a ride up in the cars."

"Oh, very well! I can procure you a pass to Richmond," added the rebel.

"And an escort to attend us, I suppose," replied De Banyan with a smile.

"A small one; but here is the house where Captain Osborn lodges. If he
knows your friend here, and can vouch for his loyalty, all well; if not,
we shall not part two such loving friends."

Captain Osborn had not risen when the company of cavalry reached his
quarters; but he was called from his bed, and appeared in front of the
house in the worst possible humor; for, being human, he did not like to
have his slumbers disturbed by unseasonable calls. As Somers feared
Captain Osborn denied all knowledge of the prisoners, except so far as
related to his interview with them during the night. He had never seen
either of them before; and he even took the trouble to add that he didn't
believe the young fellow was a pilot, which was gratuitous and uncalled
for on his part.

"Well, Marvel," added the cavalry officer rather coldly, "this business
is settled very much as I supposed it would be. I shall have to send you
up to Richmond, where, if your stories are all true, I doubt not you will
be able to clear yourself."

"Thank you, captain. You are the same affectionate fellow you used to be
when you were a lieutenant in the Third Tennessee," replied De Banyan
with a sneer; for it was evident that he was not at all pleased with the
result of the affair.

Four soldiers were detailed from the company to conduct the prisoners to
a certain camp near the railroad at City Point, and there deliver them
over to the keeping of an officer whose name was mentioned.

"Good-morning, captain," said De Banyan with forced gayety.

"Good-morning, Marvel, and success to you."

"Thank you."

"By the way, Barney, if there is anything I can do for you, don't fail to
call upon me; that is, anything consistent with the duty of a faithful
officer."

"Such a remark was entirely uncalled for," said De Banyan with dignity.
"Do you think I would ask an officer to sacrifice his conscience?"

"Excuse me, Barney. I meant no offense," added the rebel captain, touched
by the proud and dignified manner of his former friend.

"Your words and your conduct are in keeping with each other."

"Really, Barney, I meant nothing by the remark."

"Then it was the more unmanly to make it."

"I am still your friend. In proof of it, permit me to do you a favor,"
pleaded the rebel, much conc