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 man at such a disadvantage,—if you understand what I mean by that sort of thing. Your father, now, could appeal to my sympathies as well as I to his; but Darius,—I put it to you, who would think of appealing to Darius's sympathy? He won't have any; he's Robert's friend; he can bear testimony to his character, his family, his property, and his political sentiments. Oh, Darius will have to come too; I could n't think of facing the implacable father without my old Gaffer Harden to back me."

"Well, dear, you know best; but—"

"Of course I do; but me no buts. A husband is so convenient in a row; I call Dari my fighting editor. But to return to the General. Under the combined attack of fatherly affection and remorse, of Sara and Darius Harden, of Robert and Margaret, with the support of Colonel Lagrange thrown in if necessary, the rout will be complete."

And it was.

The enemy held out valiantly for a week, and then, after an heroic resistance, was routed,—horse, foot, and dragoon breaking under the final charge of the foe, which was the more deadly be cause of the heavy shower of tears under which it was made. Peace was restored, and the articles signed on terms which were creditable to both parties. The General was to retire to his