Admiral Farragut and his charge were soon admitted to General Butler's presence. The General had chosen the ladies' parlor as his official headquarters. The room was filled with orderlies and sergeants each intent upon the performance of some duty. In the midst of them sat General Butler. He received his visitors courteously. His name familiar to every American, spoken of by some in terms of highest praise, and by others with opprobrium, made Jeanne shrink a little closer to Farragut's side as the General greeted them. He was of imposing presence. Not tall, but of well-developed form and fine massive head; not graceful in movement but of firm solid aspect; self-possessed and slow of speech. "This is a great pleasure, Admiral," he exclaimed with heartiness. "Welcome back to New Orleans." "Thank you, General," returned Farragut. "I should be glad to be here could I feel that I have not left unfinished my work behind me." "Vicksburg then is still untaken?" "I regret to answer, yes. But you are making progress here. You have begun a good work. I notice that the streets are being cleaned." "The condition of things demanded it," returned Butler. "The quality of the climate is pernicious and wasting enough without having to brave the terror of yellow fever. It has been in self-defense." "It takes a strong hand to rule the city, does it not?" "A strong hand? Yes. I am subjected to all sorts of abuse for my tyranny, as they call it; but this one measure the strongest rebel among them must approve. In time perhaps they will see the need of all. My administration may be vigorous, but of one thing rest assured: So long as Benjamin F. Butler stays in New Orleans the city shall acknowledge the absolute and unquestioned supremacy of the United States." "There is no doubt but that she will with you at the helm," said the Admiral. "General, do you know a man by the name of Archer?" "John Archer?" asked the General, giving a quick glance at him. "Well, to any one else, Admiral, I should dissemble; but to you I will say, yes. Why?" "This girl," pushing Jeanne forward, "has brought messages, papers, or something of that nature for him from New York City: I thought that perhaps you could arrange a meeting with him for her. After that she has an uncle in the city whom she wishes to find." "This girl?" General Butler eyed Jeanne keenly. "Rather young for a messenger, isn't she?" "In years, perhaps; but she ran the fire of the Vicksburg batteries in order to reach here." "Indeed!" General Butler looked at her more closely. "Do you know John Archer, child?" "No, sir." "Orderly, bring in the man Archer," commanded the General. A look of surprise passed over Farragut's face, but he made no remark. Presently the orderly returned with a man. "Archer," said the General quietly, "this girl has brought some papers for you."