Confederate lines safely, I will have no difficulty in hearing from
New Orleans."

"I will make every effort to facilitate an escape," remarked Harry;
"and if my penetrating qualities do not deceive me, there is a
sentinel at the gate to-day, who would not be averse to taking a
bribe, even if it permits a "rebel" to escape. Cheer up, my friend,"
he continued. "I will guarantee that your wife and children are all
well and happy, except a natural anxiety on your account."

Alfred made no reply, and the two friends shortly after separated.

Harry kept an assiduous watch for an opportunity to speak with the
sentinel. The time for the man to remain on guard expired, however,
without any favorable chance presenting itself. He was, therefore,
compelled to wait until the evening, when the same sentinel would be
again on guard, before he could attempt to bribe him. At four o'clock
he was posted, and after some hesitation, Harry determined to address
him. Walking up as soon as he perceived no one near the man, he called
out to him.

"Vot to deuce do you vant? you rebel," asked the sentinel in a broad
Dutch accent.

"Will you let me come a little nearer?" Harry inquired, perceiving
that the distance between the guard and himself too great for a
conversation.

"Vot do you vant to come a leetle nearer for?" asked the sentinel.