the sad fate which he was confident was in
store for him, wished to confirm his impressions in regard to his
destiny. His companion seemed to be a gentleman of a kindly nature,
though stern in the discharge of his duty. It was possible that he would
give him some information in regard to the probable disposal of him.

"Will you tell me, sir, why I am separated from the rest of the
prisoners?" said he, as soon as the sentinel had departed upon his
errand.

"Because you are an officer."

"How do you know I am?" asked Somers, very desirous of ascertaining how
much Captain de Banyan had told in regard to him.

"We know all about you," answered the officer, muffling his cloak more
closely around his face, as if afraid the night air might injure his
lungs as he opened his mouth.

"What do you know about me?"

"All about you."

"That isn't very definite."

"In a word, you are Captain Thomas Somers, of the --th regiment."

"Who told you that?"

"That's of no consequence."

"What is to be done with me?"

"I don't know."

"I suppose I am only a prisoner of war?"

"You crossed the James River in disguise, and went into our lines for the
purpose of obtaining information. I suppose you can put those two things
together."

Somers's worst fears were confirmed. He was to be tried as a spy, and De
Banyan had told all he knew about him. Before he had time to dwell on the
dark prospect any longer, the officer said he was cold, and could not
stand there any longer. Taking his prisoner by the arm, he led him down
the cross-street. Somers was just thinking of an attempt to bid his
companion good-night, when the latter spoke again:

"I shall catch my death from this night air," said he. "Just before the
battle of Magenta----"

"Captain de Banyan!" exclaimed Somers.

CHAPTER XXVII

A FRIEND INDEED

"Hush, my dear boy! not a word!" said Captain de Banyan in an impressive
whisper, as he led the way along the street.

Somers made no reply; for he readily perceived that the utmost caution
was necessary, though he did not understand the position of his friend,
or what complications there were in the situation. He was filled with
rejoicing at finding himself again in the way of getting back to the
Union army. Of course, his feelings towards Captain de Banyan, in spite
of his antecedents in the Third Tennessee, underwent a sudden and
agreeable change; and in the joy of his heart he was disposed to embrace
his fr