The Meridian times. (Meridian, Idaho) 1909-1938, 1915-12-31

that projecting BHeeL OF lrOuf WueTe
could | discover a tool to give me the
necessary leverage to dislodge those
bolts? Could one of those supports
be unscrewed or twisted off? II so,
1t might prove strong enough for the
purpose | stepped hastily across. and
tested two of them with my hands, but
found both these firm and immovable.
dare not exercise much force in fear
the noise might be overheard, and
besides it was time the jailer brought
me in some food So 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. had half dozen keys i'll
my pocket, and broken cartridge
shell in 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 1t
looked like the half of broken horse
shoe. / got up to see, but quickly sat
down again-there was someone at
the door.
It opened, and soldier stood aside
while two men entered. One was Fox,
the other heavy-set. gray mustached
officer, in the uniform of q colonel of
infantry. The captain greeted me
gravely and extended his hand.
II would far rather meet you as
did before" he said, "but war gives
us no choice"
Il took my chances and have no
complaint" answered heartily, for
liked the man. Il presume there is
no doubt as to my fate?"
81 fear not. but the matter is not in
my hands, for which l am grateful
This is Colonel Pickney, in CON-
mand."
bowed. and our eyes met The face
confronting me was strong and reso-
lutte. its 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 impressively.
you have the appearance of an
Intelligent man, Sergeant Wyatt, and
must realize the seriousness of your
position. | am sure need not dwell
upon the fate which befalls a spy
When captured by the enemy. In
your case there seems to be no de-
! Tense possible-you wear Federal uni
FORM we're within our lines, and pa
pers have been found on you of a
most discriminating character. 1t Is
my understanding you make no de-
NAL"
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. l shall gladly use
my influence on your behalf If the
| circumstances warrant"
l 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 propositions" asked quietly.
Il am in command of this camp, and
pledge you my influence with General
Ramsay"
| stood motionless moment, en-,
| 10 ctr toll
in my mind. When l spoke it was as
briefly as possible.
II can only thank you. Colonel
Pickney, and respectfully decline. |
will not answer your questions. SIR
Fox gripped my arm, and as
glanced at him, was surprised to
see mist of tears in his eyes.
Wyatt" he exclaimed. making nc
pretense at calmness. do not be hasty
in your decision. l would not counse
you to any act of dishonor. but surely
some compromise is possible. | mo-
only ask you to consider the situation
from your own standpoint. but alsS
from ours. accompanied Colone
Pickney in the hope | might hav'
some influence" He hesitated an in
slant, as though doubtful of his words
Perhaps | should say, my boy. tina
another urged me to come"
Another"
| "Yes--a lady"
My head swan. my heart beating
! like triphammer.
"Do-do you mean, Captain Fox
that she actually asked you to urg
! me to save myself by such an act?
mo, Wyatt; not that. She request
ed me TO accompany Colonel PickneS
> and do AT could on your behalf"
| drro long breath OF relief, m
mind csaring, my resolve strength
ened. Fac did care thenl God knee
I | was glad; and she had not urge
9 me 10 I'm act of dishonor. And knew
!. understood--she wished me to rea
d lie tina. she was not indifferent to m
n fate. t1at her interest was not dead
o and she had sent the message to m
e by the only man she could trust
, ri0htIv dalivar n Nv hparf liph