Dick's faith in the star of his country, shattered so often for the moment, began to rise that night and never sank again.
He fell asleep to the homely music of the frogs among the reeds, and slept without stir until nearly dawn.
Just as the first strip of gray showed in the east Colonel Winchester walked toward the spot where Dick and his comrades lay.

The colonel had not slept that night.

His fine face was worn and thin, but the blue eyes were alight with strength and energy.

He had just left a conference of high officers, and he came upon a mission.

He reached the three lads, and looked down at them with a sort of pity.