TO THE FRONT
as I am, he hasn't enlisted and taken the oath, and he is really at liberty to join the Confederate side. Nothing can be said about it—except by us, who know that it isn't honest—done only for you—only for blessed you!"
Another long silence. Then Jon's soft voice went on—comforting:
"But, now, for the very last moment before we move on to the front, let us think of the home-coming! For the war is almost over. Why, we shall soon be all together again! And the scars of the war will heal, and we will all think alike before long, that it was good to preserve this Union! And you and Dave will be married! Think of it! There will be little Daves and Evelyns a-plenty! And we shall laugh—laugh at all we suffer to-day! Now, let me go! Send me forth to bring back our dear Dave! Smile! Let me remember that!"
She tried to do that. But such a sad old smile I never saw before.
"God bless you! And give him this—and this—and this straight from my lips!"
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