ve looked at the pictures, and
you are not satisfied yet. I can stand it no longer; I am tired of the
whole thing. You have treated me very handsomely, and I am grateful to
you for your kindness to me; but I cannot and will not remain any
longer."

Somers spoke decidedly, and was fully resolved to use his pistol, if
occasion required. He was not willing to remain for a decision to be made
between him and the other claimant.

"I will go with you, brother Allan Garland," said the rebel soldier
facetiously; "I think between us we can readily decide which is the right
man."

"I am ready."

"But we desire to be satisfied, especially in regard to this young man,
who was suspected of being a deserter, and for whom I feel that I am
responsible," said Mr. Raynes.

"I can do nothing for you, sir," replied Somers.

"But I can do something for you; and I propose to take you to the
sergeant where I found you, and let the military authorities decide,"
continued the old man, whose ire was roused, as he moved towards the
impudent young man.

"I propose that you shall do nothing of the kind," answered Somers,
drawing the pistol, and cocking it for use.

"Don't, father, don't!" exclaimed Sue, rushing between Mr. Raynes and the
active youth, pale with terror.

Somers would have been very unwilling to use his weapon on the old man.
He pitied him, and could not help thinking of the terrible blow which was
in store for him when he should hear that his only son had been killed.
He hoped that something would interpose to prevent any violence, and he
expected much from the gentle dignity of the young rebel.

"I am sorry that you compel me to draw this pistol," added Somers; "yet
nothing but the duty I owe to myself and my country would permit me to
use it upon those who have treated me so kindly."

"I will be responsible for him," said Allan Garland--the real one; for
there could be no doubt that he was what he claimed.

"You shall not go near him, father! He will kill you!" cried Sue,
terrified, as her father attempted to push her aside, and advance upon
the armed young man.

"Come! brother Allan," said the soldier: "we can best end this scene by
leaving the house."

As they approached the door, a hand was placed on the handle outside; but
the old man had taken the precaution to fasten it, in order to insure the
safety of his prisoner. A heavy knock succeeded.

"Who is that?" gasped Sue, afraid that any newcomer would only