“You are on a dangerous errand, young woman,” were his first words. She started with a low exclamation of fear. “Do not be alarmed,” he hastened to say. “I will be more careful how I speak. You have nothing to fear from me. You are cleverly disguised. It is to warn you that I am here.” “Pray who are you?” “They call me Old Fatality. But that is only a name synonymous with my work, you know. All other names are misnomers, however, so away with them. You have been rash in coming here when your own home is in jeopardy. You are needed there, even now. Is the life of a stranger dearer to you than the loved ones at home?” She was silent, perplexed, bewildered. “I understand,” he went on. “You have come here in the cause of your state. By your heroic conduct you have averted the disaster that hangs over the army of Georgia. But its downfall is surely coming. You will live to regret that you lent your arm to its support. Your heart should be wholly with your patriot lover. But I am detaining you here when you should be on your homeward journey. Even now all that you hold dear on earth is under the bane. Within a week you will be alone--friendless and hopeless.” “Sir, begone!” she exclaimed. “Who are you who dares to breathe the breath of treason?” It was too dark for either to see the other’s face plainly, but both were greatly excited. Mara stood with extended arm. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “I have only your good at heart. See, I am going.” He went as far as the edge of the tent and peered cautiously out. The excitement of the camp scene had somewhat died away. With a hasty glance he took in the view, when to the surprise of Mara, he rapidly returned to her side. “Be calm,” he said in a tone hardly above a whisper. “You have come to rescue Cavalry Curt! So have I! Listen to my directions and it shall be well. You can trust me.” More surprised than ever Mara bowed her head. “You have a pass for him?” “Yes.” “Then go boldly down to his place of confinement and demand an entrance. The guard will pass you. Let the prisoner don this suit of gray,” handing her a bundle that he carried under his cloak. “Together then leave the place. I will be on guard when you come out. Be bold and it shall be well with you and him. Separate at once. Do you then go home with all speed possible. Do you understand?” She could hardly credit his words. “You can trust me,” he declared seeing her hesitation. “If you have any doubt ask Cavalry Curt if he knows the Wizard of the Army.” At the mention of that name she gazed upon him spellbound. Could she be really gazing upon the wonderful man whose startling reputation had reached even her mountain home? “I have heard of you,” she murmured. “I stopped at your house once when crossing the mountains. In spite of your disguise I recognized you by your voice as soon as you spoke. I never forget a voice. You can trust me?” “Yes.” “Good. Wait an hour; then go ahead. You will find me ready to do my part.”