daughter informs me that the Yankees are in Vicksburg, and I have no
reason to doubt the statement."

He paused, and Dick said:

"Yes, Colonel, it's true."

"I suppose we must endure it. I should have gone myself and have offered
my sword to General Grant, but this confounded leg of mine is still weak."

"At least, sir, we come with something besides arms. May I bring you
rations?"

"You are generous, young man, and my daughter and I appreciate the
obvious nature of your errand here. Speaking for both of us, a little
food will not be unwelcome."

"Tell me first, what has become of your nephew. Has he escaped from the
city?"

"He slipped out nearly a week ago, and will join his father's regiment
in Bragg's command. That scoundrel, Slade, is gone too. Since the city
had to be surrendered I would gladly have made you a present of Slade,
but it's out of my power now."

Dick soon returned with ample food for them and helped them later,
when they moved to quarters outside in the shell-torn city. Dick saw
that they were comfortable, and then his mind turned toward Tennessee.
Detachments from Grant's army were to be sent to that of Rosecrans,
who was now heavily threatened by Bragg, and the Winchester regiment,