ing to give the South her independence. They were
ready to force Lincoln to do this. A secret society, known as the Knights
of the Golden Circle, existed throughout the North, and was most numerous
in the states of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. The purpose of this society
was to resist the draft, encourage desertions from the army, embarrass the
government in every way possible, and if necessary resort to arms. Already
numerous small encounters had taken place between the Knights and the
militia of these states.

It was the boast of the Knights that they had a quarter of a million men
armed and drilled, ready to take the field. If a Confederate force would
only invade the North, their ranks would be augmented by these thousands.
It was to investigate these reports and find out the truth that Calhoun
was to be sent North.

CHAPTER XIV.

THE KNIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN CIRCLE.

No one was more surprised than Calhoun when told that he had been selected
to go North on a secret and most important mission.

"General Breckinridge and I have selected you," said Morgan, "because we
have confidence in your sagacity, bravery, and discretion. We know no one
better fitted to intrust this delicate, and perhaps dangerous, mission to
than yourself."

"But I am so young," said Calhoun; "while I gladly accept the honor which
I feel you have bestowed upon me, would not one older and more experienced
than I do better?"

"Your youth is one of the main reasons why we have chosen you," replied
Morgan. "A youth like you will not excite suspicion half as quickly as a
man."

"Then I am more than willing to go," answered Calhoun, "and trust that the
confidence you repose in me will not prove to have been misplaced."

"I have no fears on that score," answered Morgan; "I know that you will
succeed, if any one can."

The General then fully explained what was required of him. Calhoun
listened in silence.

"I think I fully understand what you want of me, General, but how am I to
approach these Knights of the Golden Circle? How am I to find out who are
Knights?"

"That has already been provided for," answered Morgan. "We are now ready
to initiate you into a camp of the Golden Circle."

"Does the order exist down South, too?" asked Calhoun, in surprise.

"Certainly, to some extent," was the answer. "If not, how could we know
the secrets of the order? You are willing, I suppose, to