His eyes filled; his whole soul was moved with compassion, while he half forgot that he himself was one of them.
How much were the consolations of God needed here! how few, comparatively, possessed them.

But some there were who did, and were trying to impart them to others.

Should he stay and share in this good work?
Perhaps he ought; he almost thought so for a moment; but he remembered his country's need; he had enlisted for the war; he must return to active service, if he could.
Then his eye fell upon Harold.

Here was a noble life to be saved; a life that would inevitably be lost to friends, relatives, country, by but a few weeks' longer sojourn in this horrible place.

Duncan's determination was taken: with the help of God the morning light should find them both free and far on their way towards the Union lines.
"We'll try it, comrades, to-night," he said aloud.
"So we will," they answered with determination.
A man came staggering towards them, gesticulating wildly and swearing horrible oaths.
"He is crazed with hunger, poor fellow," remarked Harold.
Duncan was gazing steadily at the man who had now sunk panting upon the ground, exhausted by his own violence.