s. But be it known to their immortal honor, that it was
only on the most rare occasions that these proud dames of the South
could, either by threat or brutal treatment, be forced to yield to
their insolent demands. With the orders from the soldiers to "prepare
a meal" or "disclose the whereabouts of their money or valuables,"
came the threat, "We will burn your house if you do not." But almost
invariably came the quick response, "Burn it, burn it, you cowardly
wretches, and kill me, if you wish, and all of us, but I will never
soil my hands by waiting upon a cowardly Yankee, nor tell you the
place of concealment--find it if you can." The soldiers would question
the negroes to find out if there were any watches, silver plate, or
money belonging to the household; if so, they would, by a system of
inquisition, attempt to force the women to give it up, but in vain.

A woman, Mrs. Miller, the wife of a neighbor of mine, had her
husband's gold watch in her bosom, and refused to give it up when
demanded, even when a cocked pistol was at her head. The vandal struck
her a stunning blow with the butt end of the pistol--all in vain.
The brave heroine held to the heirloom, and stoutly resisted all
entreaties and threats.

Two old people living near me, brother and maiden sister, named Loner,
both pass three scores, were asked to give their money. They had none.
But one of the ruffians threw a fire brand under the bed, saying:

"I will put it out if you will tell me where you keep your money; you
have it, for I've been so informed."

"Let it burn," answered the old women. "Do you think to frighten or
intimidate me by burning my house that I will tell what I choose to
conceal? Do you think I care so much for my house and its belongings?
No, no; you mistake the women of the South. You will never conquer her
people by making war upon defenseless women. Let the house go up in
flames, and my ashes mingle with its ashes, but I will remain true to
myself, my country, and my God."

Soon all that was left of the once happy home was a heap of ashes.
Will God, in His wisdom, ever have cause to again create such women as
those of the Southland? Or were there ever conditions in the world's
history that required the presence of such noble martyrdom as was
displayed by the women of the South during the Civil War?

But a Nemesis in this case, as in many others, was lurking near. Bands
of Confederates and scouts had scattered themselves on the