mercy. Then our work is done. It will remain for Mitchel and Beauregard to
fight it out."

He paused, and there was a moment of profound silence while the men
considered the situation. Then Andrews spoke again:

"The fact that action has started between Chattanooga and Corinth means
that our task is additionally hazardous. The odds we must overcome are
greater than I expected. If we have made a mistake in delaying a day, we
must work the harder to keep that mistake from costing Mitchel his victory.
The train we are to capture leaves Marietta at six o'clock tomorrow
morning. I will see that you are called before five so that you will have
plenty of time to get to the station. Carry food with you, for there's no
telling when you'll sit at a table again. Buy tickets for points north of
Big Shanty--Allatoona, Etowah, Calhoun and Dalton--so that you won't excite
suspicion. Get aboard the same car in groups of two and three, and don't
show that you are acquainted. Avoid all talk about the raid. We must say
everything that is to be said here tonight before we separate. I will be in
the same car, and if trouble starts, follow me.

"At Big Shanty we will seize the train. The train stops at Big Shanty for
the crew and passengers to have breakfast. Stay in the car until the others
have left; then, when you see me leave, follow me to the head of the
trains. Walk slowly, and carelessly, as though you were simply out to
stretch your legs. Brown and Knight will go with me to the engine, and you,
Burns"--he pointed to Tom--"you come with us, too. I want you as fireman.
Ross will uncouple the train after the third box-car. The box-cars are
empties being sent to Chattanooga for supplies which the rebs are storing
in Atlanta. The doors will be unlocked. The rest of you are to climb aboard
the last box-car. Do all of you understand?" The men nodded. "Have your