"We are ready to move," said the commander, "and the information
brought in by your party has decided me to bear off to the southeast
in order to meet the enemy approaching from the southwest. As soon
as you are rested, Lieutenant Scoville--"
"Sir! what?"
"Yes, I had recommended you for promotion and the order has come."
"If zeal in your service, sir"--began the scout flushing proudly.
"Yes, yes, I understand all that. I remember the men who serve me
well. As soon as you're able to start out in the same direction
again I would like you to do so."
"I'm able now," said Scoville eagerly, and then he briefly related
the situation of affairs at The Oaks, concluding, "If I had twenty-
five men I believe I could not only prevent the marriage but capture
all the Confederates with their information. They have been scouting
up toward us just as we were toward the enemy."
"All right," said the general, laughing. "Perhaps the marriage may
come off yet, only with another groom."
"No, sir," said Scoville, gravely.
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