provoked by this view of the condition and resources of the North. "I
have talked with a great many Yankee soldiers, and they say that plenty
abounds in all the Northern States."

"They would tell you so. They are deceived by their officers."

"That's the way it is done," added the rebel sergeant, who had been
listening to the conversation.

"But I saw what rations these soldiers have. They live like lords."

"That's the very thing which will starve all the people in the North.
Their big armies will eat them out of house and home in a few months,
Allan."

"I think not, Mr. Raynes."

"A gentleman from New York, who got through the lines last week, says the
grass is a foot high in some of the streets of New York. The people can't
find anything to do, and are cursing their rulers for plunging them into
this horrid war."

"I think the gentleman from New York lied," replied Somers with a smile.
"I saw the New York papers every day while I was in the Yankee lines; and
they are full of advertisements, which look like business. Why, in one
paper I saw four columns of 'Wants,' in which people advertised for
farm-laborers, house-servants, clerks and sailors."

"Ah! Allan, those papers are printed to sell in the Yankee army. I'm sure
I hope they are not so badly off as has been represented. I should not
want my worst enemy to suffer what they are called upon to endure. It is
all their own fault; but I hope God will be merciful to them."

"I think you needn't feel bad about them," added Somers, amused, but
indignant at the pitiful stories which were circulated in the South to
keep up the courage of the people.

"Let that pass, then. Really, Allan, I am very glad to see you. You must
go to the house with me. Sue will be delighted to meet you. She talks
about you a great deal; and I can insure you a warm welcome."

"I think I cannot stop to call now; but I will try to come over in a few
days," replied Somers, embarrassed beyond measure at the idea of facing
Sue and the rest of the family.

"Not stop!" exclaimed Mr. Raynes, holding up his hands with surprise.

"Not now, sir; I am in no condition to appear before ladies," he added,
extending his arms so as to display his tattered garments to the fullest
advantage. "You know a young man is rather particular about his
appearance when he is going into the company of ladies, and especially
into the presence of _some_ ladies. The fact is, I tore my uniform all to
pieces after