she and her family would be subjected to the pressure of want, or at least
be dependent upon the kindness of friends for support. She had freely
stated her fears to her children, and fully exhibited the insufficiency of
the family resources. The vote of the town was a perfect godsend to Tom,
and a fat legacy from a rich relative would not have kindled a stronger
feeling of gratitude in his soul.

For the next five weeks, Tom was employed forenoon, afternoon, and
evening, in the drill, and he soon made himself proficient. The company
was recruited nearly up to its maximum number, and was then attached to
the --th regiment, which had just been formed and ordered to Fort Warren.

On the 27th day of May, the company, escorted by the patriotic citizens of
Pinchbrook, marched to Boston, and Tom took a sorrowful farewell of his
mother, his brother and sisters, and a score of anxious friends.

"Now don't let the rebels hit you in the backbone, Thomas," said gran'ther
Green, as he shook the hand of the soldier boy.

"No, gran'ther; if I can't fight, I won't run away," replied Tom.

"You've got good blood in your veins, my boy: don't disgrace it. I don't
know as you'll ever see me again, but God bless you, Thomas;" and the old
man turned away to hide the tears which began to course down his wrinkled
cheek.

"Be a good boy, Thomas," added his mother.

"I will, mother."