have taken it upon myself to protest to Major Tallmadge, who is at this moment gone once more to Colonel Sheldon with very serious representations.”

“Lieutenant Boyd and I have volunteered as a scout of three,” I said, “but Colonel Sheldon has declined our services with scant politeness.”

Fancher stood far a moment, his rain-smeared lantern hanging motionless at his side.

“Tarleton may not ride tonight,” he said, and moved off a step or two; then, turning: “But, damn him, I think he will,” said he. And walked away, swinging his light as furiously as a panther thrashes his tail.

By the pointers of my watch it now approached three o’clock in the morning, and the storm was nothing abating. I had entirely despaired of the Sagamore’s