the aid of their strong hands. As it was, these resources
were in great measure frittered away--gradually drawn by what appeared
an irresistible influence into the vortex of the Rebellion--or scattered
wanderingly through the Loyal States, and worn down and exhausted in the
support of dependent and outcast families.

Sharpsburg was greatly altered. The yellow Rebel Flag designated almost
every other building as a Hospital. Their surgeons in grey pompously
paraded the streets. As the troops marched through, they were subjected
to almost every description of insult. One interesting group of Rebel
petticoated humanity standing in front of premises that would not have
passed inspection by one of our Pennsylvania Dutch housewives, held
their noses by way of showing contempt.

"Guess you have to do that, about them diggins. When did you scrub
last?" said a bright-eyed officer's servant, whom a few years' service
as a news-boy had taught considerable shrewdness.

To annoy others "My Maryland" and "John Brown" were sung by the men.
Around a toll-house at the west end of town, occupied by an old lady
whose husband had been expelled with a large number of other patriotic
residents, had congregated some wives of exiled loyal husbands, who were
not afraid to avow their attachment for the old Union, by words of
encouragement and waving of handkerchiefs. They were backed by a reserve
force of negroes of both sexes, whose generous exhibition of polished
ivories, to say the least, did not represent any great displeasure at
the appearance of the troops.

"There are the Reserves," said one of the boys, pointing to where the
negroes stood.

"Yes, and if they were called in the issue of this Rebellion would be
speedy and favorable," said a Captain in musical tones, "and I can't
think but that this costly child's play will drive the nation into their
use much sooner than many expect. Let them understand that they are the
real beneficiaries of this war, and they will not stay their hands. And
why shouldn't we use them? 'They are one of the means that God and
nature have placed in our hands,' and old Virginia can't object to that
doctrine."

"But, Captain," said his First Lieutenant, "would you fight alongside of
a darkie?"

"Would you drive a darkie away if he came to assist you in a struggle
for life?"

"Yes, but we have men enough without their aid."

"You forget, Lieutenant, that, as matters now are, we have them fighting
aga