dies of two men who had been instantly killed at the windows, and
several other wounded ruffians, lay on the beds.

"The assault was skilfully and safely managed," said the staff-officer,
patting the lieutenant on the back.

"Lieutenant Lyon has been the hero of the day on my premises, and he
has placed me under ever-lasting obligations to him," added the
colonel. "With a very insignificant force we had cleaned out the
ruffians from the house when the approach of the main body of the gang
was announced by my servants, who had been scouting beyond the hills.
The coming of the cavalry has probably saved my mansion and my life. As
the villains supposed, I have a considerable sum of money concealed;
for I could not trust it in any bank in the present condition of the
State. I should like to reward the lieutenant"--

"I would not accept any reward for simply doing my duty," interposed
Deck.

"But I hope it will be in my power to serve you, young man."

"I am too happy to have served you, Colonel Hickman, to need anything
more than the approval of my own conscience," replied Deck, moving off.

"I am not without influential friends, Lieutenant Lyon, and you may
hear from me when you least expect it," continued Colonel Hickman, as
he followed the young officer, and grasped him by the hand.

"I do not ask for any influence in my favor. I am a second lieutenant
at eighteen, and I ask for no promotion to which my services do not
entitle me," replied Deck proudly. "I have sent the horse you were kind
enough to loan me back to your stable; and now I am at your service,
Captain Woodbine."

Both of the officers mounted their steeds, and the planter showered
benedictions upon them as they rode off. Deck had had some conversation
with the three sons of the Colonel, and they had been as hearty in
their commendations of the young officer as their father. The
staff-officer then informed his companion that the Riverlawn squadron
had been sent out on a reconnoissance down the river, and that the
battalion was subject to his orders.

"Then you wish to go to the river?" suggested Deck.

"I do; as soon as possible," replied the captain.

"Then we will take the avenue, which is the nearest road;" and Deck led
the way into the grove, and they soon reached the great bend of the
stream where he and Fronklyn had effected their landing, and near
Cuffy's ferry.

At this point Captain Woodbine took his field-glass from its case, and
care