of Mr. Pettis, bought a suit
of citizen's clothes, for, said he, "We Knights hate the sight of that
uniform; it's the badge of tyranny."

Calhoun saw that he had found a friend indeed in Mr. Pettis. No Southerner
could be more bitter toward the Lincoln government than he. He fairly
worshipped Vallandigham, and said if he would only return to Ohio, he
would be defended by a hundred thousand men. He was especially indignant
over the way Morgan and his officers were treated.

"We have schemed and schemed how to help him," said he, "but see no way
except we storm that cursed penitentiary as the Bastille was stormed.
And," he added, with emphasis, "the day is fast approaching when we will
do it."

For three days Calhoun remained at Mr. Pettis's, wearying his brain as to
how he might help his general, but every plan proposed was rejected as
impracticable. On the third morning he happened to pick up a paper, and
glancing over its columns, saw an advertisement which caused every nerve
in his body to tingle. It was an advertisement for a boy to work in the
dining-room and wait on the table at the penitentiary. The advertisement
stated that the sole duty of the boy was to wait on the table when the
Confederate officers ate, as they objected to being waited upon by
convicts. In less than five minutes Calhoun was in his Federal uniform and
on his way to the penitentiary to apply for the position.

"You do not look very strong," said the warden, kindly; "do you think you
could fill the bill?"

"I am sure I can," said Calhoun. "Only try me and see."

"Well," replied the warden, "I had rather hire a boy who has served his
country, as you have, and I will give you a trial."

Thus to his great joy Calhoun found himself hired to wait upon his old
comrades in arms. With what feelings he commenced his duties can be
imagined. Would they recognize him, and in their surprise give him away?
No, he thought not. They knew too well how to control themselves for that.
It was with a beating heart that Calhoun waited for the time of the first
meal. It came, and the Confederate prisoners came marching in. How
Calhoun's heart thrilled at the sight of his old comrades! But if they
recognized him they did not show it by look or sign.

When the meal was finished and the prisoners marched out, Calhoun managed
to give Morgan a little slip of paper. On it was written: "I am here to
help you if I can. Be of good cheer."

But how could Calhoun help