erned at the wound he had inflicted on the
sensitive nature of his late associate in the Third Tennessee.

"I ask no favors," answered De Banyan proudly.

"You are too hard upon me. Upon my word, I meant no offense. As a proof
of my friendship, I will take your parole of honor not to escape, and you
shall report at Richmond at your own pleasure. If you have any interest
in this young man, I will allow him the same favor."

"After what has happened, I cannot accept a favor at your hands. I can't
see how an officer who doubts my word should be willing to take my
parole."

"As you please, Marvel," added the captain petulantly. "I can do no more
for you."

Somers was greatly relieved when the rebel officer rode off, followed by
his company. He had trembled with anxiety, when the parole was offered to
De Banyan, lest he should accept it, and thus compel him to do the same.
Although he could not see how it was to be brought about, he intended to
escape from the hands of his captors at the first convenient opportunity,
with or without De Banyan, as the case should demand.

One of the four troopers detailed to guard the prisoners was a sergeant,
who intimated to them that they might take up the line of march for the
camp where they were bound. To preclude the possibility of an escape, he
ordered two of his men to ride ahead of the captives, while himself and
the other followed in the rear. The little procession moved off; and
there was never a sadder-hearted young man than Somers, who, were his
true character discovered, was liable to the pains and penalties of being
a spy.

"Sergeant, have you been to breakfast?" demanded De Banyan, after they
had walked a couple of miles, and were passing a farm-house.

"No, sir."

"I smell fried bacon, and am willing to pay for breakfast for the whole
party. What do you say?"

"There is nothing in my orders to prevent me from taking up your offer;
and I will do it, if you will agree not to run away while we are at the
house," replied the prudent soldier.

"How shall we run away, with four men watching us?" demanded De Banyan.

The sergeant seemed to be satisfied with this argument; and they entered
the house, where breakfast was soon in preparation for them.

CHAPTER XXII

THE REBEL FARM-HOUSE

Somers, besides the chagrin caused by his capture, was greatly disturbed
by the astounding discoveries he had made in regard to Captain de Banyan.
He was extremely anxious t