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"I want another messenger to send across to the left. We must get word to General Blank to hold on. I want the best horse and the best rider that you have. A man who isn't afraid to go on a sure death errand for Uncle Sam. Have you such a man?"

"Yes, I know of one such. He is the best rider in the United States cavalry and he rides the best horse in the army."

"Is he lucky?" asked the General.

"He has come through more tight places than any other man in the service."

"What is his name?"

"Lieut. Halsey Eaton. Somehow he always gets through."

"All right. Send him to me."

Five minutes later Halsey was saluting the General.

"Lieut. Eaton," said the general, speaking in his quick, incisive manner, "I have got to get word to General Blank on our left, to hold the woods at any cost. If that fails we will be beaten before the battle begins. The Confederates have seen this and have struck first. I have sent three