Then he turned, hat still in hand, and glanced back.
"You may feel assured I will deliver your message, sir,--good-bye." * * * * * The broad hallway ran from the front of the house to the kitchen ell, and I could see its entire length.

Several men were clustered at the other end, peering out through the narrow panes of glass either side the front door, and one came running toward me.

It was the Irish sergeant.
"They're a-coomin', sorr--a bunch o' gray-backs.

Shud Oi hay' the byes let drive ?" "Not until I speak to them, Mahoney.

We'll give the fellows fair warning first." I hurried back with him, and a soldier stepped aside to give me opportunity to look out.