really leaves the Union," he thought, and then his face grew troubled as
he remembered that Mr. and Mrs. Fulton must be in great trouble and
anxiety over the disappearance of their little daughter. But first of
all he must see the schooner's cargo safely unloaded at Fort Sumter, and
send his men back to Fort Moultrie; then he would take Sylvia home, or
find some way to notify her parents that she was safe and well cared
for.




CHAPTER IV

AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY


When Sylvia did not come in with the other girls Miss Patten sent a maid
in search of her. But she did not search very carefully. She called
Sylvia's name a few times, sauntered about the garden, and then
reported: "Can't find Missy Sylvia."

She was then told to go straight to Mrs. Fulton's house on the East
Battery and see if Miss Sylvia had reached home. Miss Patten did not
feel anxious. She thought it probable that the little northern girl did
not realize the rules of the school, had become tired, and so started
for home.

"Did Miss Sylvia say anything to any of you young ladies about leaving
the grounds?" she questioned the pupils. But they all declared that they
knew nothing of her whereabouts.