The Holly chieftain., 1916-03-03


there was an opening leading into it.
across which they had nailed a tin
protector before they fastened the
iron to the wall.
If l could once get In behind that
iron plate the way out would not be
such hard or difficult one to travel.
The chimney was large; recalled
standing upright In the fireplace on
the floor above. and looking up to
where 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 hope to pry loose
that protecting sheet of ironI Where
could discover tool to give me the
necessary leverage to dislodge those
bolts! Could one of those supports
be unscrewed or twisted OF? II 80.
It might prove strong enough for the
purpose. l stepped hastily across. and
tested two of them with my hands. but
found both these hrm and immovable.
! dare not exercise much force in fear
the noise might be overheard. and
besides 1t 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 q half dozen keys In
my pocket. and broken cartridge
shell In my belt-nothing else avail
able. The searchers had stripped me
clean. A careful survey Of the door
revealed only twisted nail. but there
was something caught in the iron bars
of the window; from where sat 1t
looked like the half of a broken horse.
shoe. got up to see. but quickly sat
down again-there was someone at
the door.
1t opened, and . soldier stood aside
while two men entered. One was Fox.
the other heavy-set, gray mustached
officer. In the uniform OF a colonel Of
infantry. The captain greeted me
gravely. and extended his hand.
Il 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. II presume there 10
no doubt as to my fate?"
Il fear not, but the matter is not in
my hands. for which I am grateful
This is Colonel Pickney. In com.
mand."
I 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. l am sure I need not dwell
upon the fate which befalls q spy
when captured by the enemy. In
your case there seems to be no de-
tense possible-you wear Federal uni.
form: were within our lines, and pa.
pers have been found on you of q
most discriminating character. It IL
my understanding you make no de-.
nial."
None. whatever. sir: 1t would b.
useless"
There 10 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. shall gladly use
my influence on your behalf II the
circumstances warrant"
glanced aside at Fox. and causht
the look Of appeal in his face: then
back into the expectant eyes Of the
colonel.
you have authority to make ms
this propositioni" asked quietly.
Il am In command Of this camp. and
pledge you my influence with General
Ramsay"
I stood motionless a moment, On.
deavoring to straighten the matter out
in my mind. When spoke 1t was a.
briefly as possible.
II can only thank you. Colonel
Pickney, and respectfully decline. 1
will not answer your questions, SIR"
Fox gripped my arm, and as /
glanced at him, was surprised to
see 'Vsnist Of tears in his eyes.
Wyatt" he exclaimed. making no
pretense at calmness. do not be hasty
In vunr Aaolsion -o,,Id ro< no,,n.o,