the night, looked at his
watch by the faint light the fire of his segar emitted, and perceived
that it was only five minutes for twelve. Crossing over to the bunk on
which Alfred was lying, he whispered: "It is time." Silently they put
on the citizens clothes borrowed in the evening, and left the tent.
The night had changed from the pleasant, starry evening to a black and
dismal gloom. Heavy clouds covered the skies, giving every indication
of rain. The night was just such a one for an escape, and although the
darkness was so intense, that it was impossible for the eye to
penetrate a distance of five paces, both felt that their chance of
escape was accelerated.

"Give me your hand," whispered Harry, as soon as they had left the
tent.

"Do you know the direct way to the gate," asked Alfred,

"Yes," he replied, "cease speaking now and follow me. The least
whisper may be heard, and then our attempt will be foiled."

Grasping the hand of his friend, Alfred followed him, and they moved
with noiseless tread toward the gate. As soon as he descried the faint
light of the sentinel's lamp near him, Harry stopped, and stooping
down gave a faint whistle. For some time no answer was returned. The
two friends remained in almost breathless suspense awaiting the
signal. At last it was returned, and moving forward, they reached the
gate.

"Here," whispered Harry to the sentinel, as he handed him the watch
and money.

The man raised the little lantern near him, and looked at the bribe to
see that it was all right. "Pass on," he said.

As Harry and his friend passed the gate, the former perceived several
forms flit across the darkness, and a suspicion of treachery instantly
flashed through his mind.

"We are betrayed," he whispered to Alfred.

"No matter, let us push boldly forward," was the reply.

They had not moved ten paces before the command "Halt" given.

"Push on!" exclaimed Alfred, darting forward.

The two friends moved on at a rapid run, when a volley of musketry was
fired at them. Harry escaped unhurt and continued running at the top
of his speed, and not until he had gone a considerable distance, did
he discover that his friend was not with him. It was, however, too
late for him to turn back, and entering Chicago, he made his way
through the city, and continued his journey.

At the fire of the Federals, Alfred received four wounds; and sunk
without a word to the ground. The enemy shortly after coming up found