instructions from Colonel Preston to take charge of a small
detachment to recover and bring back certain deserters, but notably
one, Dennis M'Caffrey of Company H, charged additionally with
mutinous solicitation and example. As Calvert stood before his
superior, that distinguished officer, whose oratorical powers had
been considerably stimulated through a long course of "returning
thanks for the Army," slightly expanded his chest and said
paternally:

"I am aware, Mr. Calvert, that duties of this kind are somewhat
distasteful to young officers, and are apt to be considered in the
light of police detail; but I must remind you that no one part of a
soldier's duty can be held more important or honorable than
another, and that the fulfilment of any one, however trifling,
must, with honor to himself and security to his comrades, receive
his fullest devotion. A sergeant and a file of men might perform
your duty, but I require, in addition, the discretion, courtesy,
and consideration of a gentleman who will command an equal respect
from those with whom his duty brings him in contact. The unhappy
prejudices which the settlers show to the military authority here
render this, as you are aware, a difficult service, but I believe
that you will, without forgetting the respect due to yourself and
the Government you represent, avoid arousing these prejudices by
any harshness, or inviting any conflict with the civil authority.
The limits of their authority you will find in your written
instructions; but you might gain their confidence, and impress
them, Mr. Calvert, with the idea of your being their AUXILIARY in
the interests of justice--you understand. Even if you are
unsuccessful in bringing back the men, you will do your best to
ascertain if their escape has been due to the sympathy of the