The Huttig news., 1915-10-30


 there was an opening leading into it. across which they had nailed tin protector before they fastened the | iron to the wall.
 If could once get in behind that iron plate the way out would not be such a hard or difficult one to travel. The chimney was large; l recalled standing upright in the fireplace on the floor above. and looking up to where I could perceive the light of the sky. It was constructed of irregular bits of stone, which would afford lodg ment for the feet. and grip for the hands in climbing-no easy job, of course, but not impossible for one reckless enough to make the attempt.
 But how could 1 hope to pry loose that protecting sheet of iron? Where could l discover tool to give me the necessary leverage to dislodge those bolts? Could one of those supports be unscrewed or twisted off? If so, 1t might prove strong enough for the purpose l stepped hastily across. and E6Sa a0u tWO LII lHeIH "ltH lily 1duuS, Uul found both these firm and immovable. 1 dare not exercise much force in fear the noise might De overheard, and besides it was time the jailer brought me in some food So I went back to my seat on the box, and waited, my eyes on the iron, and my mind eagerly working on some plan which seemed feasible. I had a half dozen keys in my pocket, and a broken cartridge shell III my belt-nothing else avail able. The searchers had stripped me clean. A careful survey of the floor revealed only a twisted nail, but there was something caught in the iron bars of the window from where sat it looked like the half of a broken horse shoe. l got up to see, but quickly sat down again-there was someone at the door,
 It opened, and a soldier stood aside while two men entered. One was Fox, the other heavy-set, gray mustaehed officer, in the uniform of colonel of infantry. The captain greeted me gravely, and extended his hand
 T would far rather meet you as did before," he said, but war gives Us no choice"
 T took my chances and have no complaint" I answered heartily. for I liked the man. "1 presume there is no doubt as to my fate?"
 T fear not but the matter is not in my hands, for which I am grateful This is Colonel Pickney, in com mand"
 bowed, and our eyes met. The face confronting me was strong and reso lute. it's expression that of regret.
 A very young man, Captain Fox he said to his companion, which fact adds to the unpleasantness of such duty. Your name is Wyatt?"
 Yes, sir"
 You claim connection with the Con- federate service-an officer?"
 "A sergeant of artillery, sir" He cleared his throat imiressively.
 You have the appearance of an intelligent man, Sergeant Wyatt, and must realize the seriousness of your position. l am sure l need not dwell upon the fate which befalls spy when captured by the enemy. In your case there seems to be no de fense possible-you wear Federal uni form; were within our lines, and pa pers have been found on you of a most discriminating character. It is my understanding you make no de- nial."
 None, whatever, sir; it would be useless"
 There is always way in which mercy can be extended" he went on earnestly. Doubtless you possess in- formation which would be of the ut most value to us. I shall gladly use my influence on your behalf if the circumstances warrant"
 I glanced aside at Fox, and caught the look of appeal in his face: then back into the expectant eyes of the colonel.
 You have authority to make me this proposition?" ?" asked quietly.
 q am in command of this camp, and pledge you my influence with General Ramsay"
 I stood motionless a moment, en- deavoring to straighten the matter out in my mind. When I spoke it was as briefly as possible.
 T can only thank you. Colonel Pickney, and respectfully decline. 1 will not answer your questions, sir"
 Fox gripped my arm, and as I glanced at him, I was surprised to see a mist of tears in his eyes.
 Wyatt" he exclaimed, making no pretense at calmness, do not be nasty in your decision. I would not counsel you to any act of dishonor, but surely some compromise is possible. l not only ask you to consider the situation from your own standpoint, but also from ours. I accompanied Colonel Plckney in the hope I might have some influence" He hesitated an in- stant. as though doubtful of his words. Perhaps I should say, my boy, that another urged me to come"
 "Another?"
 "YeS-a lady"