is camped a mile down the road. We must go on to-night. Carter and
Gordon are with us for a day or so. They're trying for some information
Morgan has to have.

Carter. We got word only yesterday that the Twelfth Massachusetts
was ordered South. Morgan thinks the report true and sent Gordon and
myself to reconnoiter.

Col. S. You think the Twelfth Massachusetts is coming to this
part of the state? How did he hear it? (Turns to Mrs S.) Stephen
Winthrop is in command.

[Fair, who has been talking to Carter, turns quickly, listening.

Mrs. S. Not Stephen, our own cousin, in arms against the South!
And coming here!

Col. S. His father is a Northern man; we must not judge for him.

Fair (to George). Why must you go back to the camp to-night?

George. We have a long march for to-morrow. Our leave of absence
is only for two hours.

Mrs. S. Then we must lose no time. You boys are hungry; I am sure
of it. Come into the house and we'll talk while you eat.

[They start towards the house. George and Charlotte are behind
the rest. He takes her hand, speaking softly only to her.