"Is there any thing we can do for you ?" "Yes, ma'am," answered Frank.

"I am out on a scout with some of my men, and my provisions have given out.

I have taken the liberty to come here and see if I could not purchase some from you." "We are glad to see you," said one of the young ladies.

"I will have some food put up for you immediately; and you shall have a nice, warm supper before you go." "I am under obligations to you, madam," answered Frank; "but, really, I can not wait, for I am on the trail of some escaped Yankee prisoners; and, besides, I always make it a point never to fare better than the men I command." "I should like to have you stay," said the elderly lady, whom Frank set down as the mother of the girls; "but you know your duty better than we do.

I wish all of our officers were as careful of their men, and as devoted to the cause, as you are.