"The opportunity of furnishing the information desired will be again
offered you; but, as near as I can learn, the charge preferred against
you is of such a private nature that it is deemed best not to make it
matter for camp talk. Whatever it may be, Sheridan evidently feels
justified in taking the case out from the usual channels, and in using
most drastic measures. I am sorry to bring you such news, especially as
I believe the charges are largely concocted in the brain of him who
makes them, and have but the thinnest circumstantial evidence to
sustain them. Yet Sheridan is thoroughly convinced, and will brook no
interference. The discussion of the case has already led to his using
extremely harsh words to his chief of staff."

"I am to be shot, then?"

His hand closed warmly over mine. "While there is life there is always
hope," he answered. "Surely it must be in your power to prove the
nature of your mission within our lines, and the delay thus gained will
enable us to learn and meet these more serious allegations."

"If I but had time to communicate with General Lee."

"But now--is there no one, no way by which such representation can be
given this very day? If not full proof of your innocence, then
sufficient, at least, to cause the necessary delay?"

I shook my head. "I know of nothing other than my own unsupported
word," I answered shortly, "and that is evidently of no value as
against Major Brennan's secret insinuations. When is the hour set?"

"I am not positive that final decision has yet been reached, but I