that Lewis could scarcely refrain from laughing heartily,
+as he graciously complied with their request for a souvenir of the
+occasion. The evident satisfaction with which they appropriated a bottle
+apiece, as they started for home, and their hearty thanks as they bid
+him good-night, was heartily echoed by the old justice, who carefully
+laid his bottle away as a sacred relic of a never-to-be-forgotten event.
+
+While the party were enjoying themselves on the porch, Sam Bridgeman had
+been using his time well among the servants, and had gleaned much
+valuable information from them. They remained over night with the old
+gentleman, and on the following morning, after bidding him a kind
+farewell, they started on their journey. Lewis did not forget, however,
+before leaving, to take a parting glass with his host, who seemed very
+reluctant to have them depart. They continued on their way towards
+Charleston, traveling but slowly, as the roads were heavy from the
+recent rains. About noon they arrived at a farm-house, to which they had
+been recommended by their host of the night before. Here they stopped
+for dinner, and after refreshing themselves, they again went on. The
+afternoon was warm and pleasant, and their journey lay through a
+beautiful stretch of country. Driving quietly along, they beguiled the
+time admiring the beautiful scenery spread before them, and in pleasant
+converse. Their enjoyment was, however, suddenly interrupted by the
+sound of loud voices and the clattering of horses' hoofs immediately
+behind him. Quickly turning around, the cause of this unusual excitement
+was at once apparent. A fine black horse, covered with foam, was tearing
+down the turnpike at break-neck speed, and evidently running away. Upon
+his back was seated a young lady, who bravely held her seat, and who was
+vainly attempting to restrain the unmanageable animal. Some distance
+behind were a party of ladies and gentlemen on horseback, all spurring
+their horses to the utmost, as if with the intention of overtaking the
+flying steed in front of them. Intense fear was depicted upon the
+countenances of those in the rear, and not without reason, for the
+situation of the young lady was dangerous indeed.
+
+Quick as a flash, my operatives realized the situation of affairs, and
+the necessity for prompt action. Without uttering a word, Sam Bridgeman
+turned his horses directly across the road, intending by that means to
+stop the mad course of the fiery charger approaching them. As he did so,
+Lewis sprang from the wagon, and with the utmost coolness advanced to
+meet the approaching horse. On came the frightened animal at a speed
+that threatened every moment to hurl the brave girl from her seat, until
+he approached nearly to the point at which my operatives had stationed
+themselves, and then, evidently perceiving the obstructions in his path,
+he momentarily slackened pace. In that instant Lewis sprang forward, and
+grasping the bridle firmly with a strong hand, he forced the frightened
+animal back upon his haunches. The danger was passed. The horse, feeling
+the iron grip upon the bridle, and recognizing the voice of authority,
+stood still and trembling in every joint, his reeking sides heaving, and
+his eyes flashing fire. The young lady, with a sudden revulsion of
+feeling, fell back in the saddle, and would have fallen but that Sam
+Bridgeman, hastening to the relief of his companion, was fortunately in
+time to catch the fainting figure in his arms. Extricating her quickly
+from the saddle, he set her gently on the ground, and as he did so the
+fair head fell forward on his shoulder, and she lost consciousness.
+
+By this time Lewis had succeeded in quieting the excited animal, and had
+fastened him to a tree by the wayside, and as he turned to the
+assistance of Bridgeman, the companions of the unconscious girl rode up.
+Hastily dismounting, they rushed to her aid, and in a few minutes, under
+their ministrations, the dark eyes were opened, and the girl gazed
+wonderingly around.
+
+After being assisted to her feet, she gratefully expressed her
+thankfulness to the men who had probably saved her life, in which she
+was warmly joined by the remainder of the party.
+
+Sam Bridgeman received these grateful expressions with an air of modest
+confusion, which was indeed laughable, and then said:
+
+"It ain't no use thanking me, Miss, it was my lord here, that stopped
+the animal."
+
+At the words "my lord," a look of curiosity came over the faces of the
+new-comers, and Lewis stepped gracefully forward and introduced himself.
+
+"I am glad, ladies and gentlemen, to have been of service to this young
+lady, and permit me to introduce myself as Henry Tracy, of Oxford,
+England, now traveling in America."
+
+The three gentlemen who were of the riding party grasped the hand of
+their new-made English acquaintance, and in a few words introduced him
+to the ladies who accompanied them, all of whom were seemingly delighted
+to make the acquaintance of a gentleman who had been addressed by his
+servant as "my lord."
+
+This adventure proved to be a most fortunate one for my two operatives.
+The gentlemen, upon introducing themselves, were discovered to be
+connected with the rebel army, and to be recruiting officers sent by
+Governor Letcher to organize such rebel volunteers as were to be
+gathered in Western Virginia. By them Lewis was cordially invited to
+join their company to Charleston, which he as cordially accepted.
+Suggesting that as the young lady, who had scarcely recovered from the
+accident, might not feel able to ride her horse into town, he politely
+offered her a seat in his carriage, which offer was gratefully accepted,
+and attaching the runaway horse to the rear of the vehicle, the party
+proceeded on their way to Charleston, at which point they arrived
+without further event or accident.
+
+The young lady whom Lewis had so providentially rescued was the only
+daughter of Judge Beveridge, one of the wealthiest and most influential
+men in the State, and upon conducting her to her home, the detective was
+received with the warmest emotions by the overjoyed father. Lewis was
+pressed to make the house of the Judge his home during his stay, but
+gratefully declining the invitation, he took up his quarters at the
+hotel, where he could more readily extend his acquaintance, and where
+his movements would be more free.
+
+The young officers whom he had met upon the road had their quarters at
+the hotel at which Lewis had stopped, and under their friendly guidance
+no one thought of questioning his truthfulness, or impeaching his
+professions.
+
+By this means he was enabled to acquire a wonderful amount of
+information, both of value and importance to the cause of the North, all
+of which was duly reported to me at headquarters, and by me communicated
+directly to General McClellan.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+_The Rebels Attempt to Occupy West Virginia.--General McClellan Ordered
+to Drive them Out.--Early Battle.--The Federals Victorious.--West
+Virginia Freed from Rebel Soldiers._
+
+
+Recognizing the importance of holding West Virginia, and of preventing
+the Union forces from penetrating through the mountains in the direction
+of Staunton, the rebel authorities had sent two new commanders into that
+region. Ex-Governor Wise was dispatched to the Kanawha Valley, and
+General Garnett, formerly a Major in the Federal army, was sent to
+Beverly to attempt to gather up and reorganize the remnants of Colonel
+Porterfield's scattered command, and to adopt immediate measures to
+reinforce them.
+
+General Wise having been assigned to the Kanawha Valley, was expected to
+arrive at Charleston on the day following the appearance of my
+operatives, and the city was in a state of subdued excitement in
+anticipation of his coming.
+
+In the evening, Lewis, in company with the officers whom he had met in
+the morning, proceeded to the residence of Judge Beveridge, where he was
+cordially received by that gentleman and his charming daughter, who had
+now thoroughly recovered from the effects of her dangerous ride. With
+rare grace she greeted my operative, and her expressions of thankfulness
+were couched in such delicate language, that the pretended Englishman
+felt a strange fluttering in his breast, which was as novel to him as it
+was delicious. He passed a very delightful evening, and by his knowledge
+of English affairs, and his unqualified approval of the cause of the
+South, added to the fact that he was believed to be a gentleman of rank
+and fortune, he succeeded in materially increasing the high opinion
+which had previously been entertained regarding him.
+
+The next morning General Wise arrived, and his appearance was hailed
+with delight by the disunion element of the city, while those whose
+sympathies were with the North looked with apprehension and disfavor
+upon the demonstrations that were being made in his honor.
+
+At the first opportune moment, Price Lewis, with the assistance of his
+new-found friends, the rebel officers, succeeded in obtaining an
+introduction to the ancient-looking individual whose career had been
+marked by such exciting events, and who was so prominent a figure in the
+tragedy that was now being enacted. He was a small, intelligent-looking
+man, whose age appeared to be nearly seventy years, and whose emaciated
+appearance gave every token that he had not long to live. His eyes shone
+with the brilliancy of youth, and the fires of ambition seemed to be
+burning brightly in his breast. Perhaps no other man in the South had
+contributed in so great a degree to hasten the folly of secession, and
+certainly none rejoiced more heartily at its final realization.
+
+By his eloquence, and the magnetic power of his presence, he had led the
+ignorant classes of the State to firm belief in the justice of his
+cause, and by his teachings he had imbued them with a firm conviction
+that they were acting for their own best interests, and for the
+furtherance of the Southern supremacy and success.
+
+Stern and determined, he allowed nothing to stand between him and the
+accomplishment of his purposes. But a few months before, he had ordered
+the execution of John Brown, who, with a mere handful of men, had
+attempted to strike a blow in behalf of the slave. This ardent
+abolitionist attacked and captured Harper's Ferry, a government arsenal,
+by overpowering the men who were stationed at that place, but the
+authorities had been called upon, and then, yielding to superior
+numbers, he was compelled to surrender. In this encounter the majority
+of his men were slain, and John Brown, with six of his associates, was
+taken prisoner. This occurred on the 16th day of October, 1859, and on
+the 22d day of December, after a hurried trial, the prisoners were
+ordered by Governor Wise to be publicly hanged. The sentence was duly
+carried into effect, and the action of John Brown was used by the
+secession advocates to inflame the minds of the Southern people against
+the North. Now that secession had become an established fact, it was a
+matter of question whether the leaders of the Southern cause would not,
+in the end, strike a far more forcible blow in favor of the emancipation
+of the slave, than did the impetuous old man who gave up his life at the
+behest of the Southern leaders.
+
+The General had been previously informed of the presence of Lewis in the
+hotel, and of his adventure on the day previous, consequently, when he
+was presented to the new commander, he was received with warm
+cordiality. The General inquired particularly into his history, and his
+present movements, all of which were replied to by Lewis in a dignified
+and satisfactory manner. Under the influence of Lewis' good-nature the
+General became social and familiar, and invited him to dine with him in
+his apartments.
+
+Leaving no opportunity that offered, the detective took advantage of
+every available suggestion, and the result was he became fully posted
+upon everything that was of importance, and was enabled to render such
+an account of his labors as was satisfactory in the extreme. Sam
+Bridgeman, too, had not been idle, but mingling freely with the
+soldiers, he had succeeded in learning much of the conditions of the
+country that was of immense advantage in the after events of the
+campaign in Western Virginia.
+
+They remained in Charleston about eight days, and then, taking leave of
+the many friends they had made, they made their way safely back to
+Cincinnati and reported. The other two men whom I had dispatched upon
+the same mission traveled by rail across the State of Ohio and reached
+the West Virginia line at Point Pleasant. Here they began their
+investigations, and passing unquestioned they roamed through the
+country, passing eastward as far as Lynchburg. Thence, they made a
+detour to the South, and journeyed as far as Chattanooga and Nashville,
+in Tennessee, and thence to Louisville, Ky. Throughout their entire
+pilgrimage they were ever on the alert to acquire knowledge, and the
+immense amount of information which they gathered would only prove
+tedious to both myself and the reader. It is enough to say that they
+performed their duty in a manner creditable to themselves and valuable
+to the cause they represented, and I will simply summarize the
+situation.
+
+General Garnett had posted himself in the pass at Laurel Hill, with an
+additional force at Beverly, while another detachment, under Col.
+Pegram, had established himself in the pass at Rich Mountain. Here he
+had intended to fortify himself and to await a favorable opportunity for
+breaking the railroad. He found affairs upon his arrival in a miserable
+condition; the troops were disorganized and without discipline, arms or
+ammunition, and General Lee immediately sent him re-enforcements.
+
+This was the condition of affairs, when, early in July, General
+McClellan resolved to take the offensive and drive the rebels from West
+Virginia. In this campaign he received material aid and assistance from
+that brave officer General Rosecrans, who by superhuman exertions
+penetrated the pathless forest cutting and climbing his way to the very
+crest of Rich Mountain.
+
+This movement, difficult as it was, to the South of the rebels, was a
+complete surprise to the enemy, who was expecting their arrival from the
+North.
+
+They made a gallant resistance, however, but the Union forces had such
+an advantage that the contest was quickly decided. The rebel forces were
+driven from their breast-works and were compelled to take refuge in
+thickets or the mountains. Their confusion was deplorable, and their
+defeat unmistakable.
+
+This victory placed the enemy in a very precarious position. McClellan
+was in his front and Rosecrans in secure possession of the road behind
+him, and Pegram, realizing the danger that threatened him, returned to
+his camp and, hastily spiking his guns, he abandoned all his stores and
+equipments, and endeavored to escape by marching northward along the
+mountain, intending, if possible, to join Garnett at Laurel Hill.
+
+For the time being, he was successful in eluding the Federal commanders,
+and after a most laborious march of eighteen hours, found himself within
+three miles of Leedsville. Here he was doomed to disappointment, for he
+learned that Garnett had also retreated, and that a strong Union column
+was in close pursuit. Thus he was again caught between two Union armies,
+and despairing of effecting his escape, he sent a proposal to General
+McClellan, offering a total surrender of his command. The Union General
+accepted the proposition, and on the following day the half-famished
+rebel fugitives laid down their arms and became prisoners of war, only
+too glad to receive once more comfortable quarters and hunger-appeasing
+rations.
+
+The fugitives who had escaped from the battle of Rich Mountain carried
+the news of that disaster to Beverly, and to General Garnett, at Laurel
+Hill, and an immediate retreat was ordered. But he was closely pressed
+by the advancing Union armies, and when General Garnett reached
+Leedsville, he heard that General McClellan was at Beverly, thus cutting
+off effectually his further passage southward. He now resolved upon the
+desperate attempt of turning to the North and reaching St. George and
+West Union by a rough and difficult mountain road, during which his
+troops naturally became very much scattered and disorganized. Although
+he was nearly fifteen hours in advance of his pursuers, they gained
+rapidly upon him, and notwithstanding every effort was made by the
+rebels to impede his progress by felling trees in the narrow mountain
+defiles, the Union advance overtook the rebel wagon-train at Carrick's
+Ford, one of the crossings of Cheat River, about twenty-six miles
+north-west of Laurel Hill. Here Garnett resolved to risk an encounter,
+and facing about his troops, he took a position on a favorable and
+precipitous elevation on the river bank, and planting his guns so as to
+command the ford and the approaching road, he prepared to defend his
+retreat. A brisk engagement at once ensued, and after a sharp contest
+the rebel lines broke and fled, abandoning one of their guns.
+
+Retreat and pursuit were once more commenced, and at the next ford, a
+quarter of a mile further on, during a desultory skirmish fire between
+small parties of sharpshooters, General Garnett was killed. Here the
+Federal pursuit was discontinued, and the rebels left in the hands of
+the victors their entire baggage train, one gun, two stands of colors
+and fifty prisoners.
+
+Estimated according to mere numbers, these battles of Rich Mountain and
+Carrick's Ford appear somewhat insignificant in contrast with the great
+battles of the rebellion, which occurred during the succeeding three
+years. Hundreds of engagements of greater magnitude, and attended with
+much more serious loss of life, followed these encounters, and decided
+the mighty problem of Northern success, but this early skirmish with the
+rebels on Rich Mountain, and this rout of Garnett's rear-guard at
+Carrick's Ford, were speedily followed by great political and military
+results, which exercised a powerful influence upon the after-conduct of
+the war. They closed a campaign, dispersed a rebel army, which had for a
+long time been harassing a State whose sympathies were with the Union,
+and they permanently pushed back the military frontier to the borders of
+rebellious territory. Now, is it too much to say that the brilliant
+success which attended this first aggressive movement of General
+McClellan had a marked effect upon the public mind? That they gave a
+general impression of his military skill is not to be doubted, and he
+was from that time the hero of the hour. Certain it is that a train of
+circumstances started from these achievements which eventually led to
+his being called to Washington after the reverses at Manassas and Bull
+Run, and made him, on the first day of November following, the
+General-in-Chief of all the armies of the United States.
+
+It is not necessary for me to follow the subsequent operations in West
+Virginia, as my duties were connected with General McClellan and his
+campaigns in that district ended with the death of General Garnett and
+the dispersion of his army. About a week afterwards he was called to a
+new field of duty at Washington city, and it is not my purpose to touch
+upon events in which I took no part. It is enough to say that, with
+somewhat fluctuating changes, the rebels were gradually forced back from
+the Great Kanawha Valley, and the eventual result left West Virginia in
+possession of the Federal troops, her own inherent loyalty having
+contributed largely in producing this condition. The Union sentiment of
+the people was everywhere made manifest, and the new State government
+was consolidated and heartily sustained, ending in her ultimate
+admission as a separate member of the Federal Union in June, 1863.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+_General McClellan is called to Washington and placed in Command of the
+Armies, after the Battle of Bull Run.--The Secret Service
+Department.--Its Duties and Responsibilities._
+
+
+As I am not attempting to write a history of the Civil War, but merely
+relating, as best I can, the leading incidents connected with my labors
+in the secret service, I shall not dwell upon the details of the
+military movements of the war, except as they are necessarily connected
+with my own movements. It is necessary, however, to make cursory mention
+of that remarkable chain of circumstances which followed General
+McClellan's campaign in West Virginia, resulting in entire and
+unexpected change of circumstances to him, and a consequent enlargement
+of my own field of operations. Therefore, without pausing to describe
+the various movements and enterprises in West Virginia during the
+remainder of the year 1861, or detailing the campaign of the three
+months' volunteers under General Patterson, and their bloodless victory
+at Harper's Ferry, I will pass on to other scenes and events which lead
+directly to the turning-point in my story.
+
+Patriotism in the North was excited to such a pitch that the people were
+impatient of delay, and eager to strike a decisive blow--a blow that
+would at once annihilate treason and wipe out the insult to a nation's
+flag, and maintain a nation's honor. The resounding echoes of the rebel
+guns that had done their work of destruction on Sumter's walls, were
+still vibrating in the air.
+
+The Confederate seat of government had been transferred from Montgomery
+to Richmond, immediately after Virginia's indorsement of the secession
+ordinance, and this enthronement of rebellion so close to the very
+stronghold of freedom, caused patriotic resentment to blaze up with
+fresh intensity.
+
+In the month of June a determined movement against Manassas was resolved
+upon at Washington.
+
+As a preliminary step to the advancement upon the rebel capital, General
+Scott gave Patterson orders to offer Johnston battle, or detain him in
+the Shenandoah Valley by other demonstrations, in order that his army
+might not unite with Beauregard's and defeat the movement. But Patterson
+failed to perform the task assigned to him, and his failure lost to the
+Union cause the first great battle of the war.
+
+General Beauregard was in possession of Manassas with six thousand men,
+and this force was being very materially increased by the arrival of
+reinforcements from time to time; but notwithstanding this fact, it was
+believed that every chance of success would be provided for by the
+strength of the Union army at the capital, if only Johnston could be
+held in check for a few days.
+
+Delay in starting this expedition against the enemy's works was
+unavoidable, and it was not until the afternoon of the 16th of July that
+the march of McDowell's army commenced. Even then the progress was
+painfully slow, owing to inexperience and lack of discipline on the part
+of the troops.
+
+Manassas Junction was defended by about two thousand rebels, with
+fourteen or fifteen heavy guns, while at Bull Run, some three miles east
+of Manassas, was stationed Beauregard's main army, over twenty thousand
+strong, posted at the various fords of the stream, in a line fully eight
+miles long. McDowell, as a strategic movement to conceal his real
+purpose, directed his march upon Centreville, at which place Tyler's
+Division arrived on the morning of July 18th, to find that it had been
+evacuated by the rebels, who were all behind Bull Run. From Centreville,
+which is situated on a hill, Tyler and his men had a view of the whole
+valley spread out before them, with Manassas on the high plateau beyond.
+It has been hinted that Tyler was inspired with over confidence by the
+utter absence of opposition to his advance, and was thus betrayed into
+the indiscretion of a further advance and an experimental assault. This
+provoked a skirmish, which speedly culminated in the battle of
+Blackburn's Ford, the result of which was much loss and demoralization.
+
+Two more days elapsed before the great fight occurred. Those two days
+were occupied by the engineers in efforts to find an unfortified ford
+over Bull Run, which was accomplished in time to permit McDowell to call
+his officers together on Saturday night, and announce to them his plan
+of battle for the following day. This brought the main contest on
+Sunday, July 21st, and before daylight on the morning of that eventful
+day, both armies were up and astir, each intending to take the
+initiative. There was much unnecessary confusion and delay, mingled with
+undue excitement and impetuosity, showing that everything was raw and
+awkward on both sides. Perhaps no troops ever engaged in warfare with as
+little knowledge of the privations, hardships and dangers of
+soldier-life, as did the Union and Confederate armies on this bloody
+field.
+
+The day passed; the shades of evening fell, and the battle of Bull Run
+had been fought and lost! Victory had perched itself on the rebel
+banners, and the Union army was in full retreat towards Washington. The
+engagement had been well contested, and fought with equal courage and
+persistence by both sides, and the result was quite as unexpected to the
+Confederates as to the Federals.
+
+But Johnston had not been kept out of the fray, as it was calculated he
+would be. His army had been permitted to arrive on the battle-field in
+the nick of time to take a decisive part in the famous conflict, and to
+turn the fortunes of the day at a moment when the signs of victory were
+all in favor of the Federal troops. Totally unconscious of the fact that
+they had been fighting Johnston all day, the Union soldiers had not once
+lost confidence in themselves, and fully believed that they must win;
+but when a fresh assault from a new quarter convinced them that
+Johnston's forces had arrived, the realization and acknowledgment of
+coming defeat pervaded the whole army, and the quick instinct of retreat
+was aroused. They believed that success had now become hopeless, and
+nothing could change this belief, or check or control the impulse of
+flight, once started. The day was lost; the evidence of a great disaster
+became suddenly overwhelming to the non-combatants in the rear; the
+retreating brigades, and the nearer approach of cannonade and musketry
+soon confirmed the worst fears of a terrible defeat and a hot pursuit;
+and then began that insane scramble and stampede for safety.
+
+The sights and scenes encountered on the way to Fairfax Court-House will
+never be effaced from the memory of those who witnessed it. The story of
+that memorable retreat has been told over and over again; of the mad
+flight of civilians, in carriages and on horseback, lashing their steeds
+to the top of their speed; of soldiers of all regiments mingled
+confusedly together, some in complete uniform, others stripped of
+everything but trousers, shirts and shoes, and all foot-sore, haggard
+and half-starved; of arms, clothing and other valuables abandoned, that
+the progress of the runaways might not be impeded by such incumbrances;
+of vehicles, and even ambulances, bearing wounded men, left standing in
+the road, while the frightened teamsters rode away like the wind, on
+horses unhitched or cut out of their harness; of army wagons emptied of
+their loads and filled with stragglers, thundering along the crowded
+highway; of the dash and clatter of artillery carriages; of confusion,
+panic, demoralization and headlong hurry everywhere along the route.
+
+By midnight, mounted officers and civilians began to arrive in
+Washington; but not until the next day, when the rain was pouring down
+in torrents--that dreadful, drenching rain that continued for thirty-six
+hours, with but slight intermission--did the poor, hungry, fagged-out
+soldiers commence straggling in. That they were promptly and properly
+fed by the people, rich and poor, who threw open their doors and gave
+what they could to alleviate the suffering of these brave but
+unfortunate men, speaks volumes for the unselfish generosity of the
+loyal families of the capital during that period.
+
+It was while this discouraging state of affairs existed that General
+McClellan was called to Washington, to assume control of the lately
+defeated troops, General Rosecrans having succeeded him in the command
+of the Army of the West. Considering his recent success in West
+Virginia, and the military skill and judgment there displayed by him, it
+is but natural that McClellan should have been selected to re-create the
+army, which was destined to defend the Capital for the next three years.
+
+His arrival in Washington, on the 27th of July, was hailed with genuine
+delight by officers and citizens, for at that date he held the esteem
+and confidence and admiration of all loyal people. It was an immense
+responsibility which devolved upon him, but he accepted it cheerfully,
+and took up his task with that energy, tact and perseverance which
+precluded all possibility of failure. When first called to the command,
+he found a mere collection of regiments, undisciplined, undrilled and
+dispirited, cowering on the banks of the Potomac, and with only such
+material to work upon, he soon organized, equipped, and trained with
+rare skill, that grand body of troops, which he afterwards led in the
+campaign of the Peninsula.
+
+The war was but just commenced, at a time when most people thought it
+would be over. The "ninety days" theory was completely exploded. Those
+who had flattered themselves that the conflict would be "sharp and
+short"--that a single victorious and glorious campaign would crush the
+rebellion--were now undeceived. My own hopes had controlled my judgment
+on this subject, and made me visionary. I had hoped for myself to be
+able speedily to return to congenial pursuits and my domestic circle,
+and that a speedy collapse of their frenzy would save the Southern
+people from the inevitable ruin which must result from a protracted war.
+I had hoped for my country, that the spectacle she now presented to the
+world--exciting the derision of her enemies, and the melancholy pity of
+her friends--would soon be changed by the "returning good sense of the
+people," as it was so easily and egotistically phrased by many
+individuals at that time. Above all, I had hoped for the oppressed and
+shackled race of the South, that the downfall of slavery would be early
+accomplished, and their freedom permanently established. Being myself an
+old line abolitionist, and by no means the least active or energetic of
+those who had controlled and operated the famous "underground railroad,"
+I had the Anti-Slavery cause very much at heart, and would never have
+been satisfied until that gigantic curse was effectually removed.
+
+Indeed, during the whole time that I labored for the cause of the Union,
+the dearest object I had in view was the abolition of the most cruel
+system of oppression that ever cursed any people--an oppression long ago
+so justly characterized by John Wesley as "the sum of all villainy"--in
+comparison with which Egyptian bondage appeared simply burdensome. All
+these hopes were dissipated by the results of the late campaign. The war
+had developed into a reality to estimate. "The Federal Union--it must
+and shall be preserved!" was the sentiment that now prevailed, and all
+realized that the time for doubt and hesitation had gone by.
+
+There was no mistaking the duty of every loyal heart--the Republic must
+be saved at whatever cost.
+
+As I have previously stated, my connection with General McClellan was
+not interrupted by this change in his position. By my own preference, as
+well as at his request, I accompanied him to Washington, and cast my lot
+with those who were rallying there to protect and defend the government
+of the United States.
+
+Among the first things the General did, after being assigned to the
+command of the troops around that city, was to organize a secret service
+force, under my management and control. I was to have such strength of
+force as I might require; my headquarters were for the time located in
+Washington. It was arranged that whenever the army moved I was to go
+forward with the General, so that I might always be in close
+communication with him. My corps was to be continually occupied in
+procuring, from all possible sources, information regarding the
+strength, positions and movements of the enemy. All spies,
+"contrabands," deserters, refugees and prisoners of war, coming into our
+lines from the front, were to be carefully examined by me, and their
+statements taken in writing.
+
+This was the first real organization of the secret service. How much
+benefit was rendered to the country by this branch of the army will
+probably never be known--the destruction of nearly all my papers in the
+great fire of Chicago preventing their full publication--but that our
+operations were of immense practical value to the Union commander is a
+fact attested to by every one connected with the leading movements of
+our forces.
+
+It was about this time that the city of Washington was placed under
+martial law--a measure deemed necessary to correct the serious evils
+which existed, and to restore order in the city. Colonel Andrew Porter,
+of the Sixteenth United States Infantry, was appointed Provost-Marshal,
+and under his command was placed all the available infantry, a battery,
+and a squadron of cavalry. In addition to these, the assistance of a
+detective police force was deemed indispensable, and in answering this
+requirement I found work enough to keep myself and entire corps busy
+during our stay in Washington. A better understanding of my position and
+the nature of my duties at this time may be gained from the following
+extracts from a letter which I addressed to General McClellan when the
+organization of this department was yet in its incipiency.
+
+
+    "GENERAL:
+
+     "In accordance with your expressed desire, I beg leave to
+     submit to you my views with regard to the duties of my
+     detective police force, should the services of the same be
+     required by the government.
+
+     "In order to promote the efficiency of such a force, it is
+     highly necessary that its existence should be known to as
+     few persons as possible. It is an admitted and self-evident
+     fact that the movements of the various departments of the
+     government, civil and military, are closely watched, and it
+     is beyond a doubt that from some source the rebels have
+     received early, and to them, valuable notice of the intended
+     actions of the government. I am also led to believe that the
+     rebels have spies who are in the employment of this
+     government, or who possess facilities for acquiring
+     information from the civil and military authorities, or
+     bureaus, and that this information is imparted to others,
+     and transmitted, within a very short time, to the rebel
+     government. Many of the parties thus leagued with the enemy
+     are said to be persons of wealth and position.
+
+     "In operating with my detective force, I shall endeavor to
+     test all suspected persons in various ways. I shall seek
+     access to their houses, clubs, and places of resort,
+     managing that among the members of my force shall be
+     ostensible representatives of every grade of society, from
+     the highest to the most menial. Some shall have the _entree_
+     to the gilded salon of the suspected aristocratic traitors,
+     and be their honored guests, while others will act in the
+     capacity of valets, or domestics of various kinds, and try
+     the efficacy of such relations with the household to gain
+     evidence. Other suspected ones will be tracked by the
+     'shadow' detective, who will follow their every foot-step,
+     and note their every action.
+
+     "I also propose to employ a division of my force for the
+     discovery of any secret traitorous organization which may be
+     in existence; and if any such society is discovered, I will
+     have my operatives become members of the same, with a view
+     to ascertaining the means employed in transmitting messages
+     through the lines, and also for the purpose of learning, if
+     possible, the plans of the rebels. All strangers arriving in
+     the city, whose associations or acts may lay them open to
+     suspicion, will be subjected to a strict surveillance.
+
+            *       *       *       *       *
+
+     "Another and more dangerous feature of the service
+     contemplated to be rendered to the government by my
+     detectives, is that of entering the rebel lines, and
+     endeavoring to obtain accurate information of the nature of
+     their defences, the number of troops under their command at
+     various points, etc.
+
+     "In order to give efficiency to this movement, operations
+     should be commenced in Baltimore as well as at Washington.
+
+            *       *       *       *       *
+
+     "Considering the amount of labor to be done and the
+     necessity of immediate action on my part, in case these
+     plans are to be carried out, I purpose concentrating my
+     entire detective force of _both sexes_ into this work.
+
+            *       *       *       *       *
+
+     "The amount of force necessary to carry out such an
+     undertaking as I have indicated, will necessarily be very
+     large, and the assumption of disguises and characters by my
+     operatives, will be a very important item in itself," etc.,
+     etc., etc.
+
+My views were carried out just as they were set forth in this letter,
+and I was soon hard at work in my efforts to "regulate" the District of
+Columbia. It was too true that a great majority of the local police were
+disloyal, and could not be depended upon to faithfully discharge their
+duties to the government that employed them; therefore, in addition to
+my other work, I exerted myself to the utmost in aiding the municipal
+authorities to reorganize and discipline the police of the district.
+
+Many personal incidents worthy of note occurred during this period, but
+there was one which I recall at this moment with a laugh at my own
+expense--an incident in which I was reluctantly compelled to occupy the
+wrong side of a guard-house over night, and instead of capturing a
+prisoner became a prisoner myself.
+
+[Illustration: GUARD-HOUSE PRISONERS.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+_A Female Traitor.--Suspicious Correspondence.--A Close Watch under
+Difficulties.--I am Arrested.--Exposure of the Treason of a Trusted
+Officer.--A Disgraced Captain._
+
+
+During the earlier stages of the rebellion, a number of Southern
+sympathizers were domiciled in the city of Washington, and among the
+number were many ladies of refinement and wealth, from the South, who
+had been leaders of fashion and of society in the brilliant days of
+previous administrations. Many of these ladies were extremely
+fascinating in their manners, and being gifted with great personal
+beauty and with rare conversational qualities, they had gathered around
+them a brilliant circle of acquaintances, to whom they dispensed regal
+hospitalities and most delicate courtesies.
+
+When the war broke out, these ladies thoroughly identified themselves
+with the cause of the South, and upon all occasions were unreserved in
+the expression of opinions favorable to the rebels, and of fervent
+hopefulness for the eventual success of the disunionists. But little
+attention was paid to these _grand dames_ of the old regime, as it was
+not deemed possible that any danger could result from the utterances of
+non-combatant females, nor was it considered chivalrous that resolute
+measures should be adopted toward those of the weaker sex.
+
+That this policy was a mistaken one was soon fully proved, and when it
+was discovered that these fine ladies were secretly giving information
+to the enemy, it was deemed of great importance that such means should
+be adopted as would prevent their treasonable actions from being made
+valuable to the opponents of the government, and who were seeking its
+overthrow.
+
+From information received from reliable sources, it was shown that the
+rebel authorities were as fully conversant with the plans of the Union
+commanders as they were themselves. That they knew of the position of
+every regiment and brigade, and the contemplated movements of the
+commanders, and the time of proposed action, far in advance of any
+publicity being given to them, and when the utmost secrecy was the only
+true passport to victory. Indeed, it was openly boasted that the secret
+information given to the rebel generals had been mainly the cause of the
+defeat of our armies at Bull Run and Manassas.
+
+Upon these facts being fully proven, the government resolved to
+effectually prevent a continuance of these practices, and that if they
+were persisted in, the guilty parties should either be confined or
+exiled to the more congenial climate of Dixie.
+
+My department was in its infancy when the event occurred which I am
+about to relate. I had secured a house in Washington, and had gathered
+around me a number of resolute, trustworthy men and discreet women, who
+were devoted to the cause of their country, but were scarcely in such a
+condition as to move properly or with any systematized regularity. I had
+not been many days in the city when one afternoon I was called upon by
+the Hon. Thomas A. Scott, of Pennsylvania, who was then acting as the
+Assistant-Secretary of War, who desired my services in watching a lady
+whose movements had excited suspicion, and who, it was believed, was
+engaged in corresponding with the rebel authorities, and furnishing them
+with much valuable information.
+
+This lady was Mrs. Rose Greenhow, a Southern woman of pronounced rebel
+proclivities, and who had been unsparing in her denunciation of the
+"Abolition North," and who had openly declared that "instead of loving
+and worshiping the old flag of the Stars and Stripes," she saw "in it
+only the symbol of murder, plunder, oppression and shame." Mrs. Greenhow
+had occupied a prominent position in the social circles of the capital,
+and was personally acquainted with all of the leading men of the
+country, many of whom had partaken of her hospitality and had enjoyed a
+social intercourse that was both pleasurable and fascinating.
+
+She had now become an avowed hater of the Union, and it was feared,
+from her previous association with officers in the army, that she was
+using her talents in procuring information from them which would be
+immediately communicated to the rebel government at Richmond.
+
+The residence of Mrs. Greenhow was situated at the corner of Thirteenth
+and I streets--quite a fashionable quarter of the city, and within a
+short distance of the White House. The building, while not at all
+imposing in appearance, was large, roomy, and was furnished with every
+consideration for wealth and tasteful refinement. It was a two-story and
+basement brick building, the parlors of which were elevated several feet
+above the ground, and entrance was obtained by ascending a flight of
+steps in the center of the edifice. This lady was a widow, her husband
+having died some years before, and being possessed of considerable
+means, and mingling with the highest circles of Washington society, her
+home was the resort of most of the prominent people of the city.
+
+The instructions of the Secretary of War were, that a strict watch
+should be kept upon this house, and that every person entering or
+leaving the same should come under the close surveillance of my men, who
+should endeavor to ascertain who they were, and if they attempted in any
+manner to communicate with any suspicious persons. I was to report to
+him daily, and to continue my espionage until I received definite and
+official orders for its discontinuance. My further instructions were,
+that in case any of the visitors of Mrs. Greenhow should attempt to pass
+the lines of our troops, they should be arrested at once, and a rigorous
+search of their persons instituted, in order that nothing should be
+allowed to pass through without a thorough examination by the Secretary
+of War or Mr. Scott.
+
+After the departure of the Secretary I took with me two of my men, and
+proceeded to the vicinity of the residence of Mrs. Greenhow. I was then
+quite a stranger in Washington, and localities were not as familiar to
+me as they afterward became, and I therefore preferred to reconnoiter by
+daylight, to depending upon a survey after nightfall.
+
+The entire day had been dark, gloomy and threatening; clouds had been
+gathering in the heavens, and everything indicated the imminence of a
+severe storm. As I left my headquarters, a slight shower of rain was
+falling, which I knew was but the precursor of a storm more violent. On
+arriving at the designated locality I found everything to be as they had
+already been described to me. The inside shutters to the windows were
+closed, and no sign was apparent that the house was occupied, and after
+carefully noting the situation and the exposed condition of the
+premises, I left the two men within a convenient distance of the place,
+and returned for the additional aid which I thought might be needed.
+Selecting three of my most discreet men, I again repaired to the scene
+of operations. We had not proceeded far, when the storm burst upon us in
+all its fury. The wind blew strong and chill, and the rain fell in
+deluging torrents. Umbrellas were a useless commodity, and, unprotected,
+we were compelled to breast the elements, which now were warring with
+terrible violence.
+
+Arriving at Mrs. Greenhow's, under cover of the darkness I posted my men
+in such positions as I thought would be most advantageous for our
+purpose, and then calling in the two whom I had left there during the
+afternoon, I approached to within a short distance of the house. The
+darkness and storm, while decidedly uncomfortable, were of some benefit
+to us, as but few people were abroad, and these paid no attention to
+passing events, seeming to be only too anxious to reach their
+destination and to escape the pitiless rain.
+
+The blinds at the windows were still closed, but a light was observed in
+two rooms upon the parlor floor, and I knew that the house was occupied.
+Of course I could see nothing within, as my view was entirely obstructed
+by the closed blinds, and, at length, becoming impatient at this
+unprofitable and unsatisfactory waiting, I determined to obtain a
+glimpse, at least, of the interior, and to ascertain, if possible, some
+knowledge of its occupants.
+
+The parlor windows, through which the lights were gleaming, were too
+high from the ground to permit me to see within, and summoning the two
+men who were awaiting instructions I made use of their strong, broad
+shoulders in a manner quite novel to me, and quite ludicrous, no doubt,
+to a passer-by who did not understand the situation.
+
+Ranging the two men side by side under the broad windows in front of the
+house, I removed my boots and was soon standing upon their shoulders and
+elevated sufficiently high to enable me to accomplish the object I had
+in view. I was now on a level with the windows, and noiselessly raising
+the sash and turning the slats of the blinds I obtained a full view of
+the interior of the room. The furniture was rich and luxurious, valuable
+pictures hung upon the walls, and several pieces of statuary and various
+articles of artistic ornamentation were arranged about the apartment,
+but to my disappointment, it was unoccupied.
+
+I was about to give expression to my chagrin at this discovery, when a
+warning "Sh!" from one of my sturdy supporters induced me to be silent.
+Some one was approaching the house, and hastily clambering down from my
+perch, we hid ourselves under the stoop which led up to the front door.
+Scarcely had we ensconced ourselves in this convenient shelter when we
+heard the footsteps of the new-comer, and to our satisfaction, he
+stopped in front of the house, and ascending the steps rang the bell and
+in a short time was admitted.
+
+By this time we were drenched to the skin--the rain had fallen in
+copious showers and during all the time we had been exposed to its
+dampening influences--but paying but little heed to this, we again took
+our position in front of the window, and I was soon remounted upon the
+shoulders of my operatives, prepared to take notes of what transpired.
+
+As the visitor entered the parlor and seated himself awaiting the
+appearance of the lady of the house, I immediately recognized him as an
+officer of the regular army, whom I had met that day for the first time.
+He was a Captain of infantry and was in command of one of the stations
+of the Provost-Marshal, and not desiring to divulge the real name of the
+gentleman, who has since died, I will call him Captain Ellison.
+
+He was a tall, handsome man of a commanding figure and about forty years
+of age. He had removed his cloak, and as he sat there in his blue
+uniform, and in the full glare of the gaslight, he looked a veritable
+ideal soldier. As I watched him closely, however, I noticed that there
+was a troubled, restless look upon his face; he appeared ill at ease and
+shifted nervously upon his chair, as though impatient for the entrance
+of his hostess. In a few moments Mrs. Greenhow entered and cordially
+greeted her visitor, who acknowledged her salutations with a courtly
+bow, while his face lighted up with pleasure as he gazed upon her.
+
+Just at this moment I again received a warning from my supporters, and
+hastily jumping to the ground, we hid ourselves until the pedestrians
+had passed out of sight and hearing. When I resumed my station the
+Captain and Mrs. Greenhow were seated at a table in the rear part of the
+room, and their conversation was carried on in such low tones that, in
+consequence of the storm that was still raging, I could not catch but
+fragmentary sentences. At last, however, accustoming myself to the
+noise, I heard enough to convince me that this trusted officer was then
+and there engaged in betraying his country, and furnishing to his
+treasonably-inclined companion such information regarding the
+disposition of our troops as he possessed.
+
+Presently, he took from an inner pocket of his coat a map which, as he
+held it up before the light, I imagined that I could identify as a plan
+of the fortifications in and around Washington, and which also
+designated a contemplated plan of attack.
+
+My blood boiled with indignation as I witnessed this scene, and I longed
+to rush into the room and strangle the miscreant where he sat, but I
+dared not utter a word, and was compelled to stand by, with the rain
+pouring down upon me, and silently witness this traitorous proceeding.
+
+After watching their movements for some time, during which they would
+frequently refer to the map before them, as though pointing out
+particular points or positions, I was again compelled to hide myself
+under the shelter of the convenient stoop, and when I resumed my
+position the room was empty. The delectable couple had disappeared. I
+waited impatiently for more than an hour, taking occasional glimpses
+into the room and watching for their re-appearance. At the end of that
+time they re-entered the parlor arm in arm, and again took their seats.
+
+Again came the warning voice, and again I hastily descended, and as the
+retreating figures disappeared in the distance, I could hear the front
+door open and the step of the traitor Captain above me.
+
+With a whispered good-night, and something that sounded very much like a
+kiss, he descended the steps, and then, without paying any attention to
+the fact that I was without shoes, I started in pursuit of him, and
+through the blinding mist and pelting storms kept him in view as he
+rapidly walked away. It was then about half-past twelve o'clock, and the
+storm evinced no sign of a discontinuance.
+
+I was not sufficiently acquainted with the city at that time to tell in
+what direction he was going, but I determined to ascertain his
+destination before I left him. I was compelled to keep pretty close to
+him, owing to the darkness of the night, and several times I was afraid
+that he would hear the footsteps of the man who accompanied me--mine I
+was confident would not be detected as, in my drenched stockings, I
+crept along as stealthily as a cat. Twice, I imagined that he turned
+around as though suspecting he was followed, but as he did not stop I
+reassured myself and plodded on. I could not, however, disabuse my mind
+of the fear that I had been seen, I could not relax my vigilance, and I
+resolved to take my chances of discovery. I knew who my man was, at all
+events, and now I must ascertain where he was going.
+
+As we reached the corner of Pennsylvania avenue and Fifteenth street I
+imagined that I saw a revolver glistening in his hand, but it was too
+dark for me to determine that fact with any degree of certainty. At this
+point he passed a guard on duty, and quickly passed into a building
+immediately in advance of me.
+
+This movement was so unexpected, that I had no time to turn back, and I
+was so close to him that it would have been very unwise to have done so,
+but I was more surprised when, as I reached the building into which the
+Captain had disappeared, I was suddenly confronted by four armed
+soldiers, who rushed suddenly out upon me, with fixed bayonets pointed
+at my breast.
+
+"Halt, or I fire!" called out the officer of the guard.
+
+[Illustration: "_Halt, or I fire!_" P. 260.]
+
+Realizing that an attempt at resistance or escape would be both foolish
+and useless, I attempted to make an explanation. All to no purpose,
+however. I informed them that I had been out late and had lost my way,
+but they refused to listen, and ordered my companion and myself to march
+at once into the guard-house. I endeavored to make the best of my
+misfortune, and entering the building we seated ourselves and awaited
+developments.
+
+After waiting for about half an hour, I was informed that my presence
+was required by the Captain; and the guard conducted me up-stairs to his
+room. As I entered, I found myself face to face with Captain Ellison,
+who was pacing excitedly up and down the floor; stopping immediately in
+front of me, he glared fiercely at me for some minutes without uttering
+a word.
+
+I was a sorry figure to look at, and as I surveyed my weather-soaked and
+mud-stained garments, and my bare feet, I could scarcely repress a
+laugh, although I was deeply angered at the sudden and unexpected turn
+affairs had taken.
+
+"What is your name?" imperatively inquired the Captain, after he had
+fully recovered himself, and had taken his seat at a table which stood
+in the room.
+
+"E. J. Allen," I replied.
+
+"What is your business?"
+
+"I have nothing further to say," I coolly replied, "and I decline to
+answer any further questions."
+
+"Ah!" said the Captain, "so you are not going to speak. Very well, sir,
+we will see what time will bring forth."
+
+He endeavored to impress me with his importance and played restlessly
+with the handles of two revolvers that lay before him on the table, but
+I saw too plainly through his bravado, and I knew that the scoundrel was
+really alarmed.
+
+Finding that he could not compel me to answer his questions, he turned
+to the sergeant and ordered:
+
+"Take this man to the guard-house, but allow no one whatever to converse
+with him; we will attend further to his case in the morning."
+
+I made a profound bow to the discomfited officer as I departed, to which
+he replied with an oath, and then I was conducted down-stairs and placed
+among the other prisoners.
+
+I found myself in a mixed and incongruous assembly indeed. Most of my
+fellow-prisoners were stupidly drunk, and lay about the floor like logs;
+others were laughing and singing, while some were indulging in wild
+threats against the men who arrested them. Here I found my companion,
+who, representing himself as a Southern man had already become
+acquainted with two secessionists, who were laughing and talking about
+what they would have to tell when they obtained their release. He soon
+ingratiated himself with these men, and before daylight had obtained
+from them a revelation of certain matters that subsequently proved of
+great value to us in our operations.
+
+As for myself, my feelings can better be imagined than described.
+Inwardly chafing against the unfortunate and disagreeable position in
+which I found myself, I was deeply concerned regarding the situation of
+affairs at the residence of Mrs. Greenhow. I had given no definite
+orders to my men, and they would be doubtful as to what course to pursue
+until they heard from me, and here was I a prisoner in the hands of the
+man against whom I had grave charges to prefer, and whom I had detected
+in treasonable correspondence. Added to this, my wet garments and the
+cold atmosphere of the room in which I was confined, affected me with a
+degree of chilliness that was distressing in the utmost. I shook like an
+aspen, and my teeth for a time chattered like castanets. It may be
+imagined that the hilarity of my fellow-prisoners had but little charm
+for me, until at length one of the guards very kindly brought me a
+blanket and an overcoat, which I wrapped about me, and soon began to
+feel more comfortable.
+
+Despite the aggravating circumstances under which I suffered, I could
+not refrain from smiling at the ridiculous appearance I must have
+presented as I stood before the irate Captain who had caused my arrest.
+My hat was battered down over my face, and my clothing was spattered
+with mud from head to foot, and were dripping with water as I stood
+there. One might more readily imagine that I had been fished out of the
+Potomac than that I was the chief of the secret service of the
+government, in the performance of duty.
+
+By the Captain's orders I was prevented from conversing with my
+fellow-prisoners, so I turned my attention to the guard. My chief desire
+was to apprise Mr. Scott of my captivity, as early as possible, in order
+that my release could be effected without unnecessary delay, and I
+therefore applied myself to the entertainment of my jailer.
+
+The soldier who had charge of me I soon found to be a jolly,
+kind-hearted fellow, and I amused him immensely by relating some
+ridiculous anecdotes which I had heard, and before the time came for him
+to be relieved I had entirely won his favor.
+
+Seizing a favorable opportunity I asked him if he would deliver a note
+for me after his time for standing guard had expired, at the same time
+offering to repay him for his trouble. To this he readily assented, and
+by the dim light afforded us I managed to scribble a few hasty lines to
+the Assistant Secretary of War, informing him of my imprisonment, and
+requesting him to order my release as soon as possible, and in a manner
+which would not excite the suspicion of Captain Ellison.
+
+At about six o'clock the guards were changed, and my messenger departed
+upon his mission. He was fortunate enough to find the servants of Mr.
+Scott astir, and informing them that his message was of extreme public
+importance, he had it delivered to the Secretary in his chamber at once.
+At seven o'clock the guard returned, and coming to the door, he
+conversed a few minutes with the soldier who had succeeded him, when I
+called out:
+
+"How is the weather outside?"
+
+"All right, sir!" replied the man, with a sly wink, and then I knew that
+my note had been safely delivered, and my liberation simply a question
+of time.
+
+At about half-past eight o'clock the sergeant of the guard came to the
+door with a paper in his hand, and called out:
+
+"E. J. Allen and William Ascot!"
+
+Ascot was the name of my operative who had been arrested with me, and
+with whom I had not exchanged a word since I had been imprisoned. We
+responded to our names, and following the sergeant, were again taken to
+the room occupied by Captain Ellison.
+
+"The Secretary of War has been informed of your arrest, and you will be
+conducted to him at once, and then we shall see whether you will remain
+silent any longer."
+
+The manner of the Captain was imperious and commanding, and I laughed to
+myself as I thought of the possible result of our interview with the
+Secretary. The Captain led the way, and in the company of four soldiers,
+we left the place, arriving in a few minutes at the residence of Mr.
+Scott. He was awaiting our arrival, and as we entered the room he
+ordered the guard to release me, and directed me to accompany him to his
+room. I followed him immediately, and as the door closed behind us, he
+burst into a hearty laugh at my uncouth and unkempt appearance. I was a
+sorry spectacle indeed, and as I surveyed myself in the mirror, I joined
+in his merriment, for a more realistic picture of a "drowned rat" I
+never beheld.
+
+I at once detailed what had transpired on the preceding night, and as I
+related the interview which I had witnessed between Captain Ellison and
+Mrs. Greenhow, his brow became clouded, and starting to his feet, he
+paced the room rapidly and excitedly.
+
+"Mrs. Greenhow must be attended to. She is becoming a dangerous
+character. You will therefore maintain your watch upon her, and should
+she be detected in attempting to convey any information outside of the
+lines, she must be arrested at once. And now we will attend to Captain
+Ellison."
+
+Tapping a bell which stood upon his table, he ordered:
+
+"Request Captain Ellison to come here."
+
+As the Captain made his appearance, he seemed to be very ill at ease,
+and gazed searchingly at Mr. Scott and myself, as though he suspected
+something was wrong.
+
+"Captain," said Mr. Scott, addressing him, "will you give me the
+particulars of the arrest of this man?" pointing to me.
+
+The Captain answered that he had gone to visit some friends, who resided
+in the outskirts of the city, in the evening, and on returning at a
+late hour, he had noticed that he was being followed, and supposing me
+to be a foot-pad or a burglar, had ordered my arrest.
+
+"Did you see any one last evening who is inimical to the cause of the
+government?"
+
+The Captain became flushed and nervous under this direct question. He
+darted a quick glance at me, and after hesitating for some moments he
+answered in a faltering voice:
+
+"No, sir; I have seen no person of that character."
+
+"Are you quite sure of that?" sternly inquired Mr. Scott.
+
+"I am, sir."
+
+"In that case, Captain, you will please consider yourself under arrest,
+and you will at once surrender your sword to Captain Mehaffy."
+
+The Captain was completely unmanned as these words fell from the lips of
+the Secretary, and sinking into a chair, he buried his face in his
+hands, seemingly overcome by his emotions.
+
+But little remains to be told. Captain Ellison was arrested, and a
+search among his effects discovered sufficient evidence to prove that he
+was engaged in furnishing information to the enemy, and he was confined
+for more than a year in Fort McHenry. He was finally released but broken
+in spirit and in health, and fully realizing the disgrace he had
+brought upon himself, he died shortly afterward.
+
+After leaving the residence of Mr. Scott, I took a carriage and went
+directly to my headquarters, and dispatched new men to relieve those who
+had been on duty all night, and who had been so anxious for my safety
+that they had sent several times to make inquiries, and who were unable
+to account for my absence. They had, I was rejoiced to learn, taken care
+to recover my shoes, which I was afraid would be found by some one
+connected with the house, and thus lead to the suspicion that the
+premises were the object of espionage.
+
+We continued our watching of the premises, and during its continuance a
+number of prominent gentlemen were received by the fascinating widow,
+and among the number were several earnest and sincere Senators and
+Representatives, whose loyalty was above question, and who were,
+perhaps, in entire ignorance of the lady's true character.
+
+Almost every evening one particular individual was observed to call at
+the house, and his visits invariably were of long duration. He was
+therefore made the object of especial attention by me, and in a short
+time I succeeded in learning his true character, and the nature of the
+business which he followed. Ostensibly an attorney, I ascertained that
+he was undoubtedly engaged in the vocation of a Southern spy, and that
+he had a number of men and women under him by whom the information was
+forwarded to the rebel authorities. This gentleman, therefore, found
+himself, in a very few days, a prisoner of war.
+
+About eight days after this, orders were given for the arrest of Mrs.
+Greenhow herself. She was confined in her own house, and all her papers
+were seized and handed over to the custody of the Department of War. The
+intention of the government was to treat her as humanely and
+considerately as possible, but disdaining all offers of kindness or
+courtesy, the lady was discovered on several occasions attempting to
+send messages to her rebel friends, and finally her removal to the Old
+Capitol prison was ordered, and she was conveyed there, where she was
+imprisoned for several months. After this she was conveyed across the
+lines, and reached in safety the rebel capital, where she was greeted by
+the more congenial spirits of rebeldom.
+
+Mrs. Greenhow afterwards went to Europe, in some trustworthy capacity
+for the Confederacy, and while there was noted for her bitter animosity
+to the Union, and her vituperation of Northern men and measures, but
+retribution may be said to have followed her, and some time subsequent
+to this, having returned again to the South, she made her way to
+Charleston, S. C., from thence she took passage upon a blockade-runner,
+upon some secret mission for the Confederacy. Her person was loaded down
+with gold, which was packed in a belt close to her body. After passing
+Fort Sumter, a severe storm arose, and the little vessel began to pitch
+and roll in the angry waters, which swept in huge waves over her deck.
+Mrs. Greenhow was, I was since informed, washed over-board, and the
+weight upon her person carried her down and she was lost. No trace of
+her was ever afterwards discovered.
+
+[Illustration: A FEMALE SPY.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+_Timothy Webster in Baltimore.--An Encounter with a Fire-eater.--Webster
+Defends Himself.--Treason Rampant in the Monumental City._
+
+
+The city of Baltimore at this time was also under military rule. It was
+garrisoned by United States troops, commanded successively by Butler,
+Banks and Dix, for the purpose of enforcing respect and obedience to the
+laws, and of presenting any violations of order within its limits, by
+the malignant and traitorous element of the people. Marshal Kane, the
+Chief of Police, as well as the active members of the police
+commissioners, were arrested and held in custody at Fort McHenry,
+because of the alleged encouragement and protection which were given to
+those unlawful combinations of men who were secretly aiding in numerous
+ways the people at war with the government. General Banks appointed a
+Provost-Marshal for the proper execution of the laws, in conjunction
+with the subordinate officers of the police department. This condition
+of things was of course a direct result of the great riot of the 19th of
+April, and the intention was to curb those mutinous spirits, whose
+passions otherwise would have led them into committing all sorts of
+crimes and outrages against the government. Notwithstanding these
+measures, however, the disturbing element was not by any means passive
+and inert, although appearances may have warranted such a conclusion.
+Secret bands of conspirators were still in existence, and were working
+assiduously for the advancement of the Southern cause.
+
+By direction of General McClellan, I sent several of my best operatives
+to Baltimore, chief among whom was Timothy Webster, with whom the others
+were to co-operate whenever their assistance were required by him. The
+principal object in this was to enable Webster to associate with the
+secessionists of that city, and by becoming familiar and popular with
+them, to pave his way for an early trip into the rebel lines.
+
+During his residence in Baltimore he was directed to represent himself
+as a gentleman of means and leisure, and to enable him the better to
+carry out this idea, I provided him with a span of fine horses and a
+carriage, for his own pleasure. He made his home at Miller's Hotel,
+lived in good style, and in his own irresistible way he set about
+establishing himself in the good graces of a large number of people, of
+that class whose confidence it was desirable to obtain. This task was
+made comparatively easy by the fact that he already had numerous
+acquaintances in the city, who introduced him about with great
+enthusiasm, representing him to be--as they really believed he was--a
+gentleman whose whole heart and soul was in the cause of the South.
+Thus, by easy stages, he soon reached the distinction of being the
+center and principal figure of an admiring crowd. Before a week had
+elapsed he had become a quietly-recognized leader in the clique with
+which he associated, and soon regarded as a man of superior judgment and
+power in all matters relating to political and state affairs.
+
+During fair weather he would frequently drive out with one or more of
+his friends, and his handsome equipage became well known on the streets,
+and at the race-course. He was introduced into the houses of many warm
+sympathizers with the South, and by his agreeable and fascinating
+manners he became a favorite with the female members of the family.
+Through all, he was apparently an earnest and consistent advocate of
+Southern rights, never overdoing the matter by any exhibition of
+strained excitement or loud avowals, but always conversing on the
+subject with an air of calm conviction, using the strongest arguments he
+could invent in support of his pretended views. In compliance with the
+request of many of his Southern friends, he and John Scully, another of
+my operatives, went to a photograph gallery one day and had their
+pictures taken, holding a large Confederate flag between them, while
+Webster wore the rebel hat which the doughty Dr. Burton had presented to
+him in Memphis.
+
+During all this time Webster was gathering information from every
+quarter concerning the secret plots and movements of the disloyal
+citizens, and promptly conveying it to me, and for this purpose he made
+frequent trips to Washington for verbal instructions, and to report in
+person the success of his operations. Sometimes he would be accompanied
+by one or more of his intimate associates, and these occasions were not
+without profit, for when thus accompanied, although necessarily
+prevented from reaching my office, he was enabled to increase his
+acquaintance with the traitorous element of Washington, and finally was
+enabled to unmask several guilty ones whose loyalty had never been
+impeached or suspected.
+
+Once, on returning to Baltimore, after a longer absence than usual, his
+friends greeted him warmly.
+
+"By Jove, Webster, we had begun to think you were in trouble," one of
+them exclaimed.
+
+"No danger of that," was the laughing response. "I have no intention of
+being trapped before I fulfill my mission. I have some valuable work to
+do for the Southern Confederacy before the Yankees can get the upper
+hand of me."
+
+They were in a saloon--a favorite rendezvous of these men--and Webster
+was in the midst of his crowd. He was telling them about some imaginary
+"points" which he had picked up in Washington, and assuring them he
+would in some manner transmit the information he had received to the
+rebel commanders before he was a week older. While thus entertaining his
+hearers, his attention was attracted by a man who entered the saloon
+with a swaggering gait, his hands in his pockets, and his hat tipped
+over one side of his head. He knew this man as a ruffian and bully of
+the worst stripe, Bill Zigler, and one of the ringleaders of the mob
+that had attacked the Union troops on the 19th of April; consequently,
+he entertained a wholesome contempt for the fellow, and avoided him as
+much as possible.
+
+He was much surprised when the new-comer stopped in the middle of the
+room, and exclaimed, gruffly:
+
+"Hello, Webster! You're _here_, are you? By G--d, I've been looking for
+you!"
+
+Webster turned toward him a look of surprised inquiry.
+
+"Did you speak to me, sir?" he asked, quietly.
+
+"Yes, I spoke to you, sir!" mimicked Bill Zigler, in a bullying voice.
+"I say I've been lookin' for you, and when I've spoke my piece I reckon
+this town will be too hot to hold you many hours longer."
+
+"I don't understand you," protested Webster.
+
+"Ha! ha! ha!" laughed the ruffian, a glitter of triumph and hatred in
+his eyes. "You've been playin' it fine on the boys here for the last
+three weeks, but d--n you, I'll spoil your little game!"
+
+"What do you mean?" demanded Webster, his anger beginning to rise. "You
+speak in riddles."
+
+"I'll tell you what I mean!" blustered the bully. "Gentlemen," turning
+toward the crowd, and pointing his finger toward the detective; "that
+man is leagued with the Yankees, and comes among you as a spy."
+
+There was a general start of astonishment, and Webster himself was
+dumfounded.
+
+"Oh, nonsense, Zigler," spoke up one of the men, after a death-like
+silence of several moments. "You must be drunk to make such an assertion
+as that. There is not a better Southern man in Baltimore than Mr.
+Webster."
+
+"I am as sober as the soberest man here," declared Zigler; "and I reckon
+I know what I am talking about. I saw that fellow in Washington
+yesterday."
+
+"I can well believe that you saw me in Washington yesterday," said
+Webster, quietly, "for I certainly was there. I have just been telling
+these gentlemen what I saw and heard while there."
+
+"Maybe you have, but I'll bet ten dollars you didn't tell 'em that you
+had a conversation with the _chief of the detective force_ while you
+were there!"
+
+Webster, it must be admitted, was wholly unprepared for this, but he
+realized in an instant that the bully's insinuation must be denied and
+overcome. With an assumption of uncontrollable rage he cried out "You
+are a liar and a scoundrel!"
+
+[Illustration: "_The man reeled half way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables._" P. 277.]
+
+"I am, eh?" hissed Zigler through his clenched teeth, and before any one
+could make a movement to restrain him he sprang furiously toward
+Webster.
+
+Quick as was this movement, however, Webster was prepared for him. Like
+a flash of lightning his fist flew straight out from the shoulder,
+striking the ruffian between the eyes, with a force that would have
+felled an ox. The man reeled half-way across the room, and fell
+prostrate between two tables.
+
+With a roar like that of a baffled beast, Zigler gathered himself up and
+rushed at Webster, flourishing above his head a murderous-looking knife.
+But, as if by magic, a revolver appeared in the detective's hand, the
+muzzle of which covered his adversary's heart.
+
+"Stop!" cried Webster, in a tone of stern command. "Hold your distance,
+you miserable cur, or your blood will be upon your own head!"
+
+Zigler involuntarily recoiled. The frowning muzzle of the pistol, the
+unmistakable meaning of those words, and the deadly purpose expressed in
+the cold, calm face before him, were too much even for his boasted
+bravery. He turned pale and drew back, muttering and growling.
+
+"Coward!" exclaimed Webster, "if I served you right I would shoot you
+down like a dog; and I am afraid I can't resist the temptation to do so
+anyway, if you don't immediately leave the room. Go! and in future be
+careful who you accuse of being in league with the accursed Yankees."
+
+By this time a number of the other men had recovered from their
+astonishment, and they immediately joined their threats to those of
+Webster, commanding Zigler to leave the saloon at once, if he desired to
+"save his bacon."
+
+Zigler did not dare to disobey. Sullenly putting up his knife, and
+muttering curses on the whole crowd, he slunk out, stopping at the door
+long enough to glance back at Webster, with the exclamation:
+
+"I'll fix you yet, d--n you!"
+
+When he was gone, Webster said:
+
+"I cannot conceive what that fellow has against me, that he should try
+to defame my character by such an accusation."
+
+Several of the men broke into a derisive laugh.
+
+"I'd as soon suspect Jeff Davis of being a Yankee spy," said one, with a
+boisterous guffaw.
+
+"Lord, Webster," spoke up another, "you needn't calculate that anything
+that fellow can say is going to injure you with the people here."
+
+"I reckon Zigler is mad because you won't clique in with him and his
+gang," said a third. "Nobody takes any stock in him. It would have been
+considered a good riddance if your pistol had gone off while it covered
+his heart. Bah! he isn't worth a thought. Come, boys, let's licker."
+
+And the affair ended in a witty cross-fire of jokes, frequent explosions
+of hearty laughter, and numerous bumpers of sparkling wine.
+
+So far from proving disastrous to Webster or his mission, this little
+episode with Bill Zigler rather elevated him in the estimation of his
+companions. The neat knock-down with which he had met the bully's
+unprovoked assault; his air of virtuous indignation in resenting the
+imputation of disloyalty to the South, and the manner in which he had
+defeated and put to flight a man who was much feared among his fellows,
+only won for him new laurels, and caused him to be regarded as brave as
+he was loyal. His intimate acquaintances reposed such firm faith in him,
+that not one of them entertained for a moment the thought that there
+might possibly be a grain of justice in Zigler's accusation.
+
+One morning, not long after this little episode, Webster left his hotel
+to walk down town, when he noticed that there was some unusual
+excitement on the streets. On every corner on Baltimore street, from the
+Exchange office, large numbers of men were standing in groups, evidently
+absorbed in some particular topic of conversation.
+
+While wondering what all this meant, the detective was accosted by a man
+named Sam Sloan, one of the most faithful of his adherents.
+
+"Webster, I was just going up to see you. Have you heard the news?"
+
+"I have heard nothing, Sam," was the reply. "Is there a new sensation
+this morning?"
+
+"Another of Lincoln's outrages," said Sloan, with an indignant oath.
+"Major Brown, Ross Winans, and several others were arrested last night,
+and taken to Fort McHenry."
+
+"What for?"
+
+"For no other purpose, I suppose, than to break up the election, which
+is to take place next month."
+
+"But how can that interfere with the election?"
+
+"By making us all afraid to go to the polls, or speak our minds."
+
+The two walked down the street together, and dropped into a drug store,
+which was known as one of the resorts of the unterrified. There they
+found a number of men conversing somewhat excitedly. The proprietor, a
+Mr. Rogers, turned toward the new-comers and said:
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Webster; we were just talking over last night's
+proceedings."
+
+"It beats anything I ever heard of," said Webster, warmly. "But what can
+we do?"
+
+"Nothing just now," returned Rogers; "but I think there will soon be a
+time when we will have a chance to do something. In the meantime,
+gentlemen, we must make up our minds to say nothing. We have all been
+too free with our tongues. Hereafter, we must keep mum, or we will all
+get into Fort McHenry."
+
+"We must just lay low, and wait till Jeff crosses the Potomac," said one
+of the loungers.
+
+"If we only had arms," said Webster, musingly.
+
+"Arms!" echoed Rogers; "why, sir, we have from five to six thousand
+stand of arms right here in Baltimore."
+
+"That may be true," said Webster, "but nobody seems to know where they
+are."
+
+"I am satisfied they will turn up at the right time," said Rogers.
+"Marshal Kane, before he was arrested, put them in the hands of men who
+will take good care of them until they are wanted."
+
+"And let us hope they will be wanted inside of two weeks," put in Sloan.
+"We can afford to be quiet now, boys, but when the Southern army comes
+this way, we'll rise ten thousand strong, and help take Washington."
+
+The opinion seemed to have fixed itself in the minds of nearly all the
+Southern sympathizers in the city, that in a very brief space of time,
+three or four weeks at the utmost limit, Baltimore would be occupied by
+rebel soldiers, and Jeff Davis would be there in person.
+
+"One thing is certain," said Webster, firmly. "If this thing goes on
+much longer, there will be a general uprising one of these days, and the
+streets of Baltimore will run with blood a thousand times worse than
+they did on the 19th of April."
+
+"You are right, there," said Rogers; "but for heaven's sake don't let
+any one outside of your circle hear you use that expression, or you will
+be the next one in limbo."
+
+"If they want me, now is their time," replied the detective, with a
+smile, "for I have made up my mind to undertake a journey down into
+southern Maryland and Virginia, at an early day."
+
+"The devil you have! You will find that a difficult and dangerous
+undertaking."
+
+"Nevertheless, I shall attempt it. I find that if I can make the trip
+successfully I may be of service to some of our people here, by carrying
+letters and messages to their friends and relatives, with whom they are
+unable to communicate in any other way."
+
+Webster made this intention known to all of his associates, and gave
+them to understand that he desired to sell his horses and carriage
+before leaving. The sale was accomplished in a manner that seemed
+legitimate enough to all, though it was a mere pretense. One of my
+operatives, whom I sent to Baltimore for that purpose, made a sham
+purchase of the team and turned it over to me in Washington.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+_Webster Makes a Journey to the South.--A Secret Organization.--The
+"Knights of Liberty."--Webster Becomes a Member.--A Sudden Intrusion of
+the Military.--The Conspiracy Broken Up._
+
+
+In accordance with my instructions, Webster commenced his tour through
+southern Maryland, on Thursday, September 26th. He was accompanied by
+John Scully, who had been assisting him in his Baltimore operations, and
+they followed a line of travel which I laid out for them. Taking passage
+on the steamboat "Mary Washington," they baffled the officers who
+stopped them by showing a pass issued by the Provost-Marshal of
+Baltimore, and were soon steaming down the Chesapeake toward Fair Haven,
+which was their pretended destination. Arriving at that point they went
+ashore, and proceeded to the village of Friendship. From there they
+worked their way south-west to Prince Frederick, then across the Big
+Patuxent to Bendict, from which place they proceeded to Charlotte Hall,
+and thence on foot to Leonardtown, a distance of twenty miles. At the
+last-named place they found Wm. H. Scott, another of my operatives,
+awaiting them, and were accompanied by him during the remainder of the
+journey.
+
+A number of messages, written and verbal, which had been intrusted to
+Webster by his Baltimore associates, were delivered at various points on
+the route, thus enabling them to form the acquaintance of certain
+secessionists who were men of prominence and influence in their
+respective neighborhoods, and who in turn provided them with letters of
+introduction to others of like ilk further on. Through this medium they
+secured attention and hospitality wherever they stopped, and had the
+advantage of valuable advice and assistance in the matter of pursuing
+their journey safely.
+
+They represented themselves to be rebel sympathizers on their way to the
+Potomac, for the purpose of finding a safe place where goods could be
+shipped across the river into Virginia. They were frequently cautioned
+to be very careful, as there were Union soldiers stationed all along the
+river, and people whose hearts were with the South were not permitted to
+express their sentiments with impunity. They penetrated as far as a
+point called Allen's Fresh, and deciding that they had gained all the
+information that could be picked up in that part of the country, they
+returned to Washington and reported to me.
+
+When Webster re-appeared on the streets of Baltimore, after completing
+this trip, he was more than ever lionized by his numerous friends who
+were in the secret of his Southern journey, and its supposed object. By
+endangering his life in the Southern cause, as it was believed he had
+done, he had made himself a hero in the eyes of the traitors who were
+attached to him.
+
+"Are you still keeping mum?" he asked, as he stood in the center of a
+group at Dickinson's billiard hall, adjoining the Exchange.
+
+"Those who have any regard for their personal safety are doing so,"
+replied Rogers; "and I think the majority of the boys have learned that
+lesson. Baltimore is comparatively quiet now. Only one man has been
+arrested since you left, and we have hopes that he will be released."
+
+"Who is he?"
+
+"A man from Washington. He was fool enough to think he could talk as he
+pleased in Baltimore."
+
+"By the way," remarked some one present, "Webster must join our----"
+
+"Sh," cautioned Dave Dickinson, the proprietor of the billiard room.
+"Have you no more sense than to reveal yourself _here_? Remember that
+your lips are sealed by an oath on that subject."
+
+There was a moment's silence; Webster looked from one to another, and
+noticed that an air of mystery had settled upon every countenance
+present.
+
+"What's this?" he demanded with a laugh. "Is it a conspiracy to betray
+me into the hands of the enemy?"
+
+"Not exactly," replied Dickinson, whose laugh was echoed by the crowd.
+"Sloan, you will give Mr. Webster his cue when a favorable opportunity
+occurs. We want him with us, by all means."
+
+Webster's curiosity was satisfied an hour later, when he and Sam Sloan
+walked toward Miller's Hotel together.
+
+"The fact is," said Sam, in a guarded tone, "since you went away we've
+formed a secret organization."
+
+"A secret organization?"
+
+"Yes; and we have held several meetings."
+
+"Is it a success?"
+
+"A perfect success. Some of the best in town are among our members. We
+may be forced to keep silent, but, by Heaven! they can't compel us to
+remain idle. We are well organized, and we mean undying opposition to a
+tyrannical government. I tell you, Webster, _we will not down_!"
+
+"Never!" responded Webster, copying the boastful tone and bearing of his
+companion. "It does not lie in the power of these white-livered Yankees
+to make slaves of Southern men! I should like to become a member of your
+society, Sloan."
+
+"They all want you," said Sloan, eagerly. "They passed a resolution to
+that effect at the last meeting. They want the benefit of your counsel
+and influence."
+
+"What is your society called?"
+
+"The Knights of Liberty."
+
+"When will your next meeting be held?"
+
+"To-night."
+
+"So soon?"
+
+"And you are expected to attend. Have you any objections?"
+
+"None whatever. But how will I get there?"
+
+"I am delegated to be your escort," replied Sloan.
+
+"What is your hour of meeting?"
+
+"Twelve o'clock."
+
+"Ah, a midnight affair. All right, Sam; you'll find me waiting for you
+at the hotel."
+
+Here they separated. Webster realized that quite an important period in
+his Baltimore experience was opening up before him, and that all his
+detective skill would probably be called into play to foil a band of
+conspirators. How to thwart the schemes of these Knights of Liberty,
+whose purpose, as he understood, was to assist in the overthrow of the
+Government of the United States, was now the question to be solved.
+
+He did not, however, attempt to form any plans at this time, but waited
+for such developments as he had no doubt would be made that night. He
+resolved to learn the nature of the plots that were in existence, before
+he commenced counterplotting.
+
+Promptly at eleven o'clock Sam Sloan put in an appearance at the hotel,
+and he and Webster proceeded toward the place of meeting. The night was
+dark and stormy, just the right sort of night, Webster thought, for the
+concocting of hellish plots and the performance of evil deeds.
+
+    "That night, a chiel might understand,
+    The Deil had business on his hand."
+
+The stars were hidden from view by masses of flying clouds; the wind
+whistled shrilly through the trees and spires; while the deep,
+threatening murmurs of distant thunder were accompanied by fitful
+flashes of lightning, which illumined the scene with a weird, quivering
+light. Few shops were open in the localities through which they passed.
+Occasionally a light was seen struggling through the screened window of
+a saloon, and the sound of midnight orgies within indicated that
+business had not been suspended there; but elsewhere all was dark and
+still.
+
+Sloan led the way to a remote quarter of the city, and into a street
+which bore a particularly bad reputation. Here he stopped, and said:
+
+"I must blindfold you, Webster, before proceeding further. This is a
+rule of the order which cannot, under any circumstances, be departed
+from."
+
+Webster submitted quietly, while a thick bandage was placed over his
+eyes and securely fastened. Then Sloan took him by the arm and led him
+forward.
+
+Blindfolded as he was, he knew that they turned suddenly into an
+alleyway, and he also knew when they passed through a gate, which Sloan
+closed behind them. He rightly conjectured that they were now in a sort
+of paved court, in the rear of a building.
+
+"Come this way and make no noise," whispered Sloan.
+
+The next moment the latter knocked on a door with a low, peculiar rap,
+that was like a signal. Immediately a guarded voice on the inside was
+heard:
+
+"Are you white?"
+
+"Down with the blacks!" responded Sloan.
+
+Nothing more was said. A chain clanked inside, a bolt shot back, and the
+door creaked on its hinges as it swung open.
+
+Webster was led through, and he and his conductor began to ascend a
+flight of stairs, so thickly carpeted that they emitted no sound from
+the footsteps upon them.
+
+At the head of the stairs they were again accosted:
+
+"Halt! Who comes there?"
+
+"Long live Jeff Davis," muttered Sloan.
+
+Passing on through another door, they found themselves in a small,
+square apartment, although, so far as Webster was concerned, there was
+no ocular proof of this. There seemed to be several persons here, and a
+voice, that was evidently meant to be tragical and impressive,
+demanded:
+
+"Whom have we here?"
+
+"Most Noble Chief," said Sloan, humbly, "I have a friend in charge, who
+wishes to become a worthy member of this league."
+
+"His name?"
+
+"Timothy Webster."
+
+"Have the objects of the league been fully explained to him?"
+
+"They have."
+
+The gruff-voiced speaker then said:
+
+"Mr. Webster, is it your desire to become a member of this knightly
+band?"
+
+"It is," responded the detective, firmly.
+
+There was a sound as of a number of swords leaping from their scabbards,
+and the clank and ring of the steel as the blades seemed to meet above
+his head. Then the Grand Chief continued:
+
+"You will now kneel upon one knee, and place your right hand upon your
+heart, while I administer to you the binding obligation of our
+brotherhood."
+
+Webster did as he was directed, and in this attitude repeated the
+following oath, as it was dictated to him:
+
+"I, Timothy Webster, citizen of Baltimore, having been informed of the
+objects of this association, and being in full accord with the cause
+which it seeks to advance, do solemnly declare and affirm, upon my
+sacred honor, that I will keep forever secret all that I may see or
+hear, in consequence of being a member of this league; that I will
+implicitly obey all orders, and faithfully discharge all duties assigned
+to me, no matter of what nature or character they may be; and that life
+or death will be held subordinate to the success and advancement of the
+cause of the Confederacy and the defeat of the bloody tyrants who are
+striving to rule by oppression and terrorism. Should I fail in the
+proper performance of any task imposed upon me, or should I prove
+unfaithful to the obligations I have here assumed, may I suffer the
+severest penalty for treason and cowardice, as well as the odium and
+contempt of my brother knights."
+
+The swords clanked again as they were returned to their scabbards, and
+the new-made member, having taken the oath, was commanded to rise. He
+did so in silence, and the bandage was removed from his eyes.
+
+At first the light of the room almost blinded him, but his eyes soon
+became accustomed to the change, and he looked about him with some
+curiosity. He found that he was in the presence of seven stalwart men,
+besides Sloan, all of whom wore swords at their sides, dark cloaks
+drooping from their shoulders, and black masks upon their faces. The
+masks, however, were now removed, and Webster discovered, to his relief,
+that they were all familiar to him.
+
+"Mr. Webster," said the Chief, dropping his tragic tone of voice,
+"without further ceremony, I pronounce you a Knight of Liberty. I greet
+you heartily;" and then, extending his hand--"Come with me."
+
+As they emerged into the main council-chamber, Webster quietly examined
+his surroundings. It was a spacious apartment, very plain in its
+appointments, with a low ceiling and bare walls, and furnished with
+chairs arranged in rows around the room. At the head of the hall was a
+low platform on which were tables and chairs. Behind these, on the wall,
+were suspended two Confederate flags, artistically draped, above which
+were the initials "K. of L." Some forty men were already assembled, and
+others were quietly dropping in at intervals. Webster noticed that all
+these men were from the better class of citizen secessionists, and that
+the low, rowdy element was not represented. They were mostly men who had
+not thus far been suspected of disloyalty to the Union cause.
+
+The Grand Chief and other officers now took their positions on the
+platform, and Webster was assigned to a seat where he could observe all
+that was said or done.
+
+Presently a clock in the room struck twelve. Instantly all the doors
+opening into the chamber were securely locked, and the secret conclave
+was in session. The Grand Chief rose and opened the meeting in regular
+form; and again, after the secretary had read the journal, made an
+address of some length. At the conclusion of his remarks, some one arose
+and said:
+
+"Most Worthy Chief, I believe we can now claim Mr. Webster as a member
+of this body. I understand that he has just returned from an interesting
+and somewhat dangerous mission, and I now move that he be invited to
+address this meeting relative to his experiences during the journey he
+has just completed."
+
+Webster, taken by surprise, undertook to combat the proposition, but the
+motion was unanimously concurred in, and no excuses were accepted. He
+therefore yielded good-naturedly, and mounting the platform, he
+proceeded to relate some of the particulars of his trip to the Potomac.
+He made the recital as entertaining and agreeable as possible, and
+although his statements did not always possess the merit of being
+strictly true, they were such as could not fail to meet the approval of
+his hearers, and were therefore received with great favor. Concluding
+with a well-timed panegyric on the "faithful" of Baltimore, he resumed
+his seat amid the congratulations of his many admiring friends.
+
+After this, the regular business of the meeting was taken up, in which
+Webster took no other part than that of a close listener and observer.
+Motions were made, resolutions were adopted, and various duties assigned
+to volunteer committees. The proceedings grew more and more interesting
+to the detective as they progressed, and it was not long before he began
+to feel considerable surprise, if not alarm, at the unexpected
+revelations which were made. It became evident to him that these
+conspirators had by some means succeeded in placing themselves in direct
+communication with the Confederate leaders, and that a gigantic plot was
+now in preparation to make a united and irresistible movement against
+Washington. Nearly ten thousand Baltimoreans, it was alleged, were
+prepared to rise in arms at a moment's notice, and join the rebel army,
+whenever such a movement might seem feasible. It appeared, also, that
+the Baltimoreans were not alone in this plot against the government, but
+that branches of their organization existed in a number of the outlying
+towns, and that the secessionists of the entire State were working
+harmoniously together for the accomplishment of one great purpose. There
+was no lack of arms, for these had already been secured, but their place
+of concealment was known only to a few and they were not to be brought
+to light until they should be needed.
+
+The main portion of the plot seemed to be well matured, and was most
+perfect in its details. The arrival of the rebel army in Maryland was
+expected in a very short time, as they had the promises of the Southern
+commanders themselves that they would soon cross the Potomac. Their
+coming was to be the signal for a simultaneous uprising of all the
+secessionists in the Western and Southern portions of the State, who
+were to unite in a movement that could scarcely fail to carry
+everything before it. There were also deep-laid schemes by which the
+Federals were to be kept in ignorance of the real designs of the
+Confederates, until too late to avert the blow.
+
+The extent of the conspiracy rather startled Webster, although some of
+the projects sounded rather visionary, and he made up his mind to
+consult with me at once. Accordingly, the very next day, he proceeded to
+Washington, and was closeted with me for several hours. As soon as he
+had explained the situation, I devised a plan of procedure, and gave him
+full instructions as to the manner in which he should proceed. The great
+object, of course, was to break up the organization, and defeat the
+conspiracy in a manner that would not compromise Webster; but it was not
+deemed prudent to go about this with any inordinate haste.
+
+I advised Webster to continue attending the meetings, in the character
+of an active conspirator; to learn all he could, and report to me as
+often as possible. In the meantime, I would send him two other
+operatives, and he was to secure their admission into the secret
+society, as members thereof. In a week or two the final act in the
+little drama would be introduced by first making a confidant of Mr.
+McPhail, the deputy Provost-Marshal of Baltimore, and then confronting
+the conspirators with a company of armed soldiers.
+
+Webster returned to Baltimore with a clear understanding of the course
+he was to pursue, and he followed that course with the untiring zeal
+with which he performed every duty assigned to him. He attended the
+midnight meetings regularly, and gained much information concerning the
+plans and movements of the Southern commanders, which proved of
+incalculable value to the government. The two operatives soon contrived
+to join the society, not through Webster's recommendation, as that was
+to be avoided, if possible, but by making the acquaintances of men whom
+he pointed out to them, and representing themselves as secessionists who
+were capable of keeping their own counsel.
+
+This done, the rest was comparatively easy. By the rules of the society,
+no one could enter the secret chamber of the conspirators without
+passing two guards, and giving sundry pass-words. These guards were
+appointed by the Chief from those who volunteered for the positions. At
+stated periods, new pass-words were arranged, by which every man was
+required to answer the questions of the guards, and any one who failed
+to commit these to memory sufficiently to satisfy these sentinels that
+he was a member of the society, found himself barred out of the meeting.
+
+Our plan worked to perfection. There came a night when my two operatives
+were on duty, as guards, they having volunteered their services at the
+last preceding meeting. This was the night set apart for the surprise.
+It had been announced that Webster would speak that night, and it had
+been arranged with the guards, that a certain part in his speech should
+be taken as the signal for the grand finale that had been decided upon.
+
+The hour of midnight approached. The old building in which the secret
+conclaves were held was shrouded in silence and darkness. At intervals
+one or more dark figures might have been seen to enter the covered
+archway leading thereto, and pass through the gate into the narrow
+court. Then, one at a time, they approached a certain door, and after a
+signal rap, and a low, muttered conversation with the guards, they
+passed in and ascended the dimly-lighted stairs. Another brief dialogue
+with the inside guard, and they entered the council-chamber, where they
+dropped their mysterious manner, and were ready to answer to their names
+at the calling of the roll.
+
+The clock struck twelve. The sound rang through the apartment in solemn,
+measured tones, and as the twelfth stroke was still vibrating in the
+air, all the doors, even those communicating with the ante-rooms, were
+promptly locked, no one being admitted after that hour.
+
+The meeting was opened after the regular form, and the business disposed
+of without interruption. When the time which was set apart for addresses
+arrived, Webster was called upon for his speech. He ascended the
+platform with a serious expression on his face, and after thanking his
+fellow-knights for the honor conferred upon him, he launched forth into
+a stirring address, the treasonable nature of which was calculated to
+fire the Southern blood of his hearers, and to add much to his own
+popularity. As the speaker appeared to warm up with his subject he
+lifted his voice and exclaimed:
+
+"The dissolution of the Union is one of the inevitable necessities of
+Lincoln's election, and it will be our mission to strike directly at the
+heart of the abolition party, and bury its foul carcass beneath the
+smoking ruins of Washington city!"
+
+This was the signal. The words had no sooner passed the lips of the
+speaker, than a startling noise, like that of a battering-ram being
+applied to one of the ante-room doors, cut short the speech, and caused
+every man present to spring to his feet in astonishment and alarm. Bang!
+bang! bang! sounded the heavy blows. The door burst open with a crash,
+and a stream of blue-coated soldiers, all fully armed, came pouring into
+the council-chamber, and quickly deployed around three sides of the
+room, effectually cutting off the retreat of the inmates before they
+could make a movement.
+
+[Illustration: "_The door burst open and a stream of blue coated
+soldiers came pouring in._" P 298]
+
+The sudden and unexpected appearance of these intruders had a paralyzing
+effect upon the conspirators. Had so many ghosts confronted them they
+could not have been more surprised. Horrified consternation was depicted
+on every blanched face; startled eyes looked wildly around for some
+avenue of escape, and exclamations of terror or baffled rage broke from
+many white lips. Some of the most desperate seemed for a moment to
+entertain thoughts of breaking through the line of soldiers and reaching
+the door, but no such mad attempt was made. McPhail stepped forward with
+a revolver in each hand, and in a low, thrilling voice, said:
+
+"Gentlemen, you are our prisoners. I advise you to give in gracefully.
+We are too many for you."
+
+His advice did not go unheeded. They surrendered as gracefully as
+possible under the circumstances, and resigned themselves to the custody
+of their armed foes. The chamber in which they had maliciously plotted
+the overthrow of the government became the scene of their own downfall,
+and it was with dejected countenances that they submitted to the
+inevitable, and permitted themselves to be marched in a body before the
+Provost-Marshal. It was not observed, however, until they were being
+removed, that Timothy Webster had somehow contrived to make good his
+escape.
+
+The leading spirits of this conspiracy--those who did the actual
+plotting, and who were known to be the arch traitors and prime movers in
+the secret enterprise--were taken to Fort McHenry. The rest, after
+taking the oath of allegiance, were released.
+
+My two operatives disappeared from Baltimore immediately after this
+occurrence, as well they might, for of course the suspicion of the
+defeated conspirators fastened upon them at once. As they did not show
+themselves in that city again, however, they never were made the victims
+of the terrible vengeance which some of their late associates swore to
+bring down upon their luckless heads at the first opportunity. As for
+Webster, instead of being suspected of any complicity in the betrayal,
+he was congratulated upon his fortunate and remarkable escape from the
+fate which befell his unfortunate brother knights.
+
+With the defeat of the "Knights of Liberty" in Baltimore, ended the
+existence of the branch lodges all over the State. The organization,
+which had so carefully planned the destruction of the Union at a single
+blow, was completely broken up. The conspirators, taking warning by the
+fate of their leaders, became mute and inactive, and although skilled
+detectives were sent to all outlying towns, no new signs of an uprising
+were discovered.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+_Suspicions in Washington.--"Uncle Gallus."--Property Searched.--A Rebel
+Family sent South.--Webster starts for Richmond._
+
+
+Aside from the operations of Timothy Webster and his assistants in
+Baltimore, there was work enough to do in Washington to keep myself and
+all the members of my large force constantly employed. Innumerable
+persons, suspected of treasonable designs, were closely shadowed; whole
+families became objects of distrust, and fell under the watchful eye of
+my department; while the ungracious task of searching the homes of
+people who stood upon the highest round of the social ladder became of
+frequent occurrence.
+
+Among the latter class were the wife and family of ex-Governor Morton,
+of Florida, who at this time were sojourning in Washington. Mrs. Morton
+was known to be in sympathy with the South, and the unceasing vigilance
+of my men soon developed the fact that she was in secret communication
+with certain officials of the rebel government, to whom she was giving
+information concerning affairs at the North. She was a lady of eminent
+respectability and refinement, and much esteemed by all who knew her,
+but this did not render it less advisable, under the circumstances, to
+have all her movements watched, and her house constantly shadowed by
+detectives. Her pleasant residence at No. 288 "I" street, was therefore
+placed under strict surveillance, and its inmates followed whenever they
+went out for a walk or drive, while all visitors at the house were
+invariably shadowed when they went away.
+
+There was an old negro servant, known as Uncle Gallus, who went to and
+from the house oftener than any one else, on errands for the family.
+Finally one of my operatives drew the old fellow into conversation, and
+found him so cheerful and communicative, and so firm in his loyalty to
+the Northern cause, that when the fact was reported to me, I concluded
+to talk with Uncle Gallus myself. Accordingly, I gave orders to have him
+brought to my office, if it could be done without opposition on his
+part. The friendship I bore for the colored race, and my long experience
+as an underground railroad conductor, had given me such an insight into
+the character of the negro, that I believed I could gain his confidence
+and good-will if I should meet him.
+
+Uncle Gallus came to my office quite willingly. He was a
+powerfully-built darky, though evidently well advanced in years, as
+attested by the bleached appearance of his wool and eyebrows. His skin
+was as black and shone as bright as polished ebony, and it took but
+little provocation to set him on a broad grin, which displayed two
+unbroken rows of glistening ivory.
+
+This interesting specimen appeared before me one afternoon, when Timothy
+Webster was with me in my office. We had just finished a discussion
+concerning some delicate point in Webster's Baltimore operations, and
+had lapsed into a desultory conversation. My sable visitor stood bowing
+and scraping, and turning his hat round and round in his hands, till I
+bid him be seated.
+
+"Your name is Gallus?" I said.
+
+"Yes, sah," he replied, his mouth stretched from ear to ear. "Folks done
+got so dey call me _uncle_ Gallus nowadays."
+
+"You have been a slave all your life, I understand?"
+
+"Yes, massa, eber sence I war knee-high to a hopper-grass. I'se done a
+mighty sight o' wu'k, too, 'kase I wus allus as big an stout as a
+sixty-dollah bull, an' I could stan' mo' hard-fisted labor dan any o' de
+udder niggahs on de plantation. But sence I been wid Massa Morton I
+ain't had nuffin' to do skursely, an' it seems as ef I'se gwine to git
+pow'ful lazy fur de want o' wu'k. H'yah! H'yah!"
+
+"What is your native State, Uncle Gallus?"
+
+"Ole Virginny, sah."
+
+He held his head a little higher, and sat a trifle more erect as he said
+this, showing that inordinate pride in his State which I had so often
+noticed in other Virginia slaves, as well as in Virginia masters.
+
+I asked him if the Mortons had offered him his freedom since the
+breaking out of the war. He shook his head and gravely replied:
+
+"Dey hain't been nuffin' said to dis pusson on dat 'ar subjick, but I
+knows dey'd gimme my freedom in less'n twenty-fo' hours ef I done ax 'em
+fur it."
+
+"Then you don't want to be free?"
+
+"Oh, yes, I does, massa; yes, I does, fur sho'. But Massa Linkum an' de
+Yankee boys am gwine ter fetch dat aroun' all right by'm-bye. Bress your
+soul an' body, I can't b'ar fur to run away from missus an' ole massa,
+'kase dey's been so good an' kyind to me; an' I'se done tuk an oath dat
+I won't leave 'em till dey gimme leaf. When missus goes back down Souf
+I'se gwine ter go wid her, ef she don't tole me to stay heah. It won't
+be long, nohow, 'kase de time am soon comin' when de darkies will all be
+free."
+
+"Your mistress intends to return to the South, then?"
+
+"Yes, sah; we'll soon be off now, ef de good Lo'd will let us. Massa,
+he's in Richmond, an' he hab done sent fur de family."
+
+"Is Mrs. Morton in communication with her husband?"
+
+"Spec' she is, sah. She writes letters, an' _gits_ letters. She has ter
+be sorter keerful like, for dese 'yah Yankees is got eyes like a cat,
+an' kin see fru a stun wall in de dark."
+
+"Do you know whether your mistress writes to any one besides her
+husband?"
+
+Uncle Gallus leaned back in his chair, and looked at me somewhat
+suspiciously, the whites of his eyes shining like polished china.
+
+"'Deed, sah, I doesn't know whedder she dusdo, or whedder she doant," he
+said, hesitatingly. "Please, massa, doant ax dis chile any mo'
+questions. My missus is de bes' woman in de wu'ld, and nebber didn't do
+nuffin' wrong in all her bawn days. Ole Gallus wouldn't say nuffin' to
+bring trubble on her for fifteen cents," he added, earnestly.
+
+I quieted the fears of the faithful old man by assuring him that I meant
+no harm to his mistress, and that I had no doubt she was the good lady
+he represented her to be. Satisfied with the result of my
+investigations, I permitted Uncle Gallus to depart, first charging him,
+however, to say nothing to any one concerning my interview with him. He
+promised secrecy, and bowed himself out with all his teeth visible,
+saying, as he went:
+
+"Fo' de Lawd, gemmen, I'se hopin an' prayin' de No'thun folks will be de
+top dog in dis wrastle, an' ef eber dis niggah hes a chance to gib
+yu'uns a helpin' han', yu' kin bet a hoss agin' a coon-skin he'll do it;
+but I hope an' trus' my missus not be boddered."
+
+Nevertheless, I had learned enough to bring me to the decision, that
+Mrs. Morton's house must be searched, and under orders of the Secretary
+of War, I sent three of my men to No. 288 "I" street, to perform this
+unpleasant task. The operatives chosen to make the search were W. H.
+Scott, John Scully, and Pryce Lewis. Mrs. Morton received them very
+civilly, and told them they were at liberty to make a thorough search of
+the premises, which they immediately proceeded to do. They had
+instructions to read all letters that were found, but to keep only those
+that were of a treasonable nature, and in no case to destroy any
+property or leave anything in a disordered condition. These instructions
+were obeyed to the letter. Boxes that were packed ready for shipment
+were all carefully repacked and closed after they had been examined by
+my men, and when the operatives departed, they left no traces of their
+search behind them. Their polite and considerate conduct won for them
+the good will, not only of Mrs. Morton herself, but also of her daughter
+and two sons, who expressed themselves as being agreeably surprised, for
+they had been informed that the men from the Provost-Marshal's office
+were a set of ruffians, who did not scruple to break up boxes, and
+litter the house with their contents, and that their conduct towards
+ladies was insulting in the extreme. They even went so far as to assure
+the operatives, that if any of them should ever be taken prisoner and
+brought to Richmond, they would do all in their power to secure kind
+treatment for them.
+
+Among the letters that were found, two of them were from ex-Governor
+Morton, to his son and daughter, requesting them to come to him at
+Richmond; but nothing of a criminating character was discovered, and the
+family were not subjected to further annoyance.
+
+Some two weeks afterwards, when John Scully boarded a train for
+Baltimore, whither I had sent him with a message to Webster, he chanced
+to meet Mrs. Morton and family in the car which he entered. They were
+departing from Washington, having been required to leave the North, by
+the authorities, who furnished them a safe passport to Richmond, and
+they were accompanied by the faithful Uncle Gallus. They recognized
+Scully, and greeted him with cordial courtesy, the eldest son rising in
+his seat to shake hands with him. They told him that on arriving at
+Baltimore, they were to take a flag-of-truce boat to Fortress Monroe,
+from which point they would continue their journey to Richmond. Scully
+as a matter of policy, gave them distinctly to understand that he had
+quitted the government service and was returning to his home in the
+North.
+
+This little experience with the Morton family was trifling enough in
+itself, and was only one of many similar episodes with which I and my
+force were connected during those troublous times; but I have been thus
+particular in detailing it because it has an important bearing upon
+other events which afterwards occurred.
+
+It was about a month after the incident above mentioned, that Timothy
+Webster completed his preparations for making his first trip into
+Virginia and through the rebel lines. A large number of Baltimoreans had
+intrusted him with letters to their friends and relatives in the South,
+and he had assured them that their messages would be delivered safely
+and answers brought back in due time.
+
+He left Baltimore on the 14th of October, and proceeded southward along
+the "Eastern Shore" of Virginia, seeking a convenient place to cross
+over to the mainland or "Western Shore." He arrived at Eastville, the
+county seat of Northampton county, on Tuesday, October 22d, where he
+found that he could effect a crossing with the assistance of a man named
+Marshall, who made a business of smuggling passengers and mails through
+the lines. He was compelled, however, to remain at Eastville several
+days, waiting for Marshall and his boat to come over from the other
+side, his trips being delayed on account of the bright moonlight nights,
+as the boatman did not dare to run the gantlet of the Federal guns,
+unless covered by darkness.
+
+Some two or three months before, this man, Marshall, had owned a sloop,
+which he had used successfully in running the Federal blockade. One
+night he was caught in a calm near the western shore, and was run-down
+by a gunboat. His sloop was captured, and he narrowly escaped capture by
+deserting his vessel and reaching the shore in a smaller boat. Since
+that time Marshall had been pursuing his vocation with a sort of canoe,
+or "dugout," thirty-one feet in length and five feet in width, carrying
+three sails--main, fore and jib. His route was from Gloucester Point,
+York river, to Eastville, and his business was to transfer from one side
+of the bay to the other the Confederate mail and passengers, and
+sometimes a small cargo of merchandise. Marshall being an expert pilot
+and a thorough seaman, was frequently employed by the masters of sloops
+and schooners to pilot them past certain points, they giving him the
+privilege of putting his passengers and mail-bags aboard the vessel
+without charge. It was his invariable custom to place a stone or other
+heavy substance in his mail-bag before starting, for the purpose of
+sinking it in case of being pressed by the gunboats.
+
+It was on a dark evening that Webster left Cherrystone Lighthouse in
+Marshall's canoe, to make the voyage across the Chesapeake. There were
+thirteen passengers, all told. Eight of these were Marylanders, mostly
+from Baltimore, every one of whom announced his intention of enlisting
+in the Confederate army or navy upon his arrival at Richmond.
+
+On starting, Marshall rowed off a short distance from the light-house,
+and rested on his oars for some time, taking observations to ascertain
+if the bay was clear of hostile craft. The night was scarcely dark
+enough for safety; the clouds were thin and scattered, and the stars
+were peeping through the dark, ragged curtain overhead. The wind was
+blowing strongly from the east, and the water was exceedingly rough.
+
+Resolving, however, to make the effort, Marshall hoisted his sails, and
+as they rapidly filled, the little vessel sprung forward like a thing of
+life. It fairly skimmed over the waves, its sharp prow cutting the water
+and dashing up clouds of spray that caused the men to turn up their
+coat-collars and pull their hats down closer upon their heads. All
+conversation was forbidden, lest their voices should betray them to the
+enemy. With sealed lips and motionless forms, they might have been so
+many dark phantoms speeding before the wind on some supernatural
+mission.
+
+Webster, by his own wish, had been put upon the look-out by the captain
+of the boat, and he keenly watched for signs of danger. When they had
+traveled nearly half the distance across the bay, he spied a point of
+light to leeward, and at once called Marshall's attention to it.
+
+"It is a gunboat with a light on her bows," said the latter. "Let her
+come. She can't catch us, for with oar present headway we are not to be
+overhauled by any boat on this water."
+
+The canoe was headed due west for about fourteen miles, then south-west
+by west for ten or twelve miles, then due west again to Gloucester
+Point. The entire run was made in three and a half hours, the sailing
+distance being about thirty miles.
+
+On nearing Gloucester Point, they were hailed by a sentinel, with the
+usual challenge:
+
+"Who comes there?"
+
+The blockade-runner sent back the answer:
+
+"Marshall--mail boat!"
+
+"Stand, Marshall, and give the countersign!"
+
+"No countersign," was the reply.
+
+The sentinel then called out:
+
+"Sergeant of the Guard, Post No. 1!"
+
+And another voice, further away, cried:
+
+"Who's there?"
+
+"Marshall, with mail boat and passengers."
+
+"Sentinel, let them pass."
+
+A few minutes later the passengers disembarked, and found themselves in
+a rebel camp.
+
+Webster, with others, went to Marshall's shanty--a rude, wooden
+structure, which that worthy had built on the Point for the
+accommodation of his passengers--and there the remainder of the night
+was spent in the refreshing companionship of Morpheus.
+
+On the following morning Webster was up and astir at an early hour. He
+ascertained that the encampment at Gloucester Point consisted of two
+regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry, and one field battery
+of six guns, all under the command of Col. Charles H. Crump. The
+entrenchments comprised an area of about fifteen acres, and the main
+breastwork on the beach consisted of a heavy earth-bank, walled on the
+inside with split pine logs set up on end. About the center of this
+breastwork was a sixty-four-pound gun, mounted on a high carriage, which
+traversed in a circle commanding a sweep of the whole land side of the
+entrenchments, where there was a clean field of about seven hundred
+acres bounded by timber on the north and York river on the south.
+
+General Magruder had command of this division of the army, including the
+forces at Gloucester Point, Yorktown and all the peninsula bounded by
+the James and York rivers, extending down to Fortress Monroe. The
+division embraced thirty-three regiments of infantry and cavalry.
+
+Webster called at Colonel Crump's headquarters and obtained from that
+officer a pass to Richmond, not only for himself, but for several others
+who had crossed the bay with him. At about the hour of noon on Saturday,
+the 26th, the party were ferried across the river to Yorktown, in a
+small boat. The landing at Yorktown was in front of a hill which rose
+with a gentle slope some twenty-five feet above the beach, on the top of
+which, in front of the town, was an earthwork mounting six or eight
+guns.
+
+From this point the party proceeded in a south-westerly direction,
+across the peninsula, to Grove Wharf, on James river. The distance was
+about ten miles, and was accomplished without difficulty or delay. On
+their arrival at Grove Wharf, however, they were disappointed to learn
+that no boat was to leave there for Richmond until the following Monday.
+There was no help for it, and with a rueful attempt at resignation, they
+took quarters at a neighboring farm-house, where they waited and rested.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+_The Spy at Richmond.--Earthworks Around the Rebel Capital.--An
+Unexpected Meeting.--Pistols for Two.--A Reconciliation.--Safe Return to
+Washington._
+
+
+On Monday morning Webster left Grove Wharf, on the regular steam packet,
+for Richmond, where he arrived on the evening of the same day. Here he
+separated from his companions and made his way alone to the Spotswood
+Hotel, where he registered, and proceeded to make himself at home. He
+was now in the rebel capital, surrounded on all sides by the enemies of
+his country, with no friends to whom he could apply in case of danger,
+and burdened with a mission, upon the successful performance of which
+his life depended. It was a mission, too, requiring such delicate and
+skillful labor, that a man less iron-nerved would have trembled at the
+very contemplation of it; but Webster, whose courage and self-command
+never deserted him in the most trying moments of his life, coolly
+reviewed the situation and laid his plans in a systematic manner for
+future operations.
+
+The next day, he busied himself about the city, delivering his letters,
+forming acquaintances, and paving the way for an interview with the
+Secretary of War, his object being to obtain from that high official, if
+possible, a pass to Manassas and Winchester. He was informed by General
+Jones, Post-Adjutant to General Winder, the Provost-Marshal at Richmond,
+and commander of the forces there, that no interview could be obtained
+with the Secretary of War, except upon business especially connected
+with the military department, as they were daily expecting an attack
+from the Federal Army of the Potomac, and the Secretary was wholly
+engaged with officers of the army.
+
+Among the acquaintances which Webster formed, was a young man by the
+name of William Campbell, originally a Baltimorean, to whom he brought a
+letter of introduction from the father of the young man. Campbell
+treated my operative with the utmost friendliness and courtesy, and
+invited him to a drive during the afternoon. The invitation was
+accepted, and as the weather was all that could be desired, they enjoyed
+a very pleasant afternoon. They visited the environs for the purpose of
+viewing the defenses, and Webster noted the fact that there were
+seventeen very superior earthwork batteries around the town, forming a
+rude semicircle with either end resting on the James river. The
+entrenchments around each of these batteries were from twelve to
+fourteen feet wide at the top, and about ten feet deep. Some of the
+batteries were designed for six guns and some for sixteen. They were
+nearly all completed at this time, and the work upon them had been done
+exclusively by negro slaves. In most cases they were mounted with their
+full complement of guns, varying in caliber, from thirty-two to
+sixty-four pounds. The land around Richmond consists of hills and
+valleys, and the batteries were planted on the most elevated and
+commanding points. The heaviest of these commanded the turnpikes and
+railroads which formed the approaches from Manassas and Fredericksburg.
+
+After visiting the batteries, Webster went with Campbell to the ordnance
+department, where he was introduced to several persons who had charge of
+the ordnance stores, and from whom he elicited much valuable
+information. Among other things, he was informed by the Colonel in
+charge, that the "Bermuda," an English vessel which had recently run the
+blockade, had brought over for the Confederate government twelve
+thousand Enfield rifles, a large supply of cavalry swords and a number
+of rifled cannon; and that, upon trial, the rifled cannon were found to
+be more accurate than any of their brass pieces.
+
+On the following day Webster concluded to make another inspection of the
+earthworks around the city. He went alone and on foot this time, as he
+desired to make some notes and calculations, which he was unable to do
+in the presence of others without running an unnecessary risk. It was a
+fine, brisk morning, the air was slightly tinged with the coolness of
+approaching winter, and the spy occupied the entire forenoon in
+strolling leisurely from point to point, apparently with the single
+object of idling away a few leisure hours. Now he passed some men
+engaged in planting a cannon on one of the redoubts, and again he saw a
+group of slaves busily at work with pickaxes and shovels, but no one
+seemed to pay any attention to him.
+
+About noon he came upon a scene, which, though characteristic of the
+time and place, was rather a novel sight to a Northern man, and he
+stopped to view it with considerable interest. In a sunny spot near the
+river bank about a dozen negro laborers were gathered, their
+surroundings showing that they had just left off work for the enjoyment
+of their allotted hour of rest, at noon. Having finished their mid-day
+repast, they were now filling their time by indulging in a species of
+amusement peculiar to their race. On a pine log sat a jolly-looking old
+negro, whose hair was white as snow and whose face was black as ebony,
+grinning, and rolling his head from side to side, while he patted "Juba"
+with great energy and skill, on his knees, chest and head. The other
+darkies were dancing to the "music," and apparently enjoying the sport
+to an unlimited degree.
+
+The detective was amused at the spectacle, but this feeling gave way to
+one of surprise and curiosity, as he looked more intently at the
+white-haired old man who was acting as _musician_. There was something
+strikingly familiar in those black, smiling features. Surely this was
+not the first time he had seen that face, or witnessed that tremendous
+grin. Where had he met this darky before?
+
+Suddenly his recollection was quickened. The person in question was none
+other than Uncle Gallus, the servant of ex-Governor Morton, whom he had
+seen in my office at Washington, on the day that I had questioned him
+about his mistress. This fact was clear enough to Webster, but somewhat
+surprising, withal. He remembered that Uncle Gallus had, on that
+occasion, represented the Mortons as very indulgent slave-owners, who
+never permitted him to perform any hard labor; yet here he was, in the
+role of a common workman, employed upon the fortifications around
+Richmond.
+
+Whatever had caused this change, however, it did not appear to weigh
+heavily upon the old darky, for at this moment he was in the very
+ecstasy of delight, as he patted inspiration into the nimble feet of his
+companions. The other darkies danced until their faces shone with
+perspiration, and the manner in which their loose-jointed limbs swung
+and wriggled, suggested the idea that those members were hung on pivots.
+They leaped and vaulted, and flung their heels in the airs, as if they
+were so many jumping-jacks and Uncle Gallus was pulling the string.
+
+The latter hummed snatches of plantation melodies as he warmed up to
+his work, and finally he sung a series of characteristic verses, of
+which the following are a sample:
+
+    "Did you ebber see a woodchuck lookin' at a coon-fight?
+          Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;
+    Did you ebber see a niggah gal dancin' in de moonlight?
+          Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!
+
+    "Possum up a gum-stump, chawin' slippery-ellum,
+          Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;
+    Nigga's in de market an' massa tryin' to sell 'em--
+          Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!
+
+    "Secesh in Richmon'--de Yankee boys has treed 'em--
+          Linkum am a-comin' by'm-bye;
+    All de little pickaninnies gwine to git dar freedom--
+          Glory, glory, glory hallelujerum!"
+
+Suddenly the merriment of the blacks was interrupted in a most
+unexpected manner.
+
+Some tall bushes that covered the top of a slight elevation near by were
+suddenly parted, and a man, wearing the uniform of a Lieutenant in the
+Confederate army, leaped down among the astonished revelers. In a
+towering rage, he turned upon Uncle Gallus and shouted:
+
+"Shut your head, you d----d old villain, or I'll fill your black hide
+with lead!" and he flourished a cocked revolver in the face of the
+terrified negro.
+
+"Afo' God, Massa, we didn't mean no harm, we's jes passin' away de
+time," said Uncle Gallus, in a frightened voice.
+
+"Well, then," said the officer, with an oath, "be a little more careful
+in the future about the kind of songs you sing, or I'll have every
+d----d one of you bucked and gagged, and whipped within an inch of your
+lives."
+
+Replacing his weapon, and turning on his heel, he was striding angrily
+away when he came face to face with Webster.
+
+The recognition was mutual and instantaneous between the two men. As
+quick as a flash Webster had his revolver cocked and pointed at the head
+of the blustering Confederate.
+
+"Bill Zigler, what are you doing here? You move at your peril."
+
+"I'd kill you, curse you, but you've got the drop on me now, as you had
+once before. But my time will come, you d----d Yankee spy!"
+
+"Look here, Bill!" said Webster, anxious, if possible, to disarm at once
+and forever the suspicions of his enemy, "what is the use of our being
+continually at daggers' points? You were foolish enough to insult me in
+Baltimore by impeaching my loyalty to the South, and I resented it, as
+any man would. If you repeat the vile slander, I'll do the same thing.
+If, however, you have anything personal against me, and must fight, I'll
+put up my weapon and meet you hand to hand."
+
+Zigler looked at the speaker a moment, and then advancing and extending
+his hand, said:
+
+"Webster, put up your pistol; I guess I've made a d----d fool of myself.
+I did think you were a spy, but I knock under; I don't want to be an
+enemy to such a friend to the cause as I now believe you to be."
+
+Lowering his revolver, Webster good-naturedly received the friendly
+overtures of his former foe.
+
+"I thought you would come to your senses at last; but when did you come
+down here?"
+
+"Oh, I've been here several weeks. I enlisted in Baltimore and came down
+as a lieutenant," answered Zigler. "But where are you from?" he
+continued, "and what is the news from the Monumental City?"
+
+"I am just from that city," replied Webster, "and have brought a number
+of letters for parties here and at Manassas. I expect to go to the
+Junction to-morrow, if I succeed in getting a pass."
+
+"Who do you want to see there?"
+
+"Well, I want to see John Bowen," replied Webster, naming a particular
+friend of Zigler's, whom he knew was at Manassas. "I understand he is
+down with typhoid fever, and will no doubt be glad to hear from home."
+
+This straightforward story completely disarmed the suspicions of the
+bully as to Webster's true character, and finding that he had time to
+spare he invited the scout to his quarters.
+
+Thus the quarrel was settled between these two men, and the superior
+tact and coolness of Webster had succeeded in making a friend of a man
+who might have seriously interfered with his operations, and probably
+have jeopardized his life.
+
+As they were leaving the place, Webster cast a look at the group of
+negroes, whose mirth had been so suddenly interrupted, and he noticed
+that they were regarding the Lieutenant with looks of sullen anger. He
+was, however, considerably relieved to find that Uncle Gallus had not
+recognized him, and that as far as the aged negro was concerned, he had
+nothing to fear. He accompanied Zigler to his quarters, where they
+chatted pleasantly for an hour, after which Webster returned to his
+hotel, a much wiser man than when he first started out upon his walk.
+
+As he sauntered quietly back to the city, he felt quite elated at the
+success of his management of Zigler, whom he had made a fast friend.
+After supper, in company with Mr. Campbell, he strolled about the city
+for a short time, when his companion excused himself, and Webster
+pursued his way alone. He was walking along Utah street, apparently
+deeply absorbed in his own meditations, when he heard a voice behind
+him.
+
+"Hole on dar, Massa!"
+
+Turning around, he was surprised to see Uncle Gallus, approaching him as
+rapidly as his stiffened limbs would permit.
+
+"Well, uncle," said Webster, as the old man caught up to him--"did you
+speak to me?"
+
+"You'se de man dat I 'dressed, sah--done you know me?" said the old
+fellow, peering anxiously in the face of the detective.
+
+"No, I don't remember you," said Webster, determined to ascertain
+whether the old darky did know him; "where have you ever seen me?"
+
+"In Washington, sah," replied Uncle Gallus; "don' you remember you saw
+me at Majah Allen's, when I was dah libin wid Missus Morton?"
+
+Webster looked at the negro a moment, and then, feeling assured of the
+friendliness of his interlocutor, he said:
+
+"Your face does seem familiar to me; what is your name?"
+
+"Dey calls me Uncle Gallus, sah," answered the old fellow.
+
+"Oh, yes," said Webster, "now I remember you."
+
+"Golly, massa," grinned Uncle Gallus, "wen I seed you gib it to Bill
+Zigler dis mo'nin', I dun knowed you right away, but I wouldn't say
+nuffin' for de world, fo' I knowed you was a pullin' de wool ober his
+eyes."
+
+Knowing full well that he had nothing to fear from Uncle Gallus, he
+talked with him good-naturedly on various topics, and in the course of
+the conversation he learned that he was no longer with Mrs. Morton,
+having been disposed of by her, some time before, and that he was now
+being used by the Confederate government to work upon the
+fortifications. Not deeming it advisable to remain long in conversation
+with the old darky on the streets, he told him that he would see him in
+a day or two, and placing a coin in the old man's hand, he bade him
+good-night.
+
+The next morning Mr. Campbell and Webster visited General Jones, and
+obtained the sought-for passes to Manassas, for which place he left
+early in the forenoon. On his arrival there, he learned that John Bowen,
+for whom he had a letter, had been taken to Richmond, but having several
+other messages to deliver to parties of prominence there, he busied
+himself during the day in forming acquaintances, and in acquiring
+knowledge. From Manassas he went to Centreville, where he remained a few
+days, and from thence to Warrington, and finally back again to Richmond,
+where he delivered his remaining letters. Here he formed the
+acquaintance of a man by the name of Price, who was engaged in running
+the blockade, and who was making arrangements to return to Baltimore, to
+purchase a fresh supply of goods. Together they went to the office of
+the Provost-Marshal, where they obtained the necessary passes to insure
+their safe journey through the rebel lines.
+
+Leaving Richmond, they went to Fredericksburg, where he stayed long
+enough to visit all the places of interest around that city, and in
+company with Mr. Price they went on to Brooks Station, the headquarters
+of General Holmes, with whom Price was intimately acquainted. After
+remaining several days, he left his companion, making his way to
+Yorktown and Gloucester Point, and from thence to Washington, where he
+reported to me.
+
+This first visit of Timothy Webster to Richmond was highly successful.
+Not only had he made many friends in that city, who would be of service
+to him on subsequent trips, but the information he derived was
+exceedingly valuable. He was able to report very correctly the number
+and strength of the fortifications around the rebel capital, to estimate
+the number of troops and their sources of supplies, and also the forts
+between that city and Manassas Junction. His notes of the topography of
+the country were of the greatest value, and he received the warmest
+thanks of the commanding general, for what he had thus far been able to
+accomplish.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+_Again in Baltimore.--A Warning.--The Spy is Arrested, and Escapes._
+
+
+After the return of Timothy Webster from Richmond and Manassas, I deemed
+it best that he should again visit Baltimore and mingle once more with
+his rebel friends in that city. Since the summary collapse of the
+Knights of Liberty the majority of them had been remarkably quiet, and
+no indications were apparent that they contemplated any further
+proceedings of a treasonable nature. It will be remembered that on the
+night that the secret meeting was disturbed, Webster managed in some
+unaccountable manner to escape, and that he had disappeared almost
+immediately afterwards. As no suspicion existed as yet of his having
+been concerned in the affair, and as his prolonged absence might give
+rise to doubts of his loyalty, I concluded that it was best for him to
+again show himself among his old associates, and account for his escape
+in a manner that would appear truthful and straightforward.
+
+He accordingly took the train, and after arriving in Baltimore, he went
+directly to Miller's Hotel. Here he found several of his friends, and
+their greetings were most cordial and hearty. In a few moments others
+of the party had been notified, and came thronging in to welcome him and
+to congratulate him upon his escape and present safety. Eager inquiries
+were made as to the manner in which he had so successfully eluded the
+soldiers, and how he had spent the time since the occurrence of that
+event. In reply Webster gave a satisfactory and highly interesting
+account of his movements, all of which was heartily enjoyed by his
+listening friends. Gratified beyond expression at the pleasant condition
+of affairs, he became quite jolly, and the balance of the evening was
+spent in convivial and social enjoyment.
+
+On the following morning he started out in search of his old friend Sam
+Sloan, for whom he had a letter from his brother, who was in the rebel
+army, and stationed at Centreville. Having also a number of letters for
+other Baltimoreans, he desired to secure Sloan's services in their
+proper and safe delivery.
+
+Sam looked in astonishment as Webster blandly approached him, and after
+an effusive greeting he remarked earnestly:
+
+"Webster, you'll have to be mighty careful now, or you will be arrested
+yet. We are watched night and day--the least suspicious move we make is
+reported at once--and if repeated, the first thing the offender knows he
+finds himself in the guard-house."
+
+"Well," replied Webster, laughingly, "I'll have to take my chances with
+the rest of you."
+
+"I know your grit, Webster," said Sloan, "but by all means be careful. I
+was arrested myself since you went away."
+
+"The deuce you were!" ejaculated Webster. "How did that occur?"
+
+"Well, I went over to Washington to transact a little business, and
+while there I met some of the boys, and we had a little 'time.' I don't
+know what I did, but when I started to come home, the Provost-Marshal
+arrested me, and I had to take the oath of allegiance before I could get
+away."
+
+"You don't tell me that you took the oath, Sam?"
+
+"Yes, I did," laughed Sam. "I would take twenty oaths before I would be
+locked up;" and then he added: "I tell you, we are all spotted here in
+this city, and who is doing it we can't find out."
+
+"What makes you think that?" inquired Webster, doubtfully.
+
+"Many things. Why, only the other day I was taken before Lieutenant
+Watts, who has charge of the station-house, and the questions he put to
+me about the gang, convinced me that he knew a great deal more than was
+good for us."
+
+"Did he ask anything about me?" queried Webster.
+
+"No," replied Sam, "and if he had I wouldn't have told him anything, you
+may be sure."
+
+"I can readily believe that," said the detective, "but if it is so
+dangerous here, how am I going to deliver these letters?"
+
+"I can help you there," said Sloan, after a moment's consideration;
+"John Earl, Richardson and I will see that they are delivered, and that
+will keep you from incurring suspicion."
+
+"That will do," said Webster, "and you can tell the people you see to
+write their answers at once, and inclose them in two envelopes, one
+directed to their friend, and the other to John Hart, at Miller's
+Hotel."
+
+"I understand; but who is this John Hart you mention--can we trust him?"
+
+"I think so," replied the detective, laughing heartily; "his other name
+is Timothy Webster."
+
+"By Jove, Webster, you're a good one; I begin to think myself that there
+isn't so much danger of your getting caught after all."
+
+This being satisfactorily arranged, the two men started in search of
+John Earl and Richardson, who both agreed to assist in the delivery of
+the letters which Webster had brought with him from the South. They all
+went to the room occupied by the detective at the hotel, and after a
+friendly drink, the letters were properly assorted, and each man was
+given his particular portion. They were instructed to request answers
+from those only in whose friendship they could implicitly rely, and to
+take in person any that were prepared at the time.
+
+In the afternoon, Webster called on Mr. Campbell, the father of the
+young man who had accompanied him on his trip from Richmond to Manassas
+Junction. The old gentleman was rejoiced to hear from his son, and after
+a few minutes' conversation Webster discovered that he was quite as
+bitter a secessionist as any one he had met, although he was quite aged
+and not very active. He informed the detective that he had once made a
+very handsome horse-bit for General McClellan, and that he was now
+making one for General Johnston, which he would like Webster to take
+with him when he next went to Richmond, and deliver it to the General in
+person.
+
+"Have everything ready," said the detective, "and I will see that it
+reaches its destination in safety."
+
+Returning to the hotel, he went in to supper, and after a hearty repast
+seated himself in the reading-room to await the return of his
+mail-carriers. While carelessly glancing over the columns of a daily
+paper, he was approached by a gentleman, who stepped in front of him,
+exclaiming heartily: "Why, Mr. Webster, how do you do? I am glad to see
+you; when did you get back to Baltimore?"
+
+Looking up hastily from his paper, Webster recognized the speaker as Mr.
+Price, the blockade runner whom he had met in Richmond, and with whom he
+had traveled some distance through the rebel country.
+
+Their greeting was most cordial, and the return of John Earl and Sam
+Sloan found the two men engaged in animated conversation. From Price,
+Webster learned that a large amount of goods had been purchased by
+several wealthy gentlemen of Baltimore, who had adopted a very novel
+manner of transporting them into rebeldom, without danger from Federal
+pickets or gunboats. Their plan was to ship the goods upon a vessel
+bound for Europe and ostensibly the goods were intended for the same
+destination. In addition to this a small boat was purchased, which was
+to be taken in tow by the steamer. By an arrangement with the captain
+the vessel was to stand in as close as possible to the mouth of York
+river, when the small boat was to be brought alongside, then the goods
+were to be transferred to it, and the owners were to pull up the river
+to Yorktown, effect a safe landing, and the rest would be an easy task.
+
+Webster complimented his companion on the shrewdness displayed in this
+suggestion, and that evening he wrote to me, conveying full particulars
+of the proposed blockade-running.
+
+It is needless to say that this little plan, shrewd as it was, failed of
+execution. Men were at once placed upon the track of these merchants,
+and a more surprised coterie never existed than were these gentlemen,
+when their goods, carefully labeled for a foreign port, were seized by
+the government, and their conveyance to the South effectually stopped.
+An examination of the goods fully confirmed the correctness of Webster's
+information, and this venture, at least, was a losing speculation to
+those who had engaged in it.
+
+After Mr. Price had taken his departure, John Earl called Webster aside,
+and informed him that a gentleman desired to send a draft for a large
+amount of money to Richmond, and that he had insisted on placing it in
+the hands of John Hart himself.
+
+"Do you know this man, and that he is all right?" asked Webster.
+
+"No," replied Earl, "I know nothing about him except that he is vouched
+for by three parties who are true, and they say he is all right."
+
+"I don't like this idea," said Webster, doubtfully; "I guess you had
+better tell this man that you will deliver it safely for him, and then
+you can hand it to me."
+
+"I did suggest that, but he said his orders were to intrust it to no one
+but John Hart himself."
+
+After considering for some time, Webster finally concluded to see the
+individual in person. He was satisfied that no harm could come to him if
+the man was a Federal detective, as, by application to the authorities
+or to me he could readily extricate himself from any difficulty, and if
+he was a rebel, he would incur no risk whatever.
+
+"Very well," he said, after he had fully deliberated the question, "you
+can bring him to my room and then we will see what is to be done.
+Meanwhile I will take a short walk and smoke a cigar."
+
+On his return he found John Earl awaiting him.
+
+"The gentleman is up-stairs in my room," said Earl; "will you go up now
+and see him?"
+
+Webster signified his willingness, and the two men ascended the stairs.
+As they entered the room the stranger arose to greet them, and Webster
+scrutinized him carefully. The result of his scrutiny was decidedly
+unsatisfactory. The new-comer was a tall, well-formed man, of about
+forty years of age. His hair was dark, and he wore long side-whiskers of
+the same color. In appearance he was what would be ordinarily considered
+a handsome man, but there was a look of quiet curiosity about the eyes,
+and a peculiar curl about the mouth, which struck Webster very
+unpleasantly, and caused him to instinctively regret having accorded him
+the interview which he desired.
+
+"Mr. Hart," said the stranger, pleasantly, after they had been formally
+introduced to each other, "I have a letter here, inclosing a draft,
+which I am desirous of having safely delivered to my sister-in-law in
+Richmond. You will find the address upon the envelope inside. Can you
+attend to this?"
+
+"I guess so," replied Webster. "I can try, at all events."
+
+Webster could not overcome a feeling of unrest and suspicion, as he
+conversed with the man, and he felt considerably relieved when, after
+expressing his thanks, he took his departure.
+
+The next morning Webster was astir early, and after partaking of a
+hearty breakfast, he thought he would pay another visit to Mr. Bowen.
+Leaving the hotel, he walked rapidly down the street in the direction of
+the old man's residence. He had not proceeded far when, on turning
+around, he noticed that his friend of the night before was walking upon
+the opposite side of the street, and but a short distance behind him.
+Finding that he was observed, the man crossed the street, and after
+bidding Webster a very cordial good-morning, said:
+
+"Mr. Hart, as we are walking in the same direction, if you have no
+objection, we will walk together."
+
+Webster assented, and for a short distance they journeyed along,
+indulging in a very constrained conversation. Webster felt assured that
+the man had been following him, and that his apparent friendliness was
+assumed. Desiring to rid himself of his unwelcome and uncomfortable
+companion, he was upon the point of expressing himself very forcibly,
+when he was startled by the stranger grasping him firmly by the arm, and
+ejaculating:
+
+"John Hart, you are my prisoner!"
+
+Had a thunderbolt fallen at his feet he could not have been more
+surprised, but recovering himself quickly, he wrenched himself from the
+grasp of the man.
+
+"What do you mean, sir?" he asked.
+
+[Illustration: "_John Hart, you are my prisoner._" P. 334.]
+
+"Just what I have said," replied the other, coolly; "there is no
+occasion for any controversy upon the question, and as you are directly
+in front of the station-house, resistance would be worse than useless."
+
+The cool manner in which these words were spoken exasperated Webster
+beyond control, but he saw that there were two soldiers standing guard
+in the doorway, and he realized at once that any attempt at escape would
+be foolhardy in the extreme. He therefore submitted quietly, and
+suffered himself to be led into the building, where an officer was
+seated at a table, examining the reports of the previous day.
+
+The recognition between the Lieutenant and Webster's captor appeared to
+be mutual, and, indeed, the presence of my operative did not seem to be
+an unlooked-for event.
+
+"Lieutenant, this is Mr. Hart," said the stranger.
+
+"All right," replied that officer, "we will take good care of him."
+
+After a short consultation, held in a tone too low for Webster to hear,
+the stranger took his leave, and the officer turned to the detective:
+
+"Come with me, sir; your case will be attended to in the course of the
+day."
+
+"Lieutenant, I would like to speak to you a moment, now that we are
+alone," said Webster, desirous of ending the matter, and of enabling the
+Lieutenant to ascertain his true character.
+
+"I have no time to talk with rebels," said the officer, shortly, and
+then calling to the turnkey, he directed him to place Webster in a cell.
+
+Deeply resenting the treatment of the officer, but feeling that
+opposition would only aggravate his annoyance, Webster followed the man,
+internally vowing vengeance against the fellow who had instigated his
+arrest. He was anxious to express himself forcibly to the officer in
+charge, but he considered that he would probably do the same thing under
+the same circumstances. The Lieutenant believed him to be a rebel, and
+as such his treatment was harsh and impolite, and after debating the
+matter in his mind he came to the conclusion that he was not much to
+blame after all. He was desirous, however, of communicating with some
+one who could intercede for him, and by that means secure his release,
+and he resolved to make friends with his jailer as the best possible way
+of obtaining what he wanted.
+
+Shortly after he had been incarcerated, he heard the voices of Sam Sloan
+and John Earl, who had been informed of his arrest and had come to see
+him. Their request was denied, however, and they expressed themselves in
+very loud tones against the injustice they were compelled to submit to.
+All to no avail, however, and they reluctantly took their leave. The
+turnkey coming along the corridor at this time, Webster called to him,
+and requested his attention for a few moments. The man was about sixty
+years of age, and had a very benignant countenance, which Webster argued
+was a good omen for the work of propitiation which he had in hand.
+
+"Will you tell the Lieutenant that I would like to speak with him,"
+asked Webster.
+
+"It's no use," said the old man, with a shake of the head; "the
+Lieutenant says he won't have anything to say to you, until your case is
+reported to headquarters this evening."
+
+"Well, then," smiled Webster, "I suppose I will have to wait his
+pleasure; but can't a fellow get a little whisky and cigar? I'll make it
+worth your while if you can help me in that particular."
+
+The old man laughed, and said he would see what could be done, as
+Webster slipped a bill into his hand. He disappeared, and after about a
+half hour, he returned and slipped a small bundle through the grated
+door, admonishing Webster to be careful about exposing himself to the
+other prisoners within view.
+
+"All right," said Webster, "you keep the change, old man, for your
+trouble."
+
+In the afternoon another officer, accompanied by four men, came to his
+cell, and requested his appearance at the office. Here he was carefully
+searched, and upon his person were found some letters addressed to
+himself; a pass from Col. Cramp, and about seventy dollars in money.
+They were about to take these from him, when Webster inquired:
+
+"Who was the man who arrested me this morning?"
+
+"His name is McPhail, and he belongs to the secret service," was the
+reply.
+
+At the mention of the name, Webster started in surprise. He had heard of
+him as connected with my force, and knew that everything would soon be
+all right.
+
+"Well," said Webster, "will you be kind enough to send for Mr. McPhail,
+and ask him to telegraph to Major Allen, and inquire if Tim is all
+right?"
+
+"What Major Allen is that?" asked the officer.
+
+"Of the secret service," replied Webster. "McPhail will know all about
+him; and you will learn that I am no rebel, in a very short time."
+
+"We will do what you request," said the officer, "and if you are all
+right, we will be glad to find it out."
+
+Thanking the officer for his kindness, Webster was conducted back to his
+cell to await developments.
+
+About ten o'clock that night, the officer again made his appearance.
+
+"John Hart, come here."
+
+Webster presented himself before the iron grating of his cell.
+
+"Is your name John Hart?"
+
+"No, sir, my name is Timothy Webster."
+
+"Well, my orders are for a man named Hart, who is to be taken to Fort
+McHenry."
+
+[Illustration: "_Webster leaped from the wagon while it was in motion._"
+P. 339.]
+
+Something in the tone of the man's voice, and in the twinkle of his eye,
+told Webster that everything was understood, so he answered at once:
+
+"Very well, I am the man!"
+
+"Come with me, then."
+
+They conducted him to the street, where he saw a covered wagon in
+waiting. They all got in and then in a loud voice the officer gave the
+order:
+
+"Drive direct to Fort McHenry pier!"
+
+After they had started, the officer explained to Webster that it had
+been arranged, in order to prevent suspicion, that he should be allowed
+to jump from the wagon as it was driven along, and after a pretended
+pursuit, he would make his escape to his rebel friends with whom he
+should remain quietly for a few days, and then return to Washington and
+report to me.
+
+These directions he implicitly followed; and seizing a favorable
+opportunity, he leaped from the wagon and rapidly made his way in the
+direction of the city. Going directly to Sam Sloan's, he knocked loudly
+at the door. After a few minutes a window was raised and a voice
+inquired angrily:
+
+"Who are you, and what do you want?"
+
+"It is I--Webster--Sam, come down and open the door."
+
+The window was shut, with an oath of joyful surprise, and in a
+twinkling, the door was opened, and Sloan pulled Webster into the room,
+closing and locking the door behind him.
+
+"Great G--d, Webster, how did you manage to get away from the Yanks?"
+
+"Let me get warm, and I'll tell you," replied Webster, with a laugh.
+
+"Come up stairs," said Sloan heartily, "and we'll have something to
+drink."
+
+After refreshing themselves, Webster related the manner of his escape,
+carefully concealing the action of the officer, and the fact that he had
+been peaceably permitted to leave the vehicle--and when he had
+concluded, Sloan's admiration was unbounded. Promising to secrete him
+until he could safely get away, they all went to bed, and slept soundly.
+
+Early the next morning Sloan left the house, and after an absence of an
+hour or two returned, bringing with him several of Webster's trusty
+friends, among whom was John Earl, who was decidedly crestfallen at the
+thought of having been instrumental in leading Webster into such danger
+by introducing the strange man to him, without learning more about his
+character for loyalty to the cause. They were all overjoyed at his
+escape, and spent the afternoon in a jollification over his safe return.
+The newspapers contained full particulars of the affair, and when they
+were brought before him Webster could not restrain his laughter at their
+contents, as he read:
+
+
+     "ESCAPE OF A STATE PRISONER.[A]
+
+     "It was rumored yesterday that the man Webster, who was
+     arrested, stopping at the hotel of Messrs. McGee, upon the
+     charge of being concerned in the regular transportation of
+     letters between Baltimore and the seceded States, had
+     succeeded in making his escape. It is learned upon the best
+     authority that during a late hour of the night he was
+     removed from the western police station and placed in a
+     carriage under the charge of a special detective officer.
+     The wagon was driven towards Fort McHenry, he having been
+     previously ordered to that post, but while the vehicle was
+     in motion, and when within a short distance of their
+     destination, he gave a sudden bound from his seat, and
+     before the officer could seize him, he was beyond his grasp.
+     It is not known which direction he took, but he will
+     scarcely be able to escape from the city. He is a citizen of
+     Kentucky, but left there in the early part of April, and
+     since that time has been residing in Baltimore."
+
+In another paper he read:
+
+    [B]"We have learned from an entirely reliable source that
+     Mr. Webster was arrested in endeavoring to procure replies
+     to a number of letters which he had delivered from
+     Marylanders now residing in Virginia to friends at home. A
+     fact which, in view of the hazards of such an attempt,
+     should content the unfortunate exiles from Maryland with the
+     gratification of communication with their friends there and
+     without the reciprocal joy of hearing from the latter in
+     return. We have reason to believe that Webster is beyond the
+     reach of the Yankees."
+
+Remaining with his friends until after midnight on the second day, he
+made his way to the train, and at 4.30 in the morning started for
+Washington, where he arrived about seven o'clock, and reported at my
+headquarters.
+
+It may seem strange that Webster was arrested by one of my men, and that
+my intervention was necessary to effect his release, but a few words
+will serve as an explanation. McPhail, the operative who had caused
+Webster's arrest, had never seen that gentleman, and was entirely
+ignorant of his true character. Under such circumstances he very
+naturally was led to suspect him as a rebel spy, and to lay the trap for
+his capture. The delicate and important duties which had been assigned
+to Webster were such, that I deemed it advisable to inform but very few
+of my men of his immediate connection with me, hence the arrest, as far
+as McPhail was concerned, was a _bona fide_ revelation of what he
+believed to be a dangerous crime. As it was, the arrest did no harm, but
+rather enabled Webster to cement more closely the bonds of friendship
+which existed between himself and those with whom he had previously
+associated.
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[A] The above is from the _Baltimore American_ of November 22, 1861.
+
+[B] The above is taken from the _Gazette_ of November 22, 1861.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+_Webster and Scobell.--A Negro as a Spy.--A Traitor Deserts from the
+Army.--He Carries Dispatches to the Rebels, which Fail of their
+Destination.--An Attack in the Woods.--"The Loyal League."--Slaves as
+Patriots._
+
+
+On the first day of November, 1861, General McClellan was made the
+Commander-in-Chief of all the armies of the United States. Immediately
+on assuming this important position, the General turned his attention to
+the entire field of operations, regarding the Army of the Potomac as a
+branch, though the most important one, of the armies under his command.
+
+Reliable information regarding the location and strength of the enemy
+was the most desirable thing to be obtained at present, and although
+Webster had been performing giant labor in this direction, his
+operations comprised but a minor portion of the work that devolved upon
+me. Numerous men of various callings and abilities were traveling
+through the South, gathering items of news wherever possible, and
+reporting the same as accurately and as rapidly as they were enabled to
+do so. So numerous were the methods which I employed in promoting the
+successful operations of the secret service, that it is possible within
+the limits of the present volume to enumerate but very few of the many
+events which occurred. Among the many men thus employed, was a negro by
+the name of John Scobell, and the manner in which his duties were
+performed, was always a source of satisfaction to me and apparently of
+gratification to himself. From the commencement of the war, I had found
+the negroes of invaluable assistance, and I never hesitated to employ
+them when, after investigation, I found them to be intelligent and
+trustworthy.
+
+As I have previously stated, all refugees, deserters and contrabands
+coming through our lines were turned over to me for a thorough
+examination and for such future disposition as I should recommend. John
+Scobell came to me in this manner. One morning I was seated in my
+quarters, preparing for the business of the day, when the officer of the
+guard announced the appearance of a number of contrabands. Ordering them
+to be brought in, the pumping process was commenced, and before noon
+many stray pieces of information had been gathered, which, by
+accumulation of evidence, were highly valuable. Among the number I had
+especially noticed the young man who had given his name as John Scobell.
+He had a manly and intelligent bearing, and his straightforward answers
+to the many questions propounded to him, at once impressed me very
+favorably. He informed me that he had formerly been a slave in the
+State of Mississippi, but had journeyed to Virginia with his master,
+whose name he bore. His master was a Scotchman, and but a few weeks
+before had given him and his wife their freedom. The young woman had
+obtained employment in Richmond, while he had made his way to the Union
+lines, where, encountering the Federal pickets, he had been brought to
+headquarters, and thence to me. He gave an intelligent account of his
+travels through the country, and appeared to be well informed as to the
+localities through which he passed, and of the roads and streams round
+about.
+
+I immediately decided to attach him to my headquarters, with the view of
+eventually using him in the capacity of a scout, should he prove equal
+to the task. For two weeks I employed him in various capacities of minor
+importance, but those in which secrecy and loyalty were essential
+qualifications, and his performance of these duties was all that could
+be desired. At the end of that time I resolved to send him into the
+South, and test his ability for active duty. Calling him into my
+quarters, I gave him the necessary directions, and dispatched him, in
+company with Timothy Webster, on a trip to Virginia. Their line of
+travel was laid out through Centreville, Manassas, Dumfries, and the
+Upper and Lower Accoquan.
+
+John Scobell I found was a remarkably gifted man for one of his race. He
+could read and write, and was as full of music as the feathered
+songsters that warbled in the tropical groves of his own sunny home. In
+addition to what seemed an almost inexhaustible stock of negro
+plantation melodies he had also a charming variety of Scotch ballads,
+which he sang with a voice of remarkable power and sweetness. During the
+evenings his singing was the chief feature of the impromptu
+entertainments that were resorted to in order to while away the tedious
+hours before retiring, and he soon became a universal favorite.
+Possessing the talents which he did, I felt sure, that he had only to
+assume the character of the light-hearted, happy darky and no one would
+suspect the cool-headed, vigilant detective, in the rollicking negro
+whose only aim in life appeared to be to get enough to eat, and a
+comfortable place to toast his shins.
+
+It was arranged that the two men should travel together until they
+arrived at Leonardstown, when they were to separate, Webster proceeding
+on to Richmond by way of Fredericksburg, while Scobell was to make his
+way to the rebel camp at Dumfries, and then up as far as Centreville.
+
+Proceeding by stage to Leonardstown they parted company, each one
+depending upon his own exertions to get across the river. Although they
+had traveled in the same coach, they paid no attention to each other,
+nor gave any indication of a previous acquaintance. At Leonardstown
+Webster went to a hotel, kept by a Mr. Miller, who was a bitter
+secessionist, and had known my operative for some time. His greeting
+was cordial, and his enthusiasm over his escape from the officers at
+Baltimore, an account of which he had read in the paper, was quite
+overpowering.
+
+While they were conversing together a tall, dark-whiskered man came into
+the room, and after a quick, nervous glance at Webster, requested to see
+the land lord in another room. As they departed, Webster bestowed a
+searching look upon the new-comer and was at once impressed with the
+familiarity of his features. He recollected that while he was coming
+down on the stage, this man came riding rapidly behind them, seated in a
+buggy and driven by a young negro. They made several ineffectual
+attempts to pass the stage, and finally succeeded in doing so, and
+disappearing from view. Webster had forgotten all about him, until his
+sudden appearance at the hotel and his suspicious actions attracted his
+attention. After the lapse of a few minutes the two men again entered,
+and the stranger immediately took his departure.
+
+Filled with curiosity as to the identity of the man, Webster carelessly
+observed to the landlord:
+
+"That fellow seemed a little nervous, doesn't he?"
+
+"Yes," replied the landlord, "and he has cause to be; he is a deserter
+from the Yanks."
+
+"Was he an officer?"
+
+"He says he was a surgeon, and had served in the regular army on the
+Pacific coast for a number of years. His family are Southerners, and he
+says he concluded to throw up his commission and join our side."
+
+"Which way is he going?"
+
+"He wants to get to Richmond as soon as he can. He will be back shortly
+and I'll introduce you to him; perhaps you can give him a helping hand."
+
+"I'll do what I can," replied Webster, with a mental reservation. "What
+is his name?"
+
+"He gave me his name as Doctor Gurley: he brought a letter from a friend
+of mine in Washington, and I believe he is carrying some messages to Mr.
+Benjamin, the Secretary of War, which he is very anxious to deliver as
+early as possible."
+
+"Well, we may be fellow-travelers if he turns up in time to go over with
+me," said Webster, who was already attempting to devise some plan for
+intercepting the delivery of the dispatches which the titled deserter
+was carrying.
+
+"I have made all arrangements," replied the landlord, "and will send you
+both down to-morrow in time to get the boat."
+
+"All right," said Webster; "and now, as I have a little time before
+dinner, I will take a short walk to give me an appetite."
+
+Webster was intent upon finding John Scobell, if possible. He had formed
+a plan for getting possession of the dispatches, and he required the
+services of his colored companion in order to perfect it. Keeping a
+sharp look-out about him, he strode on in the direction of the negro
+quarters, where he felt reasonably sure of meeting with the man he was
+in search of. As chance would have it, when within a short distance of
+the locality, he saw, to his intense delight, Scobell approaching him
+from the opposite direction. In a few words, he developed his plan to
+the intelligent darky, and from the broad grin which overspread his
+countenance, it was evident that he not only fully understood, but
+highly relished, the propositions that had been made. It was arranged,
+that Scobell should be in the neighborhood of the hotel during the
+afternoon, and that Webster should endeavor to point out to him the
+deserting surgeon, after which Scobell was to perform the duty which
+Webster had delegated to him.
+
+That afternoon, the Doctor, who was stopping with some friends, a short
+distance out of town, made his appearance at the hotel, and Mr. Miller,
+having first assured him of my operative's loyalty, introduced the two
+men to each other. By reason of Webster's familiarity with the country,
+and his evident and hearty desire to serve his new-found friend, he soon
+won the kindly regards of the Doctor, who prolonged his visit until
+nearly dark. At length, promising to meet Webster on the morrow, and
+with a parting beverage, the Doctor started to go. Webster accompanied
+him to the door, and with apparent good-feeling, bade him good-evening.
+As Webster re-entered the hotel, he noticed with satisfaction that
+Scobell was on hand, and had posted himself in a secluded position,
+where, unobserved himself, he could watch the hotel, and notice what
+transpired.
+
+"There is going to be a shower, and the Doctor will have to walk fast to
+escape it," said Webster, as he entered the bar-room.
+
+He had been engaged in friendly conversation with Mr. Miller for about
+an hour, when they heard the hurried stamping of feet outside; in a few
+moments, the door was thrown suddenly open, and the deserting Doctor
+stood before them. The appearance of the Doctor was most rueful. He was
+without his hat; his clothing was disarranged, and torn and soiled; his
+face was of a death-like paleness, while his lips trembled as if with
+fear.
+
+Webster and the landlord sprang to their feet, and rushed toward the
+man, who was very near falling from exhaustion.
+
+"What has happened!" inquired Webster, in a tone of solicitude.
+
+"I've been attacked and robbed!" ejaculated the Doctor, weakly.
+
+The landlord poured out a glass of spirits, which he gave to the
+demoralized Doctor, and after swallowing it, he seemed to regain his
+strength. After he had been sufficiently restored, he related his story.
+After leaving the hotel, he had started to walk toward the house where
+he was stopping. It becoming quite cloudy, and fearing a storm, he had
+hastened his pace in order to avoid the rain. Suddenly, as he was
+passing through a small patch of woods, he was stealthily approached
+from behind, by some one, who struck him a fearful blow on the back of
+the head. He was completely stunned and fell to the ground. When he
+recovered consciousness, he found that he had been thoroughly searched,
+and that his dispatches to the Secretary of War had been taken. Nothing
+else about his person was disturbed, and the attack had evidently been
+made by somebody who was aware of the fact that he had them in his
+possession. The Doctor's anxiety about his loss was pitiable in the
+extreme, but Webster could scarcely repress a smile of satisfaction, at
+the success which Scobell had achieved in capturing the precious
+documents.
+
+"Never mind," said Webster, soothingly. "The loss of the papers won't
+amount to much; when we arrive in Richmond you can communicate verbally
+the nature of the papers you have lost."
+
+"That's the devil of it," blurted out the Doctor. "I don't know their
+contents; they were intrusted to me by men who are working in the
+interest of the South, and as they were sealed, I have no more idea than
+you have what they contained."
+
+This piece of information was an additional source of satisfaction to
+Webster, who had thus effectually prevented their transmission to the
+Rebel government. He sympathized with the Doctor, however, most
+sincerely, and although that individual was decidedly crestfallen at the
+turn of affairs, under Webster's ministrations he recovered some of his
+spirits, and finding that he was not seriously injured, he again started
+for his lodgings. He took the precaution, this time, to carry his
+revolver in his hand, and to keep a sharp look-out as he journeyed
+along.
+
+Miller, the landlord, was somewhat alarmed at this adventure, but
+Webster endeavored to reassure him as best he could. He suggested that
+the attack was probably made by some one who was in the interest of the
+South, but who was fearful that, as the Doctor had deserted from the
+Northern army, he might not be as true to the good cause as he should
+be. However this may be, Miller's fears soon disappeared, and by nine
+o'clock he had recovered his usual good-humor, and set about making his
+arrangements for the morrow. Feeling anxious to learn from Scobell,
+Webster lighted a cigar and strolled out into the street. He walked
+slowly along, and after he had gone some distance from the hotel he
+turned around, and saw following him, at some distance behind, a figure
+which he instantly recognized as Scobell's. He therefore went on until
+he came to the outskirts of the town, and then awaited the arrival of
+his companion.
+
+Scobell came up with a broad grin on his countenance, and extending his
+hand, said:
+
+"Here dey is, Mister Webster. Dey is all right, an' I reckon de Doctor
+don't know what hurt him by dis time."
+
+Webster took the packet from the outstretched hand of the black man, and
+complimented him warmly upon his success. Scobell seemed quite elated
+over his exploit, and it was with some difficulty that Webster could
+restrain him from breaking out into loud laughter.
+
+Scobell informed Webster that he had already made arrangements for
+forwarding the documents to me, provided they met with the approval of
+the scout. He suggested that they be intrusted to an intelligent and
+loyal colored man, who was to start for Washington on the following
+morning, and whose honor and truthfulness could be implicitly relied
+upon.
+
+"I should like to see this man first," said Webster, when Scobell had
+concluded.
+
+"Werry well; cum along of me," answered Scobell. "I'll show you sumfin
+you neber seed afore, I reckon."
+
+"Go ahead, then," directed the scout.
+
+Proceeding together a short distance, when the black stopped before a
+dilapidated building that had evidently not been used for some time. It
+was a low, two-story structure, the windows of which were boarded up,
+and no sign of life was visible from without.
+
+"Come this way," said Scobell, in a low voice, taking Webster by the
+hand and through a low door, on which he rapped three times.
+
+Webster had scarcely time to give vent to his astonishment by a low
+whistle, when the door was noiselessly opened. They entered without
+challenge and found themselves in utter darkness, while Webster could
+hear the bolts and bars being replaced upon the door. Listening
+intently, he thought he could hear voices overhead, and a noise as of
+the shuffling of feet. Presently he heard a shrill whistle from his
+conductor, which was replied to from above with the query:
+
+"Who comes?"
+
+"Friends of Uncle Abe!" was the reply.
+
+"What do you desire?"
+
+"Light and Liberty!" came the response.
+
+Immediately a trap-door overhead was opened, revealing a dimly-lighted
+room, and a rope-ladder was let down before them.
+
+"Mister Webster, you go up first," said Scobell, "and I will follow
+you."
+
+Webster took hold of the ropes and, ascending easily, found himself in a
+dimly lighted room and surrounded by a body of negroes, numbering about
+forty. Some of them were young men who had barely attained their
+majority, while others were middle-aged, with a goodly number whose
+heads were as white as snow. The room in which they were assembled was
+quite large and entirely destitute of furniture. An upturned barrel,
+with an American flag draped over it, served as the desk of the
+President, and his seat was made of a box, which had once been used in
+packing merchandise for shipment.
+
+It was not long before Webster realized that he was in a lodge of "the
+Loyal League," composed almost exclusively of colored men, and whose
+branches extended over the entire South. The trap-door being closed
+behind them, Webster was introduced to the assembly by John Scobell, who
+had already identified himself with the institution. His welcome was
+most cordial and hearty. Shortly after they had become quiet, the
+President, a tall, well-formed negro, about thirty-five years of age,
+took his position, and in a deep, full voice, addressed the meeting. He
+detailed the operations of the various lodges which he had visited, and
+gave an encouraging account of the good work that was being done by the
+colored men throughout the country. He was listened to intently, and
+when he had finished he was greeted with numerous remarks of approval
+and indorsement.
+
+Scobell had meanwhile disclosed the nature and objects of the "Loyal
+League." Although as yet prevented from taking up arms in defense of
+their rights, these colored men had banded themselves together to
+further the cause of freedom, to succor the escaping slave, and to
+furnish information to loyal commanders of the movements of the rebels,
+as far as they could be ascertained.
+
+The President of the League, Scobell said, was about undertaking a trip
+to Washington, and he was the person who had been selected to carry the
+packet to me. Webster conversed with him for some time after he had
+spoken, and finding him reliable and willing to undertake the task about
+to be imposed upon him, he signified his willingness to trust him with
+the delivery of the dispatches. Writing a hasty description of the
+manner in which they had been obtained, he safely sewed the package and
+his letter in the lining of the messenger's coat, and fully instructed
+him as to how the papers should be delivered.
+
+Webster was called upon before the meeting adjourned, and he replied in
+a few words of encouragement and compliment, which elicited the most
+sincere tokens of appreciation from his sable auditors.
+
+After thanking the colored men for their kindness to him, Webster and
+Scobell descended from the improvised lodge-room, and Webster made his
+way back to the hotel, feeling quite relieved as to the safety of the
+dispatches, and fully confident that they would reach their destination
+in safety. He shortly afterwards retired to rest, fully satisfied with
+the day's work, and slept soundly until morning.
+
+The trusty messenger arrived in Washington in due time, and I received
+from his hands the papers intrusted to him. They were of a highly
+important nature, and conveyed information to the rebel authorities
+which would have been very dangerous had they reached their legitimate
+destination. As it was, through Webster's sagacity, Scobell's physical
+power, and the exertions of the President of the "Loyal League," the
+traitor surgeon was prevented from assisting the cause of treason and
+rebellion, and as a bearer of dispatches, his first venture was far from
+being successful.
+
+[Illustration: A HOT CHASE.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+_A Negro Spy.--Passage on a Steam Packet.--Lyrical Melodies.--Scobell
+Deserts the Ship.--His Tramps Through Rebeldom._
+
+
+The next afternoon, Webster and Doctor Gurley started for their point of
+debarkation. The medical deserter was exceedingly downcast about the
+loss of valuable papers, although he had entirely recovered from the
+physical effects of his attack. He indulged in curses, loud and deep,
+upon the perpetrator of the theft, and speculated with grave seriousness
+as to the effect of their loss. Webster, who felt that he could be
+liberal in dealing out his sympathy, was profuse in his expressions of
+regret and condolence, though I am afraid, that an observer who was
+acquainted with the facts of the case, would have detected a sly twinkle
+of merriment in his eyes, that belied his words. They were driven to a
+farm-house, situated on a little creek that ran in from the bay, where
+they were met by a man named James Gough, to whom Webster had a letter
+of introduction from Mr. Miller at the hotel. After reading the letter,
+Mr. Gough invited the travelers to enter, and informed them that the
+boat would attempt to cross the bay that night, if the weather would
+permit. After partaking of a bountiful supper, the party repaired to the
+landing, and although there were indications of a storm, the captain,
+who was in waiting, determined to make an effort to get across. A large
+amount of merchandise had already been placed on board, and soon after
+the arrival of Webster and the Doctor, who were to be the only
+passengers, they put off. Their trip was made in safety, and by midnight
+they reached the Virginia side. Here they went to the house of a Mr.
+Woodward, who was a partner with Mr. Gough, in shipping goods into the
+rebel country, and who took charge of the cargo that came over with our
+travelers in the boat.
+
+Remaining at the house of Mr. Woodward during the night, on the
+following morning they went to Tappahannock, where they boarded a packet
+for Fredericksburg. Here they met a Colonel Prickett, who was an old
+acquaintance of Doctor Gurley, and from the general conversation that
+ensued, Webster obtained material information of the location of the
+rebel forces. That evening they proceeded to Richmond, and Webster,
+parting with his traveling companion, set about delivering some letters
+which he had brought with him. Finding that several of his friends, from
+whom he had hoped to receive information, were absent from the city, and
+that it would be impossible to do much good service, he resolved to
+return to Washington. He went to the office of the Secretary of War,
+and, obtaining a pass to Norfolk, he returned by that route, taking
+notes by the wayside, and arrived in Washington in due time.
+
+John Scobell remained in Leonardstown a few days after Webster's
+departure, mingling with the colored people of that locality, and
+posting himself upon several points that would be of benefit to him
+further on. The desire for freedom, and the expectation that the result
+of the war would determine that question, had now become universal among
+the colored men of the South. Although as yet debarred from taking up
+arms in defense of their rights, their efforts in behalf of the Northern
+troops were freely given when opportunity offered, and consequently,
+Scobell made hosts of friends among the black-skinned people, who
+advised him cheerfully and were profuse in their offers of assistance.
+
+During the time that he remained in Leonardstown Scobell made his home
+with an old negro who was an active member of the League, and who had
+conceived a wonderful friendship for my bright and intelligent colored
+operative. Uncle Turner, as he was called, was a genuine Virginia darky,
+who, having been reared as a house servant, had been enabled to acquire
+more than the average amount of intelligence, and obtaining his freedom,
+had settled himself in Leonardstown, where he obtained a livelihood by
+performing a variety of duties for the people in the town. Here, with
+his aged wife, a fat, good-natured negress, he lived in comparative
+comfort, and a more thorough abolitionist never existed than was Uncle
+Turner.
+
+Through this old negro, Scobell had made arrangements with a young
+colored man to set him across the river in a skiff, and after spending
+the day among his new-found friends, and amply provided with a
+substantial lunch from Aunt Judy, Scobell made his way to the river
+bank, where he found his man waiting for him, carefully concealed among
+some bushes that grew along the shore.
+
+After remunerating the boatman, and bidding him a hearty farewell,
+Scobell started up the river. His first plan was to walk as far as
+Dumfries, and from that point commence his operations among the rebel
+camps, but after reflection, he concluded to make his way to the
+Rappahannock, and endeavor to work his way on one of the river boats as
+far as Fredericksburg, which would save him a walk of some fifty miles
+and materially expedite his journey. He accordingly set out for the
+river and, walking briskly, he found himself about noon at Leestown, a
+small landing-place on the Rappahannock. Feeling somewhat fatigued by
+his long tramp, he remained over night, and early on the following
+morning repaired to the wharf, where he was in hopes of finding a boat
+on which he could secure his passage. He had not long to wait, for
+shortly after his arrival the packet boat "Virginia" steamed up to the
+landing, and soon the men were engaged in putting on board a quantity
+of miscellaneous freight, that was destined for Fredericksburg. Finding
+that there was plenty of work to do, Scobell stepped quickly on board
+and seeking the captain politely asked permission to work his passage.
+The Captain, who was a kind and genial man at heart, although he
+carefully veiled these characteristics under a rough exterior, and a
+bluff and impetuous demeanor, listened to the request, and being in want
+of some extra help, turned to Scobell and said:
+
+"You black rascal, what do you want at Fredericksburg? Come now, no
+lies, or I'll throw you into the river!"
+
+"I done tell no lies, Massa Cap'n," replied Scobell, with a broad grin
+overspreading his face, "but I've bin back in de kentry to see some ob
+my folks dar, and I dun got no money fur ter git back."
+
+"So you want me to take you to Fredericksburg, do you?" ejaculated the
+Captain, good-naturedly. "Well, go below and tell the cook to put you to
+work!"
+
+Scobell was about to express his thanks, when the Captain blurted out:
+
+"Clear out, d--n you! I've no time for talk now."
+
+Scobell hurried below, and seeking out the cook was soon busily engaged
+at work; before he had been very long employed he made a friend of his
+sable instructor, and was as merry as a cricket. The run to
+Fredericksburg was about twelve hours, but owing to shoal water they
+were obliged to stop at Coulter's Wharf to wait for the rising of the
+tide. In the evening the negro hands gathered on the deck around the
+smoke-stack, and with the stars twinkling overhead, they made the shores
+ring with their mirthful melodies. Among the party was an old negro, who
+had spent almost his entire life upon the river, and who was an
+excellent performer on the banjo, and he accompanied the singers with
+his instrument. "Nelly Gray," "Bob Ridley," "Way down upon de Swanee
+River," and a host of the most popular songs of the day were rendered in
+a style that elicited the heartiest applause from the delighted
+passengers. The climax of enjoyment was reached, however, when my
+Scobell, in his splendid baritone, and accompanied by the old negro and
+his banjo, sang that sweet old Scottish ballad:
+
+    "Maxwelton's braes are bonny,
+      Where early fa's the dew."
+
+The applause which greeted him upon its conclusion was most hearty and
+enthusiastic, and when he gave them
+
+    "A man's a man for a' that,"
+
+the passengers crowded around him and began to ply him with eager
+questions as to his knowledge of the music of the beloved bard of
+Scotia. The idea of a darky singing Scotch ballads, and with such true
+emotional pathos and sweetness, was such a novelty to them that all were
+anxious to learn where he had heard them. Scobell briefly and modestly
+informed them that he had been raised by a gentleman who was a native of
+Scotland, who was himself a good singer, and that his master had taught
+him the music he loved so well. The Captain, who was also a Scotchman,
+and who had listened to the melodies with the tears trickling over his
+rubicund nose, now stepped forward and said heartily:
+
+"Look here, young fellow, I need an extra man on this boat, and I'll
+give you forty dollars a month to work for me. The work is light--now
+what do you say?"
+
+Here was a dilemma entirely unexpected. Scobell had not only sung
+himself into the good graces of the passengers, but of the rough old
+Captain also. It was plain that this offer came from the very heart of
+the old salt, who was as deeply touched by the melodies as was any one
+else, and he wanted to secure Scobell's services as much for the songs
+he could sing as for the work he could do.
+
+Scobell bowed his thanks to the Captain, and said:
+
+"I'm werry much obliged to yer Cap'n; I'se bin lookin' fur a job ebber
+since I left ole Mississippi, an' I'll do my best to please you, sure."
+
+"All right," replied the Captain. "It's time to turn in now, so go below
+and tell the mate to take your time; your pay will commence from
+to-day."
+
+[Illustration: "_The work isn't hard. Now, what do you say._" P. 364.]
+
+All hands went below, where Scobell duly reported to the mate, a bunk
+was assigned to him and he was made one of the crew of the steam-packet
+"Virginia." This was a rather different turn of affairs than he had
+expected, but he had done the best he could under the circumstances, and
+regretting that he was compelled to deceive the honest old Captain, he
+turned in for the night and slept soundly.
+
+When he awoke the next morning, the boat was in motion, and he knew that
+he was on his way to Fredericksburg. How to get away was the next
+question to be decided, but he resolved to await the operation of events
+and adopt any chance that afforded for getting away. In due time the
+boat landed at her destination and soon all was bustle and confusion in
+discharging the freight. Scobell assisted manfully in landing the cargo,
+and earned the encomiums of the Captain for his diligent labor. Learning
+that the boat would not start on her return trip until the next morning,
+he requested permission to go on shore until they were prepared to
+start. This was readily granted by the unsuspecting and really
+good-natured Captain, who also gave him a small sum of money to defray
+his expenses, and cautioned him to report on time or the boat would
+start without him. Scobell promised to be punctual, and then took his
+leave.
+
+It is not necessary to state that the "Virginia" on her down trip went
+without the ballad-singing negro, for by the time she was ready to put
+off, he was on his way to Dumfries and the Accoquan.
+
+Carefully noting everything that came in his way he traveled through
+Dumfries, Accoquan, Manassas and Centreville, and after spending nearly
+ten days in these localities he finally made his way to Leesburg, and
+thence down the Potomac to Washington. His experiences on this trip were
+quite numerous and varied, and only a lack of space prevents their
+narration. Sometimes, as a vender of delicacies through the camps, a
+laborer on the earthworks at Manassas, or a cook at Centreville, he made
+his way uninterruptedly until he obtained the desired information and
+successfully accomplished the object of his mission.
+
+His return to Washington was accomplished in safety and his full and
+concise report fully justified me in the selection I had made of a good,
+reliable and intelligent operative.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+_A Perilous Ride.--A Suspicious Peddler.--Uncle Gallus Again.--Scobell
+Investigating.--Doubts and Suspicions._
+
+
+It was on a beautiful morning in the early part of the month of April,
+1862, when a lady, mounted upon a handsome and spirited black horse, and
+accompanied by a young and intelligent-looking negro, also excellently
+mounted, rode out of the city of Richmond, apparently for the purpose of
+enjoying a morning ride. Provided with the necessary passports, they
+experienced no difficulty in passing the guards, and after a short ride
+found themselves in the open country beyond the city.
+
+The lady was young, handsome and apparently about twenty-five years of
+age. Her complexion was fresh and rosy as the morning, her hair fell in
+flowing tresses of gold, while her eyes, which were of a clear and deep
+blue, were quick and searching in their glances. She appeared careless
+and entirely at ease, but a close observer would have noticed a
+compression of the small lips, and a fixedness in the sparkling eyes
+that told of a purpose to be accomplished, and that her present journey
+was not wholly one of pleasure.
+
+After leaving the city the colored attendant spurred to her side, and
+then, putting spurs to their horses, they broke into a swift canter.
+Their road lay along the river bank, which here led in a south-easterly
+direction. Turning to the negro at her side, the lady remarked:
+
+"Now, John, we have a ride of ten miles before us, and we must be at
+Glendale as early as possible."
+
+"All right, missus," rejoined her sable companion, "dese hosses will
+take us through in good shape, I know."
+
+They followed the course of the stream, whose waters glistened in the
+rays of the morning's sun like polished silver. On either side the road
+was fringed with a growth of cottonwood trees, that cast a grateful
+shade along their path, while the cool breezes of the rippling river
+rendered their ride a most delightful one indeed. But as they sped along
+the most casual observer would have noticed from the expression of their
+faces that their ride was being undertaken for other purposes than
+pleasure.
+
+The riders pressed on, scarcely slackening their speed until in the near
+distance could be seen the tall spire of the single church in the
+pleasant little village of Glendale. They now drew rein and brought
+their smoking steeds to a slow walk, and riding leisurely onward, they
+stopped before a neat little inn located on the outskirts of the town.
+
+An old, white-headed negro took their horses and led them away, while
+the landlady, a neat and tidy-looking matron, wearing widow's weeds, met
+the lady at the door, and cordially welcomed her into the house.
+
+"Here, Jennie," she called to her daughter, a trim little girl of twelve
+years, "show this lady to her room."
+
+Following the little girl, the lady was conducted into a cool and
+pleasant little parlor, with windows opening upon the garden, and
+through which came the fragrant breath of roses in full bloom.
+
+Scobell accompanied the old man with the horses into the stable-yard,
+where he assisted in caring for the heated animals.
+
+"I dun spose you's on de way to Yu'ktown?" queried the old darky, who
+was rubbing vigorously away upon the limbs of the glossy black horse.
+After waiting a short time, and hearing no response, he added:
+
+"What'd you say? dis yer hoss is fidgettin' aroun' so I didn't har you."
+
+"I didn't say anything," responded his companion good-naturedly, but in
+a tone that plainly indicated his intention not to submit himself to the
+pumping process at the hands of his garrulous friend.
+
+"I tought you hearn what I dun axed you," replied the old man, a little
+taken aback by the cool demeanor of his new acquaintance.
+
+Scobell, however, industriously worked away at his own horse and said
+nothing.
+
+"Well," said the old darky after another pause, and apparently communing
+with himself--"it am a fac' dat now an den you meets people dat ain't
+got de cibbleness to answer a question--nor de grit to tell a feller
+'tain't nun o' his business; but dey jes let on like dey didn't har wat
+you sed--wen all de time dey kin har jes as well as I kin."
+
+Still there was no satisfactory response, and at last the old man
+blurted out again:
+
+"Now I dun spec' it am nun ob Uncle Gallus's bizness were dese folks am
+a goin', but Jemima! I didn't tink it any harm to ax. Folks dat knows
+Uncle Gallus aint afeared tu tell him nuffin, coz dey knows he dun got a
+mitey close head when it am needcessary."
+
+The old man was none other than the veritable old Uncle Gallus, whose
+experience in the South seemed to be very different from the easy life
+he had led as the house servant of Mrs. Morton. How he came into this
+position I am unable to say, but here he was, and the same smile of
+good-nature irradiated his face, as when his way of life was pleasant,
+and his duties lighter. Perhaps, it would be as well to state here, that
+the two persons already mentioned were Mrs. Carrie Lawton, a female
+operative on my force, and John Scobell, who has figured before in these
+pages. These two persons had been for a time employed in Richmond, and
+were now endeavoring to effect their journey North.
+
+After finishing the last remark, Uncle Gallus straightened himself up
+and stood erect, with the air of a man who had been unjustly injured,
+and who was disposed to vindicate himself now and there.
+
+"I tell you, uncle," finally replied Scobell, "there are times when one
+must be careful what you say, and who you say it to."
+
+"Dat am a fac'!" ejaculated the old man.
+
+"Now, if I knowed you was all right," Scobell continued, "I might talk,
+but 'tain't smart to tell your business to strangers."
+
+"Dat am a fac', young man," observed Uncle Gallus, shaking his head with
+a knowing look; "but den I spose you's a friend to Uncle Abe, ain't you
+now?" he queried.
+
+"And if I am," said Scobell, "what do you want?"
+
+"Light and Liberty," replied the old man impressively, "and fo' de L'ud
+I b'lieve de day am nigh when it am a comin'."
+
+At these words, Scobell stepped forward and said in a low voice:
+
+"Do you belong to the League?"
+
+"I does," answered Uncle Gallus; "I dun jined it in dis berry place."
+
+"How often do you meet?" inquired Scobell.
+
+"We meets ebery two weeks, down at Uncle Dicky Bassett's--he libs on de
+bluff ob de ribber 'bout a mile furder down de road to'rds Wilson's
+Landin'."
+
+"How far is it to Wilson's landing?" asked Scobell, who, finding that
+Uncle Gallus was a member of the League, was now no longer loth to talk
+with him.
+
+"A little grain de rise ob twenty mile," replied the old man.
+
+"About sundown, then," said Scobell, "these horses must be saddled and
+ready for the missus and me, for we must be at the landing before
+midnight."
+
+"All right," rejoined Uncle Gallus, "dey'll be ready when yu want 'em."
+
+"See heah now, is yure name John?" suddenly asked the old man, as if an
+idea had just occurred to him.
+
+"Yes, that's what they call me."
+
+"An' you cum frum Richmun' dis mo'nin?"
+
+Scobell nodded.
+
+"An' dat young leddy am gwine to meet somebody, mebbe her husband, at de
+landin'?"
+
+"Yes," said Scobell; "but how do you know these things? Has anybody been
+here to see you?"
+
+"Yah! Yah!" chuckled the old man. "I dun tole you dat folks as knowed
+Uncle Gallus dun often come ter see him. I dun knowed you all de time,
+when you fust come--in fac', I was 'spectin' you and de missus all de
+mawnin'."
+
+"Was the landlady looking for us too?" inquired Scobell.
+
+"She knowed you was a comin'," replied Uncle Gallus; "dah was a gem'man
+heah las' night, as talked about you to her, an' lef' a note fur de
+lady."
+
+"Is the landlady all right?" asked Scobell.
+
+"True to de core," affirmed Uncle Gallus emphatically; "more'n one poor
+feller as 'scaped from Richmun' hes foun' a good bed an' supper at de
+'Glen House.'"
+
+"Well," said my operative, "you can finish your work here; I have an
+errand or two for the missus, and I must go and attend to them before
+dinner."
+
+So saying, he started for the house, leaving Uncle Gallus to water and
+feed the horses, which had now sufficiently cooled, and were enjoying
+their needed rest.
+
+Scobell's errand was simply to take a stroll about the village in order
+to ascertain whether there was any indication of their having been
+followed by anyone from Richmond. He strolled about the village, noting
+carefully every one whom he met, and, feeling comparatively secure,
+started to return to the hotel.
+
+Turning the corner of a street he came suddenly face to face with a
+peddler, who addressed him in a rich Irish brogue and inquired the way
+to the tavern. Scobell gave him the required information and stood
+watching the fellow as he ambled off in the direction indicated. There
+was something in the appearance of this man that attracted the attention
+and excited the suspicions of my observant operative. He resolved to
+keep an eye upon his movements and endeavor to discover, if possible,
+whether the man was a genuine peddler, or a spy, who had adopted that
+disguise to conceal his true character.
+
+In the few words that passed between them Scobell had noticed that while
+the man's hair was a fiery red his eyebrows and lashes appeared of a
+dark brown color, and his face was altogether of too florid a hue to be
+natural. These observations were sufficient to put Scobell upon the
+alert at once, and convinced him that the man was not what he appeared
+to be.
+
+Following slowly he watched him until he reached the hotel and entered
+the bar-room, where, laying aside his pack, he ordered his dinner.
+Scobell entered the room immediately behind him, and passing through it,
+he made his way to the kitchen, where the landlady was superintending
+the preparations for a most savory dinner. Calling her aside, he
+informed her of the peddler's arrival and of his suspicions regarding
+him, cautioning her to convey the news to his missus before they met at
+the table.
+
+In a few minutes dinner was announced, and the boarders, to the number
+of fifteen, including Mrs. Lawton and the peddler, with the landlady at
+the head, gathered around the long table in the low, old-fashioned
+dining-room. The lively clatter of the knives and forks soon attested
+the vigor with which they attacked the viands set before them. The
+peddler ate his meal in silence, undisturbed by the general
+conversation going on around him, and Mrs. Lawton noticed that he was
+keenly watching her whenever an opportunity occurred to do so, as he
+thought, unobserved. She, however, affected entire unconsciousness of
+the scrutiny she was subjected to, and kept up an animated conversation
+with the landlady upon various trivial topics until the meal was
+finished.
+
+Scobell, who temporarily acted as an attendant at the table, lost no
+opportunity to carefully watch the movements of the peddler, and his
+searching glances, directed towards Mrs. Lawton, fully convinced him
+that his previous suspicions were well founded.
+
+Mrs. Lawton returned to her room, not a little disturbed at the
+peddler's strange behavior, and having no doubt that the stranger was a
+spy, she determined to discover if she was the object of his visit, or
+whether his appearance bore any relation to her presence at the hotel.
+She accordingly sent for Scobell, and together they decided that he
+should carefully watch the movements of the peddler, and if nothing of a
+suspicious nature transpired, they would renew their journey after
+nightfall.
+
+Scobell immediately left the room, and as he entered the bar-room he
+noticed that the peddler was settling his score, preparatory to taking
+his departure. He remarked to the landlady, with the same rich brogue
+which Scobell had observed, that business was dull, and that he would
+have to walk to Richmond.
+
+"All right, my fine fellow," muttered my operative, "we'll see whether
+you are going to Richmond or not."
+
+The peddler lighted a short-stemmed clay pipe, and swinging his pack
+over his shoulder, set off at a rapid pace on the road to Richmond.
+
+Scobell hastened to the stable and, procuring a pole and line that he
+had observed there in the morning, started off in the direction which
+the peddler had taken, but taking a shorter cut to the river, which
+would enable him to reach the road about a mile below the village and in
+advance of the peddler. Sauntering along until he had gained the shelter
+of a belt of timber to his left, he then increased his pace until he was
+almost abreast of the peddler, though entirely concealed from view. He
+was now satisfied that with a little effort he could keep his man in
+sight, and he concluded not to pass him, as he had at first intended,
+but to follow him until he saw him on his way to the rebel capital.
+
+When they were about three miles from the village, the peddler suddenly
+left the road and turned into the woods, leading directly to the banks
+of the river, which at this point were remarkably high and steep. This
+movement was entirely unexpected by my operative, and his only recourse
+was to drop hastily behind a tree to prevent being seen. He was not
+discovered, however, although the peddler, after entering the timber,
+gazed carefully around him, as if to see whether he was being followed.
+Apparently satisfied with his survey he resumed his walk, in happy
+ignorance of the fact that a pair of gleaming eyes were not far distant,
+noting his every movement.
+
+Waiting until he had gone a sufficient distance to render it safe,
+Scobell rose slowly from the ground and stealthily followed his
+footsteps until the peddler paused at the edge of the bluff, which ran
+down into the river. Here he tightened the strap of his pack, and after
+another hasty glance behind him, he began the descent of the bluff, with
+the aid of the stout stick which he carried with him. The bank was
+almost perpendicular, and was covered with a heavy undergrowth of young
+timber and brush, which made the journey rather a hazardous undertaking.
+
+"Wonder if he's going to swim to Richmond with that pack on his
+shoulders," said Scobell to himself, as he wonderingly watched these
+strange movements of the peddler.
+
+Fully determined to see the end of this mysterious maneuver, but
+recognizing the necessity of exercising the utmost caution in his
+advance, Scobell slowly and noiselessly made his way to the spot where
+the peddler had vanished as completely from his view as if he had sunk
+into the bowels of the earth. Advancing to within a few feet of the
+edge of the bluff, he threw himself upon his hands and knees, and drew
+himself forward until he could overlook the steep descent. He could see
+nothing of the peddler, however, for the dense growth of bushes
+completely obstructed his view, but he could readily discern the marks
+of footprints in the soft soil, which had been made by him in his
+descent to the bottom.
+
+Here was a dilemma. He had lost his man, and he dared not follow
+directly after him, as the peddler might be lying in ambush, and an
+encounter might be fatal. After a few moments' consideration, he
+concluded to walk along the bluff a short distance and endeavor to find
+another path by which he might descend, and thus avoid the peddler, if
+he was waiting to surprise him. About a hundred yards further on he came
+upon a well-beaten path, and here he began his descent. Everything was
+as quiet as the grave around him, and he reached the base of the cliff
+in safety, but without seeing anything of the man he was after. Passing
+up along the lane by the river a short distance, he discovered a narrow
+path leading in the direction which the peddler had taken, and showing
+the mark of recent footprints. Passing cautiously along this path a
+short distance, he saw that the high bluffs were gradually giving to
+more level banks, and that a little further on the stream made a sharp
+detour to the right, and swept out into the open and level country.
+
+In the bend of the river, and on the same side, he noticed a small
+cabin, half hidden by a clump of trees. Surmising that the peddler had
+entered this cabin, he resolved to hide himself and watch for a few
+minutes, hoping that the man would soon make his appearance. He had
+scarcely taken a position where he could unobservedly note all that was
+going on, when a man, whom he at once recognized as the peddler, made
+his appearance at the door, and stood anxiously gazing around, as though
+expecting some one. He still maintained his disguise, and appeared to be
+alone. Returning into the cabin, and after a few minutes, to the
+surprise of Scobell, another individual made his appearance. This
+new-comer, while about the same size as the peddler, was a very
+different-looking person indeed, for instead of the red hair and florid
+complexion, he noticed that this man had a closely-cropped head of black
+hair, while his complexion was dark and swarthy.
+
+"So there's a pair of you!" thought Scobell.
+
+The fellow, after apparently satisfying himself that the coast was
+clear, proceeded to a small stable that stood in the rear of the cabin,
+and almost on the edge of the river bank. Scobell thought he heard the
+faint whinny of a horse, and shortly afterwards the man, mounted on a
+dark iron-gray horse, appeared, and made his way over the hill and out
+into the direction of the river road.
+
+It instantly flashed across Scobell's mind that this man was no other
+than his peddler, and without hesitation he approached the cabin and
+knocked loudly at the door. There was no response, and after a moment's
+hesitation he lifted the latch and entered. As he had conjectured, the
+cabin was empty.
+
+[Illustration: "GOOD-MORNING."]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+_The Journey Resumed.--A Midnight Pursuit.--A Brave Woman.--A Deadly
+Encounter.--Scobell Defends Himself.--Death of a Rebel Spy._
+
+
+While these events were occurring, General McClellan was advancing up
+the Peninsula towards Richmond. Yorktown had surrendered, the battle of
+Williamsburg had been fought, and the army was advancing to the
+Chickahominy.
+
+Mrs. Lawton and John Scobell had been for some weeks in Richmond, during
+which time they had obtained much important information, Mrs. Lawton
+taking the role of a Southern lady from Corinth, Mississippi, and
+Scobell acting as her servant. Having determined to leave Richmond, they
+were on their way to join the Union forces, which, under General
+McClellan, had their headquarters on the Chickahominy at a point about
+ten miles from Wilson's Landing. Here, according to previous
+arrangement, they were to meet Mr. Lawton, who was also one of my
+operatives, and from that point were to proceed to the Union camp.
+
+The landlady of the Glen House was a staunch friend to the Federals, and
+had on more than one occasion rendered valuable service to my
+operatives, especially to Hugh Lawton. It was therefore at his
+suggestion that his wife and Scobell adopted the plan they did to leave
+Richmond and to reach our lines. As Uncle Gallus had stated, a man had
+stopped at the tavern the night before and had informed Mrs. Braxton,
+the landlady, that these parties would take that route from
+Richmond--and had left a note to be delivered to Mrs. Lawton, which
+contained instructions of her future line of travel.
+
+The trip from Glendale was one attended with great risk, as the country,
+on that side of the river, was filled with the scouts of both armies,
+and if captured by the rebel scouts or pickets, the chances were that
+detection would be followed by serious consequences. Among my female
+operatives, however, none were clearer-headed or more resolute than Mrs.
+Lawton, who prior to this time had been a most efficient worker and had
+been remarkably successful on her trips into the lines of the enemy. In
+each case she had escaped with rare good fortune.
+
+When Scobell entered the structure which the stranger had left, he found
+that it comprised but a single room, and immediately proceeded to make a
+thorough examination of its interior. A small fire-place on one side,
+which showed no signs of having been recently used, and a number of
+benches, were scattered about. In the corner of the room he saw the pack
+and several articles that had been worn by the peddler, which left no
+further room for doubt in his mind as to the character of the
+individual he had been watching for so long a time.
+
+He accordingly set out for Glendale, where he arrived just as the sun
+was sinking behind the western horizon. He narrated the particulars of
+his chase to Mrs. Lawton, who was convinced that the peddler was a rebel
+spy; but the question was--Was he upon their track? Did he suspect them?
+and if so, by what means had he discovered who they were and what their
+destination was?
+
+Without attempting to settle these questions, however, they concluded to
+set out at once for the landing. The horses were brought to the door by
+Uncle Gallus, who was closely questioned as to whether a horseman
+answering the description given by Scobell had passed through the
+village that afternoon, did not remember having seen such a person.
+Believing that possibly the man might really have gone on to Richmond
+they concluded to start that night and hazard the consequences.
+
+Both of them were well armed and were therefore fully prepared to defend
+themselves, unless attacked by numbers. They rode swiftly along at the
+free and sweeping gallop for which the southern saddle-horses are so
+famous, and feeling quite secure, they conversed pleasantly together on
+their way.
+
+"I guess we will get through all right, notwithstanding our fears to the
+contrary," said Mrs. Lawton.
+
+"I dunno about that," replied Scobell; "we're not through with our
+journey yet, and there's plenty of time for trouble yet. Perhaps we had
+better walk the horses a spell."
+
+"That is a good suggestion," assented Mrs. Lawton, "we will walk them a
+mile or two, and then we will be enabled to go the faster."
+
+"I tell you, missus," said Scobell, "I wish we was at the landin';
+somehow I feel that there is yet danger ahead."
+
+"What makes you think so?" inquired Mrs. Lawton.
+
+"Well, I am afraid that confounded peddler will turn up before we get
+through."
+
+"Why, I can manage him myself," laughed Mrs. Lawton, "and if that is all
+you fear, we are perfectly safe."
+
+"Now you're pokin' fun at me, missus; but you'll find that I can fight
+if I get the chance, and I was thinking more of you than of myself."
+
+"Well, there's an old saying, John, don't cross a bridge until you reach
+it; so we won't borrow trouble until it comes."
+
+Their journey now lay through a richly cultivated district; on either
+side were fine farms, whose growing crops had not yet been touched by
+the ravages of war, and the country, under the soft light of the moon
+presented a scene of rare beauty. Away to the left ran the river, now
+bathed in a flood of silvery light, which, emerging from a belt of
+woods, pursued its winding way until again lost to view in the woods
+that were sharply outlined at a distance. To their right the country was
+broken and hilly, and the landscape presented a rugged and picturesque
+appearance in marked contrast to the evidences of cultivation upon the
+other side. The night was soft and balmy, and the silence was only
+broken by the sound of the horses' hoofs as they slowly trotted along.
+It seemed difficult to believe that war was abroad in the land, and that
+even now, while in the enjoyment of apparent safety, danger was lurking
+on every hand.
+
+Their horses being now sufficiently rested, they again pressed forward
+at a rapid pace until they were about five miles from the landing which
+was their point of destination. There Mrs. Lawton's husband was to meet
+her and the balance of the journey, to the Union camp would be free from
+danger, as the Federal pickets were posted across the river.
+
+They were now approaching a patch of timber, through which they would be
+compelled to pass, and an instinctive feeling of dread came over both of
+them as they drew near to it. The trees grew close together, shutting
+out the light of the moon, and rendering the road extremely dark and
+gloomy.
+
+"Just the place for an ambuscade," said Mrs. Lawton shiveringly; "draw
+your pistols, John, and be ready in case of attack."
+
+Scobell silently did as he was directed, and riding close together,
+they entered the wood. The darkness was so great, that they could
+distinguish objects but a short distance ahead of them. They passed
+safely through the wood, however, and as they emerged from the darkness,
+they congratulated themselves upon their good fortune, and began to
+think that they were unduly alarming themselves.
+
+Their comforting reflections were of short duration, however, for
+scarcely had they left the wood, than they perceived four horsemen
+approaching them at a swift gallop. What to do now was a question to be
+decided promptly. To turn and retreat would certainly insure their
+capture, as the woods were just behind, and they were afraid to travel
+through them on a run--so they resolved to bravely continue their way,
+and trust to chance for their safe deliverance, should the new-comers
+prove to be foes.
+
+A few hurried words were exchanged between them, as they arranged that
+each should select a man and fire on the instant they were challenged,
+and then they were to dash ahead, hoping by this bold and unexpected
+move to disconcert their assailants by killing or disabling two of their
+number, and thus effect their escape.
+
+As the advancing party came closer, they divided, two going on each side
+of the road, leaving a space between them for our travelers to pass
+through. They were now close enough for my operatives to discover that
+two of them wore the uniform of Confederate gray, with heavy sabres at
+their sides, while the others were apparently in citizens' clothes.
+
+Scobell, who had been intently regarding them, now exclaimed:
+
+"'Fore God, missus, that one on your side is the peddler!"
+
+He had scarcely uttered these words, when one of the men called out:
+
+"Halt, and throw up your hands!"
+
+They were now nearly face to face with each other, and in a flash two
+sharp reports rang out on the still night air, and two of the men reeled
+and fell from their saddles.
+
+"At 'em!" hissed Scobell, through his clenched teeth, as he plunged the
+spurs into his steed. The two animals sprang forward, like arrows from
+the string, and in a moment they had dashed past the others, who seemed
+dazed at the suddenness of their actions, and before they recovered
+themselves, my operatives were speeding like the wind some distance
+away.
+
+"Lay low to your saddle!" cried Scobell to his companion, "and turn your
+horse as far to the side of the road as you can," at the same time
+turning his own animal close to the fence that ran along the roadside.
+
+His directions were immediately followed by Mrs. Lawton, who retained a
+wonderful control over herself and the beast she rode.
+
+It was evident that their enemies had not been expecting such a result
+to their demand, and they sat for a time like statues; then, as if
+suddenly recollecting themselves, they wheeled their horses, and,
+discharging their revolvers in rapid succession, started in swift
+pursuit.
+
+"They'll never get us now," said Scobell, "unless their horses are made
+of better stuff than I think they are."
+
+The race now became an exciting one; the pursuers having emptied their
+weapons, without doing any harm to the escaping pair, did not take time
+to reload, but urged their horses to their utmost speed. They soon
+discovered that their horses were no match for those of the fugitives,
+and their curses were loud enough to be heard by both Scobell and his
+companion, as in spite of all their efforts they found themselves unable
+to lessen the distance between them.
+
+Scobell several times ventured a look over his shoulder, to note the
+progress of their pursuers, and on each occasion, finding them still
+lagging behind, he uttered some encouraging remark to Mrs. Lawton, who
+was straining every nerve in the attempt to escape.
+
+While indulging in one of these hasty observations, and forgetting for a
+moment the management of his horse, the animal suddenly swerved from the
+road, as if frightened at some object in advance of them, and,
+stumbling, fell heavily to the ground, throwing Scobell over his head
+and into the ditch.
+
+[Illustration: "_With a scream of anguish, the one nearest to him threw
+up his hands and fell heavily to the ground._" P. 380.]
+
+Scrambling quickly to his feet, the negro shouted to his companion:
+
+"Go ahead, don't mind me; save yourself!"
+
+He then turned his attention to his horse, which had now recovered his
+feet, and stood panting and trembling in every nerve both from fright
+and excessive exertion. Listening intently, he could hear the clatter of
+hoofs of the horse rode by Mrs. Lawton, in the distance, while coming
+closer every instant was the noise of the approaching horsemen. They had
+discovered his misfortune, and were now shouting and yelling with
+triumph at the possibility of capturing at least one of the party. There
+was no time for mounting, even if his horse was unhurt, and Scobell
+determined to make a bold stand and sell his life dearly, while he would
+assuredly prevent the capture of Mrs. Lawton.
+
+Leading his horse to the side of the road, he placed himself behind him,
+and resting his trusty weapon across the saddle, he awaited the coming
+of the approaching horsemen. He calmly waited until the two men were
+within a few yards of him, and then, taking as good aim as the light of
+the moon enabled him to do, he fired. The horseman nearest him uttered a
+scream of anguish, and, throwing up both hands, toppled from the saddle
+and fell upon the ground, while his frightened horse, with a snort of
+terror, wheeled around and dashed off in the direction from whence he
+had come.
+
+The remaining man stopped his horse with a jerk that drew him back upon
+his haunches, and then, turning swiftly around, set off in the opposite
+direction, while the bullets from Scobell's weapon whistled in
+dangerously close proximity to his ears.
+
+Scobell, seeing that three of the pursuers were either dead or badly
+wounded, proceeded to reload his weapon, and was preparing to remount
+his horse and follow after Mrs. Lawton, when he heard the tramp of
+horses' feet coming from the direction in which she had gone. From the
+noise they made, he was convinced that the approaching party numbered at
+least a score, and that they were riding at a sweeping gallop. A bend in
+the road, however, hid them from his view, and he was unable to
+determine whether they were friends or foes. In an instant later they
+swept into full sight, and, to his intense relief, he discovered that
+they were Union cavalrymen, and that Mrs. Lawton and her husband were at
+their head.
+
+"Hello, John!" exclaimed Lawton, as they came up, "are you hurt?"
+
+"No," replied Scobell.
+
+"What has become of your assailants?"
+
+"Two of them we left a mile or two back, one is lying there in the road
+and the other, so far as I know, is making tracks for Richmond,"
+answered Scobell.
+
+"You are a brave fellow, Scobell," said the Captain of the squad, coming
+forward. "You were lucky in escaping their bullets, and still more so
+that you didn't break your neck when your horse fell with you, at the
+speed you were going."
+
+"He fell on his head, I reckon," ventured one of the soldiers,
+waggishly, "which accounts for his not being hurt."
+
+"That's so," replied Scobell, in all seriousness, "I landed right square
+on my head in that ditch."
+
+A roar of laughter followed this remark, and Scobell added,
+good-naturedly:
+
+"It might have killed one of you fellows, but it didn't even give me the
+headache. I am glad, though, it wasn't the missus' horse, or things
+might have turned out different."
+
+The Captain now cut short the conversation by ordering four of the party
+to pursue the flying rebel, and, if possible, effect his capture, while
+the rest proceeded to hunt up those that had been injured. The man whom
+Scobell had shot last was soon found; he was dead, the ball having
+entered his skull. Riding back to the spot where the first encounter
+took place, they discovered the dead body of the peddler, or spy, who
+had met his doom from the bullet of Mrs. Lawton, while his companion,
+with a shattered arm, was sitting up, and nearly faint from loss of
+blood, and suffering intense pain.
+
+Having captured two of the horses ridden by the party, and bandaging the
+shattered arm as well as they were able, the wounded man was placed on
+one of the animals and under an escort they were conveyed to the Union
+lines.
+
+Two shallow graves were hastily dug, and in them were placed the bodies
+of the two dead men. The party sent after the escaped soldier soon
+returned, reporting that he had obtained too much the start of them to
+be overtaken, and they were compelled to give up the chase.
+
+The entire party then returned to the Landing, and in the morning my
+operatives were put across the river, where they reported in due time at
+headquarters, where they detailed fully the information which they had
+gleaned in the rebel capital.
+
+It was subsequently learned that the peddler was a rebel spy, and for
+some time past had been visiting the Union camps gathering information,
+which he had no doubt conveyed to the rebels. On his person were found
+papers which fully confirmed this, and that they failed to reach their
+destination on account of his death, was a fortunate occurrence for the
+Union cause.
+
+How he had discovered the character of my operatives is a mystery yet
+unsolved, as his wounded companion, when examined the next day, stated
+that he had met him that night for the first time, and had at his
+request accompanied him in the trip which had ended so disastrously. He
+further stated that his party belonged to a band of independent scouts,
+which had but lately been attached to Lee's Army, and were assigned to
+Gen. Stuart's Cavalry. Mr. and Mrs. Lawton and Scobell soon afterwards
+returned to Washington, where they were allowed to rest themselves for a
+time before being again called upon.
+
+[Illustration: A DEAD SHOT.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+_A Woman's Discoveries.--An Infernal Machine.--The Shipping in
+Danger.--Discovery and Destruction of the Submarine Battery._
+
+
+The destiny of nations, history tells us, sometimes turns upon the most
+trivial things. Rome was once saved by the gabbling of a flock of geese,
+whose cries awoke a sentinel sleeping at his post, just in time to give
+the alarm and enable the Roman soldiers to successfully repel the attack
+of an invading foe. A certain exiled and fugitive king took courage from
+watching a spider build its web, recovered his kingdom, and a crown that
+had been wrested from him by the misfortune of war. Darius, made King of
+Persia by the neighing of a horse--and in our own day historians agree,
+that had it not been for the opportune appearance of the "Monitor" when
+the rebel iron-clad "Merrimac" steamed out of Hampton Roads in March,
+1862, the destruction of the Union might have been an accomplished fact.
+For had not that formidable battery met her match in the "Yankee
+cheese-box," as the "Monitor" was derisively called, she might have
+cleared the water of Union sloops of war, raised the blockade, opened
+the way by river to Washington, shelled the national capital and turned
+the fortunes of war decidedly in favor of the South.
+
+This battle was an important epoch in the history of nations, and
+demonstrated to the world the formidable character of iron-clad war
+vessels, hitherto unknown; and placed the United States on record as
+having produced the most invincible navy in the world.
+
+In addition to the "Merrimac," the South, early in 1862, had devised a
+great many ingenious machines in the shape of torpedoes and submarine
+batteries, that were designed for the purpose of blowing up the Union
+vessels that blockaded the Southern ports.
+
+It was through the efforts of one of my operatives that the existence of
+one of these submarine batteries was discovered, and that, too, just in
+the nick of time to save the Federal blockading fleet at the mouth of
+the James River from probable destruction. It was in the early part of
+November, 1861, that I dispatched one of my lady operatives to Richmond
+and the South, for the especial purpose of ascertaining as much
+information as possible about these torpedoes and infernal machines,
+which I had good reason to believe were constructed at the rebel
+capital. The Tredegar Iron Works, the largest factory of the kind in the
+South, were located at this place, and since the commencement of
+hostilities had been manufacturing cannon and all kinds of shot and
+shell for the Confederacy.
+
+The lady whom I selected for this task was Mrs. E. H. Baker; she had
+been in my employ for years, and at one time had resided in Richmond,
+although, prior to the war, she had removed to the North, where she had
+since dwelt.
+
+This lady, fortunately enough, was well acquainted with a Captain
+Atwater and his family, who resided in Richmond, and after undertaking
+the mission, she wrote to them from Chicago, apparently, stating that
+notwithstanding the conflict between the two sections of the country,
+she designed to pay a visit to them and renew the acquaintance of years
+ago.
+
+She accordingly started, and after a circuitous journey, arrived in
+Richmond on the 24th day of the month. The Captain and his family
+received her most hospitably, and requested her to make her home with
+them during her stay in that city.
+
+Captain Atwater, although holding a commission in the rebel army, was at
+heart a Union man, and secretly rejoiced at the news of a Federal
+victory. He soon expressed his views to my operative so clearly and
+forcibly, that she believed, if he could do so, without jeopardy, he
+would join the Union troops, and fight for the cause that really had his
+heartiest wishes for success.
+
+While Mrs. Baker did not reveal to him her connection with the secret
+service of the United States, she took no pains to conceal from him her
+real sentiments, and in their confidential conversations, was quite
+free in expressing her desire for a speedy Union triumph. The Captain
+was firm in his belief that the South was wrong, and that the masses had
+been led into the war by designing and ambitious politicians, and that
+she must eventually fail. Moreover, he said, that, while born in a
+slave-holding State, he believed the institution to be wicked and cruel,
+and that the South should have given up her slaves rather than have gone
+out of the Union.
+
+Loyal as he was, the Captain understood the Southern people thoroughly,
+and he felt sure that they would fight long and stubbornly, rather than
+yield to the blacks the boon of freedom. Many days thus passed in quiet
+enjoyment and in these stolen discussions upon the important topics of
+the day. Mrs. Baker found herself very comfortably situated beneath the
+Captain's hospitable roof, and nearly a week was passed in viewing
+Richmond and the strange sights it then afforded.
+
+On every hand she saw preparations for war, and at every street she
+turned, she was confronted with armed soldiers, whose measured tread
+kept time to the music of fife and drum. In company with the Captain,
+she also visited the earthworks and fortifications around Richmond, and
+gained many valuable points of information in regard to their number and
+extent.
+
+As yet, however, she had been unable to discover anything concerning the
+special object of her mission, and feeling the necessity of
+accomplishing something in that direction, she resolved to act. She had
+now established herself so firmly in the estimation of those with whom
+she associated, that she believed she could with safety turn her
+inquiries in the direction that would lead to the knowledge she desired
+to gain. Accordingly, one evening at the tea-table she remarked,
+incidentally, that she desired very much to visit the Tredegar Iron
+Works.
+
+"Why, certainly," replied the Captain; "I will be most happy to go with
+you to-morrow."
+
+"That will be delightful," said Mrs. Baker, enthusiastically.
+
+"But stay a moment," said the Captain, musingly, "I am afraid I will not
+be able to go to-morrow, as I have to go down the river to witness a
+test of a submarine battery."
+
+"Why couldn't I go, too?" demurely asked my operative. "I am sure I
+should enjoy it very much; that is, if there is no danger connected with
+it."
+
+"Oh, there is no danger, whatever, and there will, doubtless, be a
+number of ladies present, and you can go if you wish to."
+
+"I should most certainly wish to," laughingly answered Mrs. Baker.
+
+"Very well," said the Captain; "if you and Mrs. Atwater will be ready by
+nine o'clock, we will have ample time to reach the place, which is some
+few miles below the city."
+
+The ladies were both much pleased with this arrangement, and expressed
+themselves in extravagant terms of thankfulness for a trip which, no
+doubt, would be exceedingly pleasant. The Captain then proceeded to
+explain to them the nature of the battery which was to be experimented
+with on the morrow. He explained the object to be obtained by this
+battery, which was to break up the blockading fleet at the mouth of the
+James River, and thus give the South an outlet to the sea.
+
+The next day they started in a carriage for the scene of the exhibition,
+which was located about ten miles below the city. Arriving at the
+appointed spot, they found quite a large number of military men, many of
+them accompanied by ladies, assembled to witness the testing of the
+machine, from which so much was expected.
+
+A large scow had been towed into the middle of the river, and the
+submarine vessel was to approach it and attach a magazine, containing
+nearly half a bushel of powder, to which was attached several deadly
+projectiles, and this was to be fired by a peculiarly constructed fuse,
+connected by a long wire coiled on board the submarine vessel.
+
+At a given signal the boat was sunk into the river, about half a mile
+below the scow, and shortly afterwards it began to make its way under
+the water towards it. The only visible sign of its existence was a large
+float that rested on the surface of the water, and which was connected
+with the vessel below, designed to supply the men that operated it with
+air. This float was painted a dark green, to imitate the color of the
+water, and could only be noticed by the most careful observer. As my
+operative listened to a full explanation of the machine and its
+workings, she could scarcely control her emotions of fear for the safety
+of the Federal boats, in the event of its successful operation, and
+provided the government was not speedily warned of its existence.
+
+It was learned that this vessel was but a small working model of a much
+larger one, that was now nearly completed, and would be finished in
+about two weeks, and would then be taken to the mouth of the James
+River, to operate on the war vessels guarding that port.
+
+They had obtained an excellent position, where they had a full view of
+the river, and with the aid of a strong field-glass they could
+distinctly watch the large "float," which indicated the approach of the
+vessel.
+
+"How do the men who operate the machine manage to attach the magazine to
+the vessel they design to destroy?" asked Mrs. Baker.
+
+"Two or three men, who operate the boat," replied the Captain, "are
+provided with submarine diving armor, which enables them to work under
+the water and attach the magazine to the ship intended to be blown up.
+They then have only to quickly move away to a safe distance, fire their
+fuse, and the work is done."
+
+The Captain also informed her, that the object was to break the blockade
+and allow the steamers "Patrick Henry" and "Thomas Jefferson" out to
+sea, these vessels being loaded with cotton and bound for England.
+
+While they were talking, my operative was closely watching, by the aid
+of her glass, the movements of the boat, and she now noticed that having
+approached to within a few rods of the scow, it stopped, and the water
+"float" which indicated its position remained motionless. After
+remaining in this position for a few minutes, it slowly began to recede
+from the scow, in the direction from whence it came.
+
+It moved steadily away some hundreds of yards, and Mrs. Baker was
+wondering at the seemingly long delay, when suddenly, and without any
+previous warning whatever, there was a terrific explosion, and the scow
+seemed lifted bodily out of the water and thrown high into the air. Her
+destruction was complete, and there was no longer any doubt that the
+submarine battery could be used with deadly and telling effect on the
+ships constituting the Federal blockading squadron.
+
+Those who witnessed the experiment were, of course, much elated over the
+efficient work of destruction which had been accomplished, and even
+Captain Atwater, in his enthusiasm as a soldier, forgot temporarily his
+real feelings, in his undisguised admiration of the ingenuity of the
+invention and the effectiveness of its operation.
+
+Mrs. Baker, however, looked on with a heavy heart as she reflected upon
+the terrible consequences of the workings of this machine, and at once
+felt the urgent necessity of taking steps to inform me what she had
+witnessed. Unless something was done in this direction, she felt
+confident that the Federal ships would be destroyed, the blockade
+forever ended, and untold disaster would attend the Union cause.
+
+After their return home that evening, she made copious notes of what she
+had learned and witnessed, which she safely secreted about her person.
+The next day, in company with the Captain, she visited the Tredegar Iron
+Works, and inspected the boat that was being built. It was truly a
+formidable-looking engine of destruction.
+
+The next day, being Sunday, she remained at the residence of the
+Captain, and on Monday morning, having procured a pass, she bade
+farewell to her host and his amiable spouse, and left Richmond for
+Fredericksburg. From thence she made her way to Washington by the way of
+Leonardstown, and lost no time in reporting to me the success of her
+trip. She had made a hasty, though quite comprehensive, sketch of the
+vessel, which sketch is still in my possession, and which showed the
+position under the surface of the water, and explained its workings.
+
+I immediately laid my information before General McClellan and the
+Secretary of the Navy, who at once transmitted the intelligence to the
+commanders of the squadron, instructing them to keep a sharp lookout for
+the "water-colored surface float," and to drag the water for the purpose
+of securing possession of the air tubes connecting the float with the
+vessel below.
+
+Nothing was heard from this for about three weeks, but about that time I
+was informed that one of the vessels of the blockading fleet off the
+mouth of the James River had discovered the float, and putting out her
+drag-rope, had caught the air-tubes and thus effectually disabled the
+vessel from doing any harm, and no doubt drowning all who were on board
+of her.
+
+This incident, and the peculiarity of the machine, was duly discussed in
+the newspapers at that time, who stated that "by a mere accident the
+Federal fleet off James River had been saved from destruction"--but I
+knew much better, and that the real credit of the discovery was due to a
+lady of my own force. The efficient manner in which this work was
+performed was of great service to the nation, and sustained the
+reputation of the Secret Service Department, as being an important
+adjunct in aiding the government in its efforts to suppress the
+rebellion.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+_"Stuttering Dave."--His Tramp Through the Rebel Lines.--An Ammunition
+Train.--"Dave's" Plan Succeeds in its Destruction.--A Man Who Stuttered
+and "Had Fits."_
+
+
+One morning, while the army was on the advance up the Peninsula, I was
+strolling about the camp, when I encountered a group of soldiers
+gathered around one of their number, who appeared to be entertaining
+them immensely with his droll anecdotes and dry witticisms. Approaching
+closer, I became one of the crowd that surrounded the narrator, and
+listened to an amusing incident admirably told, which had happened to
+him a day or two before while out with a scouting party.
+
+He was a man about thirty years of age, of medium height, strongly and
+compactly built, and with a good, firm, intelligent face, over which he
+had the most perfect control. So perfect was his command over his facial
+expression that he could make his hearers roar with laughter, while he,
+to use a homely phrase, would "never crack a smile." I noticed on
+joining the little crowd that had gathered around him, that the fellow
+stuttered amazingly, which fact, together with his imperturbable
+gravity, seemed to be the secret of his always having a good audience
+about him to listen to his stories and to enjoy his droll humor. I was
+struck with the man's appearance at first sight and at once concluded
+that, unless I was much deceived in him, he was a man whom I could use
+to good advantage, and I determined to ascertain who he was and where he
+belonged.
+
+Turning to a soldier at my side, I inquired the man's name. Looking at
+me as though surprised at my ignorance, he answered:
+
+"Why, that's 'Stuttering Dave,' the drollest, smartest man in this
+regiment, and one of the best fellows you ever met."
+
+"What regiment does he belong to?" I asked.
+
+"To the Twenty-first New York," said the soldier, "but ever since I have
+known him, he has been with a scouting party. He used to live in
+Virginia before the war, and is well acquainted about here."
+
+That day I called upon the Colonel of the regiment to which the man
+belonged, and informed him of my wishes, which, if agreeable to him, I
+would ask him to send "Stuttering Dave" to my quarters.
+
+Shortly after sundown he came, and to my astonishment, I found that his
+stuttering propensity had entirely disappeared, and that he conversed
+with me with surprising ease and intelligence, and a quiet earnestness
+that betokened a solid and well-informed man. The fact was that
+stuttering with him was only a favorite amusement, and so naturally was
+it simulated, that no one would suspect he was shamming or that he was
+anything else but a confirmed stutterer of the most incorrigible type.
+In the interview which followed he signified his willingness to enter
+the secret service, and a day or two later he was detailed to my force.
+Here he served with such ability and credit that he was shortly
+discharged from his regiment altogether, and for the rest of the war was
+one of my most faithful and valued operatives.
+
+A few days after this interview, David Graham, for that was his real
+name, otherwise known as "Stuttering Dave," set out under my
+instructions, on a trip within the rebel lines. As he was about leaving
+my tent, he shook hands with me, and said in his dry manner:
+
+"G-g-go-good-by, M-m-m-major, I'm g-g-g-oin to have s-s-some fun before
+I g-g-get home, if I d-d-don't I'm a g-g-goat, that's all."
+
+Cautioning him against allowing his propensity for "fun" to get him into
+trouble, I accompanied him to the edge of the camp, and saw him set out
+in the direction of the Confederate forces.
+
+Graham had adopted the disguise of a peddler of notions, and carried in
+his pack a goodly supply of buttons, needles, thread, pins and such a
+trifling articles as he knew would be in great demand by the soldiers.
+Discarding his uniform, and dressed in a suit of butternut jean, with a
+broad-brimmed hat, a stout stick, and a pack across his shoulder, he
+appeared a veritable tramping peddler. No one, to have seen him, would
+have imagined that he was an emissary of the secret service, and they
+would little have suspected that the stuttering, harmless-looking fellow
+who was hawking his wares, knew aught about military affairs, or the
+plans and movements of an army.
+
+It was in the fast deepening twilight of a beautiful evening, and but a
+few days after he had left the Union lines, that a party of rebel
+soldiers, weary and hungry with the toilsome march of the day, were
+resting around a camp-fire, engaged in the preparations of their evening
+meal.
+
+While thus employed, they were approached by a strange-looking
+individual, who walked right into their midst, and without ceremony,
+flung down his pack and seated himself among them.
+
+"B-b-boys," said he, "I'm most d-d-darned hungry, w-w-w-what do you
+s-s-say to givin' me a b-b-b-bite to eat; d-d-dang my buttons, I'm
+willin' to p-p-pay for it in t-t-trade or cash."
+
+"How did you manage to get inside the camp?" inquired one, who seemed to
+be the leader of the mess.
+
+"F-f-f-followed my legs, and they b-b-b-brought me right in," replied
+Stuttering Dave, as he coolly produced a short-stemmed, dirty-looking
+pipe, which he deliberately filled, and then lighted with a coal from
+the glowing embers at his feet.
+
+"What have you got to sell?" asked a soldier at his side.
+
+"O, n-n-needles, p-p-pins, thread, b-b-buttons and n-n-notions."
+
+"Did you come from the Yanks?" now asked the man who had first addressed
+him.
+
+"D-d-d-am the Yanks!" ejaculated Dave, "I d-d-don't know anything about
+'em. Ain't them your s-s-sentiments?" he added, nudging the fellow who
+sat nearest to him.
+
+His companion evidently did not relish this sly poke, for he growled:
+
+"I, for one, am gettin' most thunderin' tired of runnin' around the
+country, and nothin' would suit me better than for us to stop long
+enough to giv' 'em a good lickin'."
+
+"You l-licked 'em like the d-d-devil at Williamsburgh, d-d-d-didn't
+you?" said Dave.
+
+The fellow looked at him in surprise, but failed to detect any evidence
+of an intended sarcasm in the immovable gravity of his face, so mentally
+concluding that the peddler was a fool and one of nature's own at that,
+he dropped the conversation.
+
+By this time the meal was ready, and Dave, being invited to join them,
+gladly assented, and fell to with an appetite that showed how thoroughly
+he enjoyed the repast. Supper over, the party spent the evening in
+chatting and telling yarns. The detective opened his pack, and
+displaying his goods, soon disposed of quite a large quantity, in return
+for which he demanded, and would take, nothing but silver or gold. When
+"taps" were called, he turned in with the party, and placing his pack
+under his head for a pillow, he soon slept soundly, until reveille in
+the early morning aroused him from his slumbers.
+
+Having eaten his breakfast, he sauntered through the camp, taking keen
+notice of the number of troops, and finding out all he could concerning
+their intended plans and movements. During the day, he did a thriving
+business with his small stock of notions, and was everywhere followed by
+a crowd, who were attracted by his droll humor and witty sayings.
+
+On one of these occasions, and while he was driving some lively bargains
+with the soldiers that were gathered around him, he was approached by an
+officer, who slapped him familiarly on the shoulder and exclaimed:
+
+"Here, my good fellow, we can use men like you; hadn't you better enlist
+with us? You can do your country a great deal more good than you are
+doing, tramping around the country selling needles and pins."
+
+The detective turned around, and seeing who it was addressing him,
+replied:
+
+"C-Captain, I d-d-don't think you would want me; I t-t-tried t-to enlist
+s-s-s-sometime ago, b-b-b-but the d-d-doctor said, m-my f-f-fits and
+stuttering b-b-being so b-b-bad, he c-c-couldn't p-p-pass me."
+
+"Are you subject to fits?" the officer now asked, as a sympathetic look
+came over his face.
+
+"Had 'em ever s-s-since I was t-t-ten years old," replied Dave, "have
+'em every f-f-full of the m-m-moon."
+
+"Where do you live?" interrupted the officer.
+
+"On t-t-the other s-s-side of the river," he answered.
+
+"What is your name?"
+
+"They c-c-call me St-st-stuttering Dave," replied the detective, with an
+idiotic grin.
+
+The officer now turned and walked away, feeling no longer any interest
+in the fellow, except to pity his condition; and thoroughly satisfied
+that there was no harm in him, and that he was utterly unfit for a
+soldier.
+
+Well pleased to have shaken off the curious officer as easily as he had,
+Dave now turned again to the soldiers and resumed his occupation of
+dickering with the crowd about him; having concluded his business here,
+he ambled off to another part of the grounds where a large quantity of
+ammunition was stored in the wagons.
+
+Instantly, an idea occurred to him which he resolved to carry out if
+possible. It was to undertake the dangerous feat of firing the
+ammunition, and depriving his enemies of that much destructive material
+at all events. He lost all interest in disposing of his goods for a
+time, and proceeded to make a careful examination of the grounds about
+the wagons, and formed his plans for carrying out his project that very
+night.
+
+He soon decided that by laying a train of powder from the wagons and
+running it to a safe distance, he could readily set fire to it, and make
+his escape in the confusion that would follow. At midnight, therefore,
+he stole around to the wagons and quietly commenced his work. He had
+taken the precaution that afternoon, to supply himself with a quantity
+of powder fuses, by rolling the powder up loosely in long strips of
+rags.
+
+Placing these in position to connect with the ammunition in the wagons,
+and laying his train from one to another, the next thing was to lay a
+long train, that would enable him after firing it to get out of harm's
+way before the explosion occurred. Having completed his arrangements, he
+now took himself off, to wait until the whole camp should be quietly
+wrapped in slumber, before he started his "fireworks," as he called
+them.
+
+About midnight, had the sentinel on guard at the wagons containing the
+ammunition been awake, and looking sharply about him, instead of dozing
+at his post, he might have observed a man stealthily steal up to the
+stores, and silently and quickly disappear into the woods beyond.
+Fortunately, however, for our friend, and the enterprise he had on hand,
+he only snored quietly and peacefully against a neighboring tree, little
+dreaming of the surprise that was in store for him.
+
+A few minutes later, a long, quick flash of light darted along the
+ground, which was immediately followed by a loud, stunning report, and
+the murky darkness was illumined with a brilliant, flaming light, and
+great volumes of smoke.
+
+Instantly the entire camp was aroused, and the half-dressed and
+fully-frightened soldiers came rushing to the scene, which was now only
+a scattered pile of burning ruins. How it occurred, no one knew, or
+could tell aught about it, and wild conjectures were freely indulged in
+as to the probable cause of the disaster. In the meantime, the only man
+in the world who could tell anything about the affair, was traveling as
+fast as his legs could carry him in the direction of the Union camp.
+
+In a few days he made his appearance at my headquarters, and related the
+success of his journey. I could not refrain from laughing heartily at
+his peculiar and independent system of warfare, but advised him to be
+more careful in the future as to how he tampered with the stores of the
+enemy.
+
+I was not disappointed as to the ability of the man, however, and for
+months he served me faithfully and well, needing but little instruction,
+and always performing his work to the entire satisfaction of every one.
+He at times adopted various disguises, but generally depended upon his
+own natural shrewdness, and his natural adaptiveness for the role of an
+itinerant peddler to carry him through successfully.
+
+He was always fortunate in his trips, and, so far as I knew, his
+identity was never discovered, and in the peddler who stuttered and
+"sometimes had fits," the rebels never recognized an emissary of the
+Secret Service.
+
+[Illustration: SHOT BY A CANNON-BALL.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+_Another Trip to Richmond.--A Rebel General Taken In.--Curtis Makes
+Valuable Acquaintances.--"The Subterranean Headquarters."_
+
+
+Early in 1862, it becoming necessary to obtain more fully the plans and
+intentions of the enemy, and their numbers around Richmond, I in April
+of that year dispatched one of my keenest and shrewdest operatives on
+this important mission.
+
+The man selected for this delicate and dangerous work was George Curtis,
+a young man about twenty-five years of age, tall, well-formed, with dark
+complexion, clear gray eyes, and possessing handsome, intelligent
+features. He was one of those men rarely met, who was by nature a
+detective; cool-headed, brave and determined, with ready wit and
+sagacious mind, he was especially qualified for efficient work in that
+important branch, the secret service.
+
+He was a native of New York, and had at the opening of the war enlisted
+in an infantry regiment from that State.
+
+Learning of his desire to enter the secret service, I had procured his
+discharge from his regiment, and he was detailed on my force, where he
+served until the close of the war.
+
+It was a beautiful April morning when, with his instructions carefully
+treasured in memory, for he dared take no written ones, he left my
+office on "I" street, in Washington, and set out on his perilous trip.
+
+I had previously made arrangements that he should accompany General
+McClellan down the river on his boat, the "Commodore," and on which he
+had established his headquarters, to Fortress Monroe, and landing there,
+make his way to Richmond.
+
+The morning of the first, he left Washington, and the next day he
+arrived at Old Point Comfort, and landed under the frowning walls of the
+old fort. He remained here until the morning of the second day after his
+arrival, where he was provided with a horse, and set across the river
+and proceeded on his way towards the rebel capital.
+
+He had now a journey of near seventy miles before him, through a country
+filled with enemies to the cause he espoused, and from whom, should his
+true character and mission become known, he might expect anything but
+kind treatment at their hands. His object in crossing the James at this
+point was to place himself in less danger from suspicion as a spy, and
+to better enable him to learn the sentiment of the people, as well as to
+gain accurate knowledge of the condition of the country as to roads,
+bridges, streams, etc., all of which information is of essential
+importance for the General of an invading army to know.
+
+He, therefore, on horseback, and apparently as a man traveling for
+pleasure and recreation, proceeded on his way up the valley of the river
+and towards the objective point of his journey, the rebel capital.
+
+Nothing worthy of note occurred during the day; he stopped at noon at a
+house by the wayside, and obtained dinner for himself and horse. In a
+conversation with his host, who was a well-to-do old farmer, he
+apparently in a careless manner betrayed the fact that he himself
+followed the same occupation, that he lived on the river in the county
+of Norfolk, below, and was on his way to visit among friends at
+Petersburgh.
+
+It was towards evening that he neared the outskirts of the city, when he
+suddenly encountered the rebel pickets, stationed outside the town, who
+halted him and demanded to know his name and business. "My name is
+Curtis," replied the operative, "and I am from Norfolk; my business I
+will state to your commander when I am taken to him."
+
+Without further ceremony he was turned over to the officer of the guard,
+who sent him under escort to General Hill, the general in command.
+
+"Whom have you here?" queried the General, as in the company of his
+escort the detective was led into his presence.
+
+"A man who says he is from Norfolk," replied the guard, "but who refuses
+to tell his business to any one but yourself."
+
+"You may retire," said the General, and the escort immediately left the
+room. "Now," he exclaimed, turning to Curtis, "What is your business?
+Please be as brief as possible, as I am very busy."
+
+"Well, to come to the point at once," replied the detective; "in the
+first place, then, I spoke falsely to your pickets when I told them I
+was from Norfolk. My name is Curtis, and I am from Washington. As to my
+business, I deal in what the Yankees are pleased to term contraband
+goods; yet I don't see how gun-caps, ammunition of all kinds, and
+quinine should be considered contraband, for the simple reason that I,
+as a dealer, find a better market South than North for my goods. My
+desire," he continued, "is to get through to Richmond, where I hope to
+be able to effect contracts, with Secretary Benjamin, to furnish my
+goods to the Confederate government."
+
+"How did you get through the Union lines?" asked the General, still,
+evidently, a little suspicious of the sincerity of the detective's
+story.
+
+"I came down on the 'Commodore,' General McClellan's boat, three days
+ago," he answered, "was set across the river there, procured a horse
+from a friend, and here I am."
+
+"Do you know anything of McClellan's plans for an advance?" asked the
+General.
+
+"I can tell you nothing about them," answered Curtis, "as everything is
+kept secret from even his own staff, I am told."
+
+The General mused, thoughtfully, a moment, and then said: "I will give
+you a pass to Richmond, and you can proceed on your way in the morning."
+
+"Thank you, General," exclaimed the detective, "I assure you the cause
+shall suffer no loss by any efforts of mine. I shall, in all
+probability, return by this way, in a few weeks at farthest, when, if I
+can be of any service to you, you have only to command me."
+
+"By the way," said the General, "I have some letters to parties in
+Richmond, which ought to go at once. If you will do me the favor to
+deliver them I shall be obliged to you."
+
+"I shall be happy to serve you, General, and will take pleasure in
+seeing that your letters reach their destination all right."
+
+"Very well, then; call at my quarters in the morning, before you start,
+and I will have them ready for you, and will give you also your pass to
+Richmond."
+
+Curtis thanked him again, and, bidding him good-night, repaired to the
+hotel, and secured for himself and horse supper and lodging for the
+night.
+
+After he had partaken of a hearty meal, and provided himself with an
+excellent cigar, he sauntered out on to the veranda of the hotel, and,
+taking a comfortable seat, prepared to enjoy his fragrant weed, and
+amuse himself with listening to the conversation of those around him.
+
+He soon discovered that the war, and the prospects for a speedy victory
+for the South, were the subjects under discussion, and he listened with
+much interest to the ideas advanced, and the confidence that marked
+their assertions of the superiority of the Southern troops over the
+Northern mudsills, as they termed the Federalists.
+
+"You may depend on it, that General Johnson will not permit the Yanks to
+approach any closer to Richmond than they now are, without contesting
+every inch of the ground as they advance," remarked one gentleman of the
+party near which he was sitting.
+
+"No," emphatically rejoined another, "when they take Richmond, it will
+be when they have annihilated the Southern people, when not a thousand
+able-bodied men are left on Southern soil to rally to its defense."
+
+"Well, I am satisfied," remarked another, "that right here is to be the
+contest, that is to decide this matter one way or the other."
+
+"If the Yankees take Richmond, the South may as well surrender at once;
+if however they fail, as they are extremely liable to do, _they_, on the
+other hand, may as well withdraw their forces and acknowledge our
+independence."
+
+"If I am not greatly mistaken," now ventured my operative, "in the
+spirit of the Southern people, they will, to use a common phrase, 'fight
+to the bitter end.' And yet," he continued, "to the thoughtful
+observer, it is not pleasant to contemplate the spectacle of brother
+arrayed against brother, as they are in this war. I tell you,
+gentlemen," he added, "that while I am a Southern man, it grieves me to
+see our land so rent with strife and bloodshed and that the North has
+made it necessary for a resort to arms to settle a matter that should
+have been amicably adjusted."
+
+At this juncture, the party was joined by a new-comer, who had evidently
+just left the supper-room, as he carried an unlighted cigar in one hand,
+while with the other he was picking his teeth, with the manner of a man
+who had just eaten a hearty meal and who had enjoyed it.
+
+He was a man past the middle age, hair generously sprinkled with gray,
+and with a face, that while bronzed by exposure to the weather, was
+keenly intelligent, not unhandsome, and strongly expressive of force and
+decision of character. He seated himself and soon joined in the
+conversation, with that freedom and _nonchalance_ that characterizes the
+experienced yet courteous traveler, who has seen the world and is
+familiar with its ways.
+
+"We shall hear of some pretty hard fighting, shortly, I imagine,"
+finally observed the stranger; "McClellan has arrived at Fortress
+Monroe, and will no doubt commence hostilities at once."
+
+"And we shall also hear of his army getting badly whipped," put in one
+of the party.
+
+"Well," rejoined the stranger, "that may be true; but, after all, the
+real contest will be before Richmond; the fighting that may occur now
+will only be the strategic moves preceding the final struggle. Lee and
+Johnson," he continued, "are not yet ready for McClellan to advance upon
+Richmond, and they will see to it that it is put in the best possible
+condition of defense before he succeeds in reaching it."
+
+At this, my operative, who had taken little part in the conversation,
+except as an attentive listener, now arose and laughingly said:
+"Gentlemen, I guess we are all of one mind on this subject, let's
+adjourn down below and interview the bar-keeper; I don't profess to be a
+judge of military matters, but when it comes to a good article of
+whisky, I claim to be posted."
+
+The party, numbering near a dozen gentlemen about him, good-humoredly
+took the interruption and laughingly followed the detective, who now led
+the way to the bar-room.
+
+They filled glasses all around and Curtis proposed the rather ambiguous
+toast, "May the right prevail, and death and confusion, attend its
+enemies"--ambiguous in that it as much represented his real sentiments
+as it also met the approval of his secession friends.
+
+After the party had drank, they separated, agreeing to meet later in the
+evening; Curtis was himself starting for a stroll about the town, when
+the stranger, who had last joined the party on the veranda approached
+him and said: "I have just drank the toast you proposed, and judging
+from it and your conversation up stairs, I take you to be, at least, a
+friend to the South, if indeed you are not a Southern man. I should like
+much to have your company for a short stroll about the city; my name,"
+he added, "is Leroy, and I hail from Baltimore."
+
+"I shall be glad to accompany you, Mr. Leroy," said my operative,
+heartily: "I was just thinking of going for a walk alone, but I assure
+you I shall be only too glad to have a companion. And since you have so
+kindly told me your name, I may as well tell you, that mine is George
+Curtis, and I am from Washington. But before we start," he added, "let
+us have a fresh cigar."
+
+He then ordered the cigars and they started for their walk.
+
+They had not proceeded far, before his new companion revealed the fact,
+that he also was in the contraband trade, and singularly enough, was on
+his way to Richmond on precisely the same business my operative had
+represented himself as engaged. Of course, Curtis reciprocated the
+confidence of his new-found friend, and with such results, that he not
+only returned from his walk much better posted on how to get goods
+through to Richmond, but actually returned a partner in an enterprize to
+furnish their goods in large quantities to the Confederate government,
+provided they could succeed in making satisfactory arrangements with
+Mr. Benjamin, the Secretary of War. They returned to the hotel, where
+they had a long talk, completing their plans. It was arranged that my
+operative should leave his horse at Petersburg, and in the morning, they
+would proceed on their way to Richmond by rail.
+
+On the following morning he arose early, and after breakfast, proceeded
+to call on General Hill at his quarters and obtained his pass, also the
+letters he was to carry for him to parties in Richmond. They then took a
+train for the rebel capital, and by noon found themselves in that city.
+
+The day following his arrival, in company with Leroy, he called on Mr.
+Benjamin and succeeded in closing contracts to furnish large quantities
+of their goods to his government, and at prices that were highly
+satisfactory to Mr. Leroy, who jovially remarked, as they left the
+Secretary's presence, that if they only had good luck, their fortunes
+were made. Curtis, however, felt highly gratified over the result of the
+interview, more from the reflection of the aid it would give him in
+prosecuting the real object of his visit, than from any financial
+benefit he expected to derive from it. He had received a pass from the
+Secretary that would enable him to pass in and out of Richmond at his
+pleasure, a most important privilege, and one that really removed all
+practical hindrances, and left him free to more fully accomplish his
+work.
+
+He had not been in the city a week before he discovered that through
+some source, the rebels had almost daily news from the front, concerning
+the movements and plans of the Union troops. This he now determined to
+ferret out, and the next day, he in a careless manner, inquired of his
+friend Leroy, how it was, they obtained news so promptly from the front.
+
+"Why," replied his friend, laughingly, "haven't you heard of the
+subterranean headquarters?"
+
+"I confess I have not," replied the detective.
+
+"Then come along with me," said Leroy. "I ought to have told you about
+this before, as it is intimately connected with our business."
+
+He then led the way to the very hotel at which they were stopping, and
+conducted Curtis to a large and elegantly furnished room on the third
+floor, and in which were seated a number of gentlemen--some reading,
+while others were engaged in writing at little tables that were ranged
+about the room.
+
+"Here," said he, laughing, "are the subterranean headquarters, although
+they are above the top of the ground instead of beneath it. I need not
+tell you," he added, "that the name is given as much to mislead as for
+any other purpose."
+
+They then took seats at one end of the room where they were alone, and
+he proceeded with his explanation:
+
+"First," he said, "you must know that this is a bureau of intelligence,
+and is managed partly by the government and partly by wealthy merchants
+here and at Baltimore; besides being used in getting information
+concerning the movements of the Federal troops, it is also used by the
+merchants in getting our goods through from Baltimore. We employ," he
+continued, "nearly fifty persons, some of whom are constantly in the
+field carrying dispatches, gaining and bringing in information from the
+Yankee lines. These persons are all under the control of a chief at
+their head, and are all known to that man yonder," pointing to a
+gentleman seated at a desk at the opposite end of the room.
+
+"Strange as it may seem to you," he continued, "right here in this
+hotel, we have the most exclusive privacy. You noticed that man standing
+in the hall when we came in, the same one now sitting at the desk?"
+
+Curtis nodded, and he proceeded: "Well, he knew me, and consequently he
+knew you were all right. Had you come alone, that door would have been
+closed, and would not have opened, had you tried it. Now," he said, "I
+will call him here and introduce you."
+
+Touching a small bell that stood on the table, the gentleman, to whom he
+had alluded, instantly answered its summons and crossed the room to
+where they were sitting.
+
+"Mr. Wallace," said Leroy, "this is my friend and partner, Mr. Curtis."
+The two men bowed and shook hands, and Wallace seating himself proved
+to be a pleasant and well-informed gentleman.
+
+In the course of the conversation, Leroy asked, "What is the latest news
+from the front, Mr. Wallace?"
+
+"We have nothing as yet to-day," he answered, "but yesterday it was
+reported that McClellan had laid siege to Yorktown; the chances are,
+that we shall hear of a battle, in a few days at farthest." During the
+interview, Curtis learned also, that the persons operating for this
+bureau had confederates, both at Baltimore and at Washington; these, he
+determined to discover, if possible, in addition to the information
+already gained.
+
+To this end, he made himself very agreeable to Mr. Wallace, and in the
+course of the conversation, expressed his willingness to do what he
+could in aiding the force, and remarked that he should be passing back
+and forth, between Washington and Richmond, and could doubtless be of
+service.
+
+Mr. Wallace thanked him heartily, and gave him a small plain badge of
+peculiar shape, that would at any time, if shown, admit him to the
+headquarters, and then taking him about the room, he introduced him to
+the gentlemen present, and after a short conversation with his new
+friends, he in company with Leroy took his departure, and together they
+went down to dinner.
+
+That evening, as he was sitting in the bar-room of the hotel, one of
+the men he had met up-stairs in the forenoon, came to him and told him
+that in a day or two, he was to start for Yorktown with important
+dispatches for General Magruder, but that owing, to sickness in his
+family, he did not want to leave home, unless it was impossible for him
+to get some one he could trust to undertake the task for him.
+
+He then asked Curtis if he would object to making the trip for him. The
+detective thought a moment, and told him he would give him an answer in
+the morning. The two men then indulged in a friendly glass, after which
+they separated. The man had no sooner gone, than Curtis made up his mind
+to take the dispatches, not to General Magruder, but to me at
+Washington.
+
+Accordingly, the next morning he informed his friend he would undertake
+the task for him, as he intended returning to Baltimore at any rate.
+
+The next morning found him, with the dispatches carefully secreted about
+his person, at the depot, ready to take the first train for Petersburgh.
+
+Here he arrived about noon, and proceeded to call on General Hill. After
+procuring his dinner at the hotel, he ordered his horse and started on
+his long ride for the Union camp, where he delivered his dispatches to
+Mr. Bangs, the superintendent of my headquarters in the field, and
+forwarded copies of the same to me at Washington, together with a full
+account of his trip and information he had gained; not forgetting a
+full statement of his discovery of the "Subterranean Headquarters," and
+his enlistment as a member of its force of spies and agents, employed in
+transmitting intelligence of the movements and plans of the Union
+troops.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+_A Virginia Home.--Unwelcome Visitors.--Mr. Harcourt Arrested and
+Released.--Dan McCowan Makes Forcible Love to Mary Harcourt.--The Girl
+in Peril.--A Timely Rescue.--The Villain Punished._
+
+
+The important information brought to my notice by Operative Curtis, on
+his return from Richmond, concerning the character and working of the
+"Subterranean Headquarters," at once determined me on a plan of using
+the same body of men, or rather the information they carried, for the
+benefit of the Union forces, instead of allowing them to use it in the
+interests of the Confederates. To accomplish this, I detailed several
+members of my force, both at Washington and Baltimore, to co-operate
+with Curtis, whom I intended now should become an active agent of the
+rebels in carrying dispatches to and from Richmond. The plan was, in
+short, that all dispatches entrusted to him should be accurately copied,
+the copies to be delivered to his confederates, and the originals
+forwarded to their destination.
+
+In war, as in a game of chess, if you know the moves of your adversary
+in advance, it is then an easy matter to shape your own plans, and make
+your moves accordingly, and, of course, always to your own decided
+advantage. So in this case, I concluded that if the information intended
+for the rebels could first be had by us, after that, they were welcome
+to all the benefit they might derive from them.
+
+In a few days, then, having completed my arrangements, Curtis started to
+Richmond, by the way of Wilson's Landing and Glendale, he having decided
+that, provided as he was with his pass from the Secretary, it would be
+perfectly safe, and at the same time a much shorter route than by the
+way of Petersburgh.
+
+Leaving him for the present, then, to make his way to Richmond as best
+he can, we will turn our attention to other persons and to other scenes.
+The interior of a comfortable farm-house, the place, and early evening
+the time.
+
+The family are gathered around the tea-table, and are discussing
+earnestly the war, and the chances of the success of the Northern
+troops. The family consisted of five persons: the husband and wife, both
+traveling down the western slope of life, a young and beautiful
+daughter, apparently about twenty years of age, and two younger
+children, a boy and girl, aged, respectively, fourteen and twelve years.
+
+These latter are listening attentively to the conversation going on
+about them, and anon interjecting some childish observation, or asking
+some question commensurate with the quaint views and ideas of childish
+years.
+
+"Well," finally observed the old gentleman, "it is hard that one dare
+not speak their own sentiments in a country like this; my grandfather
+fought in the revolution, my father in the war of 1812, and I, myself,
+took a hand in the brush with Mexico; but I never dreamed of seeing the
+day when a man dared not speak his honest convictions, for fear of
+having his roof burnt from over his head, and, worse than all, endanger
+even his own life, and those dearest to him."
+
+"I have always told you, William," replied his good wife, "that the day
+would come when this fearful curse of slavery would have to be wiped out
+in blood, and you all know now that I prophesied truly. And," she added,
+"as for me, I have no fears for the result. _Our_ only mistake has been
+in casting our lot and settling in the South, and in the very presence
+of an evil we could not avert."
+
+"True, mother," rejoined her husband, "but you know I have ever been
+outspoken against slavery, and its attendant curses. I also flatter
+myself that I have had some influence in mitigating, at least, the
+condition of not a few of the black race. You remember Colonel Singleton
+liberated his slaves at the very outset of this war."
+
+"And was compelled to flee to the North to save his own life," answered
+his wife; "and had we been wise, we would have gone to a country more
+congenial to our views, and while we could have done so with safety. I
+am afraid," she continued, "if it becomes known that our son has joined
+the Union army, serious trouble may befall us at the hands of men who
+have long desired an excuse for arresting you and confiscating your
+property; if, indeed, they would be content with sparing your life."
+
+"If I were younger," said the old gentleman, "I would defy them to do
+their worst; and, as it is, my only fears are for my family, not for
+myself. Still," he added, "my neighbors are all friendly, and the
+majority of them, though thinking differently from me on these
+questions, are under obligations to me, so that I feel I have but little
+to fear at their hands. As to our boy, who has gone to fight for the old
+flag, I am proud of him; I fought for it, so did my fathers before me,
+and I would disown the child who would refuse, if necessary, to lay down
+his life in its defense."
+
+And here, fired with the sentiments he had just uttered, he arose from
+the table in an agitated manner and began to pace the floor.
+
+"Ah," he continued, "I love that old flag, and old as I am, would fight
+for it yet."
+
+Going to a case that stood in a corner of the room, he took from a shelf
+a beautiful silken banner, and holding it aloft, he exclaimed, with
+great earnestness, "There is the flag I fight under--the flag of the
+Union and of the country our fathers fought to save."
+
+"Father," exclaimed his eldest daughter, "you forget yourself in your
+enthusiasm; even now some one may be outside listening; you forget that
+Dan McCowan and his desperate gang may be in the vicinity and give us a
+call at any moment."
+
+Scarcely had the warning fell from her lips, when there came a loud
+knocking at the door, followed by a few vigorous and well-directed blows
+that threatened to take it from its hinges.
+
+The whole family started up in alarm, and while one snatched the flag
+from the old gentleman and hastily deposited it in its hiding-place,
+another answered the summons from without.
+
+The old man himself, while not frightened, was somewhat disconcerted by
+the noise, and remained standing in the center of the room, when the
+door was suddenly burst open, revealing a body of Confederate soldiers
+headed by a villainous-looking fellow, their leader, who now entered the
+room, and approaching him, said:
+
+"Mr. Harcourt, I have orders to place you under arrest, so you will
+prepare to accompany us to Glendale at once!"
+
+"What crime have I committed?" demanded the old man, now perfectly calm,
+"that you dare enter my house in this manner!"
+
+"You will know that soon enough," replied the officer; "so hustle on
+your duds, as we must be going. Bill," he commanded, turning to a fellow
+near him, "you will search the house and take possession of anything
+contraband or treasonable that you can find."
+
+This order was exactly what his followers wanted, as it meant really an
+order to plunder the house and appropriate to their own use whatever
+articles of value they found and that pleased them to take.
+
+As none of the family had offered the slightest resistance, the
+unwelcome intruders had conducted themselves, so far, very orderly. Mrs.
+Harcourt, a kind and matronly-looking woman, with a firmness and
+self-control, that under the circumstances was admirable, bustled about
+the room, getting together a small bundle of clothing for her husband to
+take with him on his enforced journey to Glendale; and anon, while doing
+this, spoke soothing words of comfort and encouragement to the younger
+children, who, white and speechless with terror, were crouching in the
+darkest corner of the room.
+
+The eldest daughter, at a sign from her father, accompanied the two men
+detailed to search the premises, and proceeded with them from room to
+room, as they rummaged chests and drawers, appropriating various little
+articles to their own use, in spite of the indignant protest of the
+spirited girl at such barefaced robbery.
+
+Finally, with much reluctance, she was compelled to admit them to her
+own room, and to witness their ruthless handling of the contents of a
+small trunk, in which were various little articles, trinkets and
+mementoes, worthless to any one else, but, of course, priceless to her.
+
+But what she most prized among them, and which caused her the most alarm
+should they be discovered, was a small packet of letters from her
+brother already mentioned as serving in the Union army, and a small
+locket containing his miniature. Judge of her dismay were one of the men
+picked up the letters, and with a laugh exclaimed: "These are from your
+feller, I suppose;" and then, observing the locket, he opened it and
+with a leer on his face, said: "And this is his picture, I reckon, eh?"
+
+"Yes," said the girl eagerly uttering, or rather echoing, the falsehood.
+"Yes," she repeated, "please don't take them, as they are of no account
+to any one but myself."
+
+"All right," said the fellow, good-naturedly, "I guess you can have
+them;" as he handed them to her. She eagerly seized them, trembling at
+the narrow escape they had had from falling into the possession of
+those, who knowing their contents, would have given her poor old father
+much trouble indeed.
+
+Having completed their search, and finding nothing that could be
+considered of a treasonable character, they returned to the room below,
+and reported to their Captain the result of their search. He then
+ordered his men to retire to the outside, where he followed them, and
+after consulting a short time, he returned to the house and brusquely
+informed Mr. Harcourt that as he had found nothing to convict him of
+treason against the Confederate government, he might go this time, but
+to be d--d careful in the future, or he would get him yet. He then
+slammed the door behind him, rejoined his companions who mounted their
+horses and rode slowly away.
+
+Satisfied that they had left, the family ventured to express their
+congratulations at the departure of their unwelcome visitors, and at
+once set to work rearranging the disordered room. They, however, felt
+that this was only the commencement of their prosecutions, and they well
+knew that another time, the chances were that they would not escape so
+easily; for should it become known that their son was in the Federal
+army, they could no longer hope to live in peace and safety. The men who
+had visited them on this occasion, were evidently strangers in the
+neighborhood, and were, no doubt, a scouting or foraging party, who had
+stopped more from a want of having anything else to do, than from a
+desire to do them any injury. They, however, knew, that from those in
+their own vicinity, there was much more to be feared; and of one person
+in particular, they stood in especial dread. That person was Dan
+McCowan, the man whose name was mentioned by Mary Harcourt, in her
+warning to her father, only a moment before the soldiers, had entered
+their dwelling. Dan McCowan was a man who for years had pursued the
+detestable calling of a negro-hunter.
+
+He was about thirty-five years of age, tall, of an ungainly form, and
+slightly stoop-shouldered; his hair and eyes were dark, and his
+complexion as swarthy as an Indian. His features, naturally coarse and
+repulsive, were rendered still more so, by being bronzed and hardened by
+long-continued exposure to the weather. His only associates and his most
+intimate friends appeared to be his blood-hounds, which he used in
+hunting and bringing back to their masters, the poor negroes who were
+seeking to escape from a life of continued toil and bondage. The
+following unique hand-bill, which he used to post up in various places
+over the country, will serve to show the nature of his business, and
+also the vast amount of intelligence necessary to carry it on.
+
+                      NO TIS.
+
+     The undersind taiks this methed of makkin it none that he
+     has got the best NIGGER HOUNDS in the state, and is always
+     redy to ketch runaway niggers at the best rates.
+
+     My hounds is well trained, and I heve hed 15 yeres
+     experience. My rates is 10 dollurs per hed if ketched in the
+     beate where the master lives; 15 dollurs in the coonty, and
+     50 dollurs out of the coonty.
+
+                            DAN MCCOWAN.
+
+     N. B.
+
+     Planters should taik panes to let me know, while the niggers
+     tracks is fresh, if they want quick work and a good job.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to say that his services were frequently
+employed to catch and bring back the poor runaways, and more than once
+had the Harcourt family been awakened in the night by his hounds, as
+they made the woods echo with their baying. Often had they pictured to
+themselves the terror of the poor wretches, over whose trail, with
+unerring scent, swept the monsters, who would tear them limb from limb,
+and whose only choice was death at their hands or the old life of labor
+and the lash.
+
+Mr. Harcourt was a strong anti-slavery man. Holding these views, he had
+ever spoken consistently against slavery. He was also a man of deeds, as
+well as words, for many a poor fugitive had been assisted by him on his
+long and perilous journey northward in search of friends and the freedom
+he craved.
+
+Owing to these proclivities, and to the fact that he had never taken
+pains to conceal his views, a mutual antipathy had long existed between
+Mr. Harcourt and Dan McCowan, the nigger-hunter. While the latter had no
+direct proofs, yet he had long suspected Mr. Harcourt of being a friend
+to, and a sympathizer with the very runaways whom it was his business to
+catch and return to the bondage they were endeavoring to escape from.
+Notwithstanding his dislike for the father, however, the fellow had
+conceived a violent attachment for Mary Harcourt, his daughter, and for
+a year past had greatly annoyed not only the poor girl herself, but the
+whole family, by his uncouth attentions.
+
+Finally, Mr. Harcourt told him plainly that his attentions to his
+daughter were extremely distasteful to her, and added a polite, yet firm
+request, that he cease his troublesome visits.
+
+Mary, who was a young lady of sweet and lovely disposition, possessing
+both intelligence and refinement, shrank from the fellow as she should
+from a viper in her path; while his odious attempts to lavish his
+unsought affections upon her so disgusted and frightened her that she
+always avoided his presence.
+
+Dan McCowan, however, was just the man, when thwarted in his plans, to
+at once take steps for revenge. For some time he had kept a close
+espionage of the house and the movements of its inmates. He had somehow
+obtained possession of the knowledge that young Harcourt was in the
+Union army, and he determined to use this in his well-laid plans to
+persecute the poor girl, who had been so unfortunate as to have been the
+object of his passion.
+
+On the day following the incidents just related, Mary, who had been
+spending the afternoon with a neighbor's family, towards evening was
+returning to her home, when she was suddenly and most unexpectedly
+confronted by Dan McCowan. So startled was she by this unlooked-for
+meeting, that she involuntarily gave a slight scream, as she recognized
+who it was that stood before her.
+
+"I see as how I have skeered you right smart now," said the fellow,
+grinning in her face with a wicked leer. "Your father told me as how he
+would be much obliged to me if I would stop my visits to his house,
+which, bein' a gentleman, I was bound to do, and as I had a little
+something to say to you, I thought this would be the time to say it."
+
+The girl, who had now somewhat recovered her composure, yet fully
+realizing the character of the man with whom she had to deal, stood
+quietly looking him full in the face, and said, in a tone that betrayed
+her contempt, "I suppose I must listen to you, sir, but be brief, as it
+is getting late, and my folks will be uneasy at my long absence."
+
+"Well, Miss Harcourt," he replied, "I will come to the point at once.
+You have a brother, who has been away from home fur some time. Do you
+know where he is?"
+
+Mary was silent, and he muttered, half to himself, "I thought so; the
+whole family are traitors. No more than is to be expected from these
+d--d abolitionists. I can tell you where he is," he continued; "he is on
+the other side, and fighting against the South."
+
+"And what if he is in the Federal army? He is fighting for the
+government you and yours are seeking to destroy," answered the spirited
+girl.
+
+"It don't matter much to me which side he fights on; but suppose I tell
+it around, that he is fighting with the Yankees, do you think it would
+matter to you then?"
+
+[Illustration: "_While she was struggling in his grasp, he was startled
+by a violent clutch upon his collar from behind._" P. 441.]
+
+"My brother is his own man," replied Mary, "and he alone is responsible
+for his acts; surely they would not harm my father and us for that; and
+surely you would not tell what you know, to injure us?"
+
+"That depends on you, Miss Mary," the fellow replied, now approaching
+closer, and attempting to take her hand.
+
+"What do you mean, you scoundrel?" demanded the girl, drawing back,
+while the fire flashed from her eyes. "Don't offer to touch me, Dan
+McCowan, or I'll----"
+
+"What would you do, now?" he exclaimed; and, before she was aware of his
+intentions, he had sprang quickly forward, seized her about the waist,
+and placed one hand over her mouth, but not until she had given one long
+and piercing call for help.
+
+The fellow's base designs were evident, and that he would have been
+successful there is no doubt; but help, fortunately, was at hand. While
+he was yet struggling with the girl, he felt a violent clutch on his
+collar, from behind, and before he could see from whence it came he was
+thrown violently to the ground, and was writhing under the well-directed
+kicks, which were most lavishly bestowed upon him by the new-comer, who
+was no less a personage than my operative George Curtis.
+
+The girl had sank to the ground almost fainting from fright, but so
+enraged was Curtis at the scene he had witnessed, that he continued to
+shower his kicks on the miserable wretch, who roared and begged for
+mercy, until the girl interposed, and begged him, for her sake, not to
+kill him, but to desist, and let him go.
+
+At this my operative ceased, more, however, from mere lack of breath
+than from a feeling that the fellow had been sufficiently punished, and
+allowed him to regain his feet. "You contemptible, cowardly brute," he
+exclaimed, as McCowan arose; "I have a mind to finish you, while I have
+my hand in. Miss," he continued, turning to the girl, "I am happy to
+have arrived in time to be of service to you. I do not know anything
+about this difficulty, but from what I saw, I concluded that I had not
+time to make any inquiries."
+
+"I am very grateful to you, sir, for what you have done in saving me
+from that villain. Look out!" she exclaimed, "he has a pistol."
+
+Curtis turned his head in time to see the fellow in the act of drawing a
+revolver. Quicker than a flash, his own weapon was in his hands, and
+covering the man, he said, coolly:
+
+"Drop your hands, you hell-hound, or I will blow you to atoms in a
+second."
+
+The fellow saw that he was foiled, and dropped his hands at his sides.
+
+Curtis advanced and disarmed him; then, stepping back a pace, he said:
+
+"Go now while I am in the humor to let you; another move like that, and
+I will shoot you as I would a dog."
+
+McCowan reluctantly obeyed, and slunk away muttering threats of
+vengeance.
+
+My operative, however, paid no attention to him now, but turned to the
+young lady who proceeded to relate the circumstance of her meeting with
+McCowan, from which his timely interference had saved her, and ended by
+a cordial invitation, blushingly given, that he would accompany her
+home, and spend the night under her father's roof. As he was anxious to
+find a lodging-place for the night, at any rate, the detective
+gratefully accepted the invitation, feeling such an interest in this
+really beautiful girl that he could not resist the desire to cultivate
+further the acquaintance, so strangely begun. He hastily brought his
+horse from where he had left him by the roadside, and leading him by the
+bridle, walked by the side of his companion until they reached the
+house. As they strolled along, Mary frankly told him the secret of
+McCowan's attack, and proceeded to explain the man's character, and the
+detestable nature of the business in which he was engaged.
+
+By this time, they had reached her father's house, where they were met
+at the gate by the old gentleman himself, who was alarmed and anxious at
+his daughter's absence so far beyond her usual time for return.
+
+"Father," said the girl, "this is"--here she paused, visibly
+embarrassed, and gazed timidly into the face of the detective.
+
+"Pardon me," said Curtis hastily, seeing the cause of her confusion; "my
+name is George Curtis; we have been so busy talking that I had not
+thought of names."
+
+She then introduced them, and briefly related to her father the cause of
+her detention, and her adventure with McCowan, not forgetting to mention
+the part my operative had played in her timely rescue from the villain's
+hands.
+
+The old man thanked him again and again, and so profusely, that Curtis
+begged that he would not mention it, as he had done nothing more than
+any gentleman, under the same circumstances, would have done, gone to
+the lady's rescue at her call for help.
+
+His horse was ordered to be taken to the barn, and he himself was soon
+seated in the house, receiving the tearful thanks of good Mrs. Harcourt,
+and the object of the admiring gaze of Mary's younger brother and
+sister, who regarded him as a hero, and a person who had no small claim
+on their affection and esteem.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+_Curtis Again on his Travels.--A Loving Episode.--Dan McCowan Again
+Turns Up.--The Capture of Curtis.--A Fight For Life, and Escape.--A Bit
+of Matrimony._
+
+
+The next day, my operative took his leave of the Harcourt family, and
+continued on his way to Richmond. He, however, gave them his promise,
+that he would visit them again before long, a promise he was in no wise
+loath to keep, as Mary had joined her request to that of her father,
+that he should not fail to give them a call, when he was in their
+vicinity.
+
+The truth was my operative, who was a very excellent young man, and,
+notwithstanding his calling, susceptible to the charms of the fair sex,
+was not a little smitten by the fair Mary, whom he had met under
+circumstances that would have caused even a less romantic person than
+himself to have fallen in love with her at once.
+
+On the other hand, the girl's feelings of gratitude and admiration for
+the young man, who had rescued her from McCowan's clutches, were those
+almost akin to love; but with true maidenly modesty, she simply treated
+him with that delicate courtesy that, while it showed plainly her high
+regard for him, yet it in no way overstepped the bounds of strict
+propriety. It was evident, however, that she regarded him as one who
+certainly had strong claims upon her friendship and esteem.
+
+Bidding them good-bye, then, Curtis took leave of the family, whom he
+had known but a single night, yet who, in that brief space, had grown to
+be like old acquaintances; and his regret on leaving them, was very much
+like that in parting from old and intimate friends.
+
+Taking the route by Glendale, he, towards evening, arrived at Richmond,
+without any event worthy of notice, and put up at Miller's Hotel.
+
+A few weeks later found him on his return to the Army of the Potomac,
+and in his possession important dispatches that he had obtained in the
+rebel capital. As he left Richmond, the news reached that city of the
+evacuation of Yorktown by the rebels, and their retreat up the peninsula
+towards Williamsburgh. The effect of these tidings was anything but
+encouraging to those who had hoped that a final and decisive battle
+would have been fought at Yorktown, and the further advance of the Union
+troops effectually checked.
+
+McClellan's vigorous preparations, however, for a protracted siege, had
+decided the rebels that it would be useless to risk a battle here, and
+they consequently determined to evacuate the place, which they did on
+the fifth of May, and by noon of the same day McClellan's army had
+broken camp and was in full pursuit. With such celerity did he make his
+movements, and so closely did he press the Confederates, that on the
+following day they were compelled to make a stand, and here was fought
+the battle of Williamsburgh, in which the rebels were defeated, and
+continued their retreat towards Richmond.
+
+The army of the Potomac now continued its advance, with all the rapidity
+the terrible condition of the roads would permit, having for its base of
+supplies the York River, until two weeks later it rested between the
+Pamunkey and the Chickahominy. It was at this stage of affairs on the
+Peninsula, that Curtis was on his return trip from Richmond. With his
+passes in his pocket, his dispatches securely concealed about him, and
+his trusty horse as his only companion, he set out for his long ride to
+Wilson's Landing, and the headquarters of the Union army.
+
+It was his purpose to stop by the way long enough to at least inquire
+after the health of the Harcourt family, and learn how they had fared
+during his absence. So, pushing rapidly ahead, towards the close of what
+had been a beautiful day in May, he, near nightfall, found himself at
+Farmer Harcourt's door, where he was most cordially welcomed.
+
+His jaded horse was led to the barn to be watered and fed, while he was
+soon resting his tired limbs in an easy chair, while waiting a tempting
+supper that was almost ready for an appetite keenly whetted by his long
+and hard day's ride.
+
+His object now, was to stop long enough to rest himself and horse, and
+then push on by night and endeavor to reach the Federal lines by
+daybreak. Mr. Harcourt informed him that they had not been molested by
+McCowan since his former visit, and that it was reported that he had
+formed a band of Guerrillas, and at their head was pillaging and robbing
+the people in an adjoining county.
+
+"He is an unscrupulous villain," observed the old gentleman, "and I
+confess I stand in no little dread that he may pay us a visit at any
+time, in which case, if we escape with our lives, we may consider
+ourselves fortunate. I have," he added, "fully made up my mind to take
+my family, leave my home here, and, if possible, go North, where a man
+of my way of thinking can live in security and peace. If I were younger,
+I would enlist, myself, but my fighting days are past."
+
+"I trust you may soon be able to get away from here," said Curtis; "and
+as the Union army is now advancing up the Peninsula, you can, I think,
+with little danger, make your way into its lines."
+
+He then informed him of the evacuation of Yorktown, and of the retreat
+of the Confederates, and advised him to hasten his arrangements to go
+North, while this opportunity afforded him a way to do so with safety.
+
+After the evening meal was over the family seated themselves on a
+pleasant little porch, that ran along one side of the old-fashioned
+house, facing the west, and in the deepening twilight they sat and
+talked over the trying times, and united in their wishes for a speedy
+termination of the fratricidal conflict.
+
+Thus the evening passed until near ten o'clock, when my operative
+informed his friends that he must take his departure, as he was
+determined, if possible, to reach the Union lines by daybreak.
+
+The whole family urged him to pass the night with them; but finding him
+bent on going, his horse was ordered to the door, and he prepared to
+take his leave.
+
+He shook hands with the good farmer and his wife, and looked anxiously
+around for Mary; surely she would bid him good-bye before he went away,
+but she was nowhere to be seen. He even lingered a few moments, hoping
+she would return; she did not, however, put in an appearance; so,
+leaving his regards for her with her parents, he mounted his horse, and
+with a heavy heart rode along down the long, narrow lane that led from
+the house to the main road.
+
+He could not understand why the girl should have absented herself just
+as he was taking his leave; could it be that he had in any way offended
+her, that she should avoid him on purpose? Revolving the matter in his
+mind, and feeling that hereafter he would take pains to avoid the
+Harcourt mansion, he now approached the terminus of the lane, still
+buried in thought, when his horse, becoming frightened, shied slightly
+to one side; hastily raising his eyes, he saw, to his amazement, the
+object of his thoughts standing by the roadside.
+
+He checked his horse, and, in a tone that betrayed his astonishment,
+exclaimed, "You here, Miss Mary!"
+
+"Yes," she answered, evidently a little confused, "I wanted to see you a
+little while alone. I trust you will pardon me for adopting the means I
+have to secure a short talk with you."
+
+By this time Curtis had dismounted, and was standing at her side.
+
+"Well, what is it, Miss Harcourt? I am happy to be at your service in
+any way in my power."
+
+"Thank you," she answered, hastily, "you have placed me under
+obligations to you, but I venture to-night to ask one favor more."
+
+"It is granted already," said Curtis.
+
+Thanking him again, she proceeded: "You know my brother is in the Union
+army, and I have not heard from him for several weeks; I wish you would
+try to get this letter to him, and, if it is not asking too much," she
+added, hesitatingly, "will you kindly bring me his reply, or at least
+some word that I may know he is safe and well?"
+
+Curtis took the letter from her hands, and, depositing it safely in an
+inside pocket of his coat, he said "I will do my best to deliver the
+letter, and, should I not return soon with an answer, you may know
+something unavoidable has detained me."
+
+As he stood there, gazing earnestly into the sweet face of his fair
+companion, a sudden purpose to then and there declare his love for her
+came into his mind. With him, to resolve was to act; extending his hand,
+he took hers in a friendly clasp, and said: "Miss Harcourt, I am going
+to bid you good-bye, with the hope of seeing you again very soon; but I
+will not conceal from you the fact, that, in the fortunes of war, it is
+possible that we may never meet again. Under these circumstances, then,
+I make bold to tell you to-night something that, ordinarily, I would not
+mention until your longer acquaintance with me would make it appear more
+proper, at least so far as society rules are concerned.
+
+"Miss Harcourt," he continued, still holding the hand that now lay
+passively in his, "in the short time I have known you I have learned to
+love you, and I am confident time only will strengthen that love. I do
+not ask your answer now; when we meet again, if we do, you can tell me
+my fate. If your answer then should be nay, I will try to bear it like a
+man, respecting you none the less even if I fail to win the love I would
+so highly prize. Good-bye, darling!" and lightly pressing her hand to
+his lips, he threw himself into his saddle, and giving his noble animal
+the rein, dashed away, leaving Miss Harcourt standing in a half-dazed
+manner, straining her eyes after his figure, that in the pale moonlight
+was rapidly disappearing from her view.
+
+Curtis now set off for the headquarters of the Union army. Our friend
+pushed on, and shortly after midnight arrived at the Landing, and from
+here faced about to the east, and in the direction of Williamsburgh,
+where the Union army, victorious in the battle just fought, were
+encamped.
+
+He now slackened his speed somewhat, to rest his jaded steed, and,
+dropping the reins, allowed him to take a moderate walk, while he
+himself fell into a deep reverie over the events of his trip.
+
+On this occasion he had been very successful in his work in the rebel
+capital, and had, so far, effectually escaped any suspicion as a spy.
+Considering the watchful vigilance that at this time was maintained by
+the rebels, Curtis had indeed done well; and it was with feelings of
+thorough satisfaction that now, near the close of his arduous journey,
+and when he felt reasonably secure from being molested, that he relaxed
+somewhat his usual vigilance, and allowed himself and animal a much
+needed rest.
+
+He was not, however, destined to get through so easily as he had
+anticipated. As he entered a small clump of timber, and while he was
+unsuspecting any danger at this nearness to the Union camp, two mounted
+men suddenly made their appearance from the side of the road, and from
+where they had been concealed in the bushes, and, holding their cocked
+weapons at his head, commanded him to halt.
+
+At the same instant, men came pouring in from both sides of the woods,
+that here skirted his path, and almost before he could realize his
+situation, or who were his assailants, he was overpowered, taken from
+his horse, and securely bound.
+
+He soon discovered his captors were a band of guerillas, who had been
+quartered in the grove, and he had by the merest chance stumbled right
+into their midst. While he was quickly debating in his mind his chances
+for escape, and his probable fate at their hands, he was led into the
+presence of the captain of the band, who, with a few of his followers,
+had evidently been sleeping about a camp-fire that had now burned low,
+leaving only a bed of glowing embers, that cast a faint light on the
+swarthy faces of the rough-looking men that now grouped yawningly about
+it awaiting his coming.
+
+"Who have you here," asked the Captain, as the party escorting Curtis
+came up.
+
+"Don't know, Capten," laconically answered one of the men; "we jest now
+found him and handed him in here without askin' him enny questions; but
+here he is, you can talk to him yourself."
+
+Curtis was now unbound, and led forward, and stood facing the Captain.
+As their eyes met, the recognition was mutual and instantaneous; in the
+man that stood before him, my operative recognized no less a personage
+than Dan McCowan, the man whom he had so unmercifully drubbed on a
+former occasion, which has already been described.
+
+At the same moment, McCowan saw who it was that had so unexpectedly
+fallen into his hands, and with a wicked laugh and a horrible oath, he
+sprang forward, and clutching him by the throat, exclaimed:
+
+"By G--d, I have been looking for you for some time; it is my turn now."
+
+It was evident that the fellow in his rage meant murder; but Curtis, who
+was both brave and cool, besides being strong and active, wrenched loose
+from his grip, and springing hastily backward, he dealt him, with the
+rapidity of lightning, a powerful blow between the eyes, that felled him
+like an ox. Then, before the lookers-on could scarcely realize what had
+taken place, he leaped over the form of the prostrate man, and
+disappeared in the darkness of the wood.
+
+The Captain by this time regained his feet, and showering curses upon
+his men for a pack of cowardly idiots, started off in pursuit, followed
+by a half a score of his fellows, who now, in order to conciliate their
+enraged leader, determined to retake the detective at all hazards.
+
+Fortunately for Curtis, he had been allowed to retain his weapons, and
+being fleet of foot, he had but little to fear.
+
+He soon succeeded in eluding his pursuers, and, shortly after daylight,
+found his way into the Union camp.
+
+He then reported to me with his dispatches from Richmond, and related
+his adventures here recorded.
+
+I ought to state, however, that he did not, at that time, inform me of
+his proposal to Miss Harcourt; but after remaining with me until the
+close of the war, during which time he made many trips to and fro
+between Richmond and the headquarters of the Federal army, after the
+struggle was ended and we both had retired to the life of a citizen, he,
+as a salesman in a business house in Chicago, I to my business as a
+detective in the same city, then it was he related the story of his
+courtship, and the manner in which he wooed and won the woman who was
+then, and still is, his wife. As for the Harcourt family, they made
+their way to the North, by the aid of my operative and young Harcourt,
+and the courtship between Curtis and the daughter was kept up until the
+close of the war, when they were married.
+
+I will also say, that they are still living happily together, surrounded
+by an interesting family of children, who with childlike eagerness
+clamber on their papa's knees to hear him tell them stories of the war,
+and his adventures before they were even born, a period that to them
+seems ages and ages ago.
+
+Dan McCowan was killed in an attack that his party, led by him, made on
+a band of our scouts, shortly after the occurrence of the incidents
+described in this chapter.
+
+I would fain have dwelt longer on the work of young Curtis, and noted
+more minutely the importance of his labors in the secret service, but a
+lack of space and time compel me here to drop him with the passing
+comment, that he was an excellent operative, and that he so faithfully
+and efficiently did his work, that the subterranean headquarters, with
+its corps of operatives, never did the Union cause any practical harm,
+but a great deal of good, in furnishing intelligence of the movements
+and intentions of the rebel forces.
+
+[Illustration: NIGHT ON THE BATTLE-FIELD.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+_McClellan and his Enemies.--The Peninsula Campaign.--The Rebel Forces
+Before Richmond.--The Union Forces Outnumbered by the Enemy, and their
+Commander Hampered By Superiors.--An Honest Opinion._
+
+
+It is not my purpose to attempt to detail the various movements of the
+army, to describe the battles which were fought, or to chronicle the
+victories and defeats which were achieved and sustained by the brave
+soldiers who fought under the flag of the Union. That duty belongs to
+the historian; mine simply to relate the experiences of my own men in
+the delicate, dangerous and laborious duties which devolved upon them.
+Far less is it my desire to enter into a discussion upon the various
+subjects that have, since that fratricidal conflict, engrossed the
+attention of the student of history.
+
+I trust, however, that I may be pardoned, if, for a time, I depart from
+the main narrative and devote a brief space to the consideration of that
+much discussed subject, the campaign of the Peninsula. I make no
+pretension whatever to being a military scholar, nor in any sense a
+military man, but my connection with the government during the war, and
+participation in the movements of the Army of the Potomac, together
+with my long and intimate acquaintance with its commander, General
+McClellan, may entitle me to a brief expression of my own views of that
+campaign. I may be pardoned, also, if I attempt to ascribe to their
+proper source, some of the causes which contributed largely to the
+disasters that attended it.
+
+There can be no doubt of the fact, that the young commander-in-chief was
+subjected to the persecutions of the most malignant political
+intriguers, who feared that his growing popularity would result in
+political exaltation. Taking advantage of the fact, therefore, that
+General McClellan was an avowed Democrat, a scheming cabal was working
+to weaken his influence with the people by vague insinuations against
+his loyalty to the Union cause. To further that end, his plans, so
+carefully and intelligently matured, for the speedy crushing of the
+rebellion, were either totally disregarded by an unfriendly cabinet, or
+were so frequently thwarted, that to successfully carry them out was an
+utter impossibility.
+
+As I have always been a faithful adherent of the maxim, "speak the
+truth, though the heavens fall," and believing it to be a doctrine, that
+if practically carried, will right all wrongs, uphold the innocent,
+administer censure where deserved, and praise where it is due, I have
+invariably attempted to form my judgment of my fellow-men upon their own
+intrinsic merits.
+
+Whatever may have been his faults as a man, his mistakes as a General,
+he was throughout unflinchingly loyal to the cause of the North. With
+him it was but one sentiment, and one ambition--to whip the rebels into
+subjection--and manfully did he perform his duty toward the
+accomplishment of that object. Much of the censure which has been heaped
+upon him and his conduct as Commander of the Army of the Potomac, is due
+to a hasty and inconsiderate judgment of the man and his motives, or the
+result of direct prejudice and ill-will. In the eyes of his critics his
+great fault lay in what they considered his inexcusable delay in moving
+against the enemy in the Spring of 1862, after, as they supposed, he had
+ample time to prepare his army for the field.
+
+From this point began the open and unfriendly criticisms which were
+designed to excite an impatient people, who did not, and could not,
+understand why active operations were not at once begun. This delay was
+adroitly used by scheming politicians to cast the shadow of disloyalty
+upon a man, who never for one moment entertained a disloyal thought, nor
+performed a single action which he did not believe would redound to the
+credit and honor of the Union troops, and of the Government which he
+served.
+
+My acquaintance with General McClellan began before the war, and when he
+was the Vice-President of the Illinois Central Railroad. That
+corporation had, on frequent occasions, employed my services in various
+operations affecting their interests, and in this way I first met and
+became associated with the General. From this date began my warm regard
+for the man, which, during the many years that have passed, has known no
+diminution.
+
+I knew the man so well, and my confidence in his integrity and
+patriotism was so thorough, that a doubt of his loyalty never entered my
+mind. Many of my old-line abolition friends went so far as to reproach
+me for my steadfast adherence to McClellan, and accused me of abandoning
+my principles. I, however, knew my own ground, and held it. I knew that
+the General was not an abolitionist, but that he was not a patriot I
+could not believe for a moment. I have always thought, and my opinion
+remains unchanged to this day, that had he been left free to carry out
+his plans in the Peninsula campaign, the Army of the Potomac would have
+escaped the disasters that befell it; Richmond would have been reduced,
+and occupied by the Federal troops; and victory instead of defeat would
+have crowned their heroic efforts from the river to the rebel seat of
+government.
+
+"How do you account for General McClellan's 'masterly inactivity' during
+all these months that his army lay at Washington?" is asked. Ah, there
+is the mistake. It was anything but inactivity, and it is beginning to
+be pretty generally understood now what he was doing at that time.
+
+More than one writer on the campaigns of the Civil War, has taken
+occasion to say that the splendid achievements of the Army of the
+Potomac at subsequent periods, and under other commanders, were mainly
+due to the careful drilling and the rigid discipline inculcated under
+McClellan. At the time he was called to the command of the army it was
+nothing better than a band of disorganized men, who had not recovered
+from the defeat of Bull Run, and whatever efficiency it attained, was
+accomplished by the indefatigable efforts of General McClellan and the
+officers under his command.
+
+The South, at the outbreak, was far better prepared for war than the
+North. For months preceding the election of Mr. Lincoln the people of
+the South were secretly preparing for a struggle. They had even then
+determined, if beaten by the ballot, to resort to the bayonet, and to
+decide upon the battle-field the questions which they failed to settle
+by fair discussion and honest legislation in the National Congress. The
+people of the North, on the contrary, being so long accustomed to submit
+to the expressed will of the majority, apprehended no danger. While they
+were keenly alive to the important nature of the issues presented in the
+campaign, they did not dream that the new party, if successful, would
+have a gigantic civil war on its hands as the result of its triumph in a
+contest peaceably decided by the silent yet all-powerful ballot. Resting
+in this fancied security from danger, the war was a surprise, for which
+they were but illy prepared.
+
+I need not detail the situation of affairs when the news flashed over
+the wires that Fort Sumter was fired upon. Suffice it do say, that the
+South was up in arms, in full preparation almost, before the North could
+realize that war was at hand.
+
+The first great battle of the war was fought, and the Union troops
+suffered a most humiliating defeat, falling back in disordered crowds
+upon Washington, and at this time General McClellan took command and
+brought order out of chaos.
+
+The community did not seem to consider, or to understand, that it was
+necessary to spend so much time in drilling the troops and making
+elaborate preparations for the field. But the commanding officer was too
+good a general to imitate the impetuous actions of his predecessors, and
+to make an aggressive campaign with raw and undisciplined troops. It was
+in consequence of this, that months were spent in the patient and
+persistent task of properly organizing, drilling and equipping his men
+for the field, and in the spring of 1862, when the army did move, in the
+language of the General, it was one "from which much was to be
+expected."
+
+Unfortunately, however, at the very outset, the General and the
+President had each matured a plan for the conduct of the war, and, in
+many respects, these were diametrically opposed to each other. At this
+point the question might be asked, whose plan should have been followed?
+
+By the Constitution, the President is the Commander-in-Chief of all the
+armies and the navy of the United States, and is, of course,
+_ex-officio_, the highest military authority in the land. "But if a
+President disclaims all knowledge of military affairs," as President
+Lincoln did, "it then becomes a question how far he should defer the
+conduct of a war to his appointed Commander-in-Chief, who is supposed to
+be chosen on account of his skill and sagacity in military matters, and
+upon his presumed fitness for the position."
+
+In President Lincoln's hesitation between the advice of his Generals in
+the field, and the views urged by his Cabinet lay the foundation of many
+of the blunders and mistakes of the war, the trouble being, as one
+writer affirms, that "instead of one mind, there were many minds
+influencing the management of military affairs." As the result of this
+there was a lack of concert and action between the two heads of the
+military department, and at the critical period of the campaign,
+McDowell's forces were held at Washington when McClellan expected him to
+re-enforce the army of the Potomac.
+
+Notwithstanding all that has been said and written upon this subject, I
+have no hesitation in expressing the opinion, that had not the President
+and his advisors, stood in such ungrounded fear for the safety of
+Washington, and had not withheld McDowell's forces at a time when their
+absence was a most serious blow to the plans of General McClellan, the
+close of the year would have seen the Rebellion crushed, and the war
+ended.
+
+At the commencement of the campaign I had an interview with General
+McClellan, and he expressed the utmost confidence in his ability,
+provided his plans were fully supported and carried out, to gain the
+objective point of the war, and to accomplish the reduction of the rebel
+capital. My force of operatives had been diligently at work in procuring
+what information that was possible of attainment, of the numbers of the
+enemy, and with such success that in March I was able to report the
+approximate strength of the rebel army at 115,500 men, apportioned about
+as follows:
+
+    At Manassas, Centerville and vicinity,            80,000
+    " Brooks' Station, Dumfries, &c.,                 18,000
+    " Leesburg,                                        4,500
+    In the Shenandoah Valley,                         13,000
+                                                     -------
+    Total,                                           115,500
+
+In gaining this important information, Timothy Webster, Pryce Lewis,
+John Scobell and a host of other efficient members of my force, some of
+whom have already been mentioned in these pages, deserve especial credit
+for their sleepless energy in prosecuting the work that had been
+assigned to them.
+
+On the 4th of April the forward movement was made, and the siege of
+Yorktown was begun. The result of this siege the student of history
+already knows, a simple detention of the Army of the Potomac, until the
+enemy could occupy and fortify Richmond. Here is where McClellan
+suffered from the detention of McDowell at Washington--he had prepared a
+plan with McDowell as one of its principal actors, and with that force
+withdrawn, the General's intentions were not only radically interfered
+with, but seriously deranged.
+
+During this time the rebel army was being daily reinforced and
+strengthened, until, by June 26th, its numbers were swelled to nearly
+200,000 effective men. McClellan, on the contrary, starting as he did,
+with a smaller army than he thought was necessary to cope with the
+enemy, found himself, when before their fortifications, after being
+deprived of McDowell's division, with an army of less than 90,000
+effective troops.
+
+Another element in this campaign must not be lost sight of. The Navy,
+whose co-operation and assistance had been promised and relied upon, was
+unable to aid him at all. Can it be wondered at, therefore, that his
+plans, however well laid, and whatever their merits, viewed from a
+military stand-point, or the stand-point of common sense, failed in
+their execution.
+
+One writer, in speaking of the treatment of General McClellan, has well
+said: "A general of high spirit and sensitive soul might have found in
+the government's action the occasion for sending in his resignation; but
+General McClellan continued in command, accepted the situation, and
+endeavored to make the best of it."
+
+And still another has said, although inclined to be partial and unfair,
+in his account of the battles of Antietam and Fredericksburg:
+
+"His capacity and energy as an organizer are universally recognized. He
+was an excellent strategist, and, in many respects, an excellent
+soldier. He did not use his own troops with sufficient promptness and
+vigor to achieve great and decisive results, but he was oftener
+successful than unsuccessful with them; and he so conducted affairs that
+they never suffered heavily without inflicting heavy loss upon their
+adversaries. It may appear a strange statement to follow the other
+matter which this volume contains, but it is none the less true, that
+there are strong grounds for believing that he was the best commander
+the Army of the Potomac ever had." Concluding a comparison, that
+redounds much to the credit of General McClellan, both as a soldier and
+a patriot, the same writer says:
+
+"A growing familiarity with his history as a soldier, increases the
+disposition to regard him with respect and gratitude, and to believe,
+while recognizing the limitations of his nature, that his failure to
+accomplish more was partly his misfortune, and not altogether his
+fault."
+
+General McClellan knew much better than some of his self-appointed
+critics the numbers and strength of the enemy. He knew from the reports
+of the secret service that the general estimate of the rebel army at,
+and around Richmond, was far below their real numbers.
+
+My shrewd and daring operatives, men and women trained for the work,
+moved in and out among the Rebel troops at all times and places. From
+actual observation they gathered the location, character and strength of
+their fortifications, and from actual count the estimates were made of
+the numerical strength of the opposing army.
+
+Suffice it to say, that I knew of my own knowledge, and General
+McClellan knew from the reports I laid before him, the fearful odds
+against which he had to contend in the bravely fought but disastrous
+campaign of the Peninsula.[C]
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[C] See detailed statement in Appendix.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+_Webster's Expedition.--His Gallantry.--A Stormy Passage.--A Mysterious
+Package.--Treason Discovered and Punished._
+
+
+It was Christmas morning, in Washington, and the bells were ringing
+merrily throughout the city. The sun was just peeping over the hills,
+and lighting up the winter landscape with a beauty and brilliancy that
+would defy the skill of an artist. Washington was alive with soldiers.
+Throughout the city the military was the predominating element, and for
+miles around the country was dotted with the white tents that marked the
+encampments of the country's defenders. Thousands of muskets gleamed in
+the morning light, as with the rattle of the drum or the shrill blast of
+the bugle, the _reveille_ awoke the hills and valleys from the
+death-like silence and slumber of the night.
+
+The Union army was encamped around the capital, and General McClellan
+was in command. For months the process of drilling and disciplining the
+volunteer troops had been going on under his watchful eye and masterful
+hand, and the "Army of the Potomac" was rapidly approaching a degree of
+efficiency that was eminently calculated to make them formidable
+adversaries to their reckless and determined enemies.
+
+This morning, at my headquarters on I street, Timothy Webster was
+engaged in completing his arrangements for another extended journey into
+Rebeldom. By this time he had succeeded in thoroughly ingratiating
+himself into the favor of the rebel authorities, and at the War
+Department in Richmond he was regarded as a trusted emissary of the
+Confederate government.
+
+Upon the trips which he had previously made he had carried numerous
+letters from Northern residents to their secessionist relatives in the
+South, and then, upon returning, he had delivered communications from
+Southern people to individuals north of the line. Of course these
+letters and communications, before being delivered to the parties to
+whom they were addressed, were first submitted to the inspection of
+trusted employees of my office, and anything which tended to convey
+information of the movements and intentions of the Southern leaders was
+carefully noted, and the Federal authorities duly notified. By this
+means a double purpose was served. Webster not only won the entire
+confidence of the Southern authorities, but he was very frequently the
+bearer of important dispatches, whose contents were often valuable to
+the Northern leaders.
+
+After finishing his preparations, Webster came into my room, where Mr.
+Bangs and I were seated, and announcing his readiness to start, inquired
+if I had any further orders for him.
+
+"I am ready now, Major," said he, cheerily, "have you any further
+commands?"
+
+"No, Webster," said I, "I believe everything has been carefully
+arranged, and I have no commands to give except for you to take good
+care of yourself."
+
+"I'll try to do that," he replied with a laugh, and then, tapping his
+breast lightly, where his letters were sewed into the lining of his
+waistcoat, "I will take care of my mail too."
+
+With a warm clasp of the hand, and a hearty good-bye, Webster went out
+into the bright sunlight and frosty air of a winter's morning, and was
+soon lost to view.
+
+Procuring a conveyance, Webster left Washington, passing the guards
+without difficulty, and made his way toward Leonardstown, in Maryland.
+This journey was accomplished without event or accident, and early on
+the following morning, he drove up before the hotel, and was warmly
+greeted by John Moore, the landlord of the hostelry at that place.
+
+This Moore was a strong secessionist at heart, although openly
+professing to be a Union man, and regarding Webster as a Southern
+emissary his greeting was always cordial, and his hospitality unstinted.
+The air was cold and frosty, and riding all night in a stagecoach, which
+was far from being weather-proof, Webster was chilled through when the
+stage stopped before the comfortable inn of John Moore. Very soon,
+however, a jug of steaming punch, and the genial warmth from a fire of
+crackling logs in the large open fire-place, were instrumental in
+loosening the stiffened joints of my tired operative, and contributing
+materially to his comfort.
+
+"Well, John," said Webster at length, "what is the prospect for crossing
+the river to-night?"
+
+"We can't cross here at all any more, Webster," replied Moore, with an
+oath; "the damned Yankees are too sharp for us."
+
+"Is there no way of getting over about here at all?" asked Webster,
+somewhat troubled at the unexpected information.
+
+"There's a way for some people," replied Moore with a laugh, and a
+significant wink, "and I guess you are included in the number."
+
+"All right," said Webster, immeasurably relieved, "but how do we manage
+it?"
+
+"Well," replied Moore, "you will have to go up to Cob Neck, and then I
+will see that you are taken care of."
+
+Cob Neck is a point of land extending out from the main shore, about
+fourteen miles distant from Leonardstown, and was very well adapted for
+the purpose in view. On each side of the point, or neck, there was a
+wide bay or inlet where a boat could put out, and the ground, which was
+soft and marshy, was completely covered with a growth of pine thickets
+and underbrush, which prevented the placing of vigilant pickets at this
+point. Being perfectly acquainted with the locality named, Webster had
+no fears of being able to get safely across the Potomac into Virginia,
+and then continuing his way to the rebel capital.
+
+"By the way," said Moore, "I have a favor to ask of you, Webster."
+
+"Well," replied Webster, "anything I can do will be cheerfully done for
+you, Moore."
+
+"I know that, Webster," said Moore, heartily, "and there is no one in
+the world I would rather oblige than you. The fact is, I have got two
+ladies here, who are wives of army officers, now stationed in Richmond,
+they have been living North for some time, and are anxious to get to
+their husbands; they have three children with them, and I want you to
+take charge of the party, and see them safely on their way."
+
+"I'll do that with pleasure," replied Webster, "and I'll take good care
+of them, too."
+
+That night, about nine o'clock, a close-covered carriage was driven away
+from the hotel, in the direction of Cob Neck. John Moore and Timothy
+Webster sat on the driver's seat, while within were the families of the
+rebel officers, who had been placed in my operative's charge. Reaching
+their destination in safety, the party alighted, and walking out to the
+end of the point, Moore uttered a shrill whistle, which was immediately
+answered in the same manner. Soon they heard the splashing of oars, and
+in a few minutes a boat was discernable through the darkness, and the
+voice of a man called out:
+
+"Here I am, Cap'n! on time, as ye see."
+
+"All right, Tom," replied Moore, "I've got a party here that you must
+take good care of."
+
+"Very well, Cap'n, I'll do the best I can, but I'm afraid the wind ain't
+right for landin' on t'other side."
+
+"Well," said Moore, "you must do your best, and I guess you will get
+over all right."
+
+The night was dark and cold, the wind was blowing sharp and chill, and
+heavy clouds were shifting overhead. The river was running swiftly, and
+was of that inky blackness that invariably presages a storm. The wind
+through the low pines was sighing like a human being in distress, and
+the ladies gazed fearfully and shudderingly at the dark waters and the
+frail craft which was to carry them to the opposite shore. Webster
+uttered words of courage and assurance to the shrinking ladies, and
+assisted in comfortably bestowing them in the boat, and then, with a
+parting salutation to John Moore, the boat pushed off from the shore.
+
+After getting clear of the land they hoisted sail, and were soon flying
+rapidly over the water, before the driving wind. As the wind was against
+them, they were obliged to make short and frequent tacks, and thus
+their approach to the opposite shore was accomplished by slow and
+labored degrees. The ladies were huddled together in the stern, clasping
+their frightened children nervously in their arms, while Webster, active
+and alert, rendered such assistance in managing the boat as was in his
+power.
+
+"The storm's coming!" shouted the boatman, after a long silence, "and
+the women had better cover up."
+
+The storm came, sure enough. A blinding rain, icy cold, which beat
+pitilessly down upon the unprotected voyagers, while the little vessel
+rocked to and fro at the mercy of the dashing waves. The wind suddenly
+changed, the frail yacht gave a sudden lurch, and in a twinkling the
+keel of the boat was heard scraping upon the bottom of the river, and
+they were aground. They had been blown out of their course, and had
+drifted into the shallow water, a mile below their landing place, and
+within a hundred feet of the shore.
+
+Without a moment's hesitation, Webster bade the boatman lower his sail,
+and then, jumping into the water, which was waist deep, and as cold as
+ice, he took two of the children in his strong arms, and carried them
+safely to the river-bank. Returning again, he assisted in carrying the
+ladies and the remaining child ashore, although he was so chilled that
+his lips were blue and his knees knocked together with the cold. The
+nearest place of shelter was a mile away, but unmindful of the cold and
+the pelting storm, Webster cheered his companions by his hearty words,
+and bidding the boatman take care of one of the children, he picked up
+another, and the weary party set out to walk through the icy rain to the
+little hut, whose welcome light was gleaming in the distance.
+
+[Illustration: "_Webster took two of the children in his strong arms,
+and carried them safely to the bank._" P. 474]
+
+Thanks to a flask of good brandy, which Webster fortunately had with
+him, the ladies were strengthened and sustained sufficiently to make the
+journey; and when they arrived at last at the comfortable cabin, their
+words of gratitude to Webster were heartily and unstintingly uttered.
+
+After warming themselves before the fire, and drying their drenched and
+dripping garments as far as practicable, the ladies retired to another
+room, leaving Webster, who, overcome with fatigue, was obliged to sleep
+in his wet clothing in the room to which they were first admitted.
+Unmindful of himself, however, his only solicitude was for the ladies
+who had been placed in his charge, and after they had been comfortably
+disposed of, he prepared to take his own much-needed rest.
+
+He spread a blanket before the roaring blaze, and was about to stretch
+his weary limbs upon it, when he noticed, lying upon the floor, a short
+distance from him, a small packet, wrapped in oiled-cloth, and tied with
+red tape. It had evidently been dropped by one of the ladies, and its
+loss had escaped her notice. Picking it up, he examined it carefully by
+the light of the fire, and to his surprise he found that it was directed
+to Mr. Benjamin, the Rebel Secretary of War. As "all things are fair in
+love and war," Timothy lost no time in secreting the precious document
+about his own person. He had no objection at all to assisting two ladies
+to reach their husbands, even if they were enemies; but he objected
+decidedly to lend his aid to the forwarding of dangerous information to
+those who were fighting against the cause he held so dear. His
+conscience, therefore, gave him but little uneasiness as he pocketed the
+mysterious little packet, and with the resolve to discover its contents
+on the morrow, he stretched himself before the burning logs, and was
+soon sound asleep.
+
+The next morning, when he arose, his clothing was dry, but he
+experienced acute pains in his limbs, and a sense of weariness, that
+boded no good to his physical condition. Ignoring his own ailments,
+however, he busied himself in securing the comfort of his charges, and
+after a hearty breakfast, the party set out upon their trip to Richmond.
+They traveled for several miles in an ox-cart, and then by team, to a
+place called Hop Yard Wharf, on the Rappahannock River. Here the party
+embarked on a steamboat, and traveled as far as Fredericksburg, where
+Webster was obliged to remain for two days, owing to an acute attack of
+rheumatism, which was caused by his exposure in behalf of the ladies,
+whose safety he had undertaken to insure. At this time he received a
+striking illustration of the gratitude which one earns by the
+performance of a kindly act of self-sacrifice. No sooner had the boat
+landed at Fredericksburg, than these ladies expressed their impatient
+desire to push on directly to the rebel capital. Notwithstanding
+Webster's precarious condition, the danger in leaving him alone, and the
+fact that his sufferings had been occasioned by his efforts in their
+behalf, these high-toned Southern dames, intent only upon their selfish
+pleasures, left him to his own resources, and without displaying the
+slightest interest in his welfare they went their way, and Webster,
+unable to move himself, was obliged to depend upon the services of
+absolute strangers, for that care and attention of which he stood in so
+much need.
+
+[Illustration: _Webster discovers a mysterious package._ P. 475.]
+
+It was while he was detained at Fredericksburg, that he seized the
+opportunity of examining the package, which had come into his possession
+in the little cabin at Monroe's Creek. Removing the enfolding wrappers,
+he discovered that the contents of the bundle were complete maps of the
+country surrounding Washington, with a correct statement of the number
+and location of the Federal troops. Several items of information were
+also conveyed, in regard to the probable intentions of the Union
+Commanders in the coming spring. From the nature of this information, it
+was evident that a trusted officer of the Federal government was
+unfaithful to his duty, and was assisting the enemies of the country.
+Webster congratulated himself upon the lucky chance which had thrown
+this little packet in his way, and he resolved to forward the same to me
+at the first opportunity that occurred.
+
+On the second day, though suffering severely, he was able to resume his
+journey, and taking the train at Fredericksburg he was soon approaching
+the City of Richmond. Immediately upon his arrival, he repaired to the
+office of the Secretary of War, and delivered the letters which he had
+brought with him from the North, and which were to be forwarded to their
+various addresses by the Confederate authorities. Mr. Benjamin warmly
+congratulated Webster upon his success in passing through the Union
+lines, and for the information which he brought. He furnished him with
+passports, which would enable him to journey unrestricted and
+unquestioned throughout the Southern dominions, and requested a further
+interview at a later day.
+
+Leaving the War Department, he went to the Monumental Hotel, where he
+engaged a room for himself, and where he found Mrs. Lawton, who had
+remained in the city during his absence. Mrs. Lawton informed Webster
+that she had just received a visit from Mr. Stanton, another of my
+operatives, who had arrived in Richmond from Nashville, Tenn., and that
+he was going to attempt to leave for Washington that night.
+
+This was a lucky chance, and Webster resolved to see Stanton, and
+entrust to him the conveyance of the packet that had so fortunately come
+into his hands. Knowing the places at which he would be most apt to be
+found, he made a tour of the city, and was at length fortunate enough to
+discover the man he was in search of. Selecting a secluded place,
+Webster confided his package to Stanton, instructing him to deliver it
+to no one but myself under any circumstances, and then, feeling the need
+of rest, he went back to the hotel, and shortly afterward retired to
+bed. The next day he was unable to move. His sufferings were
+excruciating, and for weeks he was compelled to endure the agonies of an
+acute attack of inflammatory rheumatism, which confined him a prisoner
+to his bed.
+
+Leaving Webster at the Monumental Hotel, we will return to the movements
+of my operative, who had been delegated to deliver the package which
+Webster had found. Mr. Stanton arrived safely in Washington, and after
+rendering a report of his own observations upon his journey from
+Nashville to Washington, he produced this packet of Webster's, a careful
+examination of its contents revealed to me the author of the treasonable
+communications.
+
+His name was James Howard, a native of the South, and he was a clerk in
+the Provost-Marshal's office. I had frequently seen his handwriting, and
+knew it perfectly. There could be no possibility of mistake about this,
+and I lost no time in laying before the commanding officer, the proof
+of the suspected man's guilt. Howard was confronted with the evidence
+against him, and finding it impossible to deny the truth, he confessed
+his treason, and implicated several others in the conspiracy. Before the
+shades of night had fallen over the tented city, James Howard, and his
+treasonable confederates, were placed within the enfolding walls of the
+old capital prison, and behind iron bars were left to meditate upon the
+heavy price they had paid for an attempt to betray their country.
+
+[Illustration: "HAIL COLUMBIA!"]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+_Activity in Washington.--Webster's Journey Through The South.--His
+Return to the Capital._
+
+
+During the month of January, 1862, I was actively engaged in the city of
+Washington. With a part of my force, I was acting in conjunction with
+General Andrew Porter, the Provost-Marshal of the district, while the
+remaining portion was assisting General McClellan in obtaining reliable
+information about the topography of the Southern country, and of the
+number and disposition of the Southern troops.
+
+Almost every day witnessed some incident of importance to the national
+cause, and my time was fully occupied with the numerous and responsible
+duties which necessarily devolved upon me. Mr. George H. Bangs, who is
+now the general superintendent of my agencies, was detailed to the
+headquarters of the army, while I remained in charge of my office on "I"
+street, although I was kept fully informed by daily reports of whatever
+transpired at both places. As may readily be imagined, my office was no
+sinecure. Many times I was obliged to deprive myself of needed rest and
+sleep, engaged in laborious duties from early morn far into the waking
+hours of the succeeding day, and for weeks scarcely obtaining a peaceful
+night's slumber. The capital was filled with suspicious personages, with
+Southern spies, and their Northern allies, and frequently officers of
+the government, holding elevated positions, would be discovered in
+secret, but active correspondence with the rebel authorities. Arrests
+were numerous, and the searching of suspected premises of almost daily
+occurrence, while the large number of men employed by me required
+constant and unceasing personal surveillance.
+
+In the army it was astonishing what rapid progress had been made in
+drilling and disciplining the large, and, for the most part, untried
+force of soldiery. The commanding general was engaged in perfecting his
+plans for a campaign against Richmond, and in order to do this
+intelligently, much information was required of the condition of the
+country through which the army must pass, and of the number of the enemy
+he would be likely to encounter. The obstacles that must be overcome,
+the defenses which would impede his passage, and all the minutia of
+warlike particularities, were mainly left to be discovered by the men in
+the secret service department, of which I was the authorized leader, and
+responsible head. Engaged in these duties the month of January passed
+away. Numerous operatives had been dispatched into the hostile country
+before us, and had made their examinations, and returned, conveying to
+me and to the commanding general items of valuable information which
+could have been obtained in no other way.
+
+We will now follow the movements of Timothy Webster, whom we left in
+Richmond struggling with his old and relentless enemy, the rheumatism.
+
+After a painful confinement to his bed for nearly a week, he was at last
+able to move about once more, and in a few days thereafter was strong
+enough to undertake a journey which he had been contemplating for some
+time.
+
+In company with one of the largest contractors for the rebel government,
+he left Richmond for Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Campbell, the contractor,
+was engaged in the purchase of leather and desirous of purchasing
+directly from the tanner, instead of depending upon the dealers, who
+might not be able to supply him in such quantities as he required.
+Traveling with this gentleman, and armed as he was, with an all powerful
+passport from the Secretary of War, Webster would have every opportunity
+for making his observations without incurring the slightest suspicion.
+During this journey he traveled through Knoxville, Chattanooga and
+Nashville, in Tennessee, then to Bowling Green, in Kentucky, and then,
+on his return, he passed through Manassas and Centreville, carefully
+noting in his passage through the country the number and condition of
+the various troops, the number and extent of batteries and
+fortifications, and eliciting an amount of information that seemed
+wonderful for one man to accomplish. He made the acquaintance of
+commanding officers, and conversed unreservedly with them upon the
+various matters connected with their divisions, and their movements,
+present and perspective. He carefully examined the fortifications that
+had been erected, and the number of guns they contained. He talked with
+the private soldier and the civilian, and in fact, on his return to
+Richmond, was as well informed with regard to the military resources of
+the enemy as were the generals themselves. Rejoiced at his success, and
+carefully noting what he had witnessed, Webster prepared to return
+North.
+
+Visiting the War Department and the office of the Provost-Marshal, he
+received from Mr. Benjamin and General Winder a large number of letters
+and several important commissions, which were to be delivered and
+attended to after he should arrive in Washington and Baltimore.
+
+Leaving Richmond, he safely passed the pickets and outposts of both
+Federals and rebels, and reported to me. His trip had been a most
+important and successful one, and the information he brought was most
+invaluable. Webster seemed as well pleased at his success as were either
+General McClellan or myself, and after a short rest announced himself as
+quite prepared to make another journey to the South, whenever his
+services should be required.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+_Webster's Last Mission.--Anxiety at his Long Absence.--No Tidings of
+the Faithful Scout.--Operatives Sent in Search of him.--Webster Ill in
+Richmond._
+
+
+In the latter part of January, 1862, another packet of rebel mail matter
+had accumulated, and the various articles, which Webster had agreed to
+purchase for the residents of Richmond and vicinity, were ready for
+delivery, and Webster prepared himself for another journey into the
+South. While in Washington he had not experienced any painful reminders
+of his old disease, and he was impatient to be actively employed once
+more.
+
+Accordingly, everything was arranged for his trip, and early one bright
+winter's morning he came, as was his custom, to bid me farewell.
+
+I often recall, and with an emotion that I cannot control, the
+appearance of Timothy Webster, as I saw him that day. Brave, strong and
+manly, he stood before me. The merry twinkle in his eyes seemed to belie
+the sternness of the set lips, which were even now curved with a smile
+of good humor. No trace of fear or hesitancy was apparent in his manner.
+He seemed to be animated solely by an earnest desire to serve his
+country to the best of his ability. He well knew, as did I, that his
+journey lay through a hostile country; that danger was lurking
+everywhere around him, and that if his true character was discovered,
+the consequences would, no doubt, prove fatal to him. Notwithstanding
+this, there was no quivering of the compact muscles, the hand that
+grasped mine was as firm as iron, and the brave heart that throbbed in
+his bosom was insensible alike to a thought of shrinking, or a desire to
+evade, the responsibility that devolved upon him.
+
+After a few words of necessary caution and with good wishes for his
+welfare and safe return, Timothy Webster took his departure, and went
+his way. I did not know then that I had looked upon his face and manly
+form for the last time, and no hint or warning of his subsequent fate
+came to me as I sat watching his retreating figure. But to this day, I
+can picture him with sentiments of pride, in his valor and services, and
+regrets, deep and heartfelt, for the brave man who but a few months
+afterwards laid down his life for his country.
+
+For some time previous to this journey of Webster's, Mrs. Lawton had
+been located at Leonardstown, where she had assiduously cultivated the
+acquaintance of the most important people in that locality, whose
+sympathies were with the Southern cause, and whose assistance to Webster
+and herself would be valuable in time of need.
+
+Among this number was a man whose name was Washington Gough, a wealthy
+secessionist, who was one of the most active in his efforts to assist
+the Southern blockade-runners in crossing over into Virginia, and in
+eluding the watchfulness of the Federal pickets. Through her
+acquaintance with this man, Mrs. Lawton was enabled to acquire much
+valuable information from those who sought the aid of Mr. Gough in
+obtaining the facilities for reaching the rebel lines in safety.
+
+With Gough, Webster was a prime favorite, and so thoroughly had my
+operative ingratiated himself into the favorable opinion of this rebel
+gentleman, that any service which would be required would be performed
+without question or delay. Mrs. Lawton was invited to make the house of
+Gough her home, while in Leonardstown, and by her charms of manner and
+conversation proved a powerful ally to Webster in the discovery of
+important secrets relating to the movements and intentions of the enemy.
+
+Webster's footing with the rebel authorities was also firmly
+established, and every one of them with whom he came in contact yielded
+to the magic of his blandishments and was disposed to serve him whenever
+possible.
+
+An event which happened about this time fully justified this assertion.
+It appeared that during Webster's absence from Leonardstown, a gentleman
+by the name of Camilear had crossed over the river, and although a
+noted secessionist in his own immediate vicinity, was not known to any
+one upon the other side of the water. He was accordingly arrested and
+placed in confinement. The appeals of his friends and relatives were
+unavailing in securing his release, and the captive chafed terribly
+under the burden of his captivity. At length, on Webster's appearance,
+the matter was presented to him, and he was entreated by Camilear's
+relatives to intercede in his behalf. He promised to do so, and indited
+a letter to the officer who had the prisoner in charge, requesting his
+release, and giving assurances of the man's fealty to the Confederate
+government. In a few days the prisoner was returned to his home, and was
+informed by the officer, that only the protestations made by Webster had
+been sufficient to accomplish his release. From the highest to the
+lowest, the confidence in Webster was universal.
+
+On this last mentioned trip Webster decided to take Mrs. Lawton with
+him, and having obtained my sanction to his proposition, he journeyed to
+Leonardstown and communicated his wishes to the lady, who was nothing
+loath to accompany him. They accordingly made their preparations, and in
+the darkness of the night they made their way to the river-bank where an
+oyster boat was in waiting to cross the river. Mrs. Lawton wore an
+overcoat and felt hat belonging to Webster, and to a casual observer
+appeared very masculine in her habiliments. The river was entirely
+clear of vessels, and the journey was made in perfect safety. As they
+neared the opposite bank the moon shone out brightly, and revealed the
+"pungy" to the rebel pickets, who were known by Webster, and from whom
+he expected no interference or opposition.
+
+The lights on shore revealed the stations of these pickets, and as they
+were expecting his return Webster called out loudly: "Pickets!
+Pickets!!"
+
+There was no response to this call, and to his dismay the lights were
+suddenly extinguished. The boatman was greatly frightened at this
+proceeding, and was in momentary dread of being fired upon; but Webster
+reassured him, and continued his loud, but ineffectual calls for the
+guard.
+
+Finding it impossible to attract the attention of those who should have
+been upon the lookout for him, Webster assisted the boatman in landing
+their trunks, after which the "pungy" was pushed off from the shore, and
+soon afterwards disappeared in the darkness.
+
+Webster and his companion wandered about for more than an hour, and it
+was nearly midnight when they came to a farm house, where their approach
+was heralded by the loud barking of numerous dogs, who were aroused by
+the unwonted presence of human beings, and were disposed to resent their
+approach.
+
+The noise of the dogs brought the farmer to his door, who demanded, in
+no very gentle terms, to know who they were, and what had brought them
+there at that unseasonable hour. In a few words Webster explained the
+situation, and the genial farmer bade them welcome, and safely bestowed
+them for the night.
+
+They had scarcely retired, when they were aroused by a loud knocking at
+the door, which was discovered to have been made by the pickets from the
+adjoining camp, who demanded to know who the new-comers were, and stated
+that they had been ordered to bring them immediately before an officer
+of the guard, two miles away.
+
+"Why didn't you tell them that, when they called out to you before?"
+inquired the farmer, in a contemptuous tone.
+
+"Well we did not know who they were," answered the leader of the party,
+"and we did not think it was safe."
+
+"Oho! you were afraid of them, were you, and ran away?"
+
+At this point, Webster, who had heard the conversation, made his
+appearance at the door, and demanded to know what was wanted.
+
+The leader of the guard again explained his mission, and demanded that
+Webster should accompany him to the camp.
+
+"Tell your commander that I will not stir from this house until morning.
+My name is Timothy Webster. I am in the employ of the Confederacy, and
+if you had answered my call, there would have been no difficulty."
+
+Finding that Webster was determined, the men went away, and left the
+household to their repose. The next morning Webster reported at the
+camp, and requested to see Major Beale, the officer in command. He was
+informed, that this gentleman was stationed twenty miles away, and upon
+telegraphing to him, the answer was returned: "Let Webster go where he
+pleases."
+
+The day was cold and stormy, and the roads were in a wretched condition,
+but notwithstanding this Webster pushed on to Fredericksburg, and after
+delivering some letters and merchandise which he had brought for
+residents there, he pushed on to Richmond.
+
+Taking up their quarters at the hotel, they resolved to wait until the
+following day before commencing their operations. During the night,
+however, Webster's malady returned, and he suffered terribly from his
+old enemy, the rheumatism. In the morning he was helpless, and unable to
+move.
+
+From this time, I heard nothing further from him directly, and for weeks
+was utterly ignorant of his movements or condition. I began to grow
+alarmed. Hitherto, his visits had not occupied more than three or four
+weeks, and he had always succeeded in escaping suspicion, and evading
+being detained by either force through which he would necessarily be
+obliged to pass. As the days and weeks passed, and brought no tidings
+from him, my apprehensions became so strong that I resolved to send one
+or two of my men to the rebel capital, in order to ascertain the cause
+of his unusual and long-continued absence.
+
+My anxiety was equally shared by General McClellan, with whom Webster
+was a great favorite, and who placed the utmost reliance upon his
+reports. One evening, early in February, the General called upon me, and
+advised the sending of one messenger, or two, for the sole purpose of
+hunting up Webster, or discovering some trace of him. I informed him
+that I had already considered the necessity of some such action, and was
+upon the point of submitting the matter for his approval. Finding the
+General thus fully in accord with the proposition, I at once selected
+two of my men for this important mission. After mature consideration, I
+decided upon despatching Price Lewis and John Scully upon this delicate
+quest. My reasons for this selection, were that both Scully and Lewis
+had been connected with other operations in Baltimore, in company with
+Webster, and had thus been enabled to form the acquaintance of a great
+number of secessionists in that city, some of whom had gone South, while
+others, who remained at home, had influential friends in Richmond.
+During these operations, both Lewis and Scully had pretended the most
+earnest and sincere sympathy for the cause of the Confederacy, and were
+known as ardent secessionists. This, I concluded, would materially
+assist them after reaching Richmond, particularly if they should be
+fortunate enough to meet any of their old Baltimore associates. They had
+also been engaged upon various investigations through the Southern
+States, and especially in Western Virginia, where they had rendered good
+service in the early campaigns in that section of the country. I had,
+therefore, no doubt of their ability to perform the task assigned to
+them, and felt perfectly satisfied that they would perform their duties
+to the best of that ability.
+
+Requesting their presence in my private office, I broached the matter to
+them, and submitted the question of their undertaking this task to their
+own election. Upon operations of this kind, where there was danger to be
+incurred, where a man literally took his life into his own hands, and
+where death might be the result of detection, I invariably placed the
+question upon its merits, before the person selected for the mission,
+and then allowed him to decide for himself, whether he would voluntarily
+undertake its accomplishment.
+
+I did this for various reasons. In the first place, I felt very loath to
+peremptorily order a man upon an enterprize where there was every
+possibility of danger, for in the event of fatal result, I should be
+disposed to reproach myself for thus endangering the lives of those
+under my command. It is true, that under their terms of service, and by
+virtue of the authority vested in me, I had the undoubted right to issue
+such order; but I always preferred that my men should voluntarily, and
+without urging, signify their willingness to undertake hazardous
+missions. Again, I have invariably found, that the ready and cheerful
+officer performs the most acceptable service, and that the absence of
+fear or hesitation are sure passports to success; while on the other
+hand, should there be timidity or unwillingness, or a disposition to
+avoid danger, success is rarely, if ever, attained.
+
+It is but just, however, to state that during my entire connection with
+the secret service of the government, I never found any of my men
+disinclined to undertake an operation that was delegated to them; but on
+the contrary, I always experienced the utmost cheerfulness and ready
+support from those who so valiantly served under my orders. Nor was I
+disappointed in the present instance. On presenting the case, with all
+its attendant dangers, to Price Lewis and John Scully, both of them
+signified, without the slightest hesitation, their voluntary desire to
+go to Richmond, and to make the inquiries, which were considered of so
+much importance by both General McClellan and myself.
+
+But few instructions, and very little preparation, were required for
+this journey, and in the afternoon both men were prepared to start. I
+did not deem it advisable to provide them with any goods, as was
+sometimes the case, in order to furnish an excuse for their
+blockade-running experiences, for the reason that their journey would be
+much delayed, owing to the impassability of many of the roads. I did,
+however, cause a letter to be written, apparently by a rebel spy, then
+in Washington, and which was directed to Webster. This letter introduced
+the two men to Webster as friends of the South, and informed him that
+his old route back was no longer a safe one, owing to the presence of
+Federal troops in that locality, and advising him to select some other
+and less hazardous one on his return to Washington. I did this to guard
+against their being suspected and detained after reaching the rebel
+lines, as, upon presenting this, they would at once be known as Southern
+emissaries, and given safe conduct to the capital. Provided with this
+letter, and with full verbal instructions as to their manner of
+proceeding, they started from Washington late on the evening of the 14th
+of February. As an additional safeguard, I sent along with them an
+operative by the name of William H. Scott, who was well acquainted with
+the various Federal commanders, and who was to see them safely across
+the Potomac river.
+
+The three men departed in good spirits, and, though fully conscious of
+the danger before them, thoroughly resolved to successfully accomplish
+what they had undertaken.
+
+Prior to despatching these men, I had some misgivings that there might
+be still remaining in Richmond some of those families who, while
+residing in Washington, had been suspected of sympathizing with, or
+furthering the cause of the Confederacy, and whose papers had been
+seized, and themselves transported beyond the lines. Among the most
+noted of these were the families of Mrs. Phillips, of South Carolina,
+and of Mrs. Ex-Gov. Morton, of Florida, who had been residing in
+Richmond for a short time. To satisfy myself upon this point, I made
+extensive inquiries from deserters, refugees and contrabands, and
+learned, from a variety of sources, that Mrs. Phillips had gone to
+Charleston, and that Mrs. Morton and her family had departed for their
+home in Florida. Believing my information to be reliable, I felt
+reassured, and then the men were selected.
+
+While these men were making their way to Richmond, Webster was suffering
+excruciating pain, confined to his bed, and unable to move. During all
+this time, he was carefully attended and nursed by my resident
+operative, Mrs. Hattie Lawton, and through the long, weary days and
+sleepless nights, no patient ever had more careful nursing, or more
+tender consideration than did Timothy Webster, from the brave
+true-hearted woman who had dedicated her life and her services to the
+cause of her country and its noble defenders.
+
+This was the state of affairs on the last day of January, and when the
+information which Webster had gained would have been of vast importance
+and benefit to the cause of the Union, but which, lying an agonized
+invalid in a Richmond hotel, he was unable to communicate to those who
+were anxiously awaiting his return. And now, leaving Webster at
+Richmond, and with Price Lewis and John Scully on their way to the rebel
+capital, we will return to Washington, and watch the events which were
+transpiring at the capital.
+
+[Illustration: EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+_McClellan and the Government.--Lewis and Scully Arrested as Spies.--An
+Attempted Escape.--Trial and Conviction.--Condemned to Die.--Before the
+Gallows their Mouths are Opened._
+
+
+The month of February added its slowly passing days to those that had
+preceded it, and as yet no tidings were received from Timothy Webster,
+or from those who had gone in search of him. W. H. Scott had returned,
+and reported that they had safely passed over the Potomac River, and
+landed upon rebel soil, but further than this, I had no information that
+tended to allay my anxieties, or to give assurance of their safety.
+
+In the meantime, the troops around Washington had not been idle.
+Reconnoissances had been made from time to time, by the advance-guard of
+the army, and skirmishes with the enemy were of frequent occurrence.
+These movements were of great importance, not so much from the actual
+results of victories attained, as for the education which it imparted to
+the troops, in accustoming them to the presence of their foes, and
+giving them confidence while under fire.
+
+General McClellan had completed his plans for the investment of the
+rebel capital, and the public mind was in a state of feverish anxiety
+and expectation for the forward movement of the troops. The popular cry
+of "On to Richmond," was echoed from lip to lip throughout the entire
+country. Every one, except those who knew and realized the danger and
+difficulties to be encountered and overcome, were filled with an
+enthusiasm which only regarded results and never considered the cost of
+their accomplishment. Extravagant ideas of a struggle which should be
+"short, sharp and decisive," were the only ones entertained by the great
+army of "stay at homes," and the question of caution, foresight and
+sagacity was left to the consideration of those who must brave the
+dangers of the field, and face the deadly fire of their determined
+enemies.
+
+Added to this a feeling of dissatisfaction began to display itself in
+high circles at Washington. The delay, which General McClellan wisely
+deemed necessary for the perfect equipment and education of his army,
+was being used as a pretext by those who envied the young commander, to
+detract from his reputation, and to impair the confidence which a united
+people had reposed in his loyalty and ability. The President was
+besieged by importunate cavillers the burden of whose refrain was the
+defamation of the hero of West Virginia, and it is not surprising,
+however much to be regretted, that Mr. Lincoln gradually permitted
+their clamors to disturb him, and eventually partook of some of the
+distrust with which they endeavored to impress him. From a legitimate
+and wise desire to prevent an untimely divulgence of his plans, General
+McClellan had, up to this time, kept his ideas and opinions to himself
+and confined his military discussions to but a few of his immediate
+officers, and those whom he had known and trusted for years. This manner
+of proceeding was not to the taste of some of the leading men in high
+places at that time, who deemed themselves as competent to confer with
+and advise the commanding general, as those whom he had chosen. In order
+to soothe their wounded self-pride they had recourse to a species of
+revenge not admirable, to say the least. They plied the ears of the
+President with comments derogatory to McClellan, and with innumerable
+suggestions of pet schemes of their own conception, which would, in
+their opinion, undoubtedly end the war with surprising alacrity. The
+result of these onslaughts was, that McClellan was required by Mr.
+Lincoln to unfold his own carefully arranged plans to a council of
+generals, for their consideration and approval. To this "wicked and
+ignorant clamor" he was obliged to yield, and it is not to be wondered
+at, that his proposed movements were betrayed, and that not long
+afterwards he was subjected to the mortification of having his army
+divided into corps, against his wishes, and their commanders appointed
+without consulting him, and without his knowledge. Subsequently he was
+compelled to submit to having the conduct of the war in Virginia placed
+in charge of inexperienced, irresponsible and jealous-minded officers,
+whose antipathy to him was as well known as it was unceasing and
+violent.
+
+Notwithstanding all this, the general pursued his way. His army was
+organized, his plans prepared. The defense of Washington was provided
+for, as he thought, in the most complete manner possible, and in command
+of a noble army, which had grown up under his immediate guidance and
+control, the brave commander started upon his campaign.
+
+During the month of March, 1862, the forward movement was commenced. By
+divisions the army was transported from Alexandria to their point of
+destination upon the Peninsula, and on the first day of April, General
+McClellan embarked, with his headquarters, on the steamer "Commodore,"
+reaching Fort Monroe on the afternoon of the following day.
+
+At this point we will leave the army, to follow the movements of my
+operatives, and detail their experiences in the rebel capital, although
+the facts were not reported to me until a long time after their actual
+occurrence.
+
+Price Lewis and John Scully reached the city of Richmond without
+accident or delay, and at once established themselves in the Exchange
+Hotel, where they remained quietly for the night. The next morning they
+started out to search for Timothy Webster, and for the purpose of
+obtaining reliable information of him they went to the office of the
+_Richmond Enquirer_, for the proprietors of which Webster had frequently
+carried letters, and purchased goods while in the North. Here they were
+informed that Webster was confined to his bed at the Monumental Hotel.
+Repairing at once to the place where they were directed, they were shown
+to Webster's room, and here they found the brave fellow, lying a weak
+and helpless invalid, attended by Mrs. Lawton, whose attentions to him
+were unremitting. There was also in the room, a Mr. Pierce, a warm
+Southern friend, whose friendship for Webster was of long standing, and
+whose visits to the sick man were of daily occurrence.
+
+The recognition between them was a most formal and undemonstrative one,
+and no one would have suspected that they were engaged in the same
+vocation, and acting under the same authority. During the short
+interview that ensued, Webster was fretful and ill at ease. Knowing the
+sentiments of the people as he did, and associated as intimately as he
+was with the most prominent of the Confederate authorities, he was
+fearful that the precipitate and unheralded appearance of his companions
+might lead to their being suspected, as well as to attaching suspicion
+to himself.
+
+The few words of conversation, therefore, that ensued, were marked by a
+constraint which was uncomfortable to all parties, and the visit was of
+short duration. When they called again upon Webster, they found with him
+a rebel officer from the Provost-Marshal's office, who was a friend of
+Webster, and who visited him frequently.
+
+Webster introduced his two friends to Captain McCubbin, for that was the
+man's name, and after a few minutes, that officer inquired:
+
+"Have you gentlemen reported at General Winder's office?"
+
+"No, sir," replied Lewis, "we did not think it was necessary, having
+fully reported to Major Beale, and received his permission to travel."
+
+"It _is_ necessary for you to report to the Provost-Marshal here, and I
+now give you _official_ notice of the fact," said McCubbin, laughingly.
+
+"Very well," returned Lewis, "we will do so as early as possible."
+
+"Any time within a day or two will answer," said the officer.
+
+Webster watched the rebel captain carefully while he was speaking, and
+he thought he detected beneath his careless, laughing demeanor, an
+element of suspicion, which he did not like, and more than ever he
+deplored the fact that my men had visited him so soon, or had appeared
+to be acquaintances of his. However, the mistake had been made, if
+mistake it was, and he resolved to give the matter as little concern as
+possible, trusting that his anxiety was ill-founded, and that all would
+be right in the end.
+
+On the following morning my two operatives presented themselves at the
+office of the Provost-Marshal, and meeting Captain McCubbin there, they
+were soon introduced to General Winder, who occupied that position in
+the rebel capital. After they had been formally introduced to General
+Winder, that officer made very minute inquiries, as to the antecedents
+and the business of the two men before him, although no word was
+mentioned, that led either of them to believe that they were suspected
+of being other than they seemed. They informed the Marshal that they
+were natives of England and Ireland, that Scully had been in America
+nearly three years, while Lewis had arrived only eighteen months before;
+that one of them had been connected with a prominent dry-goods house in
+New York city, and the other represented a London publishing firm, whose
+office was located in the same city. They also stated that in Baltimore
+they had become acquainted with W. H. Scott, who had informed them of
+great opportunities for making money by smuggling goods into the
+Confederacy, and that this visit had been made to afford them the
+knowledge requisite to embarking in such an enterprize. They had agreed
+to deliver the letter, which Mr. Scott gave them, to Mr. Webster, which
+they had done, and further than this their intimacy with either
+gentlemen did not extend.
+
+This interview was conducted in a very pleasant manner by General
+Winder, and after they had fully answered all the questions which had
+been propounded to them, they took their leave, being politely invited
+by the General to call upon him whenever convenient.
+
+Congratulating themselves upon the fortunate outcome of a visit which
+they had looked forward to with more or less solicitude, they repaired
+to Webster's room to give him an account of what had transpired.
+
+They had not been seated very long, when a detective from the Marshal's
+office made his appearance, and after apologizing for his visit,
+inquired from what parts of England and Ireland the two men had come;
+stating also, that General Winder desired the information.
+
+After this man had left, Webster turned to his companions and in as firm
+a voice as he could command, said:
+
+"Get away from Richmond immediately! There is danger brewing. You are
+certainly suspected, and it may go very hard with all of us, unless you
+leave the city at once!"
+
+"Why do you think so?" inquired Scully, in a skeptical tone. "We
+certainly cannot be suspected, and I am confident that you are alarming
+yourself unnecessarily."
+
+A spasm of pain prevented Webster from replying immediately; but when
+the agony had somewhat subsided, he answered:
+
+"I tell you that man never would have come here with that question
+unless there was something wrong. You must, indeed, get away, or the
+consequences will be serious."
+
+Scarcely had he uttered these words, when there came a sharp rap at the
+door, which, upon being opened, revealed the forms of two men, one of
+them being George Cluckner, a detective officer attached to the
+Provost-Marshal's office, and the other no less a personage than Chase
+Morton, a son of ex-Governor Morton, of Florida, whose house in
+Washington my operatives had at one time assisted in searching.
+
+The consternation of Lewis and Scully may well be imagined, and the
+latter, without uttering a word, walked rapidly towards the open doorway
+and disappeared, leaving Lewis, filled with astonishment and
+apprehension, to pass the ordeal of an introduction. The salutations
+between them were, as may be conjectured, not of a very cordial
+character; and after the merest form of politeness, Lewis bade Webster
+good-evening, and left the room. At the top of the landing he found
+Scully awaiting him, and they were about to descend the stairs,
+felicitating themselves upon having escaped a threatened danger, when
+the door of Webster's room was opened, and the Confederate detective
+again stood before them.
+
+"Are your names Lewis and Scully?" he inquired.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Lewis, promptly, resolved to put as bold a face
+upon the matter as possible.
+
+"Then," said the officer, "I have orders to convey you to General
+Winder's office."
+
+There was no help for it, and they signified their readiness to
+accompany him at once, intending to make an effort to escape when they
+reached the street. This hope, however, was dashed to the ground; for,
+as they descended the stairs, they found three other officers awaiting
+their appearance, who immediately took them in charge, and accompanied
+them to the Provost-Marshal's office.
+
+Several times, during their journey, Lewis noticed, with increasing
+apprehension, that the gaze of young Chase Morton was riveted fixedly
+upon them, and he had no doubt whatever that they had been recognized,
+and would certainly be apprehended. This prospect was far from being a
+cheerful one; but they mustered up all their latent courage, and
+conversed good-humoredly with their escort, as they walked briskly
+along.
+
+Arriving at the General's headquarters, they learned that that
+functionary was absent upon some urgent business, but would shortly
+return, and had left orders that they should await his appearance. Lewis
+and Scully were accordingly admitted to a private room, and requested to
+make themselves comfortable until General Winder should desire their
+presence. The door closed upon the retreating forms of their escort, and
+left them in a most uncomfortable condition of mind indeed. There was
+now no doubt of the correctness of Webster's suspicions, and they
+bitterly regretted their haste in visiting him, and also not having
+taken his advice at once. However, this was no time for regrets, and
+they resolved to firmly adhere to their original statements, and await
+the disposition of their case by General Winder.
+
+While they were conversing together, the door was opened, and young
+Morton entered the room, accompanied by an officer. Stepping directly up
+to Price Lewis, he addressed him:
+
+"Don't you remember me?"
+
+"I do not," responded Lewis; "I do not remember to have seen you at any
+time before to-day."
+
+He looked unflinchingly into the eyes that met his, and the determined
+tones of his voice betrayed no trace of the emotions that were raging
+within his bosom.
+
+"Don't you remember," continued young Morton, "coming to my mother's
+house, in Washington, as an agent of the secret service of the Federal
+government, and making a thorough search of our premises and its
+contents?"
+
+"You are mistaken, sir," replied Lewis, firmly. "I know nothing of what
+you are alluding to."
+
+"I am not mistaken," said the young Southerner, "and you are the man!"
+
+"Perhaps this gentleman will say that he recollects me, next," said
+Scully, resolved to be as bold as possible, under the circumstances.
+
+Chase Morton gazed at him a few moments and then answered, decidedly:
+
+"Yes sir, I recollect you also; you were one of the men who assisted in
+searching my mother's residence."
+
+Both men insisted strongly upon their ignorance of any such proceeding,
+and indignantly repudiated the charges that had been made against them.
+
+At this juncture General Winder came in, and walking up to Lewis he
+greeted him cordially, warmly shaking him by the hand, saying:
+
+"How do you do, Mr. Lewis, and how is Mr. Seward?"
+
+"I do not know what you mean," replied Lewis.
+
+"Perhaps not," said Winder, with a disagreeable smile, "but I am
+inclined to think that you know a great deal more than you are willing
+to admit."
+
+"I do not understand you."
+
+"Very well," said the Provost-Marshal, "you will understand me, and all
+in good time. Do you know gentlemen, I suspected you were all wrong from
+the start, and you were not keen enough to impose your story upon me?
+George," he added, turning to one of his men, "go to the hotel, and get
+the baggage belonging to these gentlemen. We will see if that will
+throw any further light upon their true character."
+
+The officer departed, and during his absence, General Winder plied them
+with questions about their mission; their knowledge of Timothy Webster;
+their visit to Richmond, and in fact about everything imaginable, and
+all of them showing conclusively that he believed them to be spies, and
+unworthy of credence. Their satchels were finally brought in, and a
+rigid examination failed to discover anything to justify his suspicions,
+and Winder finally left the room, angrily ordering them to remain where
+they were, and directing his officers and Chase Morton to accompany him.
+
+A few minutes elapsed after their departure, during which the loud voice
+of Winder could be heard, angrily declaiming against the two men; he
+then came back again, and addressing my operatives said:
+
+"Gentlemen, your stories don't agree with what I know about you, and we
+will give you time to think the matter over;" then turning to his deputy
+he commanded, "Take them away!"
+
+"Where to?" inquired the officer.
+
+"To Henrico Jail," was Winder's response.
+
+They were then conducted to the jail and placed in a room in which six
+others were confined, where the officers left them to their meditations,
+which, as may be imagined, were far from pleasant. Not knowing what
+might be in store for them, and fearing that their presence in Richmond
+might result in danger to Webster, they resolved to say nothing
+whatever, and to adhere strictly to the story originally told by them,
+and then to abide by the consequences, no matter how serious they might
+be.
+
+During the afternoon of the following day, an officer accompanied by an
+elder son of Mr. Morton made their appearance at the jail, and he, too,
+identified the two men, as being concerned in searching his mother's
+residence in Washington, and endeavored to recall several incidents
+which had taken place on that occasion. To all of his statements,
+however, Price and Scully made emphatic denials, and vehemently asserted
+their entire ignorance of anything connected with the Mortons, or their
+relations to the Federal government.
+
+Finding it impossible to obtain any admission from the two prisoners,
+they took their departure, and left the confined detectives to their own
+unpleasant reflections.
+
+For three days they remained in their place of confinement, and during
+that time no word came from the Marshals office or from any one
+concerning their disposition or future movements. It seemed as though
+the authorities had been content with simply placing them in durance
+vile, and then had dismissed them from their minds. This was the most
+favorable view they were able to take of the case, and they were
+solacing themselves with the fallacious hope of having escaped a fate
+which they dreaded, and also with the belief that Webster, their friend
+and companion, would not be associated with their presence in Richmond,
+and that their discovery would not operate to his injury.
+
+On the fourth day, however, an attache of the Marshal's office came to
+the jail, and calling for John Scully informed him that his presence was
+required by General Winder. Scully prepared himself for the visit, and
+taking leave of his companion followed the officer. He did not return
+that night, and for days afterwards Lewis was in ignorance of what had
+become of him, or what fate he was to expect at the hands of these
+minions of disloyalty and secession.
+
+Lewis, meanwhile, had become acquainted with his fellow prisoners, all
+of whom were in a state of anxiety as to what measure of punishment
+would be meted out to them, and all nearly crazed with the uncertainty
+of their impending fate. For days they had been concocting a plan of
+escape, and finding Lewis disposed to make an effort to be released from
+his confinement, they developed their plans to him, and requested his
+aid in the accomplishment of their purpose.
+
+Lewis hailed with delight a proposition that promised to enable them to
+exchange the damp and noisome air of a prison for the free breath of
+nature, and the dark hours of captivity for the freedom and liberty he
+longed for, and he became an energetic and careful coadjutor of those
+who suffered with him the degrading position of being imprisoned by a
+government which they despised, and by which their lives were menaced.
+
+The part of the jail in which they were confined was separated from the
+main building, and contained four cells, two upon the ground floor and
+two immediately above them. These cells were reached through a corridor
+from the yard outside, and secured by two doors; one a heavy iron one
+fastened on the inside, and the other a stout wooden barricade, the lock
+of which was placed on the outside of the building. It was the custom of
+the old man, who acted as the jailer, to allow the prisoners a half
+hour's walk in the yard during the early evening, and then, locking them
+up safely again, he would leave them alone in the building, while he
+went to his home, several blocks distant.
+
+One of the men had managed to secrete a file about his person, and with
+this they succeeded in making a saw out of a knife. These were the only
+implements which they had to work with. Notwithstanding the meagerness
+of their implements, but a few days had elapsed before the bolts on
+every cell-door were sawed through so that they only required a few
+minutes' labor to detach them from their fastenings altogether.
+
+It is impossible to detail the hours of feverish anxiety, of tireless
+energy, and of momentary fear of detection, through which these men
+passed while engaged in their difficult and dangerous work--or to depict
+their joy, when at last their labor was completed, and they awaited the
+time of carrying their plans into execution.
+
+The outside door was now the only barrier between them and their coveted
+freedom, and various plans were suggested to overcome this obstacle. At
+length one was decided upon which promised to secure the object of their
+desires. In one corner of the yard in which they took their daily
+exercise, there was a large pile of ashes and garbage, which had been
+accumulating for a long time. It was resolved that one of their number
+should be buried under this rubbish, while several of the other
+prisoners engaged the old jailer in animated conversation.
+
+The man selected for this purpose was a good, brave fellow, who was
+formerly a sailor, and had lately been a member of an artillery company
+from New York. His name was Charles Stanton, and he had come into the
+South upon his own inclination, and for the Quixotic purpose of
+obtaining command of a gunboat of the Confederacy, and then attempting
+to run it through to the Union lines. He had, however, been suspected,
+and remanded to prison, where he had remained without a trial, and
+without hope of release, for several months.
+
+The prisoners were all turned out for their usual exercise in the yard,
+on the evening which had been agreed upon; and in accordance with their
+arranged plan, several of the prisoners surrounded the old turnkey, and
+engaged him in an earnest discussion, while others set actively to work
+to dig the grave of Stanton in the ashes. In order that he might not be
+unbearably uncomfortable, his body only was covered with the contents of
+the ash-heap, while his head and shoulders were concealed from view by
+some straw, which one of the men brought from his cell for that purpose.
+
+In the jail, at this time, there were a number of negroes, who had been
+captured while attempting to make their way to the North, and although
+these faithful blacks were aware of the attempted escape, and knew full
+well that they were not included in the movement, their efforts were
+none the less active in behalf of the white men who were struggling for
+liberty.
+
+They had been informed of the attempted escape, from the first, and had
+kept the matter a profound secret, at the same time rendering such
+service as they were capable of to the whites.
+
+Everything worked to their entire satisfaction. The turnkey was
+unsuspicious; the grave was made without discovery, and Stanton was
+carefully concealed. In a few minutes afterwards the call for retiring
+was heard, and the men, with throbbing hearts, rushed in a mass toward
+the door of the corridor. This was done in order to escape the counting
+of their number, in case the old man should attempt to do so. They
+passed quickly into their cells, and were not required to be counted.
+Thus far, all had been done as successfully as could be hoped for, or
+expected; no suspicions were excited, nor was their missing comrade
+called for. It had been the custom of the old man to make a tour of the
+cells after the prisoners had retired, to see if they were all there
+before he went away for the night. In order to overcome this possibility
+of detection, a figure had been made of straw, stuffed into the garments
+of the men, and laid upon the bed, in order to look as much like a human
+being as possible.
+
+This precaution proved to be a good one, for just before the time of
+closing up the prison arrived, the glimmer of the old turnkey's lantern
+was seen in the corridor, and shortly after, his face appeared at the
+door, as he eagerly scanned the occupants of the various cells.
+Apparently satisfied with his scrutiny, the jailer went his way, the
+heavy outside doors were closed and locked, and the retreating footsteps
+of the old man could be distinctly heard.
+
+The critical moment had at last arrived, and they awaited in breathless
+silence the appearance of Stanton. Fortune favored them in a peculiar
+manner this evening. As the old man was passing the pile of ashes under
+which Stanton was concealed, he noticed the unusual appearance of the
+straw. Stopping for a moment, he drew a match from his pocket, lighted
+it, and then walked toward the heap as though with the intention of
+setting fire to it. The match fortunately was extinguished by a blast of
+wind, and after searching in his pocket for another match, but finding
+none, he slowly turned, and walked out of the gate, locking it securely
+behind him.
+
+Stanton's feelings, under this ordeal, may be imagined. If the old man
+had succeeded in igniting the straw, under which he was concealed,
+detection would have followed instantly, and no doubt serious injury
+would have been inflicted upon the brave fellow, who had willingly
+suffered the discomforts of his unpleasant confinement for the purpose
+of assisting his comrades to escape.
+
+No sooner had the gate closed upon the jailor, than he crawled nimbly
+out from his place of concealment, and hastily made his way to the door.
+He at once began his operations upon the lock. The appearance of Stanton
+at the door was the signal for the others, and in less than an hour the
+locks upon the cell doors had been removed. Stanton had wrested the lock
+from the outside door, and only the iron inside one was now to be
+overcome. This barrier resisted all their efforts, and it was at last
+decided that the lock must be removed by main force. This was a
+proceeding which necessitated a great deal of noise, and they were in an
+agony of apprehension lest their clamor should attract the attention of
+people passing on the outside, and thus lead to their detection. To
+prevent this, the colored men, without any solicitation or instruction,
+came to the rescue in a very important, though unexpected manner. They
+commenced to sing in concert, at the top of their voices, snatches of
+plantation and camp-meeting melodies, which effectually drowned the
+sound of their blows, and enabled them to work without fear of
+detection.
+
+The lock at last yielded to their combined efforts, and the men issued
+silently forth into the darkness of the night, breathing once more the
+stimulating atmosphere of hope and promised liberty. Only the wall
+around the prison yard was now to be surmounted, and with the aid of
+some old planks that were lying around, they succeeded in reaching the
+top, after which they noiselessly dropped themselves to the ground.
+Although this wall was very high, they all reached _terra firma_ in
+safety, and with one impulse breathed a prayer of thankfulness for the
+success which had thus far attended their efforts.
+
+Silently, and walking in couples, at long distances apart, they started
+out to leave the city. The sky was clear, and the moon was shining
+brightly overhead. The stars were twinkling merrily, as though enjoying
+the success which had attended these brave, patient men, in their labor
+and toil of days and weeks.
+
+This was on the eighteenth day of March, and Martial law had been
+proclaimed some time previously. It was now nearly eight o'clock, and by
+the provisions of the law any one found upon the streets after nine
+o'clock, must be in possession of a pass, or be liable to arrest. Great
+haste was therefore necessary, in order to leave the city before that
+hour. With only the stars for their guide, they set out in a northerly
+direction. Not one of the men was acquainted with the country, and their
+journey was all the more perilous on that account.
+
+By midnight they had reached the Chickahominy, having succeeded, by the
+greatest good fortune, in escaping any one who was disposed to make
+inquiries or to molest them in any manner whatever. Across this swamp
+their way led through quagmires and deep pools, and was dangerous in the
+extreme. Sometimes waist deep in the soft mud and water, and scrambling
+over slipping places which furnished insecure footholds, and threatened
+instant danger from falling back into the pools through which they had
+made their way. Their journey was full of hardship and suffering. The
+air was cold and frosty, and their wet garments clung to them like ice;
+their limbs trembled; their teeth chattered with the cold, and their
+condition was really a pitiable one indeed.
+
+At length they reached the woods upon the opposite side. Here they were
+obliged to stop and rest, completely exhausted. Some of the hardier of
+the party removed their dripping garments, and attempted to wring the
+water from them; while others, unable to stand the chilling air any
+longer, built a fire, around which they gathered in the effort to warm
+their bodies and to dry their water-soaked clothing.
+
+They rested for about two hours, and then pushed on again until
+daylight, when they sought the shelter of the woods and laid down,
+hoping to get some sleep after their laborious and fatiguing journey of
+the preceding night. Sleep, however, was impossible; their clothing was
+wet, and the air was cold. Their sufferings became intense, and at
+length, finding it impossible to endure the freezing atmosphere longer,
+they determined to build a fire, regardless of the consequences.
+Proceeding further into the wood, they gathered some boughs, and soon
+the cheerful blaze afforded them sufficient heat to dry their frozen
+clothing and to warm their benumbed and freezing bodies. Thus passed the
+day, and when darkness came on again they resumed their journey.
+
+Already they began to experience the pangs of hunger. They had eaten
+nothing since the evening before, and had walked many weary miles. They
+were foot-sore and tired and hungry. They had provided themselves with
+the remnants of the corn cake which had been served for their supper on
+the previous evening, but these had become thoroughly soaked with water
+on their journey through the swamps, and had crumbled to pieces.
+Notwithstanding their pitiable condition, their strong wills and brave
+hearts sustained them, and they plodded on.
+
+The night was intensely dark; the stars were obscured, and a pall of
+inky blackness hung over them, which rendered their journey exceedingly
+hazardous, as they could not see the way before them, and were unable to
+tell in which direction they were traveling.
+
+They had not proceeded far when the storm broke, and a drenching torrent
+of rain descended. The wind whistled and howled through the trees, and
+for hours the tempest raged with relentless fury. Seeking the shelter of
+the woods again, they crouched close to the trunks of the trees, and
+vainly attempted to screen themselves from the deluge. It was of no
+avail, however; the leafless timber afforded them no protection, and
+during the continuance of the storm the poor, tired and almost exhausted
+fugitives were exposed to the pitiless blast.
+
+Shivering with cold, their teeth chattering, their garments drenched
+through to their quivering skin, they knelt or crouched upon the ground,
+and when daylight dawned, and the storm at last cleared away, they were
+almost too weak to help themselves.
+
+Price Lewis looked around him as the faint streaks of sunrise illumined
+the horizon, and to his dismay saw that nearly all of his late
+companions had disappeared, and that only three others beside himself
+remained.
+
+With the greatest difficulty they succeeded in building a fire, and were
+just preparing to enjoy its comforting warmth, when they were alarmed by
+the sound of the hasty tramping of feet, and in a moment they were
+surrounded by a number of Confederate soldiers, who commanded them to
+surrender at once.
+
+This sudden and unexpected appearance was a crushing blow to their
+hopes. They submitted without a word; and although bowed to the ground
+with disappointment, they experienced a sensation almost amounting to
+relief, at the prospect of receiving the care and attention which even
+enemies would give to those in such distress as were these poor
+fugitives.
+
+Limping along, they were marched to an out-building, connected with a
+farm-house near by, when, to their surprise, they saw the remainder of
+their party, who had been captured by another band of soldiers, huddled
+together in one corner of the room.
+
+The soldiers were touched with pity, as they beheld the forlorn
+condition of the men whom they had secured, and in a short time they had
+provided them with a repast, which the famished fugitives devoured with
+a rapidity which gave ample testimony of their long and painful
+abstinence.
+
+After dispatching this meal they were conveyed directly back to
+Richmond, and returned to their old quarters in Henrico jail. On their
+arrival each man was placed in a separate cell, and doubly ironed, to
+prevent a repetition of their efforts to escape.
+
+[Illustration: _The prisoners re-captured._]
+
+While Price Lewis had been engaged in this unsuccessful attempt to gain
+his liberty, John Scully had been undergoing a far different experience.
+A court-martial had been hurriedly convened, where he was fully
+identified by every member of the Morton family as the man who had
+searched their premises in the city of Washington, and had, after a very
+summary trial, been convicted and remanded back to prison to await his
+sentence.
+
+On the second day after the return of Price Lewis he was conducted
+before a court-martial, and in a remarkably short space of time was
+accorded a trial, if trial it could be called, and his conviction
+followed as quickly as did that of John Scully.
+
+They had been charged with being alien enemies, and at one time acting
+in the service of the Federal government in Washington. In addition to
+this, they were charged with loitering around the fortifications at
+Richmond and taking plans of the same. Notwithstanding the fact that no
+witness could be procured who would swear to having seen them in such
+localities, or engaged in any such occupation, the members of the
+court-martial, with singular unanimity, found them guilty of the second
+charge, with as much haste, and as manifest an air of solemnity, as they
+did of the first.
+
+The next day they were each informed of their sentence, which was that
+they should be hung by the neck, as spies, and that their execution
+should take place in one week from the day of the communication of the
+information to them.
+
+This sentence was a heavy blow to the two prisoners; and from the
+character of the men by whom they were surrounded, they felt that hope
+was useless. The spirit of animosity manifested toward them by the
+court, the indecent haste with which their trial had been conducted, and
+the rapidity with which their sentence had followed their conviction,
+gave them no reasons for hoping for clemency, or that they would be able
+to escape the dreadful fate which now was impending over them.
+
+The conduct of the various members of the Morton family in betraying my
+operatives to the authorities, and in appearing as accusing witnesses
+against them, in face of their promises, long ago made, to befriend them
+if possible, was an act which did not reflect very favorably upon their
+regard for truth, or their appreciation of delicate treatment when they
+themselves were suspected of treachery.
+
+Lewis and Scully had never seen each other from the time when the latter
+was removed from the cell a few days after their first imprisonment, and
+each was unconscious of the other's fate or of the state of their
+feelings under the fatal sentence which hung over them both.
+
+After their conviction they had both been sent to a prison called Castle
+Godwin, and had been placed in irons, and in separate cells. During the
+first two days that elapsed after their conviction, they were visited
+by Judge Crump, who conducted the trial, and by several members of
+General Winder's staff, all of whom endeavored to obtain some admissions
+from the two prisoners which would justify their action in condemning
+them to death. All with no avail, however; the two men stoutly insisted
+upon their original story, except so far as to admit that they had
+searched the premises of Mrs. Morton, but each man was firm in stating
+that he had become disgusted with the service, and had left it very soon
+after that act had been committed.
+
+On the day after their sentence had been communicated to them, a letter
+was brought to Lewis, from the commandant of the post, stating that
+Scully was suffering with a serious illness, and having requested that
+Lewis be allowed to visit him, the privilege had been granted. On
+entering the cell where Scully was confined, Lewis found his
+fellow-prisoner in a very depressed condition of mind, although his
+physical infirmities had been assumed in order to secure an interview
+with his partner in misfortune.
+
+After discussing their situation as philosophically as possible under
+the circumstances, seeking for some ray of hope and finding none, they
+were at last compelled to the belief that their doom was sealed, and
+that their only plan was to bear up manfully to the end.
+
+Scully, who was a Roman Catholic, desired the services of a priestly
+comforter, to whom he could make such statements as would relieve his
+mind in the coming trial, and made known this wish to Lewis.
+
+"You will not tell him what you know of Webster, and his connection with
+this matter, will you?" said Lewis, fearful that Webster might be
+betrayed.
+
+"I don't know what I will tell him," answered Scully; "I have not
+decided what to say, nor do I know what I will be commanded to relate."
+
+"For God's sake, Scully, don't say anything about Webster; we can meet
+our fate like men, but to mention his name now, would be wrong indeed."
+
+"I tell you," said Scully, "I don't know what I am going to say. I don't
+want to do wrong, but I cannot tell what I may have to do yet."
+
+Lewis argued with his companion long and earnestly upon this matter, and
+when at last the priest arrived, and Scully followed him to another
+cell, the warning admonitions of his fellow-prisoner were ringing in his
+ears.
+
+What transpired during that secret meeting between the condemned spy and
+his father-confessor, Lewis did not know, but when he was conducted to
+his own cell, late that night, he saw a man and woman closely guarded,
+in the lower hall, and his heart grew heavy and cold as his imagination
+conjured up the direful fate which a confession from his imprisoned
+comrade would bring to the faithful patriot Webster, who lay suffering
+and anxious upon his bed of pain.
+
+After a long and restless night, in which he tossed uneasily upon his
+hard prison bed, vainly attempting to court the rest-giving slumber of
+which he stood so much in need, Lewis arose from his couch, feverish and
+unrefreshed, as the first faint rays of the morning sun penetrated his
+damp and dingy cell.
+
+His mind was in a state of confusion, and his heart was filled with
+fear. What had been done he knew not, and yet those guarded figures of
+the night before were ever in his mind. Could it be that they were
+Webster and his faithful attendant Mrs. Lawton? He shrank involuntarily
+from this thought; and yet, strive as he would, it recurred to him, with
+increased force, and with more convincing power, after each attempt to
+drive it from him.
+
+In a little while, the prison was astir. The guards were making their
+accustomed rounds, breakfast was served, and another day, with all its
+solemn activity, and its bustle so death-like and subdued, had begun.
+
+Unable to partake of the scanty meal that was set before him, Lewis
+impatiently awaited the hour when he would be permitted to visit his
+fellow-prisoner whom he had left upon the eve of consulting with his
+spiritual adviser, and, if possible, learn the result of his interview
+with the priest.
+
+About ten o'clock the turnkey appeared, and he was conducted to Scully's
+cell. As he entered the dimly-lighted room, he noticed that the face of
+the man whom he had left the night before, had undergone a wonderful
+change. His cheeks were sunken and pale; his eyes had a strange, wild
+expression, and the shadows under the lids were dark and heavy. His hair
+was unkempt, and his lips trembled with the emotions which he was
+struggling to repress. Whatever events had transpired since he had seen
+him last, it was evident that their effect upon Scully had been terrible
+and agonizing. He had been unable to sleep, and the tortures of his mind
+had been almost unbearable. His greeting to Lewis showed a degree of
+restraint which had been unknown before, and for a moment he seemed
+unable to speak.
+
+At length he grew calmer, and related to his friend the events of the
+preceding night, and the influences that had been brought to bear upon
+him. The promise of freedom; his loving family at home; the certainty of
+an ignoble death if he refused; the degradation of the impending
+scaffold; and the promise that his admissions should result in injury to
+no one, all combined against his weak condition of both mind and body,
+and at last, yielding to the influences which he could not control, he
+had told his story, and had given a truthful account of all his
+movements.
+
+Who can blame this man? Who, that has stood before the frowning
+scaffold, and with a free world before him, can utter words of censure?
+Only those who have suffered as he did, prostrated as he was, can know
+the terrible agony through which he passed ere the fatal words were
+forced from his trembling lips. For myself, I have no judgment to
+utter. Now, as when the news was first communicated to me, I cannot
+express an unjust sentence. John Scully and his companion were not
+heroic martyrs. What then? They were simply men who, after having
+performed many brave acts of loyalty and duty to their country, failed
+in a moment of grand and great self-sacrifice. I cannot apologize for
+them--I cannot judge them. Their trial was a severe one, and they were
+in sore distress. If they succumbed to a controlling emergency, it was
+because of a lack of the heroic elements of humanity; and who, in our
+day, can claim their possession in the very face of death and dishonor?
+
+Let us hasten over these unpleasant and disastrous events. Finding that
+the worst had occurred, and that further concealment was of no avail,
+Lewis, too, opened his mouth. He was again visited by the rebel
+authorities, and at last he, too, added his voice to that of Scully, and
+made a revelation of his true character, and of the nature of his
+mission to Richmond. The next day they were respited. They had escaped
+an ignominious death, but, perhaps, in their lonely cells they suffered
+a death in life, beside which an actual demise might have seemed a
+blessing. Leaving them to their reflections, we turn again to Timothy
+Webster.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+_Webster Arrested as a Spy.--A Woman's Devotion and a Patriot's
+Heroism.--Webster is Convicted.--The Execution.--A Martyr's Grave._
+
+
+After the departure of Lewis and Scully from Webster's room, where they
+were so closely followed by the Confederate detective and Chase Morton,
+my trusty operative heard nothing of them for some time. Fearing to make
+inquiries concerning them, lest he should compromise them still further,
+as well as bring himself under the suspicion of the rebel authorities,
+he maintained a strict silence with regard to the movements of his
+companions. Several days of anxious suspense followed, which, to one in
+Webster's critical condition, were fraught with agonizing doubts and
+heartfelt fears for the ultimate safety of himself and his friends.
+Resolving, however, to utter no word which would compromise them, he
+bore the solicitude with unmurmuring firmness. Only to the heroic woman,
+who so faithfully nursed him, did he unburden his mind of the weight of
+care which oppressed him, and her words of womanly friendship and
+encouragement were the only influences which supported him through the
+trying ordeal.
+
+One day, Mrs. Lawton came into his room--as was her custom--but this
+time there was a gravity about her manner, which, to Webster's quick
+perceptions, boded no good. Finding him receiving some friendly
+visitors, the lady withdrew, and repressing his impatience as well as he
+was able to do, Webster dispatched his friends as quickly as politeness,
+and a due consideration for their kindly regard, would permit. When they
+had disappeared, Mrs. Lawton again entered the room.
+
+"You have news for me," said Webster, impatiently; "what is it?"
+
+"Be calm, my dear friend," said the devoted little woman; "what I have
+to tell, calls for the utmost calmness."
+
+"Tell me what it is," said Webster; "I will be as calm as you could
+wish, but do not, I pray you, keep me in suspense."
+
+"Well," replied Mrs. Lawton, "I learned this morning that Lewis and
+Scully have been arrested and taken to Henrico Jail."
+
+"When did this occur?" asked the invalid, a great weight pressing upon
+his heart.
+
+"The very day they were here last," answered the woman.
+
+"Then all is lost," exclaimed the sick man. "I feared as much; and now
+the time has come I will meet it manfully; however," he continued, "it
+will be only a short time before I will share the same fate."
+
+"Why do you think so?" anxiously inquired Mrs. Lawton. "Surely they
+cannot connect you with these men."
+
+"I do not know why I think so, but I am as confident that I will be
+brought into this matter as though the officers were already here to
+arrest me."
+
+While he yet spoke, there came a knock at the chamber door, which, on
+being opened, revealed the form of Captain McCubbin.
+
+As he entered the room he gazed furtively around, and his salutation to
+Webster was very different from the cordiality which had marked his
+previous visits.
+
+"Good morning, Webster," said he, as he took the offered chair, and for
+the first time since they had known each other neglecting to shake the
+invalid by the hand. "This is bad news about Lewis and Scully, isn't
+it?"
+
+"What is it?" inquired Webster, apparently receiving the information for
+the first time.
+
+"They have been arrested as spies, are confined in prison, and General
+Winder wants that letter which they brought to you from the North."
+
+There was something so cold and imperious in the officer's tones, which
+confirmed Webster's fears for his own safety; but without evincing the
+slightest alarm, he cheerfully made reply:
+
+"I am sorry to hear this news, and trust that they will be able to
+exonerate themselves from the charge. Anything, however, that General
+Winder wants from me will be cheerfully given. Mrs. Lawton, will you get
+the letter, and hand it to Captain McCubbin."
+
+There was no tremor of the voice, and the watchful Confederate looked in
+vain for any evidence of fear in the face of the man, who, stricken by
+disease as he was, still showed the bravery of a lion, and gazed
+unflinchingly at him. Though the hand of fate was upon him, Webster
+never lost his heroic courage, and bore the scrutiny of the officer
+without the quiver of a muscle.
+
+Captain McCubbin received the letter, and almost immediately withdrew.
+As he closed the door behind him, Webster turned to his faithful
+companion, and, in a low, solemn voice, said: "That letter has sealed my
+fate!"
+
+From this point, Webster's physical condition seemed to improve, and
+although depressed with fears for the fate of his companions, he
+gradually became stronger, and was at length able to leave his bed and
+move about his room.
+
+The visits of his numerous friends had now almost ceased. From General
+Winder's officers, with whom he had previously been so intimate, he
+heard nothing, nor did they make inquiries about his health, as had been
+their custom. Of the many friends in private life, who had surrounded
+him, only two remained. These were Mr. Pierce and Mr. Campbell, with
+whom Webster had traveled for some time, and his family. This dropping
+away of old friends, and the breaking up of old associations, was
+significant to Webster of impending danger. It must be that he, too, was
+suspected, and that the favor of the rebel authorities had been
+withdrawn.
+
+Day by day, during his convalescence, did the brave little woman who had
+nursed him back to life, endeavor to encourage him to a hopeful view of
+his situation, and to impress him with her own sanguine trust for a
+favorable outcome from this present dilemma. Webster listened to the
+bright promises of his devoted companion, but he was too profoundly
+aware of the danger that threatened him to permit himself to hope that
+the result to him would be a beneficial one.
+
+After he was able to leave his bed, he accepted the pressing invitation
+of Mr. Campbell, and was removed to the residence of that gentleman,
+where he would be more quiet, and where he could receive that care and
+attention which could not be afforded him in a hotel. The kindness of
+Mr. Campbell and his family was heartfelt and unceasing. They did
+everything in their power to make him comfortable, and their courtesy to
+Mrs. Lawton was as marked and genuine, as was their regard and care for
+Timothy Webster.
+
+Webster had been domiciled at the house of Mr. Campbell but two days,
+when one of Winder's men came to know if Webster was sufficiently
+recovered to go out, as his presence was imperatively demanded at the
+court room, as a witness in the trial of John Scully. The officer
+further stated that the evidence of Webster had been solicited by Scully
+himself. Finding him unable still to leave the house, the officer stated
+that arrangements would be made by which his testimony could be taken in
+his room. On the second day after the appearance of the officer, the
+court-martial adjourned to Campbell's house, and Scully accompanied
+them. Seating themselves around the bedside of the invalid, the court
+was formally opened, and Webster was requested to state what he knew of
+the antecedents of the accused.
+
+Though very weak, and speaking with considerable difficulty, Webster
+made his statement. He said that he had known John Scully from April,
+1861, to the time of his arrest. That the prisoner was in Baltimore when
+he first met him, and was always in the company of known secessionists,
+and was considered by them to be a good friend to the South. So far as
+he had any knowledge of the accused he was what he assumed to be, and
+that his appearance in Richmond was a surprise to him. He was not known
+to be in the employ of the government, and Webster had never met him
+under any circumstances which would indicate that fact.
+
+This was all that he could say, and although closely questioned by the
+president of the court, and the attorneys present, he insisted that his
+knowledge of John Scully was confined to what he had already stated.
+Finding it impossible to obtain any further information upon this
+subject from the sick man, the court, in a body, left the room, and
+departed from the house.
+
+Mrs. Lawton, who had been compelled to retire on the entrance of the
+Confederate authorities, and who had been in a wild state of excitement
+and apprehension during their visit, instantly repaired to Webster's
+room. When she entered the chamber, she found that the brave man, after
+the exciting experiences through which he had been compelled to pass,
+had fainted. His strength of will, which had supported him through the
+investigation, had given way, and he lay, limp and inanimate, upon the
+bed.
+
+Several days of anxiety and solicitude now passed. Unable to learn any
+tidings of his unfortunate comrades, Webster tortured himself with all
+manner of vague fears and doubts as to their probable fate, all of which
+had their effect in retarding his recovery, and keeping him confined to
+his room.
+
+At last, after days of weary and anxious waiting, the newspapers were
+brought in one morning, and the information of the conviction of Lewis
+and Scully was duly chronicled. The same paper also announced the day
+upon which their death was so speedily to follow. This filled the cup of
+Webster's misery to overflowing, and, sinking upon a chair, he wept
+like a child. Refusing to be comforted, although Mrs. Lawton exerted
+herself to the utmost, Webster paced the room, half frantic with his
+grief, at the horrible fate which had overtaken his friends.
+
+Slowly the day passed, and when the shadows of evening were falling
+Webster was at last induced to lie down, and attempt to snatch a few
+hours sleep. He was soon slumbering quietly, although ever and anon he
+would start nervously and utter an inarticulate moan, as though his mind
+was still troubled with the sad events of the day. While he lay thus,
+attended by Mrs. Lawton, Mr. Campbell suddenly entered the room, with a
+look of fear upon his face, which filled Mrs. Lawton with alarm.
+
+"What is the matter?" she hurriedly ejaculated.
+
+"One of Winder's men is below, and I fear his presence indicates
+misfortune for Webster," was the reply.
+
+"Who is it?"
+
+"Cashmeyer," answered Mr. Campbell. "He inquired for Webster, and says
+he must see him at once."
+
+Webster, disturbed by this conversation, was awake in an instant and
+inquired what was wanted.
+
+"Cashmeyer has called, and wishes to see you," said Mr. Campbell.
+
+"Let him come up at once," replied Webster, in the hope that he might
+bring some tidings of Lewis and Scully.
+
+Mr. Campbell departed, and in a few moments returned with the
+Confederate officer. Cashmeyer's salutation was cold and formal, and
+without any preliminary he addressed Webster.
+
+"I have a painful duty to perform, Mr. Webster. I am directed by General
+Winder to arrest you, and convey you at once to Castle Godwin."
+
+As he spoke, two soldiers appeared at the doorway.
+
+"You cannot wish to take him away in this condition, and at this hour of
+the night," said Mrs. Lawton. "Such an action would be his death, and
+would be the worst of inhumanity."
+
+Webster stood silent and unmoved. He did not utter a word, but gazed
+fixedly at the officer, whose visits heretofore had been those of
+sympathy and condolence.
+
+"I cannot help it," said Cashmeyer, "my orders are to take him dead, or
+alive, and those orders I must obey."
+
+"Then," said Mrs. Lawton, "I will go too. He needs care and attention,
+without it he will die, and no one can nurse him so well as I."
+
+Cashmeyer gazed at the brave little woman for a moment, and a shade of
+pity came over his face.
+
+"I am sorry to inform you, that my orders are to arrest you also, and to
+search your trunks."
+
+"This is infamous," exclaimed Webster; "what can Winder mean by
+arresting this woman, and what am I charged with that renders your
+orders necessary?"
+
+"Webster," answered Cashmeyer, "as God is my witness, I do not know; I
+only know what my orders are, and that I must obey them."
+
+Without further parley, Webster and Mrs. Lawton prepared to accompany
+their guards, and Cashmeyer, demanding their keys, commenced a search of
+their trunks, which resulted in his finding nothing that would criminate
+his prisoners.
+
+A carriage was procured, and Webster was assisted into it, while Mrs.
+Lawton, under the escort of Cashmeyer was compelled to walk. It was
+quite late when they arrived at the prison, and as Price Lewis was
+ascending to his cell, Webster and his faithful female companion entered
+the gloomy portals of the jail.
+
+General Winder was present when they arrived, and after a hurried
+examination Webster was remanded to a room, in which a number of Union
+prisoners were already confined, and the atmosphere of which was reeking
+with filth and disease.
+
+As he entered the room, pale and emaciated, and scarcely able to walk,
+the prisoners gathered around, in silent pity for his forlorn condition.
+
+"My God!" exclaimed one of their number, "they will send the dead here
+next."
+
+Mrs. Lawton was conducted before the General, but she stoutly declined
+to answer a single question that was propounded to her. This so enraged
+the valiant officer that he ordered her to be taken away at once. She
+was then conducted to a room in which another lady was confined, and
+left for the night.
+
+As midnight tolled its solemn hour over the city, and the tramp of armed
+men resounded through the streets, the noises within the prison died
+away. An awful and impressive silence brooded over the place. The dim
+light in the corridor shone faintly upon four miserable human beings,
+who tossed restlessly upon sleepless couches through the long, weary
+watches of the night.
+
+Who can tell the thoughts that thronged through their brains, as the
+slow moving hours advanced toward the dawn? The brave woman who had been
+cruelly deprived of her privilege to administer to the needs of her
+suffering friend. The heroic Webster, wasted by disease, weakened by his
+long and painful illness, but still brave and defiant. Price Lewis and
+John Scully, tortured with the thoughts of their impending fate, and
+harassed with reflections of a more agonizing nature, which we may not
+analyse.
+
+The trial of Webster was ordered for an early day. With a haste that was
+inhuman, the Provost-Marshal made his preparations for the farce of an
+investigation. It seemed as though he was fearful that his victim would
+die, ere he could wreak his vengeance upon him. The court was convened,
+and, owing to Webster's weakened condition, their sessions were held in
+the jail. For three long, weary weeks did the investigation drag its
+slow length along, although it was apparent that those who tried him had
+already decided upon his fate. Numerous witnesses were examined, and
+testimony was admitted which would have been excluded by any righteous
+tribunal whose ideas of justice were not obscured by an insane desire
+for revenge.
+
+Price Lewis and John Scully were compelled to give their evidence; and
+although they attempted to do their utmost to lessen the effect of their
+testimony, it bore heavily against the poor prisoner, who sat pale and
+emaciated before them, and whose heart never failed him through the long
+and tedious ordeal. What Webster's feelings must have been during this
+harrowing experience is unknown to any one. What thoughts were rushing
+through his brain, as the damaging statements fell from the lips of his
+late associates, were never revealed by him. No murmurs escaped his
+lips, no words of censure or blame against the men whose evidence cost
+him his life, were ever uttered. A heroic calmness, born of the very
+despair which oppressed him from the first, was manifest throughout the
+long, weary investigation. Indeed so manfully had he borne himself, so
+completely had he controlled his feelings, that his physical health
+perceptibly improved, so much so that the tribunal removed their
+sittings to the court-house, and Webster was able to be in daily
+attendance.
+
+Webster had secured able counsel for his defence, and they did all that
+was possible for man to do. Although they were rebels, their efforts in
+behalf of the accused spy were such, that if pleadings could have
+availed him aught, his fate would have been averted.
+
+It was not to be, however; the trial came to an end at last. A verdict
+of guilty followed quickly upon the heels of the partial and
+antagonistic charge of the judge, and Timothy Webster was convicted of
+being a spy in the employ of the Federal authorities.
+
+Not even then did the brave spirit break down. Firm and heroic he
+received the fatal verdict, and the satisfaction of his enemies was
+robbed of its value by the unflinching deportment of their victim.
+
+After the trial, he was remanded to a cell, and closely watched. But a
+little time elapsed, and then came the warrant for his execution. An
+officer appeared in the cell, the paper was produced, and the faithful,
+brave, true-hearted man was condemned to be hung on the twenty-ninth day
+of April, but ten days after the approval of his sentence.
+
+[Illustration: _The death warrant._ P. 542.]
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+The Union army was before Yorktown. McClellan had already sustained two
+serious disappointments, and both of them at the hands of the government
+at Washington. In the first place, on his arrival at Fort Monroe, he had
+ascertained that the promised assistance of the navy could not be relied
+upon in the least, and that their efficient co-operation with him would
+be an utter impossibility. This interference with his plans might have
+been overcome, although the loss of the naval support was a serious
+misfortune to him; but a more surprising and disheartening act of the
+authorities was yet in store for him. A few days later, he was
+thunderstruck at the unexpected information that General McDowell's
+entire corps, upon whose assistance he had confidently relied, was
+detached from his command, and had been ordered to remain in front of
+Washington, for the protection of the capital, which was erroneously
+believed to be in imminent danger of capture by the rebels. These events
+rendered a scientific siege of Yorktown a necessity; and while engaged
+in this laborious work, I was in constant consultation with the
+commanding General. Numerous scouts had been sent out through the rebel
+country, and the secret service department was taxed to its utmost.
+George H. Bangs was busily engaged in examining the rebel deserters and
+prisoners, Southern refugees and contrabands, who were either captured
+or came willingly into camp, and in preparing daily reports of our
+movements, which were required to be made to the General in command. I
+had accompanied McClellan upon this campaign, and gave my untiring
+personal supervision to the management of the large corps of men and
+women, white and black, then engaged in obtaining information.
+
+During all this time, not a word had been received of my missing
+operatives. Tortured by the uncertainty of their fate, I passed many an
+anxious hour. At length all doubts were set at rest, and a dreadful
+certainty manifested itself to my mind. A newspaper, published in
+Richmond, was received by me, and in hastily perusing its contents, with
+a view of acquiring such military information as it contained, my eye
+alighted upon a small paragraph, which filled me with dread and sorrow.
+This paragraph was the simple announcement that Price Lewis and John
+Scully had been arrested as spies in the rebel capital, and had been
+sentenced to be hung on the 6th day of April.
+
+I cannot detail the effect which this announcement produced upon me. For
+a moment I sat almost stupefied, and unable to move. My blood seemed to
+freeze in my veins--my heart stood still--I was speechless. By degrees I
+was able to exercise a strong command over myself. I then sought my
+immediate associates, and communicated the fatal news to them. Their
+consternation and grief were equal to my own. Every man seemed to be
+impressed with the solemnity of the fate of their comrades. What was to
+be done? How to intercede in their behalf? I rushed to the tent of
+General McClellan, and relating the news to him, besought his aid in
+this direful extremity. His sympathy and sorrow were as acute as though
+the men had been joined to him by ties of blood. Anxiously we discussed
+the situation, in the vain attempt to seek some mode of obtaining their
+release, and all without definite or satisfactory conclusion.
+
+All that night I paced the camp, unable to sleep--unable almost to think
+intelligently; and when morning dawned I was as far from devising any
+practical plan of relief as when I first received the information.
+
+I telegraphed to Captain Milward, Harbor-Master at Fortress Monroe, and
+in charge of the flag-of-truce boat for exchanging prisoners, asking him
+to endeavor to ascertain from the Richmond papers, or from any other
+source, anything definite as to the fate of my unfortunate operatives.
+
+Several messages were received from that officer, containing various
+statements of the case, and finally came the crushing intelligence that
+Lewis and Scully had been respited, after having given information which
+implicated Timothy Webster, whom the rebels now regarded as the chief
+spy of the three.
+
+This was the crowning burden of all, and I was almost prostrated by the
+blow. Hurried consultations were held, every conceivable plan was
+suggested and discussed, which would avail in the slightest degree to
+avert so terrible a fate from the faithful patriot who now was in such
+deadly danger.
+
+I suggested that General McClellan should send, by flag-of-truce boat,
+such a demand as would, if possible, save their lives; but to this the
+General demurred, fearing, and justly too, that such a course might be
+productive of more injury than good--that it would be a tacit
+acknowledgment of their real character as spies, and they would be hung
+without further delay.
+
+It was at last decided that I should go to Washington, accompanied by
+Colonel Key, an eminent patriot, and an efficient member of General
+McClellan's staff. We were to confer with the President and the members
+of the Cabinet, lay the matter before them, and petition for the
+official interposition of the government in their behalf.
+
+With Colonel Key, I started for Washington, about the middle of April.
+The interest of that officer was scarcely second to my own, and he was
+fully determined to exert every energy of his manly, sympathetic nature
+in the work of saving their lives, if possible.
+
+The journey to Washington was quickly made. Mr. Lincoln was readily
+seen, and he, too, filled with sympathy for the unfortunate men,
+promised to call a special session of the Cabinet to consider the case,
+that evening.
+
+In the meantime, Colonel Key and I occupied ourselves in visiting the
+various heads of the departments, in order to prepare them, before
+evening arrived, for energetic and speedy action. We felt that no time
+was to be lost; if, indeed, it was not already too late to avert their
+dreadful doom.
+
+Secretary Stanton, whom, among others, we saw, expressed in strong terms
+his willingness to assist Webster to the extent of the resources of the
+government, but he was but little disposed to assist the others, who, he
+alleged, had "betrayed their companion to save their own lives."
+
+In the evening the Cabinet was convened, and, after a full discussion of
+the matter, it was decided that the only thing that could be done, was
+to authorize the Secretary of War to communicate with the rebel
+authorities upon the subject. He was directed to authorize General Wool
+to send by flag-of-truce boat, or by telegraph, a message to Jefferson
+Davis, representing that the course pursued by the Federal government
+toward rebel spies had heretofore been lenient and forbearing; that in
+many cases such persons had been released after a short confinement, and
+that in no instance had any one so charged been tried for his life, or
+sentenced to death. The message concluded with the decided intimation
+that if the rebel government proceeded to carry their sentence of death
+into execution, the Federal government would initiate a system of
+retaliation which would amply revenge the death of the men now held.
+
+Receiving a copy of these instructions, Colonel Key and myself, feeling
+that we had exhausted the power of the government in this matter,
+returned at once to Fortress Monroe. We arrived there on the 23d day of
+April. General Wool was immediately found, and without a moment's delay,
+he caused the required dispatches to be forwarded, by way of Norfolk,
+through General Huger, who was then in command of that place, with the
+urgent request that he would instantly transmit it by telegraph to the
+Richmond authorities.
+
+This, I learned, was done as had been requested, and I learned further,
+that it reached the officers of the rebel government, and received their
+consideration in time to have been of avail, had there been one spark of
+manly sympathy animating the breasts of those who were the leaders of a
+vile conspiracy to destroy the noblest government under the blue canopy
+of heaven.
+
+Feeling that all had now been done that was possible to save the lives
+of my men, and believing that the hate and malignity of the rebel
+officers would not carry them to such a murderous extent as this, I
+awaited the result of our mission with painful solicitude.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+After the day of execution had been fixed, Mrs. Lawton was permitted to
+visit Webster in the room to which he had been assigned. During all the
+time that the trial had been in progress, they had never been allowed to
+communicate with each other, and the noble little woman had been
+compelled to suffer in silence, while Webster was undergoing the painful
+experiences of the investigation, which had resulted in his being
+condemned to be hung as a spy.
+
+The meeting between Webster and Mrs. Lawton was a most affecting one.
+Tears filled the eyes of the faithful woman, as she gazed at the pale
+and emaciated form of the heroic patriot. Their hands were clasped in a
+warm pressure, and her words of heartfelt sympathy and grief were choked
+by the sobs which shook her frame. Even in the excess of his despair,
+Webster's fortitude never for a moment forsook him. He bore the burdens
+which had been imposed upon him with a courage and firmness that
+impressed all who witnessed it.
+
+Under Mrs. Lawton's direction, the room in which he was confined was
+soon made cheerful and clean; with her own hands she prepared for him
+such delicacies as he needed most, and her words of comfort were of
+great effect in soothing his mind, and in preparing him for the dreadful
+fate which he was called upon to meet.
+
+Nor did Mrs. Lawton stop here. She sought an interview with Jefferson
+Davis, but, finding him engaged with General Lee, she obtained the
+privilege of visiting the wife of the Confederate president. With Mrs.
+Davis she pleaded long and earnestly in behalf of the condemned man.
+Besought her by every holy tie of her own life to intercede for the
+pardon of the poor invalid, whose life hung by so slender a thread.
+
+All in vain, however. While fully sympathizing with the fate of the
+unfortunate man, Mrs. Davis declined to interfere in matters of state,
+and Mrs. Lawton left the house utterly hopeless of being able to avert
+the dreadful fate which impended over Webster.
+
+The hours flew swiftly by, and the day of execution drew near, and still
+a ray of hope glistened through the gloom which surrounded him. If
+McClellan only succeeded in capturing Richmond all would be well. But as
+the days passed, and this result seemed further from accomplishment than
+ever, even that flickering ember of hope died out, and he prepared to
+meet his fate like a man.
+
+One thing, however, impressed the doomed man more than anything
+else--the thought of being hung. Any other mode of punishment would have
+been accepted with joy, but to be hanged like a murderer, was a disgrace
+which he could not bear to think about. On the day before his execution,
+he requested a visit from General Winder, and that officer, evidently
+expecting a revelation from the lips of his victim, soon made his
+appearance at the prison.
+
+As he entered the cell where Webster was reclining upon his couch, he
+roughly accosted him:
+
+"Webster you have sent for me; what is it that you desire?"
+
+"General Winder," replied Webster, "I have sent for you to make an
+appeal to your manhood; my fate is sealed. I know that too well--I am to
+die, and I wish to die like a man. I know there is no hope for mercy,
+but, sir, I beseech you to permit me to be shot, not be hanged like a
+common felon,--anything but that."
+
+"I am afraid that cannot be done," said Winder, coldly.
+
+"It is not much to ask," pleaded Webster; "I am to die, and am prepared,
+but, sir, for God's sake let me not die like this; change but the manner
+of my death, and no murmur shall escape my lips."
+
+"I cannot alter the sentence that has been ordered."
+
+Mrs. Lawton, who was present, and unable further to restrain herself,
+exclaimed:
+
+"General, as a woman I appeal to you--you have the power, and can
+exercise it. Do not, I pray you, condemn this brave man to the odium of
+a felon's death. Think of his family, and his suffering. Let the
+manliness of your own heart plead for him. It is not much that he asks.
+He does not sue for pardon. He seeks not to escape your judgment, harsh
+and cruel as it is. He only prays to be allowed to die like a brave man
+in the service of his country. You certainly can lose nothing by
+granting this request, therefore, in the name of justice and humanity,
+let him be shot instead of the dreadful death you have ordained for
+him."
+
+While she was speaking, the hard lines about the rebel's mouth grew
+still more harsh and rigid. He did not attempt to interrupt her, but
+when she had finished, he turned coolly upon his heel, and, as he
+reached the door he said:
+
+"His request and yours must be denied. He hangs to-morrow."
+
+"Then," ejaculated the undaunted woman, "he will die like a man, and his
+death will be upon your head,--a living curse until your own dark hour
+shall come!"
+
+Without deigning to notice them further, he passed out of the cell,
+violently closing the door behind him.
+
+The shadows of the night came down over the prison. The last night on
+earth to a brave man who had met death in a hundred forms ere this. How
+many times the gaunt, repulsive form of the fatal scaffold, appeared to
+the vision of the condemned man, as he sat firm and rigid in his dark
+cell, we may not know. How many times he lived over again the bright
+scenes of his past life! The happy, careless days of childhood, when the
+fond eyes of a loving mother beamed upon him in his sportive gambols.
+His school days, the lessons conned by the evening lamp in the dear old
+home of long ago. The merry days of youth, which glided away amid scenes
+of mirth and jollity. The first dawnings of the passion of his life,
+when a soft hand nestled lovingly in his, and earnest eyes, full of love
+and trust, seemed to speak a world of affection. Then the stirring
+scenes of active life, he a man among men battling with the world,
+performing his daily duties, mingling honorably with his fellows, and
+upheld by a pride of honor and self-respect. His sacrifices for his
+country in the dark hour of her peril. The lonely marches, the weary
+burdens, the unflinching steadfastness of his fealty to his government.
+The long nights of storm and danger, the varying episodes of pleasure
+and of pain, conflicts with enemies, and happy hours with friendly
+companions--all these thoughts came upon him with a distinctness which
+brought their actual presence near. Now he was listening to the sweet
+lullaby of his mother's voice, now he stood in the hall of the "Sons of
+Liberty," in the midst of affrighted conspirators and blue-coated
+soldiers--anon he strayed by a purling stream, with a loved one upon his
+arm--and again he breasted the dashing waters and the deluging storm on
+the bay, as he rescued the women and children from the stranded boat. So
+vivid were these pictures of his mind that he lived again a hundred
+scenes of his past life, partook of a hundred pleasures, shared in a
+hundred sorrows. Suddenly in the midst of some thrilling vision of
+by-gone days, the flickering of his lamp or the tread of the sentry
+outside would recall him from a delightful reverie to the dark and
+dreadful present. Then gloomy and despondent thoughts would come to him.
+He would picture minutely the scenes of the morrow, the rude platform,
+the dangling noose, the armed soldiers, the hideous black cap, the
+springing of the gallows trap.
+
+Then, unable to bear the agony of his thoughts, he would start to his
+feet, press his hands to his ears, as if to drown the fearful sounds,
+and pace rapidly the narrow cell. Mrs. Lawton never left him; ever alert
+to his needs, ever ready with sustaining words, although her own brave,
+tender heart was breaking, she did her utmost to strengthen and sustain
+him. Gradually he became calmer. The slow moving hours passed on, and he
+resolutely performed the last duties that devolved upon him. Messages
+were confided to his unwavering nurse for the dear friends at home;
+expressions of love and regard for his kindred, and unswerving
+breathings of devotion to his country.
+
+"Tell Major Allen that I met my fate like a man. Thank him for his many
+acts of kindness to me. I have done my duty, and I can meet death with a
+brave heart and a clear conscience."
+
+The first faint streaks of the early dawn came in through the grated
+window; the sun was rising in the heavens, brightly and gloriously
+lighting up a day that should have been shrouded in gloom. Its beams
+illumined the little chamber, where Webster lay calm and wakeful, his
+hands clasped by the woman who had so nobly shared his captivity.
+
+A silence had fallen upon them. Each was busy with thoughts which lips
+could not utter, and the death-like stillness was undisturbed save by
+the tramp of the guards in the corridor.
+
+Suddenly there came the sound of hurried footsteps. They paused before
+the door. The heavy bolts were shot back, and in the doorway stood Cap.
+Alexander, the officer in charge.
+
+The little clock that ticked upon the wall noted a quarter past five
+o'clock.
+
+"Come, Webster, it is time to go."
+
+There was no sympathy in the rough voice which uttered these words.
+
+"To go where?" inquired Webster, starting up in surprise.
+
+"To the fair grounds," was the laconic reply.
+
+"Surely not at this hour," pleaded the condemned man; "the earliest
+moment named in my death-warrant is six o'clock, and you certainly will
+not require me to go before that."
+
+"It is the order of General Winder, and I must obey," answered
+Alexander. "You must prepare yourself at once."
+
+Without another word Webster arose from his bed, and began his
+preparations. Not a tremor was apparent, and his hand was as steady and
+firm as iron. When he had fully arranged his toilet, he turned to Mrs.
+Lawton, and taking both her hands in his he murmured:
+
+"Good-bye, dear friend; we shall never meet again on earth. God bless
+you, and your kindness to me. I will be brave, and die like a man.
+Farewell, forever!" then turning to Captain Alexander, who stood unmoved
+near the door, he said:
+
+"I am ready!"
+
+As they went out through the door, a piercing shriek rent the air, and
+Mrs. Lawton fell prostrate to the floor.
+
+Arriving at the entrance to the prison, they found a company of cavalry
+drawn up before them, and a carriage, procured by Mrs. Lawton, awaiting
+their appearance. Webster crossed the pavement with unfaltering step and
+entered the vehicle, the order to march was given, and the procession
+started for the scene of execution.
+
+At Camp Lee, the scene was one of bustle and excitement. Soldiers were
+moving about in companies, and in small detachments. Eager spectators
+were there, curious to watch the proceedings, and the streets leading to
+the grounds were lined with people whose prevailing emotion seemed to be
+that of idle curiosity.
+
+On arriving at the camp, Webster was conducted into a small room, on the
+ground floor of one of the buildings, and was left alone with the
+clergyman who had been requested to accompany him.
+
+Thus he remained for several hours. At ten minutes past eleven, the
+carriage was drawn up before the door, and Webster appeared leaning upon
+the arm of the jailer, and attended by his spiritual adviser.
+
+The doomed man wore a look of calm composure. His face was pale, and the
+feebleness of his condition was manifest in his tottering walk; but his
+eye was clear and steady and not a muscle of his face betrayed his
+emotion.
+
+They reached the scaffold, which was erected on the north side of the
+parade ground. Slowly and painfully he ascended to the platform. Amid a
+breathless silence, he stood for a moment and gazed about him. The
+bright blue sky overhead, the muskets of the soldiers glistening in the
+rays of the sun, the white, eager faces which surrounded him. His last
+look on earth. Though much exhausted by his long illness, he stood alone
+and firmly whilst his arms were tied behind him and his feet were bound
+together.
+
+The black cap was placed over his head, and then followed a moment of
+solemn stillness. The entire assembly seemingly ceased to breathe. The
+signal was given, the trap was sprung, and, with a dreadful, sickening
+thud, Webster fell from the gibbet to the ground beneath. The hang-man's
+knot had slipped, and the man, bound hand and foot, lay in a confused
+heap, limp and motionless, before the gathered throng. He was lifted up
+and carried to the scaffold.
+
+"I suffer a double death," came from the lips of the dying man as he was
+again placed upon the readjusted trap. The rope was again placed around
+his neck, this time so tight as to be excruciatingly painful.
+
+"You will choke me to death this time," came in gurgling tones from
+within the enveloping hood.
+
+In a second the trap was again sprung, and the brave patriot was
+swinging in the air, between heaven and earth.
+
+Rebel vengeance was at last satisfied, the appetite for human blood was
+sated.
+
+Treason had done its worst, and the loyal spy was dead.
+
+Early in the afternoon, Captain Alexander returned to the prison, and
+informed Mrs. Lawton that all was over. He found her deathly pale, but
+now firm, and giving no other outward sign of the agony of the past few
+hours.
+
+"May I see him before he is taken away?" she asked.
+
+"There is no objection to that."
+
+Accompanying the officer, she went to the room in which the body lay,
+incased in a metallic coffin which Mrs. Lawton had procured. His face
+was not discolored in the least, and the features indicated the same
+Roman firmness which he exhibited when he left the prison. He died as he
+had lived--a brave man.
+
+Several rebel officers stood around the coffin. Turning suddenly upon
+them, and facing Captain Alexander, Mrs. Lawton, in a burst of passion,
+exclaimed:
+
+"Murderers! this is your work. If there is vengeance or retribution in
+this world, you will feel it before you die!"
+
+As if stung to the quick by this accusation, Captain Alexander stepped
+up to the coffin, and laying his hand upon Webster's cold, white
+forehead, said:
+
+"As sure as there is a God in Heaven, I am innocent of this deed. I did
+nothing to bring this about, and simply obeyed my orders in removing him
+from the prison to the place of execution."
+
+Application was made to General Winder for the privilege of sending
+Webster's body to the North, where it might be buried by his friends;
+but this the rebel officer peremptorily refused. A petition was then
+made that it be allowed to be placed in the vault in Richmond, with no
+better success. Not content with heaping ignominy upon him while living,
+the fiend was determined that even in death the patriot should be the
+subject of odium and contempt.
+
+In the dead hour of the night, he ordered the remains to be carried
+away, and buried in an obscure corner of the pauper's burying-ground.
+
+Farewell, brave spirit! I knew thee well. Brave, tender and true; thou
+hast suffered in a glorious cause, and died a martyr's death. Thy memory
+will long be green in the hearts of thy friends. When treason is
+execrated, and rebellion is scorned and despised, the tears of weeping
+friends will bedew the sod which rests above the martyred spy of the
+Rebellion--Timothy Webster.
+
+After the war was over, and peace once more reigned throughout the land,
+I procured his body, and it now lies in the soil of a loyal state--the
+shrine of the patriot--the resting-place of a hero.
+
+But little more remains to be told. After weary months of captivity,
+Mrs. Lawton, Price Lewis and John Scully, were sent to the North, where
+their stories were told, and from whose lips I learned the particulars I
+have narrated.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+_The Defeat of General Pope at the second Battle of Manassas.--McClellan
+Again Called to the Command.--The Battle of Antietam.--A Union
+Victory.--A Few Thoughts about the Union Commander.--McClellan's Removal
+from Command and his Farewell Address._
+
+
+On the second day of September, 1862, the following order was issued:
+
+
+     "War Department, Adj't.-Gen.'s Office,
+
+         "Washington, Sept. 2, 1862.
+
+     "Major-General McClellan will have command of the
+     fortifications of Washington, and of all the troops for the
+     defense of the Capital.
+
+                              "By order of
+
+     "E. D. TOWNSEND,      "Maj.-Gen. HALLECK.
+          Ass't. Adj't.-Gen."
+
+
+
+At this time the Federal troops, under General Pope, were retreating in
+great disorder from the disastrous defeat in the Virginia campaign, and
+the roads leading to Washington were, for the second time during the
+war, filled with stragglers from the ranks, making their way to the
+capital. It will be remembered that while McClellan and the main Eastern
+army were in the Peninsula, the divisions of McDowell, Fremont and
+Banks were, by orders of the government, held near Washington, for the
+protection of the national capital. On the 26th day of July, these
+forces were consolidated as the Army of Virginia, and placed under the
+command of General Pope. This army was guarding the line of the Rapidan.
+
+Soon after the retreat of the Union army under General McClellan, the
+Confederates, in August, 1862, began to move towards Washington.
+Stonewall Jackson, leading the advance of the Southern army, attacked
+Banks' force at Cedar Mountain, on the 6th day of August. Banks,
+however, was able to hold Jackson in check for some time; but the main
+body of the rebels arriving, Banks was compelled to retreat. Lee now
+pressed heavily upon Pope, who retreated northward from every position
+then held by him.
+
+When this movement became known to the authorities, General McClellan
+was ordered to hastily ship the Army of the Potomac back to Washington,
+and so persistent was General Halleck in his orders to that effect, that
+at the second battle of Manassas McClellan found himself completely
+stripped of his army--literally without a command--and compelled to
+submit to the mortification of listening to the roar of the battle from
+afar, and without being allowed to participate in its conflicts. Some
+idea of his feelings may be learned from a dispatch sent by him to
+General Halleck at this time:
+
+     "I cannot express to you the pain and mortification I have
+     experienced to-day, in listening to the distant sound of the
+     fighting of my men. As I can be of no further use here, I
+     respectfully ask that if there is a probability of the
+     conflict being renewed to-morrow, I may be permitted to go
+     to the scene of battle with my staff, merely to be with my
+     own men, if nothing more; they will fight none the worse for
+     my being with them. If it is not deemed best to intrust me
+     with the command even of my own army, I simply ask to be
+     permitted to share their fate upon the field of battle."
+
+These appeals, however, were utterly disregarded. Gen. Pope was to
+command the army, and to do the fighting, and in the end the
+contemptuous superiors of the heroic commander suffered a crushing
+defeat in the bloodiest battle of this campaign. The second battle of
+Manassas was a most disastrous one, and on August 29-30 Pope's army was
+utterly defeated.
+
+Lee was now pressing forward, flushed with victory, and threatening
+Washington. On the 1st of September the battle of Chantilly was fought,
+and in which those brave Generals, Kearney and Stevens, lost their
+lives.
+
+Learning by bitter experience the culpable folly of ignoring the genius
+and bravery of McClellan, and with the rebel army besieging the capital,
+General Halleck, in the excess of fear, was forced to again call for the
+services of the gallant commander of the Army of the Potomac, and
+General McClellan was once more placed in command of an army defeated
+and demoralized by the incompetency of its generals.
+
+The broken army of Pope was now united with that of the Army of the
+Potomac, and the army of Virginia ceased to exist as a separate
+organization. With the intense enthusiasm of the soldiers for McClellan,
+he soon brought order out of chaos, and in an incredibly short space of
+time he faced them about, in orderly columns, and started to repel the
+invading army of Lee, who was now crossing the Potomac.
+
+From reports made by my operatives at this time, it was ascertained that
+Lee had abandoned, if, indeed, he ever seriously entertained the idea of
+advancing directly upon the capital, and was now contemplating carrying
+the campaign into Maryland. Longstreet's division had left Richmond
+about the 5th day of August for Gordonsville, marching to Orange
+Court-house, he fell back to Gordonsville. Jackson fell back at the same
+time, and they both participated in the battle of Manassas, and in the
+fighting that followed. Jackson then crossed the river into Maryland,
+before Longstreet, who crossed a few days later, at or near Edwards'
+Ferry.
+
+On the 4th day of September, my operatives, who were watching the
+movement of the rebel army, reported that Lee had his headquarters on
+the Aldie turnpike, near Dranesville; while Jackson was near Fairfax
+Court-house. On the 9th, it was understood that the rebels had moved
+their entire army into Virginia, and it was presumed that his objective
+point was Baltimore.
+
+General McClellan left Washington on the 7th day of September, and
+established his headquarters at Rockville, having first made all
+arrangements for the defense of Washington, and placing General Banks in
+command of the troops at that place. By this time it was known that the
+mass of the rebel army had passed up the south side of the Potomac
+river, in the direction of Leesburg, and that a part of the army had
+crossed the river into Maryland.
+
+The uncertainty of Lee's intentions greatly distracted the authorities
+at Washington for the safety of that city, and they were fearful that he
+would make a feint towards Pennsylvania, and then suddenly seize the
+opportunity to attack the capital.
+
+Some writers have animadverted freely upon the alleged "slowness" of
+McClellan's movements up the Potomac, and his "delay" in offering battle
+to Lee before the latter had time to unite his army and occupy the
+strong position he held at Antietam; but they persistently ignore the
+fact that the dispatches from the commander-in-chief at Washington, to
+McClellan in the field, from the 7th to the 16th of September, were
+filled with cautions against a too hasty advance, and the consequent
+impropriety of exposing Washington to an attack. Indeed, it seems
+evident to me, when I regard the career of the Army of the Potomac,
+that had those in power in Washington been less concerned for their own
+safety, and trusted more to the skill and sagacity of the general in the
+field to direct its movements, the history of that army would have been
+widely different from what it is. The campaign of the Peninsula
+terminated disastrously to the Union arms, and it was mainly due to this
+real or assumed fear of the authorities for the safety of Washington.
+
+It is not presuming too much to say, that McClellan knew far better than
+those at Washington the movements and intentions of the enemy, and that
+he was apprised of them sooner; but it is equally true that a certain
+element in the Cabinet was unfriendly to the secret service branch of
+the army, and, with characteristic stubbornness, placed but little
+reliance upon the information obtained from this source.
+
+For instance, General Halleck was of the opinion, on the evening of the
+day before Antietam, that Lee's whole force had crossed the river, and
+so telegraphed McClellan, when the fact was that the rebel army was
+actually in our front, and ready for the battle that so speedily
+followed.
+
+Still, the importance of moving with extreme caution was kept constantly
+in view, and the army was moved so that it extended from the railroad to
+the Potomac River, the extreme left flank resting on that stream.
+
+On the twelfth of September, a portion of the right wing of the army
+entered Frederick, Md., and on the following day the main body of the
+right and the center wings arrived, only to find that the enemy had
+marched out of the place two days before, taking the roads to
+Boonesboro' and Harper's Ferry.
+
+Lee had left a force to dispute the possession of the passes, through
+which the roads across South Mountain ran, while he had dispatched
+Jackson to effect the capture of Harper's Ferry. In these plans he was
+partially frustrated, for, while Jackson succeeded in capturing Harper's
+Ferry, McClellan drove the rebel troops from the passes, after short but
+vigorous engagements at South Mountain, on September 14th, but failed in
+his efforts to relieve Harper's Ferry, and that place was surrendered on
+the following day.
+
+Immediately following the actions at South Mountain, Lee, being closely
+pressed by McClellan, turned at bay in the beautiful valley of the
+Antietam. Here he resolved to endeavor to hold his position until he
+could concentrate his army. His forces at this time numbered about forty
+thousand men.
+
+On the sixteenth, he was reinforced by Jackson's gallant corps,
+numbering about five thousand men, which, together with other
+reinforcements, received during the day, swelled his numbers to fifty
+thousand men, which, in the language of one of their own writers,
+constituted "the very flower of the Army of Northern Virginia."
+
+Our own forces did not exceed eighty-five thousand men, and it is but
+correct to say that not seventy thousand were actually engaged on the
+day of the great battle. My own judgment is, that at no time during the
+fight was the Confederate army ever confronted by a force outnumbering
+their own.
+
+Confederate writers have sought to make it appear that Lee, at Antietam,
+fought and practically defeated a force in excess of his own in the
+ratio of three to one. This assertion is proven to be a glaring error,
+for the facts are that the odds were less than three to two, even in
+point of actual numerical strength present, while, all things
+considered, these were reduced until the two armies faced each other on
+the morning of Antietam pretty evenly opposed, and with no decided
+advantage in favor of either contestant.
+
+To explain: taking it for granted that McClellan had eighty-seven
+thousand men at roll-call on the morning of the seventeenth, it is now
+known that the battle was mainly fought by the First, Second, Ninth and
+Twelfth Corps, while the Fifth and Sixth Corps and the Cavalry Division
+were scarcely used at all. In addition to this, it should be remembered
+that ours was the attacking force; that the enemy occupied a chosen
+position, and therefore, in this view of the situation, the odds were by
+no means great in favor of the Federal troops.
+
+[Illustration: "_My horse was shot under me while crossing the stream._"
+P. 569]
+
+On the morning of the sixteenth, being then at headquarters, and
+desiring to learn from personal observation something of the position of
+the enemy, I accompanied a party of cavalry sent out to reconnoitre
+across the Antietam. Here it was discovered that the enemy had changed
+the position of some of their batteries, while their left and center
+were upon and in front of the Sharpsburg and Hagerstown turnpike, and
+their extreme left rested upon the wooded heights near the cross-roads
+to the north.
+
+While returning from this reconnoitering expedition, fire was opened
+upon us from a masked battery upon the hill, and my horse, a beautiful
+sorrel, that had carried me for months, and to which I was much
+attached, was shot from under me while I was crossing the stream.
+Several of the men who accompanied me were seriously wounded, and I
+narrowly escaped with my life.
+
+The next morning, at early dawn, the battle commenced, and raged with
+unabated fury until nightfall, when the rebels withdrew, and our
+soldiers slept that night upon a dearly won, yet decisively victorious
+field. McClellan determined not to renew the attack upon the following
+day, for which his critics have censured him severely; yet, I am
+satisfied, that not a few writers, who have fought, _on paper_, the
+battle of Antietam, just as it should have been fought in their own
+estimation, have not, in a single instance, given the subject more
+painful and anxious thought than did the General himself, during all
+that night, while his weary troops lay resting on their arms, on a
+field covered with their own and their enemy's dead.
+
+No better reasons can be assigned, and, indeed, none better need be
+given for the course he pursued, than he, himself, has stated in his own
+report of that battle. He says: "I am aware of the fact, that, under
+ordinary circumstances, a General is expected to risk a battle if he has
+a reasonable prospect of success; but at this critical juncture, I
+should have had a narrow view of the condition of the country, had I
+been willing to hazard another battle with less than an absolute
+assurance of success. At that moment, Virginia lost, Washington menaced,
+Maryland invaded, the National cause could afford no risks of defeat.
+One battle lost, and almost all would have been lost. Lee's army might
+then have marched as it pleased on Baltimore, Washington, Philadelphia
+or New York. It could have levied its supplies from a fertile and
+undevastated country, extorted tribute from wealthy and populous cities,
+and nowhere east of the Alleghanies was there another organized force
+able to arrest its march."
+
+The day after the battle, however, General McClellan gave orders for a
+renewal of the attack on the morning of the nineteenth; but when morning
+dawned, it was discovered that the rebels had suddenly abandoned their
+position and retreated across the river, leaving nearly three thousand
+of their unburied dead on the late field of battle. Thirteen guns,
+thirty-nine colors, upwards of fifteen thousand stand of small arms,
+and more than six thousand prisoners, were taken in the battles of South
+Mountain, Crampton's Gap and Antietam, while not a single gun or color
+was lost by our troops in any of these encounters.
+
+The Battle of Antietam, in its effects, was a brilliant and decisive
+victory for the Union arms, as it was a terrible blow to the South, who
+had expected much from Lee's sudden and daring invasion of a loyal
+state; and their losses, from the time they first invaded Maryland until
+the end of the Battle of Antietam, were in the neighborhood of thirty
+thousand men.
+
+Whatever, therefore, has been said by unfriendly critics, concerning
+General McClellan's achievements, they must be regarded by the
+intelligent and fair-minded student of history, as far from being
+failures. Nor were they merely the achievements of an ordinary man. It
+is an easy, and no doubt a tempting task, nearly twenty years after a
+battle has occurred, and with the knowledge and materials now at hand,
+for writers to fight this battle over again, and point out alleged
+blunders here and there, and in their vivid, and not always truthful,
+imaginations conduct affairs as they should have been conducted.
+
+It may be safely asserted, that no General in the history of the Nation
+was ever so shamefully treated by his government, as was General
+McClellan. With a brave and noble devotion, and with a self-sacrificing
+love for his country and her flag, he fearlessly offered his life and
+his services in sustaining the honor of the one, and the perpetuity of
+the other.
+
+Reviewing his career from the date of his taking command of all the
+armies, down to the close of the battle of Antietam, he received the
+bitter opposition of the Cabinet, and the ill-concealed enmity of the
+politicians; and scarcely had he been called to this important position,
+than his enemies began working to effect his downfall. With such
+persistence and success did they devote themselves to their task, that
+by the time he had his Army of the Potomac ready for the field, they had
+practically deposed him as the Commander-in-Chief.
+
+His plans of the campaign were required to be submitted to a body of
+twelve of his subordinates for approval, and this ridiculous proceeding
+ended in their adoption by a vote of eight to four. The next day the
+enemy abandoned Manassas, a move which was the result of direct treason,
+or, at least, criminal indiscretion on the part of some member of that
+commission, either directly or indirectly. After his plans were adopted,
+and their execution commenced, he was hampered and distressed by orders
+from his superiors at Washington, conflicting with his own well formed
+ideas and deranging his carefully prepared plans in the field.
+
+He, however, bore all these things patiently, and at all times
+faithfully endeavored to do the very best, under the adverse
+circumstances which surrounded him. He, however, at all times, had the
+courage to speak his convictions, knowing the purity of his own actions,
+notwithstanding the fact that he was frequently called upon to execute
+orders that his own better judgment convinced him were conceived in
+ignorance or malice, and which could but do harm to him and to the cause
+he loved.
+
+On July 7, 1862, we find him writing to the President his views on the
+conduct of the war. He said:
+
+"In carrying out any system of policy which you may form, you will
+require a Commander-in-Chief of the army, one who possesses your
+confidence, understands your views, and who is competent to execute your
+orders by directing the military forces of the nation to the
+accomplishment of the objects by you proposed. I do not ask that place
+for myself, I am willing to serve you in such position as you may assign
+me, and I will do so as faithfully as ever subordinate served superior.
+I may be on the brink of eternity, and as I hope for forgiveness from my
+Maker, I have written this letter from sincerity towards you, and from
+love for my country."
+
+Through all his correspondence, while in the field, with his superiors,
+there breathed a spirit of earnest and sincere devotion to country; and
+rarely was he tempted to utter words which proved how sorely he was
+tried and how much he resented the interference of incompetent
+authority. When pushed beyond all control by the foolish, unfriendly
+and unjust course of those at Washington, and when their interference
+had caused the failure of his plans, he wrote to Secretary of War
+Stanton, "You have done your best to sacrifice this army," and even then
+the words were written more in a tone of regret than of anger.
+
+Nearly a month later, when the order was issued for the withdrawal of
+the Army of the Potomac before Richmond, under the full force of his
+convictions, he uttered a manly protest against such action, and
+entreated that the order might be rescinded. "All points," said he, "of
+secondary importance elsewhere should be abandoned, and every available
+man brought here. A decided victory here and the strength of the
+rebellion is crushed, it matters not what partial reverses we may meet
+with elsewhere. _Here is the true defense of Washington; it is here, on
+the banks of the James, that the fate of the Union should be decided._
+Clear in my convictions of right, strong in the consciousness that I
+have ever been and still am actuated by love of my country,... I do now,
+what I never did in my life before, I entreat that this order may be
+rescinded."
+
+How true these words were, and how prophetic their scope, may be proven
+by the words of General Sheridan several years later. When Grant was
+compelled at last to adopt the very plans of McClellan, thus giving as
+practical a vindication of that general as could be desired, Sheridan
+sent a message to Grant, but a little while before the surrender,
+urging him to come with all the force he could command in pursuit of
+Lee, saying, "_Here is the end of the rebellion._" A fit corollary to
+McClellan's dispatch from James River to Halleck: "_Here, directly in
+front of this army, is the heart of the rebellion._"
+
+No general in this country, or in any other, was more universally
+beloved and admired by his troops, and no commander ever returned that
+affection with more warmth than did McClellan. Troops that under other
+commanders suffered defeat after defeat, until dismayed and discouraged
+they fled to Washington, followed by a pursuing and exultant enemy, were
+in a few days, by his magical influence over them, again transformed
+into brave and hopeful soldiers, ready to follow anywhere their trusted
+commander might lead.
+
+It is a strange fact, but a fact, nevertheless, that the Army of the
+Potomac received all its good words, words of cheer and encouragement,
+from McClellan alone. Those in power at the capital were painfully blind
+to its sufferings on the toilsome march, or its deeds of valor on the
+bloody field. After the battle of Antietam, and after the Army of the
+Potomac had driven Lee from Maryland, General McClellan telegraphed his
+chief as follows: "I have the honor to report that Maryland is entirely
+freed from the presence of the enemy, who has been driven across the
+Potomac. No fears need now be entertained for the safety of
+Pennsylvania; I shall at once occupy Harper's Ferry."
+
+Two days later, receiving no word of acknowledgement for his troops,
+whom he felt had earned them from the Commander-in-Chief, he, in a
+telegram of September 20th, said: "I regret that you have not yet found
+leisure to say one word in commendation of the recent achievements of
+this army or even to allude to them."
+
+Before this, he had taken occasion to remind General Halleck of the fact
+that the army deserved some credit for its labors, and appreciated any
+acknowledgment of the same which the Commander-in-Chief might make.
+
+On August 18th, 1862, and after the fighting before Richmond, he wrote
+to General Halleck as follows:
+
+     "Please say a kind word to my army, that I can repeat to
+     them in general orders, in regard to their conduct at
+     Yorktown, Williamsburg, West Point, Hanover Court-house, and
+     on the Chickahominy, as well as in regard to the seven days,
+     and the recent retreat. No one has ever said anything to
+     cheer them but myself. Say nothing about me; merely give my
+     men and officers credit for what they have done. It will do
+     you much good, and strengthen you much with them, if you
+     issue a handsome order to them in regard to what they have
+     accomplished. They deserve it."
+
+Is it any wonder, then, that the army exhibited such splendid enthusiasm
+for their leader, when they, above all others, were fully acquainted
+with his character as a man and a general?
+
+Self was his last and least consideration. Always mindful of the comfort
+of his men, yet inculcating, by his splendid discipline, the essential
+requisites of the true soldier, he led his troops through the campaigns
+of the Peninsula and of Maryland, achieving a record that was a credit
+to him, his army, and the nation, and is an enduring monument to the
+faithful devotion and the gallant services of the Army of the Potomac. I
+cannot close this chapter in more fitting words than those used by
+General McClellan, in his brief and affectionate farewell to his
+officers and men, after the battle of Antietam, when, having won a
+victory at a critical period, he was, as a reward, relieved from his
+command.
+
+
+                                "November 7th, 1862.
+
+     "Officers and soldiers of the Army of the Potomac:
+
+     "An order of the President devolves upon Major-General
+     Burnside the command of this army. In parting from you I
+     cannot express the love and gratitude I bear you. As an
+     army, you have grown up under my care. In you I have never
+     found doubt or coldness. The battles you have fought under
+     my command will proudly live in our nation's history. The
+     glory you have achieved, our mutual perils and fatigues, the
+     graves of our comrades fallen in battle and by disease, the
+     broken forms of those whom wounds and sickness have
+     disabled--the strongest associations which can exist among
+     men--unite us still by an indissoluble tie. We shall ever be
+     comrades in supporting the constitution of our country and
+     the nationality of its people."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+_General Burnside in Command.--My Connection with the Secret Service
+Severed.--Reflections upon Important Events.--Conclusion._
+
+
+On the evening of the seventh of November, following the battle of
+Antietam, General McClellan was removed from the command of the Army of
+the Potomac. After having spent weeks in the laborious effort of
+reorganizing his forces, which had been severely shattered and weakened
+by the hard marching and the still harder fighting in the recent battles
+with Lee, the brave commander, upon the eve of an important forward
+movement was deprived of his noble army. General Burnside was named as
+his successor. Again had the political cabal at Washington succeeded in
+their opposition to the noble commander of the Army of the Potomac, and
+this time effectually.
+
+McClellan's tardiness was the alleged cause of his removal. No one in
+authority seemed to consider for a moment the necessity, which was
+apparent to their immediate commander, of affording the Federal troops
+an opportunity to recuperate from their exhausted condition. The serious
+losses sustained at South Mountain, Crampton's Gap, and Antietam had
+left the army badly disorganized, and the privations and hardships to
+which they had been subjected, rendered a delay, for the purpose of
+allowing the worn and weary soldiers time to rest and recuperate, an
+absolute necessity. In the language of McClellan, "The Army had need of
+rest." After the terrible experiences of battles and marches, with
+scarcely an interval of repose, which they had gone through from the
+time of leaving the Peninsula; the return to Washington; the defeat in
+Virginia; the victory at South Mountain, and again at Antietam, it was
+not surprising that they were, in a large degree, destitute of the
+absolute necessities for effective duty. Shoes were worn out; blankets
+were lost; clothing was in rags; the army was unfit for duty, and time
+for rest and equipment was absolutely necessary.
+
+McClellan at once notified the authorities of the condition of his
+troops, and made the necessary requisitions on the proper departments
+for the needed supplies. For some unaccountable reason--unaccountable to
+this day--the supplies ordered were so slow in reaching the men, that
+when, on the seventh of October, the command came for him to cross the
+river into Virginia, and give battle to the enemy, a compliance with the
+order was practically impossible.
+
+Then, too, re-enforcements were needed. In ordering the advance, the
+President, through the General-in-Chief, had submitted two plans, of
+which McClellan could take his choice. One was to advance up the valley
+of the Shenandoah with reenforcements of fifteen thousand troops, the
+other was to cross the river between the enemy and Washington, in which
+case he was to be reenforced with thirty thousand men. McClellan's first
+inclination was to adopt the movement up the Shenandoah Valley,
+believing, that, if he crossed the river into Virginia, Lee would be
+enabled to promptly prevent success in that direction by at once
+throwing his army into Maryland. Owing, however, to the delay of the
+supplies in reaching the army, it was nearly the end of October before
+the troops were ready to move. About the twenty-sixth, the army
+commenced to cross at Harper's Ferry, and by the sixth of November the
+advance upon the enemy was begun. On the night of the seventh,
+therefore, when the order came relieving him from the command,
+McClellan's advance guard was actually engaged with the enemy.
+
+I had already learned that Longstreet was immediately in our front, near
+Culpepper, while Jackson and Hill's forces were near Chester's and
+Thornton's Gap, west of the Blue Ridge. McClellan had formed the plan of
+attempting to divide the enemy, with the hope of forcing him to battle,
+when it was believed, an easy victory would be achieved.
+
+At this juncture, however, and when the army was in an excellent
+condition to fight a great battle, when officers and men were
+enthusiastic in their hopes of being able soon to strike an effective
+blow, McClellan was removed, and Stanton had, at last, accomplished his
+revenge. Not only this, but he had also secured the failure of, what was
+undoubtedly destined to be, a great and decisively victorious campaign.
+
+McClellan's plan on discovering the position of the enemy's forces, was
+to strike in between Culpepper Court House and Little Washington, hoping
+by this means to separate the rebel army, or at least to force their
+retreat to Gordonsville, and then advance upon Richmond, either by way
+of Fredericksburg or the Peninsula.
+
+Burnside, on assuming the command, submitted a plan of his own, which
+was to make a feint of doing, what McClellan really intended to do,
+before adopting the move upon Fredericksburg or the Peninsula, and then
+to advance from Fredericksburg.
+
+This plan, however, did not meet the approval of General Halleck. That
+General had a long conference with Burnside, at Warrenton. Here their
+various plans were discussed, without either agreeing to the plan of the
+other, and the matter was finally referred to the President for his
+decision. After a further delay of several days, Mr. Lincoln adopted
+Burnside's plan, and the advance was ordered.
+
+The success of this plan depended upon the immediate possession of
+Fredericksburg by the Federal army. The intelligent student knows full
+well that this was not even _attempted_ until Lee had ample time to
+heavily re-enforce the rebel army already there. The subsequent results
+show Burnside's delay to have been fatal to his success.
+
+There was a time when he could certainly have taken Fredericksburg, with
+but little loss; but that time was passed when he permitted the enemy to
+fully garrison the place, and make ample provision for its defense with
+an army of nearly ninety thousand men.
+
+At this time, however, my connection with the Army of the Potomac, and
+with the military concerns of the government, ceased. Upon the removal
+of General McClellan, I declined to act any further in the capacity in
+which I had previously served, although strongly urged to do so by both
+President Lincoln and the Secretary of War, Edwin M. Stanton.
+
+From my earliest manhood, I had been an ardent and active abolitionist,
+and I have endeavored to demonstrate this fact throughout these pages.
+My deep admiration, therefore, for General McClellan, was the result of
+my knowledge, of my intimate acquaintance with him, and a consequent
+high regard, based upon his innate and intrinsic qualities, both as a
+man and a soldier, and not from any political affinity whatever.
+
+Refusing longer to continue with the army under its new commander, I was
+afterwards employed by the government in the work of investigating the
+numerous claims that were presented against the United States. While
+acting in this capacity, I was instrumental in unearthing a vast number
+of fraudulent claims, and, in bringing to justice a large number of men
+who were engaged in the base attempt to swindle and defraud the nation
+in the dark hours of her need and peril.
+
+In the Spring of 1864, I was transferred to the Department of the
+Mississippi, under General Canby, and my headquarters were located at
+New Orleans. Here I was engaged in looking after cotton claims, and the
+frauds which were sought to be perpetrated against the government in
+that region of the country.
+
+In 1865, I severed my connection with the "Secret Service of the United
+States," and returned to Chicago, where I have since been engaged in the
+active prosecution of my profession as a detective.
+
+Very often, as I sit in the twilight, my mind reverts back to those
+stirring scenes of by-gone days; to those years of war and its
+consequent hardships, and I recall with pleasure my own connection with
+the suppression of the rebellion. My subsequent life has been none the
+less happy because of my having assisted, as best as I could, in putting
+down that gigantic act of attempted disunion, and in upholding the flag
+of our fathers. More than all do I rejoice in the freedom it brought to
+nearly half a million of people, who, prior to that time, had been held
+in inhuman bondage,--striking the shackles from their bruised limbs, and
+placing them before the law free and independent.
+
+My task is done. In a few brief pages I have attempted to depict the
+work of years. The war is over, the rebellion has been crushed, peace
+and plenty are everywhere apparent. The flag of the Union floats from
+every port in the United States, the slave is free, the South is
+recovering from the ravages of war, and the stories of those stirring
+times seem now like the legends of an olden time.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+One more scene remains, and I will then draw the curtain.
+
+It is a Sabbath morning, the air is fragrant with blossom and flower,
+the birds are carolling sweetly a requiem for the dead. Around us,
+sleeping the sleep that knows no waking, lie the forms of those whom we
+knew and loved. We are in the "city of the dead." The wind sighs through
+the waving branches of the trees, with a mournful melody, suggestive of
+the place. Near by is the bustling city, but here we are surrounded only
+by the mute, though eloquent testimonies of man's eternal rest. Here
+beneath a drooping willow let us pause awhile. Flowers are blooming
+over a mound of earth, saturating the atmosphere with a grateful aroma.
+Let us lean over while we read what is inscribed upon the marble tablet.
+
+      SACRED
+
+    TO THE MEMORY OF
+
+    TIMOTHY WEBSTER,
+
+        WHO
+
+    WAS EXECUTED AS A SPY,
+
+        BY THE
+
+    REBELS, IN RICHMOND, VA.,
+
+      APRIL 29, 1862,
+
+    AFTER GALLANT SERVICE IN THE WAR
+        OF THE REBELLION.
+
+    HE SEALED HIS FIDELITY AND DEVOTION
+
+        TO HIS COUNTRY
+
+        WITH HIS BLOOD.
+
+
+    Alike to him are the heats of summer, or the snows of winter.
+    Peacefully and quietly he sleeps. The Spy of the Rebellion is at rest.
+
+
+
+
+APPENDIX.
+
+THE HARDSHIPS AND PRIVATIONS OF A DETECTIVE'S LIFE
+
+
+Every person who may have survived the experience has undoubtedly a
+lively recollection of the wild groups of people which the building of
+the Union and Central Pacific Railroads brought together from all
+directions, and from all causes.
+
+There were millions upon millions of dollars to be expended; and as the
+points of construction neared each other, and the twin bands of iron
+crept along the earth's surface like two huge serpents, spanning mighty
+rivers, penetrating vast mountains, and trailing through majestic
+forests, creeping slowly but surely towards each other, there was always
+the greatest dread at the most advanced points, which, like the heads of
+serpents, always contained danger and death; and the vast cities of a
+day that then sprang into existence, and melted away like
+school-children's snow-houses, were the points where such wild scenes
+were enacted as will probably never again occur in the history of
+railroad building.
+
+Everything contributed to make these places typical of Babelic
+confusion, or Pandemoniac contention. Foreigners were told of the
+exhaustless work, and the exhaustless wealth, of this new country which
+was being so rapidly developed, and they came; men--brave men, too--who
+had been on the wrong side during the late irritation, and who had lost
+all, having staked all on the result of the war, saw a possible
+opportunity of retrieving their fortunes rapidly, and they came; the
+big-headed youth of the village whose smattering of books at the
+academy, or the seminary, had enlarged his brain and contracted his
+sense so that he was too good for the common duties and everyday
+drudgeries which, with patience, lead to success, learned of the glory
+and grandeur of that new land, and he came; the speculating shirk and
+the peculating clerk came; the almond-eyed sons of the Orient in
+herds--herds of quick-witted, patient, plodding beings who could be
+beaten, starved, even murdered--came; the forger, the bruiser, the
+counterfeiter, the gambler, the garroter, the prostitute, the robber,
+and the murderer, each and every, came; there was adventure for the
+adventurous, gold for the thief, waiting throats for the murderer; while
+the few respectable people quickly became discouraged, and fell into
+the general looseness of habits that the loose life engendered, and
+gradually grew reckless as the most reckless, or quickly acquiesced in
+the wild orgies or startling crimes which were of common occurrence. In
+fact, as in the human system, when any portion of it becomes diseased
+and all the poison in the blood flows to it, further corrupting and
+diseasing it until arrested by a gradual purification of the whole body,
+or by some severe treatment, so from every portion of the country flowed
+these streams of morally corrupt people, until nearly every town west of
+Missouri, or east of the mountains, along these lines, became a terror
+to honest people, and continued so until an irresistible conflict
+compelled a moral revulsion, sometimes so sweeping and violent as to
+cause an application of that unwritten, though often exceedingly just
+law, the execution of which leaves offenders dangling to limbs of trees,
+lamp-posts, and other convenient points of suspension.
+
+As a rule, in these places, every man, whatever his business and
+condition, was thoroughly armed, the question of self-defense being a
+paramount one, from the fact that laws which governed older communities
+were completely a dead letter; and the law of might, in a few instances
+made somewhat respectable by a faint outline of ruffianly honor, alone
+prevailed, until advancing civilization and altered conditions brought
+about a better state of society; so that in these reckless crowds which
+pushed after the constantly changing termini of the approaching roads,
+any instrument of bloodshed was considered valuable, and stores where
+arms and ammunition could be secured did quite as large a trade as those
+devoted to any other branch of business; while so outrageous was the
+price extorted for these instruments of aggression or defense, that they
+have often been known to sell for their weight in gold; and just as,
+during the war, the army was followed by enterprising traders who turned
+many an honest penny trafficking at the heels of the weary soldiers, so
+the same class of people were not slow to take advantage of such
+opportunities for gigantic profits which, though often lessened by the
+many risks run in such trading, were still heavy enough to prove
+peculiarly attractive.
+
+As a consequence, there were many firms engaged in this particular
+business, but probably the heaviest was that of Kuhn Brothers, who were
+reported to be worth upwards of one hundred thousand dollars, which had
+principally been made along the line of the road, and who, with
+headquarters at Cheyenne, had established various "stores" at different
+points as the Union Pacific was pushed on, always keeping the largest
+stock at the most advanced point, and withdrawing stocks from the paper
+cities which had been left behind, though only in those towns which had
+not been altogether destroyed by the periodical exodus occasioned by
+each change of terminus.
+
+For this reason the firms were obliged to entrust their business to the
+honesty of many different employes, who were subject to the vitiating
+influences and temptations, which were unusual and severe under the
+circumstances already mentioned, while the distances between the points,
+and the scarcity of secure means of safely keeping the large sums of
+money which would occasionally unavoidably accrue at certain points,
+left Kuhn Brothers, in many instances, really dependent on those
+dependent on them.
+
+In this condition of affairs, and after a slight defalcation had
+occurred at one of their smaller stores in the spring of 1867, the firm
+were seeking a man whom they could place in actual charge of one or two
+of their establishments at the larger towns, and give a sort of general
+supervision over the others, when the senior member of the firm, being
+in Laramie, casually met a young gentleman, who happened to be able to
+do him so great a favor that the incident led to a close friendship and
+ultimate business relations, eventually resulting in this narrative of
+facts.
+
+It was a pleasant May evening, and Mr. Kuhn had decided to returned to
+Cheyenne in order to secure a proper man for the superintendency nearer
+home. He was to have left Laramie for the East at a late hour of the
+evening and, being at a loss how to pass the intervening time, strolled
+out from the hotel with no particular destination in view and his mind
+fully occupied with the cares of his business, only occasionally
+noticing some peculiarity or strange sight more than usually striking
+among the thousands of weird things, to which his frontier business had
+compelled him to become accustomed, when suddenly he found himself in
+front of a mammoth dance-house, and, yielding to a momentary impulse of
+curiosity, turned into the place with the stream of gamblers,
+adventurers, greasers, and, in fact, everybody respectable or otherwise,
+who, so far from civilization, found such a place peculiarly attractive.
+
+The dance-house was a sort of hell's bazaar, if the term may be
+allowed--and it is certainly the one most befitting it--and was really
+no "house" at all, being merely a very large board enclosure covered
+with a gigantic tent or series of tents, bedecked with flags and gaudy
+streamers. The entrance fee to this elegant place of amusement was one
+dollar, and you had only paid an initiatory fee when you had gained
+admission.
+
+On either side as you entered were immense bars, built of the roughest
+of boards, where every kind of liquid poison was dispensed at the
+moderate sum of twenty-five cents a drink, five-cent cigars selling at
+the same price, and the united efforts of a half-dozen murderous looking
+bar-tenders at each side were required to assuage the thirst of the
+quite as murderous looking crowd that swayed back and forth within the
+space evidently prepared for that purpose.
+
+Beyond this point, and to either side, as also down the center for some
+distance, could be found almost every known game of chance, dealt, of
+course, "by the house," while surrounding the lay-outs were every
+description of men crazed with drink, flushed with success, or deathly
+pale from sudden ruin; while everywhere the revolver or the bowie
+intimated with what terrible swiftness and certainty any trifling
+dispute, rankling grudge, or violent insult would be settled, one way or
+the other, and to be marked by the mere pitching of an inanimate form
+into the street!
+
+After these attractions came a stout partition which had evidently been
+found necessary, for beyond it there was the strikingly strange heaven
+of a mushroom city--a vast department where there were music and women;
+and it seemed that the "management" of this grand robbers' roost had
+shrewdly calculated on the fact that if a poor fool had not been
+swindled out of every dollar he might have had before he reached this
+point, those two elements, all powerful for good or evil the world over,
+would wring the last penny from him.
+
+Here was another but a finer bar, where more time was taken to prepare a
+drink and drug a man with some show of artistic excellence, and where a
+half dollar was changed for a single measure of poison; women,--shrewd,
+devilish women who could shoot or cut, if occasion required, with the
+nicety and effect of a man,--"steering" every person giving token of
+having money in his possession to the more genteelly gotten up
+"lay-outs," and acting in the same capacity, only with far more
+successful results, as the ordinary "ropers-in" of any large city; a
+wild, discordant orchestra that would have been hooted out of the lowest
+of the "varieties" east of the Missouri; but in this place, and to these
+ears, so long unused to the music of the far-away homes beyond the
+Mississippi, producing the very perfection of enchanting harmonies; but
+above all, and the crowning attraction before which every other thing
+paled and dwindled to insignificance, a score of abandoned women,
+dancing and ogling with every manner of man, robbing them while
+embracing, cheering and drinking with them, and in every way bedeviling
+them; the whole forming a scene viler than imagination or the pen of man
+can conceive or picture; grouping of wild orgies and terrible
+debaucheries, such as would put Lucifer to a blush, and compel a
+revolution in the lowest depths of Hades.
+
+Kuhn had strolled through the place, and now, out of compliment to
+general custom, purchased a cigar and was just turning to depart, when
+he suddenly found himself being hustled back and forth among several
+hard-looking fellows, who, evidently knowing his business, and surmising
+that he carried large sums of money upon his person, had determined to
+provoke him to resistance; when there would, according to the social
+codes then in existence at Laramie, have been a just cause for either
+robbing and beating him, or murdering him outright and robbing him
+afterwards; when a tall, finely-formed man suddenly stepped into the
+crowd, and in a very decided tone of voice said:
+
+"I say, gentlemen, that won't do. You must stand back!"
+
+Then taking the terror-stricken ammunition dealer by the coat collar
+with his left hand, but keeping his right hand free for quick use and
+certain work, if necessary, he trotted him through the now excited
+throng and out into the open air, hastily telling him to "cut for the
+hotel," which were quite unnecessary instructions, as he made for that
+point at as lively a gait as his rather dumpy legs could carry him.
+
+The person who had thus prevented the merchant's being robbed, and had
+also possibly saved his life, was a tall, comely young man of about
+twenty-eight years of age, and with a complexion as fair as a woman's,
+pleasant, though determined, blue eyes, and a long, reddish, luxuriant
+beard, all of which, with a decidedly military cut to his gray, woollen
+garments, and long fair hair falling upon his shoulders--the whole
+crowned, or rather slouched over, by a white hat of extraordinary width
+of brim, gave him the appearance of an ex-Confederate officer, and right
+good fellow, as the term goes, perfectly capable of caring for himself
+wherever his fortune, or misfortune, might lead him, which proved the
+case as he turned and confronted the desperadoes, who had immediately
+followed him in a threatening manner, and whom he stood ready to receive
+with a navy revolver half as long as his arm, mysteriously whipped from
+some hiding-place, in each steady hand.
+
+A critical examination of the man as he stood there, and a very casual
+survey of him, for that matter, would have instantly suggested the fact
+to an ordinary observer that a very cool man at the rear ends of two
+navy revolvers huge enough to have been mounted for light-artillery
+service, was something well calculated to check the mounting ambition on
+the part of most anybody to punish him for the character of the
+interference shown; and the leader of the gang contented himself with
+remarking, "See here, Captain Harry, if it wasn't you, there'd be a
+reck'ning here; lively, too, I'm tellin' ye!"
+
+"Well, but it _is_ me; and so there won't be any reck'ning. Will there,
+now, eh?"
+
+The ruffians made no answer, but sullenly returned to the dance-house,
+when Captain Harry, as he had been called, rammed the two huge revolvers
+into his boot legs, which action displayed a smaller weapon of the same
+kind upon each hip; after which he nodded a pleasant "good-night" to the
+bystanders, and walked away leisurely in the direction Mr. Kuhn had
+taken, pleasantly whistling "The Bonnie Blue Flag," or "The Star
+Spangled Banner," as best suited him.
+
+The moment that Mr. Kuhn's protector appeared at the hotel, the former
+gentleman expressed his liveliest thanks for the opportune assistance he
+had been rendered, and introduced himself to the Captain, who already
+knew of him, and who in return gave his name as "Harry G. Taylor, the
+man from somewhere," as he himself expressed it with a pleasant laugh.
+
+It was easy to be seen that there was a stroke of business in Mr. Kuhn's
+eye, which his escape from the dance-house had suggested, as he told
+Taylor that he had intended to return to Cheyenne that night; but he
+further stated that as he had so unexpectedly been befriended, he should
+certainly be obliged to remain another day in order to secure a further
+acquaintance with the man to whom he already owed so much.
+
+Mr. Kuhn then produced some choice cigars, and the gentlemen secured a
+retired place upon the hotel-porch, at once entering into a general
+conversation, which, from the merchant's evident unusual curiosity, and
+Taylor's quite as evident good-humored, devil-may-care disposition,
+caused it to drift into the Captain's account of himself.
+
+He told Mr. Kuhn that his family resided at that time in Philadelphia,
+where they had moved after his father had failed in business at Raleigh,
+N. C., but had taken so honorable a name with him to the former city
+that he had been able to retrieve his fortunes to some extent. The
+Captain was born at Raleigh, and had received his education in the
+South, and, being unable to share in his father's regard for the North,
+even as a portion of the country best adapted for doing business, sought
+out some of his old college friends in Louisville, Atlanta, and New
+Orleans, who had been able to secure him a fine business position at
+Atlanta, where by care and economy in 1860, though but a mere boy yet,
+he had accumulated property that would have satisfied many a man twenty
+years his senior.
+
+Being impulsive, and a warm admirer of Southern institutions, he was one
+of the first men to join the Confederate army at Atlanta, and fought in
+a Georgia regiment under Johnson and Hood during the entire war, at
+Jonesville and Rough-and-Ready Station seeing the smoke ascend above the
+ruins of the once beautiful city, and realizing that the most of his
+earthly possessions had disappeared when the flames died away.
+
+Having been promoted to a captaincy, he had fought as bravely as he
+could against the "blue-coats," like a man, acknowledging their bravery
+as well as that of his comrades; and at the close of the war, which of
+course terminated disadvantageously to his interests, he had sold his
+lots at Atlanta for whatever he could get for them, and with thousands
+of others in like circumstances, had come West and taken his chances at
+retrieving his fortunes.
+
+This was told in a frank, straightforward way, which seemed to
+completely captivate Mr. Kuhn, for he at once spoke to Taylor concerning
+his business in Laramie, and bluntly asked him, in the event of mutual
+and satisfactory references being exchanged, whether he would accept the
+engagement as superintendent of his business over that portion of the
+road, and take actual charge of the store in that place, and the one
+about to be established at Benton City.
+
+The result of the evening's interview was the engagement of Taylor by
+the firm at a large salary; his immediately taking supervision of the
+business without bonds or any security whatever; and for a time his
+management and habits were so able and irreproachable that, with the
+gratitude for his protection of Mr. Kuhn at Laramie still fresh and
+sincere, the firm felt that they had been most fortunate in their
+selection of an utter stranger, and were in every way gratified with the
+turn events had taken.
+
+
+II.
+
+During the early morning of a blustering December day of the same year,
+I was quite annoyed by the persistence of a gentleman to see me, on what
+he insisted, in the business office of my Chicago agency, on terming
+"important business."
+
+It was not later than half-past eight o'clock; and, as I have made it a
+life-long practice to get at business at an early hour, get ahead of it,
+and keep ahead of it during the day, I was elbow-deep in the mass of
+letters, telegrams, and communications of a different nature, which, in
+my business, invariably accumulates during the night, and felt anxious
+to wade through it before taking up any other matter.
+
+The gentleman, who gave the name of Kuhn, seemed very anxious to see me,
+however; and letting drop the statements that he greatly desired to take
+the morning train for Cheyenne, where he resided; might not be able to
+be in Chicago again for some time; felt very desirous of seeing me
+personally; and would require but a few moments to explain his business,
+which he agreed to make explicit; I concluded to drop everything else
+and see him.
+
+On being ushered into my private apartments, he at once hastily gave me
+an outline of the facts related in the previous chapter, adding a new
+series of incidents which occasioned his visit, and to the effect that
+the firm had made the necessary arrangements for increasing their
+business under their new superintendent, having added largely to their
+stock at Laramie, and placed about twenty thousand dollars' worth of
+goods at Benton City.
+
+According to the agreement, he was required to forward money whenever
+the sales had reached a stated sum at each point, and was given
+authority to take charge of goods or moneys on hand at any of the less
+important stations, when convinced that things were being run loosely,
+or whenever it in any way appeared for the interests of the firm for him
+to do so.
+
+It will be seen that under this arrangement, which was in every respect
+injudicious, no security having been given by Taylor, he immediately
+became possessed of great responsibility, as well as power; but appeared
+to appreciate the unusual confidence reposed in him, and conducted the
+business of Kuhn Brothers with unusual profit to them and credit to
+himself. Matters progressed in this way for some time, when suddenly,
+about the first of October, the firm at Cheyenne began to receive
+dispatches from different employees along the road, inquiring when
+Taylor was to return from Cheyenne, and intimating that business was
+greatly suffering from his absence. The members of the firm were
+astonished. They knew nothing of Taylor's being in Cheyenne. On the
+contrary, their last advices from him were to the effect that he should
+be at their city on the tenth of that month, with large collections; and
+the announcement was accompanied with glowing accounts of the prosperity
+of their business under his careful management.
+
+After the startling intelligence of Taylor's unaccountable absence, a
+member of the firm immediately left for Laramie, Benton City, and other
+points, to ascertain the true condition of affairs, still unable to
+believe that the handsome, chivalrous captain had wronged them, and that
+everything would be found right upon examination of matters which was
+immediately and searchingly entered upon; but the first glance at
+affairs showed conclusively that they had been swindled, and it was soon
+discovered that he had gathered together at the stores under his own
+charge, and at different points along the line, under various pretexts,
+fully fourteen thousand dollars, and had been given two weeks in which
+to escape.
+
+Mr. Kuhn did not desire to give the case into my hands on that morning;
+but explained that he had returned from a fruitless trip to Philadelphia
+in search of his former superintendent, and had been advised by a
+telegram from his brothers to lay the case before me and request my
+advice about the matter; at the same time securing information about the
+probable pecuniary outlay necessary for further prosecution of the
+search, and such other items of information as would enable him to
+counsel with the remainder of the firm concerning the case, and be able
+to give the case into my hands, should they decide to do so, without
+further delay.
+
+This was given him; and I, in turn, secured from Mr. Kuhn all the
+information possible concerning Taylor, which was scant indeed, as they
+had seen very little of him, could give but a very general description
+of the man, and here they had injudiciously given him over two months'
+start, during which time he might have safely got to the other side of
+the world.
+
+Only one item of information had been developed by which a clue to his
+whereabouts could by any possibility be imagined. He had often spoken to
+Mr. Kuhn in the most glowing terms of life in both Texas and Mexico, as
+he had passed, so he had said, a portion of a year in that part of
+America, since the close of the war, and in connection with the subject,
+he had stated that he should have remained there had he been supplied
+with sufficient capital to have enabled him to begin business.
+
+This was all; and I dismissed the swindled merchant with little
+encouragement as to the result of a chase for a thief who had got so
+much the advantage, or, rather, intimated to him that though I had no
+doubts of being able to eventually catch him, it would be rather a poor
+investment for the firm to expend the amount of money which might be
+necessary to effect his capture, unless, in looking into the matter
+further, I should be able to see opportunities for securing much better
+knowledge as to his present whereabouts, or clues which could be made to
+lead to them.
+
+With this not very cheering assurance, Mr. Kuhn returned to Cheyenne.
+
+Not hearing from the firm for several days, I finally dismissed the
+matter entirely from mind; but on arriving at the agency one morning, I
+received instructions from the Cheyenne firm to proceed in the matter,
+and with all expedition possible endeavor to cage the flown bird for
+them.
+
+I at once detailed William A. Pinkerton, my eldest son, and at present
+assistant superintendent of my Chicago agency, to proceed to Cheyenne,
+and look over the ground thoroughly there, and also, if necessary, to
+proceed along the line of the Union Pacific, and, after ascertaining who
+were Taylor's friends and companions, work up a trail through them,
+which would eventually bring him down.
+
+The latter course was not necessary to be followed, however, as on
+arriving at Cheyenne, with some little information gleaned from the
+firm, he was able to ascertain that a young lawyer there named La
+Grange, also originally from the South, had been a quite intimate friend
+of Taylor's--so much so, in fact, that La Grange had for the last six
+months regularly corresponded with the Captain's sister, who had been
+described to him as not only an exceedingly beautiful woman, but as also
+a lady possessed of unusual accomplishments and amiability.
+
+My son "cultivated" La Grange largely, but could secure but little
+information through him. He seemed to know nothing further concerning
+either Taylor or his family, save that he had incidentally met him along
+the line of the Union Pacific; they had naturally taken a sort of liking
+to each other, and in that way became friends in much the same manner
+that most friendships were made in that country. He further recollected
+that he had always directed his letters to a certain post-office box,
+instead of to a street number; but seemed perfectly mystified concerning
+the action of the brother. He had just returned from a three months'
+absence in Kentucky, and it was the first intimation he had had of the
+Captain's crime. La Grange also said that as he had been very busy, he
+had not written to Miss Lizzie (evidently referring to the sister), nor
+had he received any communication from her during that time. He had had
+a photograph of Harry, taken in full-dress uniform while stationed at
+Atlanta, which had been copied in Philadelphia, but a thorough search
+among his papers failed to reveal it.
+
+This was all that my son could secure, as La Grange, evidently
+suspecting that, in his surprise at Taylor's crime, he might say
+something to compromise himself and endanger Taylor or wound his
+beautiful sister, to whom he seemed greatly attached, positively refused
+to have anything further to say concerning the matter; and with what
+information he had, William returned to the hotel in a brown study,
+determined to take time to exhaust the material at Cheyenne before
+proceeding on the proposed trip along the Union Pacific.
+
+After summing up and arranging the points he had got hold of, he
+telegraphed me fully, adding his own impression that Taylor was in
+Texas, but expressing a doubt as to whether he had better proceed along
+the Union Pacific for more information, or go on to Philadelphia at
+once, and in some way secure information of the family as to their son's
+whereabouts.
+
+On the receipt of this telegram, which arrived in Chicago about noon, I
+at once resolved upon a little strategy, being myself satisfied that
+Taylor had proceeded, _via_ St. Louis and New Orleans into either Texas
+or Mexico, and was then engaged under his own or an assumed name, in
+some business agreeable to his taste, as formerly explained to Mr. Kuhn,
+and immediately telegraphed to my son:
+
+"Keep La Grange busied all day so he cannot write, or mail letters.
+Study La Grange's language and modes of expression. Get La Grange's and
+Taylor's handwriting, signatures, and Miss Taylor's address, and come
+next train."
+
+Agreeable to these instructions, he secured several letters from Taylor
+to Kuhn Brothers, concerning business matters, with the last one,
+containing the announcement that he would be in Cheyenne on the tenth of
+October with collections; and immediately sent by a messenger a
+courteous note to La Grange, desiring an outline of Taylor's life so far
+as he might feel justified in giving it, and requesting an answer, which
+was politely but firmly given in the negative over Adolph La Grange's
+own signature, which completed a portion of his work neatly.
+
+The balance was more difficult. He ordered a sleigh, and after settling
+his hotel bill, but reserving his room for the night, at once drove to
+La Grange's office, where he in person thanked him for his courteous
+letter, even if he did not feel justified in giving him the information
+desired. A little complimentary conversation ensued during which time my
+son's quick eyes noticed in the lawyer's waste-basket an envelope
+evidently discarded on account of its soiled appearance, addressed to
+"Miss Lizzie Taylor, Post-office Box ----, Philadelphia," which on the
+first opportunity he appropriated. The next move was to _prevent_ La
+Grange's mailing any letter, as it was evident he had written several,
+including one to Taylor's sister, which were only waiting to be mailed.
+
+Seeing that he had made a pleasant impression upon La Grange, who
+appreciated the courtesy of the call under the circumstances, and
+informing him that he had decided to make no further inquiries there,
+but was to proceed west on the following morning, he prevailed upon him
+to take a ride in his company about the city and its environs. In
+leaving his office, La Grange hesitated a moment as if deciding the
+propriety of taking the letters with him, or returning for them after
+the sleigh-ride; but evidently decided to do the latter, as he left
+them, much to my son's relief.
+
+The drive was prolonged as much as possible, and the outlying forts
+visited, where, having letters of introduction from myself to several
+army-officers stationed there, both he and his companion were so
+hospitably treated that the afternoon slipped away quickly, and the two
+returned to town evidently in high spirits. La Grange felt compelled to
+reciprocate as far as in his power, and billiards, with frequent drinks
+for the lawyer and a liberal supply of water for the detective, were in
+order until within a half hour of the eastern bound train time, when La
+Grange succumbed to an accumulation of good-fellowship, and on his own
+suggestion, as he "wash rising y'n'g 'torny y'know!" accepted the
+hospitalities of my son's room, at the Rawlins House, where he left him
+sweetly sleeping at a rate which would prevent the mailing of the
+letters he had left locked in his office for at least two days to come;
+as "rising young attorneys," as a rule, sober off in a carefully
+graduated diminishing scale of excesses of quite similar construction to
+the original.
+
+On the arrival of my son in Chicago, I immediately caused to be written
+a letter addressed to Miss Lizzie Taylor, at her post-office box in
+Philadelphia, of which the following is a copy:
+
+
+     "SHERMAN HOUSE, CHICAGO, Jan. 1868.
+
+     "MISS TAYLOR,
+
+     "MY DEAR FRIEND:--You know of my intended absence from
+     Cheyenne in the South. During that trip, I really never had
+     the time when I could write you so fully as I desired, and
+     even now I am only able to send you a few words. I am _en
+     route_ to Washington on business, and have now to ask you
+     to send the street and number of your father's house, even
+     if it is not a magnificent one, as you have told me, to my
+     address, at the Girard House, in your city, on receipt of
+     this, as I shall be in Washington but one day, and would
+     wish to see both you and your people without delay. I not
+     only greatly wish to see you for _selfish reasons_, which
+     our long and pleasant correspondence will suggest to you as
+     both reasonable and natural, but there are other good
+     reasons, which you all will readily understand when I tell
+     you that I met _him_ accidentally just before my return to
+     Cheyenne, and that I have a communication of a personal
+     nature to deliver. While not upholding him in the step he
+     has taken, I cannot forget that I am his friend, and he your
+     brother.
+
+     "In great haste,
+
+         "Your true friend,
+
+              "ADOLPH LA G----,
+
+     "P.S.--I leave here for the East this morning. Please answer
+     on immediate receipt.
+
+                                        A. L."
+
+
+
+This was posted on the eastern-bound train not an hour after my son's
+arrival from the West; and another note was written upon the back of an
+envelope which had passed through the mail, and had got a very much used
+appearance, and ran thus:
+
+
+     "FATHER OF LIZZIE:
+
+     "Treat Adolph well, you can trust him. Give him one of the
+     'photos' taken at Atlanta in my full-dress uniform; keep one
+     other of the same for yourselves; but destroy all the rest.
+     Have been so hurried and worried that I don't remember
+     whether I have said anything about photographs before. But
+     this is a matter of _imperative necessity_. Adolph will
+     explain how he met me.
+
+     "Good-by,
+
+     "H. ----"
+
+
+
+It was impossible to detect any difference between this handwriting and
+that of Captain Taylor's in his business correspondence to Kuhn
+Brothers; and, armed with this document, with the assistance of the
+epistolary self-introduction which had preceded it, I directed my son to
+leave for Philadelphia that evening, secure admission to Taylor's
+residence and the family's confidence, agreeable to the appointment made
+by mail, and thus not only secure the man's photograph, but other
+information that would be definite.
+
+On arrival at Philadelphia, he secured the services of an operative from
+my agency in that city, to follow any member of the Taylor family who
+might call for the letter, to their residence, in the event of an answer
+not being received at his hotel in due time from the one assumed to have
+been sent from the hotel in Chicago from La Grange, who found Taylor's
+home, an unpretentious house on Locust street, while my son remained at
+the hotel, fully expecting the coveted invitation to visit the Captain's
+beautiful sister, which arrived at his hotel only a half day after he
+did, and strongly urged him to call at his convenience.
+
+He was satisfied from this that our theory regarding his being in Texas,
+or Mexico, was correct; that the family had not the slightest suspicion
+of his identity, and that, wherever Captain Taylor might be,
+communication with his people had been very infrequent, and that, with
+what he would be able to invent after being received at Taylor's house,
+he could secure at least sufficient information to put him upon his
+son's trail. Not desiring to play upon their feelings and friendship as
+another person any longer than necessary, however, he sent word by a
+messenger, not daring to trust his own handwriting, that he would call
+that evening, though necessarily at a late hour; and, accordingly, that
+evening, about nine o'clock, found him at the door of a pleasant Locust
+street cottage, ringing for admission.
+
+A tall, handsome young woman greeted him at the door, and accordingly
+bade him enter, saying pleasantly, as she ushered him into the cozy
+little parlor, that she was Miss Lizzie Taylor, and presumed he was Mr.
+La Grange, with whom she had had so long and so pleasant a
+correspondence; and of whom "poor Harry," as she said with a shade of
+sadness and tenderness in her voice, had so often written, before he had
+made his terrible mistake, and become a wanderer.
+
+After hastily satisfying her that he was the genuine La Grange, and
+profusely apologizing for his not having written for so long a time
+previous to his arrival at Chicago, from Cheyenne, he took up the
+thread she had dropped, as quickly as possible, and said that he felt
+sure that Harry would retrieve himself soon, and return the money, as he
+had no bad habits, and everything would be all right again.
+
+"But yet, Mr. La Grange," she continued, "it makes me shudder whenever I
+think of all my brothers being away off there on the Rio Grande, among
+those terrible people!"
+
+"But, you must remember," he replied, encouragingly, "they are strong
+men, and can well defend themselves under any circumstances."
+
+"Harry is strong and brave, I know," answered Miss Taylor, rather
+admiringly; "but brother Robert is not fit for such a life. Why, he is
+but a boy yet."
+
+"Ah, a younger brother?" he thought, making a mental note of it, in
+order to assist in shaping his conversation after which he said aloud:
+"I almost forgot to give you this note;" and he took the piece of
+envelope out of his note-book, as if it had been sacredly guarded, and
+handed it to her.
+
+Miss Taylor read the hastily written lines with evident emotion; and
+after studying a moment, as if endeavoring to reconcile matters, while
+her face was being searchingly read by an experienced detective, she
+rose, and, apologizing to him for the absence of her father, who was in
+New York, on business, and of her mother, who was confined to her
+apartment, a confirmed invalid, she asked to be excused so as to show
+the note to her mother.
+
+The instant the door closed, my son had seized the album, which he had
+located during the preceding conversation; and rapidly turned its leaves
+to assure himself that he was not treading on dangerous ground. He found
+a half-a-dozen different styles of pictures of the Captain, including
+three of the copies taken in Philadelphia of the original Atlanta
+picture, and felt reassured beyond measure at the lucky turn things had
+taken. He would have abstracted one of these, but it was impossible, and
+had barely time to return the album to the table, and himself to his
+seat, when he heard the woman's step along the hall, and in a moment
+more she entered the room.
+
+
+III.
+
+Giving the door a little impulsive slam, as she closed it, Miss Taylor
+at once came to where my son was sitting upon the sofa, and seated
+herself beside him. She said that her mother was anxious beyond measure
+to learn how and where he had met Harry, how he was looking, and what he
+had said.
+
+The imagination and resources of the able detective are fully equal to
+those of the most brilliant newspaper reporters, and a pleasant and
+plausible fiction was invented, how he (as La Grange, of course), having
+taken a run from Louisville down to New Orleans, by boat, was just
+landing at the levee, when he suddenly came across Harry, who had
+hastily told him all; how great had been his transgression, how deeply
+he had regretted it; but that now he was situated in his business
+matters so that, if let alone, he would be able to return to Kuhn
+Brothers every dollar which he had taken, and have a fine business left;
+how it had been necessary for him to come to New Orleans on imperative
+business, and that he should not come east of the Mississippi again
+under any circumstances. He further said, that Harry seemed hopeful;
+that he had stated that his younger brother Robert was well and enjoying
+the frontier life; and that, further than that, he had no time or
+disposition to talk, as he was on the very eve of departure for Texas,
+only having time to write the little note concerning the photographs.
+
+Miss Taylor excused herself for a moment to convey the truthful
+intelligence to her anxious mother; and on her return suggested that
+they go through the album together at once, and attend to the
+photographs, an invitation which was accepted with unusual readiness.
+
+Every gentleman who has had the experience, and there are few who have
+not, know that looking over an album with a beautiful woman who has
+some interest in her companion, is a wonderfully pleasant diversion. In
+this instance it was doubly pleasant, for it meant success to my son,
+whose zeal is as untiring as my own when once on the trail of a
+criminal.
+
+"I wonder why," asked Miss Taylor, as if wondering as much about Mr. La
+Grange as about any other subject; "I wonder why Harry desires those
+photographs destroyed?"
+
+He was turning the leaves for her and, as La Grange, of course, had a
+perfect right to take plenty of time to explain the matter soothingly
+and sympathetically.
+
+"But do those horrid detectives track a man out and run him down, when,
+if he were let alone, he might recover from his misfortune, and right
+the wrong he has done?"
+
+Mr. La Grange remarked that he had heard that some of them were very
+much lacking in sentiment and sensibility, and would go right forward
+through the very fire itself to trace the whereabouts of a criminal; and
+all those little things helped, he could assure her.
+
+She began to see how it was, she said; but suddenly firing up, she shook
+her pretty fist at some imaginary person, exclaiming:
+
+"Oh, I could kill the man who would thus dog my brother Harry." And
+then, after a little April shower of tears, quite like any other woman's
+way of showing how very desperate they can be under certain
+circumstances, began slowly taking the Captain's pictures from the
+album, commenting upon them, and then handing them to the bogus La
+Grange to burn, who would occasionally step to the fire-place for that
+purpose, where he would quickly substitute miscellaneous business cards,
+which answered the purpose excellently.
+
+An hour or two was passed with Miss Taylor in conversation upon various
+topics which might lead the really estimable young lady to divulge all
+she knew about the Captain, or concerning his whereabouts and business,
+which was certainly not much.
+
+It appeared that, immediately after the embezzlement, and while at St.
+Louis, Taylor had telegraphed to his brother Robert to meet him at New
+Orleans at a certain time, as he was going into business in that
+section, and should need his services, for which he would be able to pay
+him handsomely; the brothers had met there and had proceeded to some
+other point; the Captain claiming that it would be injudicious to make
+that fact known, as he had also sent a full and complete confession to
+his parents of his embezzlement from Kuhn Brothers, which he had
+directed them to burn, and which he finished by requesting his family
+not to write to either himself or his brother for some time to come; or
+at least until he should indicate to them that it would be safe to do
+so; and under no circumstances to give any person an iota of
+information concerning himself or his brother.
+
+My son left Miss Taylor's hospitable home with a pang of regret for the
+deception which had seemed necessary in this case; for whatever may be
+the opinion of the public regarding the matter, a detective has often
+quite as large and compassionate a soul as men of other and apparently
+more high-toned professions.
+
+So long as intelligent crime is the result of a high standard of mental
+culture and a low standard of moral conscience--conditions which now
+exist and have for some years existed--intelligent minds must be trained
+to battle criminals with their own weapons; and these two questions, of
+speedy detection of crime and swift punishment of criminals will be
+found quite as essential to a preservation of law and society as lofty
+arguments or high moral dissertations on the right or wrong of the
+expediencies necessary to bring wrong-doers to immediate and certain
+justice.
+
+As soon as I had received a full telegraphic report of the success of
+the Philadelphia experiment, I directed him to proceed to Louisville,
+where he would be met by operative Keating, from Chicago, who would
+bring letters of introduction from myself to Colonel Wood, commanding
+the First Infantry at New Orleans; Captain White, chief of the detective
+force of that city; General Canby, commanding the Department of Texas,
+at Austin; Col. Hunt, Chief Quartermaster of the Department of Texas,
+and other army officers, requesting them to render my son and his
+assistant any aid in their power should the necessity for such
+assistance arise; the requisition from Governor Foulke, of Dakotah
+Territory, for Henry G. Taylor, upon Governor Pease, of Texas, and
+general instructions concerning his conduct of the search for the
+handsome captain after he had got beyond mail and telegraphic
+communication.
+
+I was sending him into a country which was at that time in many portions
+utterly unsafe for the securing of a criminal should the pursuer's
+mission become known, so as to allow the person desired time to apprise
+his friends of his danger, or give him even an opportunity to rally any
+number of acquaintances for defense; for the reason that, as Texas had
+become a sort of refuge for ruffians, they became clannish through the
+general peril of being pursued each experienced; and would, as a rule,
+on the slightest provocation, assist in the rescue of any person under
+arrest, not knowing how soon it might be their turn to cry for help; but
+I have invariably sent my sons into danger with the same expectation
+that they would do their duty regardless of consequences, as I have had
+when sending other men's sons into danger. Happily I have never mistaken
+their metal; and, in this instance, felt sure that I could rely upon him
+to exercise both discretion and intrepidity in exigencies to which his
+long experience and careful training have at all times made him equal.
+
+The two detectives met in Louisville, and at once proceeded to New
+Orleans, where they arrived early in the morning of the 7th of January,
+1868, and were driven to the St. Charles Hotel. No time was lost; and
+while my son presented his letters to different parties, and made
+cautious inquiries regarding the recent appearance in New Orleans of
+Taylor, Keating, in the character of a provincial merchant, investigated
+as far as possible the business houses dealing in stock, leather, or
+wool, as to whether any such person had made arrangement for
+consignments from the interior or seaport Texan cities. No trace of
+their man was found, however, until my son was able to get at the
+register of the St. Charles Hotel for the preceding three months, which
+was attended with some difficulty, on account of the crowded condition
+of things at that house; and any detective, or other expert, will
+understand how much time and patience are required to discover one
+signature from among ten thousand, when that one may be an assumed name,
+and perhaps five hundred of the ten thousand be so similar to the one
+sought, that a disinterested person could scarcely be convinced it was
+really not the person's handwriting desired; but after a good deal of
+trouble and searching, the names of "H. G. Taylor & clerk," were
+discovered on the last half line at the bottom of a page under date of
+November 30th, 1867, which, by constant wear and thumbing in turning
+pages, had been nearly defaced, but which, in his handwriting, beyond a
+doubt told the story of their presence.
+
+Further inquiry of the clerk on duty at that time, and with his memory
+refreshed by a glance at Taylor's photographs, developed the facts that
+he had certainly been at the St. Charles on the date shown by the
+register, and that he was accompanied by a young man about nineteen
+years of age, who was recognized as Taylor's clerk.
+
+The peculiar register then kept at the St. Charles Hotel in New Orleans
+was also instrumental in assisting the detectives. It gave the guest's
+name, residence, hour of arrival, and hour of departure, with name of
+conveyance at arrival and departure, in the following manner:
+
+    _H. G. Taylor and Clerk, | Mobile, | 12 m. | Ped.
+    2 Dec. | 7 a. m. | 'Bus._
+
+This told anybody curious about the matter that H. G. Taylor and clerk,
+assuming to reside in Mobile, arrived at the St. Charles Hotel, New
+Orleans, at noon on Saturday, the thirtieth day of November, 1867,
+either afoot or by some mode of conveyance unknown to the clerk of the
+house, and that they left the house in an omnibus at seven o'clock on
+the morning of the third day following.
+
+Naturally the next inquiries were directed to ascertaining to what boat
+or railroad lines omnibuses could be ordered at that hour of the
+morning; if to different ones, then to discover who had driven the
+particular omnibus which conveyed Taylor and his brother from the hotel;
+and then make an effort to learn to what point they had been conveyed.
+This, however, proved less difficult than had been feared; for it was
+found that on the morning in question the omnibus had gone from the
+hotel to but one point, and that was to the ferry connecting with
+Berwick Bay route, by the New Orleans and Opelousas Railroad and the
+Gulf, to Galveston, although a large number of passengers had been
+booked, and it was impossible to ascertain whether Taylor and his
+brother had actually gone that route or not, though everything was in
+favor of that presumption.
+
+The death of General Rosseau had caused quite a commotion in New
+Orleans, and it seemed a pretty hard matter to get anything further of a
+definite character in that place; and I therefore instructed my son and
+detective Keating to proceed slowly to Galveston, stopping at Brashear
+City, where Taylor might have diverged,--supposing he had taken that
+route with the other passengers from New Orleans,--and to particularly
+search passenger lists aboard any lines of boats, and all hotel
+registers, before arriving at Galveston, so as to have the work done
+thoroughly nearest the base of operation; as I knew that for any party
+to get on the wrong scent in that vast state, thinly settled as it was,
+with no means of quickly conveying needful intelligence, was to enter
+upon both a needless waste of money for my patrons, and an objectless
+and wearying struggle against insurmountable obstacles for my
+detectives, whom, whatever may be said to the contrary, I have never in
+a single instance needlessly or injudiciously exposed to privation or
+danger.
+
+In Brashear conductors of trains were applied to; the hotel and omnibus
+men were questioned, the postmaster was appealed to, and even the
+passenger-lists of the boats which had been in port, and to which they
+were able to gain access for a period of three months, had been searched
+in vain. Every trace of the man seemed lost; and I was appealed to for a
+decision as to whether they should proceed to Galveston by boat, with
+the presumption that Taylor had taken passage under an assumed name, or
+take a few days' trip up along the line of the New Orleans and Opelousas
+Railroad and seek for information of their man at different points
+through Central Louisiana.
+
+I decided on the former course, and they accordingly embarked from
+Brashear immediately after the receipt of my telegram of instructions,
+on the handsome steamer "Josephine," the only boat whose books they had
+had no opportunity of examining; and, having received my telegram but a
+few minutes before the steamer left, were obliged to do some lively
+running to reach it; for, in anticipation of a message from me to take
+that route, my son had directed Keating to settle the hotel bill, and
+with both valises in hand wait at a convenient corner, where, should
+William receive a dispatch from me of the character expected, within a
+certain time, they might yet make the boat. Everything transpiring as my
+son had hoped, they were just in time, after a lively run, to be hauled
+up the gang-plank by two stalwart negroes, and were soon steaming down
+the bay and thence out to sea.
+
+
+IV.
+
+As the two ascended to the cabin they were congratulated by the officers
+of the boat and many of the passengers on their graceful and expeditious
+boarding of the steamer; and being something of objects of interest on
+account of the little incident, they concluded not to lose the
+opportunity to blend the good feeling evoked into a thoroughly pleasant
+impression, and consequently took the shortest way to accomplish that
+desired end by at once walking up to the bar where the assembled
+gentlemen, to a man, apparently in compliance to general custom, seemed
+to understand that they had been invited before a word had been uttered
+by either of the detectives, so that when my son asked, "Gentlemen,
+won't you join us?" it was an entirely superfluous request; for on
+either side, behind, and extending a solid phalanx beyond, the
+"gentlemen" had already joined and were describing the particular liquor
+that in their minds would do honor to the occasion in the most lively
+and familiar manner possible, and interspersing their demands upon the
+leisurely bar-keeper with such remarks as "Gen'lemen had narrow 'scape;"
+"Gen'lemen made a right smart run of it;" "Gen'lemen not down from
+Norlens (New Orleans), reckon come down Opelousas route," and other
+similar comments; but invariably prefacing each and every remark with
+the stereotyped word "Gen'lemen," which men were, without exception,
+assumed to be in that country at that time, at least in conversation; as
+any neglect to preface a remark with the word laid one liable to become
+immediately engaged in a discussion regarding the propriety of the use
+of the term, behind navy revolvers, rifles, double-barreled shot-guns,
+or any other available pointed or forcible means of argument.
+
+After the thirst of the crowd, which upon a Gulf-coasting steamer is
+something terrible to contemplate, had been in a measure assuaged, my
+son excused himself, and with Keating repaired to the office, remarking
+to the clerk:
+
+"I presume you would like to transact a little business with us now?"
+
+"Any time to suit your convenience," returned the clerk, but getting at
+his books with an alacrity which showed that he would be a little more
+willing to attend to the matter of fares then than at any other time.
+
+William handed him an amount of money large enough to pay for both the
+fares of himself and Keating from Brashear to Galveston; and, while the
+clerk was making change, said, by way of getting into conversation with
+him, "I'm afraid we're on a fool's errand out here."
+
+The clerk counted out the change, inked his pen to take the names, and
+then elevating his eyebrows, although not speaking a word, plainly
+asked, "Ah, how's that?"
+
+"Well, you see," replied the detective, "we're hunting a man that's had
+right good luck."
+
+"He can't be in these parts," replied the clerk, with a slightly
+satirical smile. "Names?" he then asked.
+
+"James A. Hicks and Patrick Mallory."
+
+"Where from?"
+
+"Pittsburg."
+
+"Which is which?" asked the clerk, in a business tone of voice.
+
+"I am Hicks, and that pretty smart-looking Irishman by the baggage-room
+is Mallory," was the reply.
+
+"Your age and weight?" asked the clerk mechanically, at the same time
+looking at my son keenly, and getting the rest of his description at a
+glance.
+
+These questions were properly answered, and as the clerk was noting them
+he asked, "Might I ask what was the gentleman's good luck?"
+
+"Certainly; he has fallen heir to a coal mine in Pennsylvania, and we
+are endeavoring to hunt him up for the executors of the estate."
+
+"Ah?" said the clerk, driving away with his pen; "will you be so good as
+to ask Mr. Mallory to step this way?"
+
+My son stepped up to Keating and remarked aloud, "Mr. Mallory, Mr.
+Mallory, the clerk would like to see you;" and then as Keating stepped
+to his side, remarked as if for his better information, "He knows your
+name is Patrick Mallory and that we are from Pittsburg, hunting Taylor,
+so he can come home and enjoy the property the old man left him; but he
+wants your entire description."
+
+"Quite so," said the quick-witted Irishman, dryly.
+
+"You've got me, now," said Keating, winking familiarly at the clerk,
+"when we came over we went under; and so many of us was lost that those
+saved wasn't worth mendin' as to age, ye see; but concerning heft, why
+I'd not fear to say I'd turn an honest scale at a hundred an' sixty."
+
+The clerk smiled, but concluded not to ask Mr. Mallory from Pittsburg
+any more questions.
+
+As soon as he had made his notes, however, William told him that he had
+examined the lists of all other boats plying between Brashear and
+Galveston save those of the "Josephine," and requested him to look
+through them, concluding by describing Taylor, and stating that he might
+register either as H. G. Taylor and clerk, or under an assumed name, as
+he was somewhat erratic, and through family troubles, not necessary to
+explain, he had got into a habit of occasionally traveling _incognito_.
+
+The clerk readily complied with his request, scanning the pages closely,
+and repeating the name musingly as if endeavoring to recall where he had
+heard it. By the time he had got on with the examination of a few pages,
+William had selected a photograph of Taylor, and on showing it to the
+clerk the latter seemed to have a certain recollection of having seen
+him, but a very uncertain recollection as to where, or under what
+circumstances. He went on repeating the name, however, turning back the
+pages with his right hand and tracing the names back and forth with the
+index finger of his left hand, occasionally looking at the photograph as
+if to assist in forcing a definite recollection, but without any result
+for so long a time that Messrs. Hill and Mallory of Pittsburg became
+satisfied that their last hope before arriving at Galveston was gone,
+when suddenly the clerk carelessly placed the picture beside a certain
+name and in a manner very similar to a dry-goods clerk on securing a
+successful "match," in two pieces of cloth, quietly remarked:
+
+"Yes, can't be mistaken. There you are; I've got him."
+
+"Then _we've_ got him!" exclaimed my son, in the excess of his
+gratification, shaking the hand of Mr. Mallory, from Pittsburg.
+
+"It's a joy," said the latter, beaming.
+
+"Think of the immense property!" continued my son.
+
+"And the surprise to his friends!" murmured Keating.
+
+"The surprise to himself, I should say," interrupted the clerk.
+
+"Quite so," said Mr. Keating.
+
+It appeared that Taylor and his brother had missed one or two boats at
+Brashear from some cause, but had finally taken passage on the
+"Josephine," November 7th; and as the detectives had not been able to
+ascertain whether the "Josephine" had carried the fugitives or not, on
+account of her being belated by adverse weather, and was now returning
+to Galveston, after having had barely time to touch at Brashear, they
+had felt that perhaps they might be upon the wrong trail, which, with
+unknown adventures before them, had been peculiarly discouraging; so
+that now, when they ascertained that his apprehension was only a
+question of time and careful work, they could not repress their
+gratification.
+
+Nothing further worthy of note transpired on the voyage from Brashear to
+Galveston, save that the trip was a pretty rough one, and they finally
+arrived in the latter city, hopeful and encouraged, notwithstanding the
+unusually dismal weather, which seemed to consist of one disconnected
+but never-ending storm, the "oldest inhabitants" of the place contending
+with great earnestness that "it 'peared like's they'd never had nothin'
+like it befoah!"
+
+Arriving in Galveston early Sunday morning, they went to the Exchange
+Hotel, and after breakfast set about examining the hotel registers of
+the place, ascertaining that Taylor and brother had been in the city,
+stopped a day or two, and then, so far as could be learned, had gone on
+to Houston. They were satisfied he had made no special efforts to cover
+his tracks, although he had not made himself at all conspicuous, as the
+difficulty encountered in getting those who would be most likely to
+recollect him, to recollect him at all, clearly showed; and it was quite
+evident that he had not anticipated pursuit, at least of any nature
+which he could not easily compromise, and intended going into some
+legitimate business under his own name, and with his brother's
+assistance.
+
+Before he could be arrested in Texas, however, it would be necessary to
+secure Governor Pease's warrant, which obliged a long, tedious trip to
+Austin, the capital of the State; nearly the whole distance having to be
+done by stage, which at that time seemed a forbidding piece of work, as
+it had rained every day of the year, so far; and it might be a question
+of helping the stage through rather than being helped through by it.
+Besides this, according to my son's reports, which gave a true
+description of things in Texas at that time, everything beyond Houston
+had to be paid for in gold, as sectional sentiment and counterfeiting
+had pronounced a ban upon greenbacks, and not only in gold, but at
+exorbitant prices; hotel rates being five dollars per day; single meals
+from one to two dollars; railroad fares eight cents per mile, and stage
+rates nearly double that amount; with no assurance that you would ever
+reach a destination you had paid to be conveyed to; all attended by
+various kinds of danger, among which was the pleasant reflection that
+you might be called upon at any time to contribute to the benefit of
+that noble relic of chivalry, the Ku Klux Klan, who at that day were
+particularly busy in Texas.
+
+All of these pleasant considerations made the departure from Galveston
+for Austin, in a Pickwickian sense, unusually agreeable.
+
+At Houston they discovered from different persons, including the
+postmaster, that Taylor had been there, but had made inquiries about
+points further up country; and the general impression was that he had
+gone on, though at Brenham, the terminus of the railroad, where they
+arrived Monday evening, they could find no trace of him.
+
+The next morning, when my son arose and looked on the vast sea of
+mud,--a filthy, black earth below; a dirty, black sky above; with
+nothing but driving rain and wintry gusts between; while the
+lackadaisical Texans slouched about with their hands in their pockets,
+with only energy enough to procure tobacco or "licker;" their sallow
+faces, down-at-the-heels, snuff-dipping wives desolately appearing at
+the doors and windows, only to retire again with a woe-begone expression
+of suspended animation in their leathery faces,--he fully realized the
+force of the remark attributed to General Sheridan, and more expressive
+than polite: "If I owned Texas and hell, I would live in hell and sell
+Texas!"
+
+The stage was crowded, however, and the dreary conveyance splashed and
+crunched on until noon, when dinner was taken at Wilson's Ranche, a
+long, low, rambling, tumbledown structure, which, like its owner, who
+had at one time been a "General" of something, and now retained the
+thriving title out of compliment to his departed glory, had gone to a
+genteel decay with a lazy ease worthy of its master's copy. The dinner
+was one long to be remembered by the detectives, as it was their first
+genuine Texan dinner, and consisted merely of fat boiled pork, and hot
+bread of the consistence of putty cakes of the same dimensions, which,
+when broken open after a mighty effort, disclosed various articles of
+household furniture, such as clay pipes, old knife handles, and various
+other invoices, probably playfully dumped into the flour barrel by some
+one of the half-score of tow-headed, half-clad children, which the
+"General" and his buxom helpmeet had seen fit to provide for torturing
+another generation with rare Texan dinners at a dollar a plate.
+
+It was an all-day's labor getting to La Grange, but thirty-five miles
+from Brenham, where they arrived at ten o'clock, tired and exhausted
+from the day's banging about in the stage and out of it, for they were
+obliged to walk many times in order to rest the jaded horses so that
+they could get through to La Grange at all; but before retiring made all
+the inquiries necessary to develop the fact that their man had not been
+at that point.
+
+The next day, Wednesday, was rather more trying than the previous one.
+Two miles out of town the stage got "bogged," and the entire load of
+passengers were obliged to get out and walk through three miles of
+swamps, the stage finally sticking fast, necessitating prying it out
+with rails. After this Slough of Despond was passed, the Colorado river
+had to be forded three times, and then came a "dry run," which now, with
+every other ravine or depression, had became a "wet run," and was "a
+booming" as the drunken driver termed it between oaths. There was at
+least four feet of water in the dry run, and the horses balking, the
+buckskin argument was applied to them so forcibly that they gave a
+sudden start, and broke the pole off short, which further complicated
+matters. My son, being on the box, sprang to the assistance of the
+driver, and stepping down upon the stub of the pole, quickly unhitched
+the wheel horses, so that the stage could not be overturned, and then
+disengaged the head team, finally appropriating a heavy wheel horse,
+with which he rode back to Keating, who was perched upon a rear wheel to
+keep out of the water, which was rushing and seething below, sweeping
+through the bottom of the stage, and at every moment seeming to have
+lifted the vehicle preparatory to sweeping it away like feathers, and
+also holding on to the baggage, which he had got safely upon the roof of
+the stage; and, taking him aboard his improvised ferry, after securing
+the valises, rode to the muddy shore, forming with his companions about
+as fine a picture of despairing "carpet-baggers" as the South has ever
+on any occasion been able to produce. The bedraggled passengers
+ascertained that the next town, Webberville, was several miles distant,
+and that there was no house nearer, save on the other side of the
+rapidly rising stream; and as night had come on, the best thing that
+could be done was to penetrate the woods, build a rousing fire, and
+shiver and shiver through as long, wet and weary a night as was ever
+experienced.
+
+There was never a more longed-for morning than the next one, and the
+moment that the sickly light came feebly through the mist and rain, and
+straggled into the dense cottonwood trees, where the discouraged
+passengers had a sort of fervent out-doors prayer-meeting, they started
+forward for Webberville, hungry, drenched, and so benumbed as to be
+scarcely able to walk. It was five miles into town, but one mile of that
+distance stretched over a quagmire known and described in that section
+as "Hell's half-acre;" and the truthful inhabitants of Webberville
+related of this delectable ground that during the rainy season its
+powers of absorption were so great that it would even retain the
+gigantic Texan mosquito, should it happen to take a seat there.
+
+This bog was impassable to the travelers, who finally bartered with the
+owner of a hog wagon to be carried over the marsh for a silver half
+dollar each. This was far better than remaining on the other side, and
+they finally trudged into the town more dead than alive.
+
+Fortunately for the detectives, the brother of ex-Governor Lubbock, of
+Texas, was one of the party, and as they had all become so thoroughly
+acquainted, as common misery will quickly make travelers, he took my son
+and Keating to the residence of Colonel Banks, a merchant of
+Webberville, whose good wife never rested until she had provided the
+party with a splendid meal, something with which to wash it down, and
+beds which seemed to them all to have been composed of down.
+
+After they had a good rest, the passengers for Austin were got together,
+and explained the situation of things. The creek the other side of
+Webberville was a mighty river. The driver thought he could possibly get
+the stage across, but was certain he could not do so with any passengers
+or baggage to make it drag more heavily; but he thought that if once on
+the other side, they might get to Austin the same day. William was
+anxious to push ahead, and looking about town discovered a rather
+venturesome negro who owned a monstrous mule, and at once entered into
+negotiations with him for the transfer of the party and baggage, sink or
+swim. So when the stage arrived at the creek, the baggage was unloaded,
+and the stage successfully forded the stream. But as the water covered
+so broad an expanse, was so deep and rapid, and altogether presented
+such a forbidding appearance, the passengers refused to try the mule
+experiment unless William, who had proposed the mode of transfer, and
+had secured the novel ferry, which stood with the grinning negro upon
+its back ready for passengers, would first cross the Rubicon to
+demonstrate the convenience and safety of the passage. So, handing the
+captain one of the valises, he mounted the mule, which after a few
+whirls, a little "bucking," several suspicious sidewise movements, and a
+shouted "Ya-a-oop, da, Dani-el!--done quit dis heyah foolishness!"
+plunged into the current without further ceremony.
+
+The passengers saw that Dani-el and his master were up to a thing or two
+in that section of the country; and after seeing Keating cross the
+stream in safety also, they one by one ventured upon the transfer, which
+was finished without accident, but with a good deal of merriment; and
+the colored clown paid even beyond his contract price, the stage was
+enabled to go lumbering on to Austin, where it arrived at a late hour of
+the same day.
+
+
+V.
+
+Rain, drizzle and mist; mist, drizzle and rain. It seemed all that the
+country was capable of producing; and the same preface to the befogged
+condition of the English chancery courts used by Dickens, in his
+introduction to "Bleak House," with a few of the localisms expunged,
+would have fitly applied to the condition of things in Texas, which
+afterward culminated in a flood which swept everything before it.
+
+In Austin--though the seat of the State government and the headquarters
+of the military department of Texas, full of legislators, lobbyists,
+officers and soldiers, everything had the appearance of having been
+through a washing that had lasted an age, and had been prematurely wrung
+out to dry, but had been caught on the lines by an eternal rain day.
+Involuntarily, with the spatters and dashes of rain and the morning
+wind, Longfellow's "Rainy Day" came drifting into the mind, and the
+lines:
+
+    "The day is cold and dark and dreary;
+    It rains, and the wind is never weary;
+    The vine still clings to the mouldering wall,
+    While at very gust the dead leaves fall.
+        And the day is dark and dreary!"
+
+were never more appropriate than when applied to any portion of Texas
+during the months of January and February, 1868.
+
+The very first man my son met in the office of the hotel, the next
+morning, was a member of the Legislature from Besar county, who, hearing
+his inquiries of the clerk concerning Taylor, informed him that he had
+been introduced to him in San Antonio a few weeks previous; that he was
+in company with a much younger man whom he represented as his brother,
+and that he had ostensibly come to San Antonio to make some inquiries
+concerning the hide and wool trade; but whether with an idea of settling
+at that point, or whether he could yet be found in San Antonio, he was
+unable to state.
+
+In any event this was cheering news; for it assured my detectives that
+their long and weary search would not prove unavailing; and William
+directed Keating to make himself useful about the different hotels and
+hide and stock dealers,--as it is a detective's business to work all the
+time, and the slightest cessation of vigilance after the beginning of an
+operation might at the most unexpected moment cause the beginning of a
+series of circumstances eventually permitting a criminal's
+escape,--while he himself sought out General Potter, who escorted him to
+General Canby's headquarters, where he was most cordially received, and
+not only given an order for military aid, should it be required, but
+General Canby himself went with him to the capitol and introduced him to
+Governor Pease, vouching for the reliability of any statement made in
+connection with the business which had brought him so far from home; as,
+while I had charge of the secret service of the Government, during the
+war, with myself and sons had had an intimate acquaintance with, and
+personal friendship for him.
+
+Governor Pease frankly stated to William that the affidavits were rather
+weak, and that should some of the "shysters" of that state, who did a
+thriving business in _habeas corpus_ releases, get an inkling of his
+business and the nature of the papers, they might give him a deal of
+trouble, even if they did not get his man away from him eventually. He
+said he would make the requisition as strong as possible, however, and
+expressed his hope that the reputation for ingenuity in devising and
+executing expedients possessed by Pinkerton's men would be more than
+sustained in this instance; and General Canby terminated the interview
+by giving the document approval over his own signature.
+
+My son thanked them both for their kindness, and withdrew, only too
+anxious to get to where his man was before any information that he was
+being sought for should reach him, and either scare him beyond the Rio
+Grande, or enable him to act on the defensive, as only a man can act who
+has plenty of money, plenty of friends, and, as we already knew, a great
+plenty of bravery on his own account.
+
+Soon after he had returned to the hotel, Keating came in with undoubted
+information that Taylor had a permanent residence at or near Corpus
+Christi; that either he or his brother owned a sheep ranche near the
+coast, not far from that city, while the other dealt in hides and wool
+there; and that one or the other penetrated into the interior as far as
+San Antonio, soliciting consignments.
+
+My son at once concluded that it was the Captain who had done the
+dealing, as well as stealing, and whose money and business ability had
+been brought to bear upon the trading at Corpus Christi, and upon the
+ranche in the country near it; the brother, though probably entirely
+innocent of complicity in the robbery, or even a knowledge of the source
+from whence the money had come, only being used for a convenient
+repository for his ill-gotten funds in case of Kuhn Brothers following
+him before he was ready to meet them.
+
+He therefore decided to get through to Corpus Christi in the very
+shortest time in which the trip could be made _via_ New Braunfels, San
+Antonio, Victoria, and Port Lavaca, hoping that he might be able to pick
+him up along some portion of that route, as it was quite evident he made
+frequent trips in that direction; and, at whatever point he might be
+started, should he seem to be going much farther into the
+interior,--which would be improbable, as San Antonio at that time was
+quite a frontier city,--arrest him at once, and hurry him back to
+Galveston along the route he was already familiar with; but, should he
+be going toward the coast, to let him take his own course, keeping him
+well in hand until he had reached Corpus Christi or some other seaport
+city, and, waiting a favorable opportunity, arrest him and get him
+aboard a boat before he could recover from the surprise.
+
+Not a half hour before they left Austin, he fortunately met Judge Davis
+of Corpus Christi, who was there attending some political convention,
+and who gave him a letter to his law partner at home, should his
+services in any way be needed, as I had been of some service to him on a
+previous occasion; so that when my two detectives left Austin on the
+seventeenth of January, they felt perfectly satisfied of ultimate
+success, though the same terrible experiences as to staging were again
+encountered.
+
+It required the entire day to traverse the few miles between Austin and
+Blanco Creek, where they secured a sort of a supper; the Onion Creek and
+its branches having been waded and forded numberless times. At Manchell
+Springs, the stage pole being again broken, they were only able to
+proceed after improvising a tongue out of a sapling, chopped from the
+roadside with a very dull hatchet. At Blanco Springs a good rest was
+taken, and the driver, having the day's experience in his mind, objected
+to going further that night; but the detectives insisted that they had
+paid their money to be taken to a certain destination, and, as they had
+shown a disposition to more than earn their passage besides, no excuse
+for their detention should be offered.
+
+After a good deal of grumbling, fresh horses were got out, a new pole
+put in the stage, and the procession again took up its weary march over
+the then most horrible of roads, crossing the innumerable brooks and
+runs which now pushed torrents into York's Creek. All night long they
+slushed and splashed, and tramped and cursed; though the rain had ceased
+for a time, there was but little light from the sky, which seemed full
+of black heavy clouds ready to burst asunder, to again drench them and
+swell the torrents afresh. My son, Keating, and a man sent along from
+Blanco Creek, "took turns," trudging along ahead of the lead-team, and,
+with lanterns, picked out the way. Often they would be misled where the
+ground was so bad as to almost defy a passage over it, when the patient
+animals behind them, steaming from the toil of straining along with
+nothing but an empty coach, would stop, as if guided by a keener
+instinct, where they would quietly remain until the united search of the
+three men had discovered the road, when the intelligent creatures
+docilely plodded along again.
+
+And so, through seemingly bottomless quagmires; over corduroys, where
+the shaky ends of timbers, struck by a horse's hoof, would mercilessly
+splash those walking beside the useless vehicle, or, suddenly relieved
+from the weight of the ponderous wheel, would fly upwards to heave
+gallons of slime upon the coach; laboring around the bases of
+far-extending mounds of sandy loam; descending into unexpected and
+sometimes dangerous depressions, along creeks, and plunging into
+streams, where drift and changing, sandy bottoms always made it a
+question whether the coach could ever be got across; they marched only
+as Sherman taught soldiers to march, or as honest detectives will crowd
+all obstacles between themselves and their duty, and came with the gray
+of the morning to the beautiful, forest-shaded Guadaloupe.
+
+Fording this river without nearly the trouble presented at some of the
+petty runs and creeks which had been passed, they came to New Braunfels
+with the sun, which had shown itself for the first time since their
+arrival in Texas, and which also shone upon the first city which had
+shown any of that wide-awake "go-aheaditiveness" and thrift so common to
+nearly all northern cities.
+
+The reason that New Braunfels differed so materially from the ordinary
+Texan towns lay in the fact that it was almost exclusively settled by
+Germans; and it was a welcome sight to the detectives to be able to
+enter a place where, from suburb to center, up and down long,
+finely-shaded avenues, it was plain to be seen that the most had been
+made of everything.
+
+From the pleasantest cottage of the extreme suburb, and past the more
+pretentious residences,--every home being provided with an exterior
+bake-oven, the same as in Germany, Pennsylvania, or portions of
+Wisconsin and Minnesota, to the shops, stores, hotels and public
+buildings, every yard, in many instances, fenced with stone gleaned and
+cleaned from the soil, and, for that matter, every spot upon which the
+eye rested showed that thrift and not whisky-drinking ruled that place;
+and that fact alone entitles the little German city to respectable
+elevation from the obscurity which has heretofore surrounded it.
+
+As nothing at this point could be learned regarding Taylor, though
+leaving the town and its extraordinary attractions with some reluctance,
+they immediately proceeded to San Antonio, the roads to which place were
+quite passable, and arrived at that city Friday afternoon. I had
+telegraphed to Colonel Lee, of San Antonio, to hold himself in readiness
+to assist my son and Keating, on the score of personal friendship,
+whenever they might arrive there, not knowing, from the terrible
+condition of the roads, at what time it would be possible for them to
+reach that point, and he, being ignorant from what direction they might
+come, where they might stay, or under what name they might register, had
+caused an advertisement to be inserted in the San Antonio _Herald_, of
+which the following is a copy:
+
+     PERSONAL.--WHENEVER THE SON OF A. P., of Chicago, may arrive
+     in San Antonio, he will learn of something to his advantage
+     by calling upon Lieut.-Col. Lee, at the Mengler House.
+
+Keating's sharp eyes first saw the item at the supper table of the
+Mengler House, where they were stopping, and they both learned, by
+listening to the conversation about them, that the Colonel was sitting
+at the same table.
+
+After supper William made himself known to Colonel Lee without
+attracting attention, the latter kindly offering him any help needed,
+after which inquiries of a guarded character were instituted for the
+object of their search. The landlord of the Mengler House stated that
+Taylor had called upon him about three weeks before to inquire for
+letters; but as he was stopping elsewhere but little attention had been
+paid to him or his questions; all of which William had reason to believe
+absolutely true, on account of the strong corroborative testimony which
+would lie in the statement of any landlord that no civility was shown
+to a man who quartered at any hostelry save his own.
+
+The next morning he called upon Chief of Police, H. D. Bonnet, who
+extended every imaginable courtesy, went with him to the offices of the
+different stage-lines, and assisted in examining their lists for some
+time previous with a view to ascertaining what direction Taylor had
+taken when he left San Antonio; introduced him to the Mayor and Chief
+Marshal, and even went with him on an extended tour through the old
+Mexican quarter of the town; but no other information was secured save
+through the German landlady of a hotel, who was as positive as her
+limited knowledge of the English language would allow her to be, that
+Taylor had stopped at her house without registering at all, and had gone
+directly from San Antonio to Port Lavaca or Corpus Christi on horseback,
+which, after all, in the exceptional condition of the weather that year
+in Texas, seemed quite probable.
+
+It was evident nothing was to be gained by remaining any longer at San
+Antonio, and was quite as plain that all possible expedition should be
+used in getting on to the coast.
+
+As if the fates were ordained perverse, the moment the two left San
+Antonio a steady drenching rain again began to fall, and as the stage
+was crowded, the discomfort of those within could not very well be
+increased. About twelve miles from San Antonio the driver succeeded in
+tipping over the stage, and giving the occupants "an elegant mud varnish
+all over," as operative Keating aptly expressed it. The driver remarked
+that he was "going up the new road," but some of the more profane
+passengers swore that, if so, he was hunting it three feet under the old
+one. On arriving at Lavernia station the dismal announcement was made by
+the lean, long stage agent, who seemed to have never done anything from
+time immemorial save sit in the door of his tumbledown hovel to make
+dismal announcement that "the Cibolo (pronounced there 'C'uillou') is
+just a scootin' and a rippin' up its banks like a mad buffler bull!
+ye'll all be back to stay at my tavern all night."
+
+It was the contemplation of this man's pure cussedness, as he sat there
+doting on the big bills he would charge when the Cibolo should drive
+back a stage load of hungry travelers, that nerved them to push on at
+all hazards and attempt a crossing at some point where the Cibolo
+"scooted and ripped up its banks" with less ardor than across the
+regular route to Victoria; but on reaching Southerland Springs, seven
+miles distant, it was found that it would be necessary to wait until
+Thursday morning, when they might possibly make a passage, as the stream
+was running down to within something like ordinary bounds very fast.
+
+Thursday afternoon came before an attempt to ford the stream was made,
+when the driver agreed to land the passengers in the middle of the
+stream on an immense fallen tree, from which point they could reach the
+other side, when they might be able to get the empty stage across also.
+
+The trial was made, and was successful so far as landing the passengers
+was concerned, but while this was being done the wheels of the coach
+sank deeper and deeper into the mucky bed of the stream, and though but
+a few minutes had elapsed, the strange action of the water had caused
+deposits to form about the coach so rapidly that it became firmly
+imbedded, and could not be moved by the four horses attached. At this
+juncture an old farmer came along, who carried the evidences of some of
+his propensities strongly marked in his face, which was a thin one, like
+his conscience, but with bright tips on his cheek bones and as red a
+nose as ever the devil-artist in alcohol tipped with crimson. No
+importunities or amount of money could prevail on him to assist the
+discouraged travelers with his fine mule train; but a pint of good
+whiskey, to be delivered the moment the stage had been drawn from its
+peril, with a small drink by way of retainer, accomplished what would
+not have been done in any other manner, and set the travelers joyfully
+on their way again. They journeyed on at a snail's pace until one
+o'clock Friday morning, when they arrived at Kelly's ranche, kept by
+Bill Kelly, uncle of the "Taylor boys," notorious for their connection
+with the Ku Klux and various other gangs of villainous desperadoes.
+
+The family were unceremoniously awakened, and at once good-humoredly
+proceeded to provide the ravenous passengers with something to eat;
+after which they made a "shake-down" on the floor, into which substitute
+for a bed everybody turned, and slept late into the morning, awakening
+stiff in every joint and scarcely able for that day's journey, which,
+with its complement of accidents and delays, took them safely over
+Esteto creek and into Yorktown early in the evening, where the
+detectives secured certain information that Taylor had been in Corpus
+Christi the week previous, and was undoubtedly there at that time, as
+Texas by this time had become a net-work of resistless streams, almost
+impassible quagmires and far-reaching lagoons.
+
+
+VI.
+
+Late the next morning they left Yorktown, having taken on a passenger of
+no less importance than ex-Confederate Governor Owens, of Arizona. He
+was a pleasant, voluble old fellow, and my son at once fell in with his
+ways, and treated him so courteously that it perhaps averted a greater
+disaster than had at any previous time occurred.
+
+Governor Owens was largely engaged in the Rio Grande trade of supplying
+frontier points with provisions and merchandise, and was just on his way
+to Indianola, on the coast, where he was to meet his Mexican freighters,
+comprising thirty wagons and carts, of all characters and descriptions,
+driven by the inevitable lazy Greaser. Even as late as the same period,
+1867-8, a vast amount of freighting was done between St. Paul,
+Minnesota, and Fort Garry, Manitoba, in the famed Red River carts,
+driven by the inevitable, lazy half-breed.
+
+William, knowing the position held by Governor Owens during a portion of
+the war, and realizing that an ex-office-holder will never lose his
+tenderness for the political regime which made him titled, assumed to be
+a Mississippian, from Vicksburg, with an Irish acquaintance, on a trip
+of inspection through Texas, and, so far, terribly disappointed with the
+State.
+
+During those periods when, owing to the depth of the mud, the passengers
+were obliged to walk, they would fall behind or walk ahead of the stage,
+when they would chat pleasantly upon general subjects. On one of these
+occasions Governor Owens eyed his companion sharply a moment, and then
+asked:
+
+"Can I trust you, sir?"
+
+"Certainly."
+
+"On the word and honor of a gentleman?"
+
+"Yes, and an honest man, too," William answered.
+
+"I believe you; thank you. You know stages are robbed out this way?"
+
+"I do."
+
+"Did you ever see it done?"
+
+"No; nor have I any desire to be around on such an occasion," he
+replied, laughing.
+
+"I reckon you hadn't better, either," said the Governor earnestly. "It
+wouldn't make so much difference if they would do the work a trifle
+genteelly, in a gentlemanly way; but the fact is, we have low fellows
+along our Texas stage-lines. They have no regard for a man's family.
+Why," he continued, warmly, "they'll just pop out from behind the trees,
+or up through some clumps of bushes, ram a double barreled shot-gun,
+loaded to the muzzle with slugs and things, into the coach from both
+sides at once, and just blaze away--all that are not killed outright are
+scared to death. There's nothing fair about it!"
+
+William expressed his curiosity to know if the drivers were ever killed.
+
+"Drivers? Never, sir, never. Why, those ruffians are too smart for that.
+Let it be known that they have begun killing drivers, and there isn't a
+stage company in Texas that could send a coach past the first timber.
+They couldn't afford to kill stage-drivers, for the moment they began
+it, that would be the end of staging."
+
+My son expressed his thanks at learning so much of the business
+principles of these land pirates, and the old gentleman continued:
+
+"You see, it takes a peculiar kind of a driver for a Texas coach. You
+want one, first, that can drink right smart of whiskey, for the water
+isn't good along some of these branches. You want one that can swear a
+hoss's head square off, too. He's got to be a coward, or he would help
+put this robbing down; and yet, he has got to be rather brave to drive
+right along up to a spot where he knows he is to see his passengers
+butchered! and that," continued the Governor, earnestly, "is just what I
+want to talk to you about, as I feel sure that I can trust you."
+
+The Governor then explained to him that a certain member of the Ku Klux,
+whom he was sorry to say was too intimate with those roadside
+plunderers, had informed him that morning, just as he was leaving
+Yorktown, that preparations had been made to rob their stage at a point
+between Clinton and Mission Valley; and that he very much desired some
+organization among the passengers for defense, as he himself had upwards
+of thirty thousand dollars, to be paid out at Indianola, for goods, and
+to his freighters for wages.
+
+On the receipt of this alarming intelligence, my son took the
+responsibility of informing the rest of the passengers what might
+possibly be expected; and, as Governor Owens had six fine carbines,
+which he was also taking down to Indianola for the protection of his
+freighters on the Rio Grand, preparatory to any attack that might be
+made.
+
+About six miles from Mission Valley the stage route traversed a low
+piece of bottom-lands covered with timber, and a considerable growth of
+underbrush. A corduroy road had been built through the place, and as the
+coach was obliged to be driven slowly across it, the locality offered
+particularly fine inducements for a robbery of the character described
+by the Governor; so that the precaution was taken of walking along with
+the coach, three on either side, with carbines ready for instant use.
+
+Just before entering the timber, two men were seen prowling about, and,
+evidently fearing their actions might cause suspicion and frustrate the
+plan they had in view, made a great effort to appear to be two
+respectable hunters in search of only wild game; and, before leaving the
+timber at the other side, two more persons were seen, who, evidently,
+not having been given any signal, had come as near to the stage as they
+dared, to ascertain for themselves why their comrades had failed in
+their calculations; but skulked away after seeing the force which grimly
+trudged along, guarding the empty vehicle, into which the passengers
+were glad enough to climb when the danger was gone by, and be carried
+with sound bodies and whole pockets to the supper which had been some
+time in waiting when they reached Mission Valley.
+
+Dinner the next day was taken at Victoria, from which city William and
+Keating expected to be able to go by railroad to Port Lavaca, only
+twenty-eight miles distant. They were doomed to disappointment in this,
+as the railroad had been abandoned since the war, either the Union or
+Confederate soldiers having taken it up bodily and turned it upside
+down, like a gigantic furrow, from Victoria to the sea.
+
+After many years somebody had come along and turned it back; but to this
+day the steam-engine has never thundered over it again; the most that
+has ever been done having been to drag an occasional freight car over
+the road by the not peculiarly thrilling application of mule power; and
+so it was said a hand-car, worked by a gang of negroes, was used for
+transporting passengers, the trips being made back and forth whenever a
+load could be got, and not before.
+
+As they were obliged to remain for this new mode of conveyance, their
+time was entirely unoccupied, and they could not but have leisure to
+make something of a study of Texan life, as it then existed; and on
+Sunday afternoon were witnesses to one of those little episodes which
+sometimes make extremely lively certain periods that would otherwise
+remain humdrum and ordinary.
+
+The bar-room of the hotel had been crowded all day, and a good deal of
+liquor had been drunk, while there had also been a large amount of money
+lost and won over cards, so that there was that feverish, explosive
+condition of things which always follows large winnings or losses at
+games of chance, although there had as yet been no disturbance of a
+serious character.
+
+At one of the little gaming tables, John Foster, county clerk of
+Victoria County, and another person, named Lew Phillips, who had been
+one of the Andersonville prison-keepers during the war, but had drifted
+out to Victoria and had secured charge of a large livery-stable there,
+were engaged at a game of poker, when Foster was heard to quietly say:
+
+"See here, Lew Phillips, you stole that card!"
+
+"You're a liar!" was retorted, with an oath.
+
+The two men were up over the card-table in a twinkling, looking at each
+other, and both very white.
+
+"Apologize!" demanded Foster, still quiet, but with a terrible
+earnestness in his voice.
+
+"I don't do that sort of business, you white-livered coward!" shouted
+Phillips.
+
+Without another look or word, the two parted, one passing out one door
+and the other out of another, while the crowd in the hotel canvassed the
+matter as coolly as though there had been no difficulty worth
+mentioning, while a few quietly laid wagers on who would get the first
+shot.
+
+In about fifteen minutes more, Foster was seen returning with a
+double-barreled shot-gun, and Phillips, who had a wooden leg, came
+stumping up another street, with an immense navy revolver in his hand.
+It was noticeable that the space between the advancing men was made very
+clear, so that nothing should interfere with their sociability. In a
+moment more, Phillips had fired at Foster, and evidently hit him; for,
+as he was bringing his gun to his shoulder, his aim had been badly
+disturbed, and before he had time to fire, Phillips had fired again and
+wounded his man the second time. Foster now leaned against a porch
+column, desperately resolved to get a good aim,--his antagonist, all the
+while advancing, attempted to fire again, but missed this time, the cap
+refusing to communicate the deadly flash to the chamber of the
+revolver,--then there was a blinding flash from Foster's gun,
+accompanied by a thunderous report, and the two men fell almost
+instantaneously.
+
+Foster had discharged both barrels of his weapon, heavily loaded with
+buck-shot, at Phillips, the entire charge having entered his wooden leg,
+and sent him spinning to the ground, like the sudden jerk and whirl of a
+nearly spent top, the recoil of the gun also "kicking" Foster flat as a
+Tennessee "poor white's" corn pone.
+
+The "gentlemen" who had been looking on and quietly criticising the
+little by-play, now rushed forward and surrounded the combatants, the
+anxiety of each of whom was to be assured of the other's death; or, in
+case of his being alive, to have some one to be the immediate bearer of
+tender regards and profuse expressions of friendship; thus terminating
+satisfactorily to all parties what the chivalrous inhabitants of
+Victoria informed my detectives was called a "stag duel," the most
+common and effective method known for settling the little difficulties
+liable at any time to occur among gentlemen, the only conditions imposed
+by custom being that neither party shall offer to shoot in a crowded
+room, or be allowed to fire at his opponent unless he is also prepared,
+when other citizens who may be using the streets at those times withdraw
+from them as rapidly as consistent with the proprieties, when the
+occasion is immediately made interesting to the participants, who
+advance and fire upon each other as rapidly as a liberal practice in
+this and other "codes" of taking human life will permit.
+
+As the next sensation to a "stag duel" in Victoria was the arrival of
+the "train" from Lavaca, in the shape of the hand-car manned by four
+burly negroes, who with the original superintendent of the road had
+formed a soulless corporation with which nothing could compete, it was
+not long before the detectives had secured seats with four other
+passengers, making ten persons in all, to be conveyed twenty-eight miles
+on a broken-down hand-car over probably the most villainous excuse for a
+railroad ever known.
+
+The fare was six dollars in gold for each passenger, which might seem to
+have a shade of exorbitance about it when it was considered that the
+accommodations consisted of two very insecure seats, constructed over
+the wheels, upon each of which three persons might cling with a constant
+expectation of being jolted off by the unevenness of the road, or of
+falling off from sheer fatigue in endeavor to cling to the ramshackle
+boards beneath them.
+
+"All abo'd!" shouted the negro conductor, with all the style and unction
+of the diamond-pinned aristocrat of a New York Central train; and then,
+as the "train" started out of Victoria the passengers and the admiring
+lookers-on were greeted with the following song, tuned to the
+"Ra-ta-tat" of the wheels upon the rails, and sturdily sung, or chanted
+rather, by the jolly but powerful crew:
+
+    "Heave ho!
+    Away we go--
+      Winds may wait, or de winds may blow!
+    Heave ho!
+    Away we go--
+      For to cotch de gals at Lavac--o!"
+
+In the sense that this mode of traveling had the charm of novelty and
+the thrilling attraction of danger combined, it was a success. There was
+freshness and variety about it, too; for, whenever one of the negroes
+had "done gin out," the conductor would call for volunteers from among
+the passengers, and give the demand a peculiar emphasis by the remark,
+"Takes brawn 'n sinyew to pump dis hy'r train into 'vacca; 'n de' Lo'd
+never did make no men out o' cl'ar iron 'n steel!"
+
+The argument was so forcible that some one would work with the negroes
+while the "clean done gone" man and brother rested and meditated upon
+"catchin' the gals of 'vacca!" which the song brought out so feelingly.
+
+Besides this, new interest would be added to the excursion whenever the
+wind was favorable; for, stopping the car, a mast, to which a sort of
+"mutton-leg sail," as they termed it, would be attached; the conductor
+would brace himself and would lengthen or shorten the sail as was most
+judicious, and then the hand-car ship would speed along the billowy
+tract like a majestic thing of life for a mile or two, when the party
+were again forced into a realizing sense of the plodding nature of the
+means of transit, which, after all, at times became monotonous.
+
+On one of these occasions of momentary fair sailing and enthusiasm, they
+were also favored with a down grade of quite a stretch; and, as
+everybody was happy at the wonderful rate of speed acquired, while the
+negroes were singing snatches of songs in the gayest manner possible, a
+"spread" of the track let the car upon the ties, from which it leaped at
+one bound into the swamp, completely immersing several of its occupants
+in the muddy slime.
+
+No damage was done, however, as the spot where everything and everybody
+alighted was too soft to cause anything to be broken; and after righting
+the car, and repairing the disaster as much as possible, William and
+Keating safely arrived in Lavaca early in the afternoon, were at once
+driven to Indianola, where they cleaned up, including a most welcome
+bathing and shaving, at the Magnolia House; embarked on a little
+schooner carrying the government mail down the coast; were becalmed in
+Aranzas Bay, and late during the night of the twenty-seventh of January
+the light from a quaint seaport city danced along the waves of its
+beautiful harbor, and welcomed the worn-out but indefatigable detectives
+to Corpus Christi.
+
+
+VII.
+
+Going ashore, the two proceeded to a sort of hotel or boarding-house on
+the beach, where they found Judge Carpenter, formerly of Chicago, who
+had become district judge there, and who, on learning my son's name,
+inquired if he were not a relative of Allan Pinkerton the detective.
+
+He replied that he was very _distantly_ related, which was a literal
+truth at that time, when the Judge, claiming an acquaintance, proffered
+any assistance which might be desired, whatever his business. The
+courtesy was courteously accepted, but no questions were asked
+concerning Taylor.
+
+After breakfast the next morning, they strolled up-town with Judge
+Carpenter, when passing a Mr. Buckley's store, Keating, while catching
+step, took occasion to nudge my son, who carelessly looked into the
+place, as any stranger might, and there saw the object of his long
+search pleasantly chatting with one of the clerks; but they walked on
+quietly with the Judge as far as the post-office, when he kindly
+introduced them to another Mr. Taylor, the postmaster.
+
+After a few moments' pleasant conversation, William asked the postmaster
+if he could direct him to ex-Sheriff John McLane's residence. It proved
+to be but a block distant, but on inquiring there, it was ascertained
+that he was absent at his store, farther down-town. He was the only
+person in that city, besides Keating, whom my son felt that he could
+trust, as I had not only previously rendered him service, but also held
+him in the light of a friend; and he had already been requested by me to
+render him any service in his power, should William pass that way, so
+that he knew the first thing he should do was to go to him, explain his
+business fully and secure his immediate advice and assistance.
+
+Finding him, he told him that he did not feel justified in arresting
+Taylor unless the mail-boat in which he had arrived was, in some way,
+detained for an hour. McLane said he would attend to that, and brought
+Captain Reinhart to the store, but not telling him why the delay was
+desired, arranged for the same, and at once hunted up Sheriff Benson, to
+whom my son delivered the warrant and demanded the prisoner.
+
+Benson at first hesitated, expressing the utmost surprise, as Taylor was
+a fellow-boarder, and he could not realize, so he said, that he was
+other than a brave and chivalrous gentleman, and began to question the
+validity of the requisition, but William told him that there was the
+order of Governor Pease approved by General Canby, and that he did not
+propose to be dallied with or imposed upon in any manner.
+
+Seeing that my son had come too far and undergone too many hardships to
+be trifled with, he went with him to Buckley's store, where they found
+Taylor, who was given into the detectives' hands, though utterly
+astounded and completely unnerved at the idea that the strong hand of
+the law was upon him.
+
+In this condition, and before he could collect his scattered senses and
+decide to make a legal resistance, which would have caused my son a vast
+amount of trouble, if indeed it had not resulted in the liberation of
+the elegant swindler, he was placed on board the schooner.
+
+After they had left Corpus Christi behind, William began a system of
+soothing argument, with the end in view of convincing Taylor, who was
+now becoming nervous and restless, and evidently ashamed of being
+carried away so ingloriously, that it would be the best thing for
+himself, his brother, and even his people in Philadelphia, to go along
+quietly, without creating any disturbance, as, should he do so, he
+would treat him like a gentleman in every instance; but should he give
+him any trouble whatever he would be obliged to put him in irons, and
+not only treat him like a criminal, but would serve him roughly in every
+particular.
+
+Taylor saw that he was in my power, and that I had put two men after him
+who would have gone to Cape Horn for him, and that his only chance of
+escape lay in strategy.
+
+He had the perfect freedom of the boat, and, when he desired, chatted
+with the captain and the crew, who were not apprised by my son of the
+character of his new companion, and everything was done to make him
+comfortable.
+
+At first he kept entirely to himself, but of a sudden his manner changed
+entirely, and he became particularly pleasant, especially to the captain
+of the boat; and as they were nearing the little barren Saluria Island,
+at the entrance to Matagorda Bay, William accidentally overheard the
+captain say to Taylor, "The tide is high enough, and I will be able to
+run close to the island." This caused him to have no particular
+suspicion of Taylor, as the remark might equally apply to a hundred
+other subjects besides the one to which it did; but in a few moments
+after, he noticed the schooner, which had hugged the island pretty
+closely, now suddenly take a still closer tack, and rapidly neared the
+barren coast. Feeling alarmed lest the helmsman was not attending to
+his duty, my son yelled:
+
+"Captain, what under heaven do you mean? Don't you see that in another
+moment you'll have us beached?"
+
+He had scarcely uttered the words when Taylor was seen to spring into
+the waves, and then disappear, and the boat at the same moment stood off
+from the island, as if in obedience to the warning my son had given.
+
+The truth flashed into his mind in an instant: Here, after this hard,
+unremitting toil, the discomforts, the annoyances, the dangers,
+everything through which they had been obliged to pass, after their
+hopes for success, and after they had earned it--if two men ever had
+earned success--just when they were beginning to feel the pleasure of
+work well done, and be able to experience the genuine satisfaction it is
+to any man who is honest enough to acknowledge it, in securing the
+regard of the public for assisting in its protection, the commendation
+of one's employer for good sturdy care for his interests, and the
+self-respect one gains in doing one's duty, even if it has led him a
+hard life of it,--they were to be cheated and outwitted. Half crazed, my
+son, with anger and indignation, and a perfect flood of humiliating
+thoughts filled his brain in the first great question, "What was to be
+done?"
+
+His first impulse was to plunge in after him, and in pursuance of that
+impulse he had freed himself of his boots and coat, when, seeing Taylor
+rise to the surface and make but little headway against the tide, which
+was ebbing strongly, he call to the captain to round to, and began
+firing with considerable rapidity, so as to strike the water within a
+few feet of the man who was so unsuccessfully struggling against the
+tide, but whom he could not blame for making so brave and desperate an
+effort to free himself.
+
+He was provided with two magnificent English Trenter revolvers, which
+will carry a half-ounce ball a fourth of a mile with absolute accuracy;
+and as he could use it with great precision he could easily have killed
+the man in the water. Both the captain and Taylor were terribly scared,
+and as Taylor held up his hand, and yelled--"I surrender!" the balls
+were cutting into the water all about him savagely, and the captain
+shouted, "For God's sake, don't kill the man! Don't you see I'm rounding
+to?"
+
+Keating, who had been almost worn out from the Texas trip, had been
+sleeping in a bunk below, and who had been roused by William's firing
+and the strange motion of the schooner, now came on deck rather thinly
+clad, and the two detectives covered Taylor with their revolvers; while
+the captain, himself at the wheel, handled the schooner so that it was
+only necessary for him to keep himself above water in order to float
+with the tide against the side of the boat, when my son, rather too
+indignant to be particularly tender, grabbed him by the hair and his
+luxuriant whiskers, drew him aboard, and soundly kicked him into the
+cabin, where he began crying from excitement and fright, even going to
+such depths of discouragement that he begged for a revolver with which
+to kill himself, which being handed him by my son for that purpose, he
+very properly refused, and was put to bed for the purpose of drying his
+clothes like a truant school-boy.
+
+It was my son's intention to take the steamer at Indianola for Galveston
+immediately upon arriving at the former place; but on account of a heavy
+"Norther," which had blown all day Friday, the steamer had been obliged
+to put out to sea, and the party were consequently compelled to put up
+at the Magnolia House, and wait there until the following Monday; and it
+required all the detective's shrewdness to keep Taylor quiet, as he had
+learned from some source that the creation of Wyoming Territory, which
+occurred a short time before his capture, had caused Cheyenne to be a
+city of quite a different Territory than when the requisition was
+issued, which would have amounted to so grave a technical flaw that the
+requisition would not have held against a _habeas corpus_.
+
+Court had just set at the place, and Indianola was full of lawyers,
+hungry as vultures for just such a rich case; but by constant
+persuasions, partial promises, leading to a hope, at least, that a
+compromise might be effected at New Orleans, and dark hints of irons,
+and that, should his brother come on there and create any disturbance he
+would be immediately arrested as accessory both before and after the
+crime; with constant drives out into the country, rambles down the
+sea-shore, and every pretext known to the mind of the ingenious
+detective, everything was managed successfully; a receipt for nearly two
+thousand dollars in specie secured; the turning over of the money to
+Taylor's brother stopped; and Taylor himself taken to New Orleans
+without an attempt at rescue; and receiving a dispatch there from me to
+the effect that a compromise could not be for a moment considered, the
+party left that city Thursday, February 4th, arriving in Cheyenne six
+days later, my son accounting for his prisoner to the authorities into
+whose hands the case then passed; the last being seen of "Harry G.
+Taylor, the Man from Somewhere," being behind the bars of the
+guard-house at Fort Russell, where he had been placed for safe-keeping
+previous to his trial;--and I have related these facts, not so much to
+show any startling phase of crime, as to give the public a single
+illustration, out of thousands upon my records, of how men must overcome
+every known obstacle while leading the hard life of the detective.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Spy of the Rebellion, by Allan Pinkerton
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