which they could know them, or was it the
effect of deeds achieved? He could not decide the question for himself,
but he knew that he believed implicitly in their leader.

Colonel Winchester paused near Sheridan, but the general's keen eye
caught him at once.

"Good morning, Colonel Winchester!" he exclaimed. "You bring news of
value. I can tell it by your face!"

"I do, sir," replied the colonel, "but it was Mr. Shepard here, whom you
know, and Lieutenant Mason who obtained it. Mr. Shepard, show General
Sheridan the map."

It was characteristic of Colonel Winchester, a man of the finest feelings,
that he should have Shepard instead of himself carry the map to General
Sheridan. He wanted the spy to have the full measure of credit,
including the outward show, for the triumph he had achieved with the
aid of his sister. And Shepard's swift glance of thanks showed that he
appreciated it. He drew the map from his pocket and handed it to the
general.

Sheridan held it down, where the full glow of the flames fell upon it,
and he seemed to comprehend at once the meaning of the lines. A great
light sprang up in his eyes.

"Ah!" he exclaimed. "The location of the Confederate forces and the
openings between them and the mountains! This is important! Splendid!
Did you make it yourself, Mr. Shepard?"

"No, sir. It was made by my sister who came from Richmond. We met her
on the mountain."

Sheridan looked at Shepard and the eyes of general and spy met in
complete understanding.

"I know of her," the general murmured. "A noble woman! There are many
such as she who have done great service to our cause that can never be
repaid! But this is a stroke of fortune!"

"Look, Merritt, Averill and all of you," he said aloud. "Here lies our
path! Mr. Shepard, you will go over the details of this with us and,
Colonel Winchester, you and your aide remain also to help."

Dick felt complimented, and so did Colonel Winchester. Sheridan knew how
to handle men. While the sentinels, rifle on shoulder, walked up and
down a little distance away, a dozen eager faces were soon poring over
the map, Shepard filling in details as to the last little hill or brook.

"Since we know where they are and how many they are," said Sheridan,
"we'll make a big demonstration in front of Fisher's Hill, where Early's
works are too strong to be carried, and while we keep him occupied there
we'll turn his left flank with a powerful force, ma