on. He was as tenderly cared for by the doctor and the
servants as though he had been an honored friend, instead of a hunted
enemy. In the course of the forenoon, Dr. Scoville received a visit from
the provost-marshal, attended by half a company of cavalry. Of course,
the captain was exceedingly curious to know the result of this interview,
which was conducted in the most courteous manner; and he was so impolite
as to play the part of a listener. The officer was informed that Captain
Sheffield had been dangerously wounded by the fugitives; but the
eccentric physician positively refused to have his guests taken from his
house, assuring the provost-marshal that he would be responsible for
their safe-keeping, and offered to board a dozen men who should be
employed in guarding them. The officer protested in gentlemanly terms
against such a course; but it was evident that the doctor was the
greatest man in Petersburg, and must have his own way.

The result of the conference was, that the provost-marshal yielded the
point, and a sentinel was placed at the door of Somers's chamber, to
which the captain had retreated. The officer visited the room, and fully
identified his prisoner, between whom and himself a sharp conversation
ensued, much to the amusement of the doctor. The captain was assured that
in due time, he should swing, which pleasant information he received with
becoming good nature, promising to be present when the exciting event
should take place. The provost-marshal retired, satisfied with the
precautions he had taken.

For the following three days, the sentinel at the door, with a loaded
musket in his hand, kept guard over his prisoners. Somers had improved
rapidly, though by the advice of his managing friend, he pretended to be
much worse than he really was. Dr. Scoville, though he still kept his
word and maintained his position with regard to the prisoners,
continually "thorned" the captain with a prospect of the gallows, which
he declared was his certain doom. De Banyan still preserved his
equanimity, and still declared that he should never be hanged.

"What do you intend to do?" asked Somers on the third day of his
confinement, after the doctor had taunted his guest with more than usual
severity.

"I haven't the least idea, my dear boy," replied the captain with a grim
smile. "So far, I have no plans. When you are able to move, Somers, we
will see what can be done."

"I can move now; you need not delay a