Page:Randall Parrish - The Red Mist.djvu/217

 Rh "I am in command of this camp, and my recommendation will have weight. I pledge you my influence with General Ramsay."

"What is it you wish to know?"

"The number and disposition of Jackson's troops; where they are at present stationed, and in what force; and any inkling you may have as to his immediate plans of campaign."

"And in return for this information you guarantee me release from arrest?"

"That would be impossible, Sergeant," and he laid his hand on my shoulder. "We shall have to hold you as prisoner of war, but there will be no charge made involving the death penalty."

I stood motionless a moment, endeavoring to straighten the matter out in my own mind. When I spoke it was as briefly as possible.

"I can only thank you, Colonel Pickney," I said quietly, "and respectfully decline. I am a soldier, and loyal to my flag; I accepted the chance of such a situation as this when General Jackson requested my services. Even at the cost of life I will not answer your questions, sir."

"You will die the death of a spy; you will be hanged."

"That is as God wills, sir; the threat has no effect upon me."