Eagle River review. [volume] (Eagle River, Wis.) 1890-1927, 1899-07-13


subdued excitement of the unlooked-for
news, Sylvia had no chance for private
talk with either her father or Dave. The
latter devoted himself to chatting with
Joseph, while Timothy stood in silence be-
side his daughter. 1t was not long before
the officer returned.
THE general is ready. You, Leland,
will accompany your children. All others
will retire
They had but q short distance to go
before dismounting An orderly took
charge of their horses. The officer pre-
coded them into the tent, which Timothy
leland entered, leading Sylvia and Joseph
by the hand.
All bowed low and the salutation was
returned with much dignity by tall, no
BILE looking man, who stood waiting to re-
ceive them.
These are the children, general said
she officer. You know their father, Tim
sthy Leland of Lexington, to be one of our
most valuable men,"
Gen. Washington bowed again.
BE seated, l pray you, Mr.. Leland,
with your son. he said, indicating camp
chest near by. you, my child, | am in
formed" he went on, addressing Sylvia,
shave something to tell me of two spies in
Lexington village. Captain, fetch that
stool. Sit there, Mistress Sylvia, and let
me hear your narrative"
He sat down in the only chair the tent
afforded and waited for her to begin. For
q moment she cast down her eyes, over
come by grlsh timidity in the presence
Of the stately officer of whom she had
heard so much during the few months of
his command. Then, remembering her err
rand and the need of haste in its execu-
tion, she forgot herself, and, looking
straight into his kindly eyes, told her tale
with charming modesty ana clearness.
Aud, oh, sir, | hope you will send
straightway to capture them, for it's
shameful that they should deceive dear
Auntie Townsend, besides the dishonor Of
being spies | cannot think how men can
be so wicked!'
As Gen Washington looked down on
her sparkling eyes, her rising color, her
aujnated, piquant countenance, respon-
siye enthusiasm and indignation kindled
en- his own.
Your wish shall be granted, my brave
girl" he cried. Colonel. write my order
and see to it that no time is lost in it's
carrying out.'
He dictated rapidly, and the officer, on
dthSthuS, Sdiuleu anu leLI lue tent. Iueu
shr commandcr-in-chief arose and each
one in his presence did likewise. He took
Sylvia'S hand. and, bending low with
graceful reverence, he raised it to his lips.
You have done your country a good
service this night, Sylvia Leland he said,
and TO her excited fancy his voice was sol
gxnn. accept the grateful thanks of your
general and the assurance of his affec
sy lie in wait for men whose children's
hearts are so loyal and so fearless
He led her gently to her father.
you, too. my little man." he continued,
caressing little Joseph's curly head, will
keep the memory of this night to your
Rse's end. l thank you for coming with
your sister Be ever as ready to do the
aaty which comes to you, trusting in the
w8tchful care of your Heavenly Father,
as on this occasion.
You are happy man, Timothy Lee
land, to be the father of two such chill
dren, See now. that they are comfortably
placed for the night. In the morning
come to me for permission to ride home
with them. Goodnight, now, and pleas
aat dreams to you. my little friends, as
yes sleep for the first time in a soldiers
camp"
He walked with them to the door of
3he tent, which he held aside courteously,
while they. bowling respectfully, passed
cut
I'VE will not need the horses. l should
have thought to tell you so before. 1t is
but a step we have to GO said Timothy
to the orderly.
Sylvia hoped to see Dave again that
night. but he was nowhere visible when
they entered her fathers tent. He took
Aer closely in his arms as soon as they
were we'll within it.
'My dear, dutiful child" he murmured,
laying his hand lovingly on her curls;
amy steadfast, brave daughter. It's in
deed rare deed you have done so nobly.
And you, too, my son. Your father will
. ever be proud of your part in this nights
history
They sat down and talked of home at
fairs Joseph climbed upon his fathers
kaee. and in spite of his best efforts to
keep awake, was soon fast asleep. He
uas laid all dressed, upon his fathers
pallet. and his sister lay down beside him
Il shall be close by, at the door. my
Slaughter so fear nothing, but go straight
90 sleep
She tried to obey him, but the strange
ness Of her surroundings, the exciting
events of the last few hours, the meeting
with Dave. all combined to keep her
awake. The ROSTERS were growing lust
by. and she could see the first faint glim-
mey of dawn through slit in the canvas
Of the tent before she finally fell asleep.
The news of Sylvia's presence and the
message she had brought was known
through all the camp soon after the men
yYera astir MANY crowded around eager
to see and to shake hands with her. She
stood between her father and Dave, re-
ceiving their thanks and admiration with
n frank enjoyment pretty to see. Her
broad hat hung by its ribbons over her
arm. leaving her curly, auburn hair to be