It was this tree Lieutenant Boggs wished to reach, knowing that from its summit he could look down upon a wide circle of the surrounding country. Without losing any time he swiftly, yet silently advanced toward the forsaken buildings, being careful to keep under the cover of the trees. His followers closely imitated his example, and a few minutes later, without having met with any renewed cause of alarm, they gained the summit. Under the giant pine Lieutenant Boggs ordered a halt. “One of us had better climb the tree. If I mistake not, from its top the camp of the Yanks will be in plain view. You are the man to do it,” he concluded, turning to Cavalry Curt. The words in themselves were innocent enough, but they were no sooner spoken than the scout instantly interpreted a double meaning. He saw Lieutenant Boggs and the deserter exchange significant glances, and all at once it flashed through his mind that his identity had been discovered! He had been betrayed! It was evidently a part of the plans of his foes to get him into the tree, where he would be at their mercy. A hurried glance around showed that there was no way for him to escape. He must either climb the tree or refuse to obey the order. In the latter case he would only hasten the crisis without bringing any especial benefit to himself. He was in a tight place. CHAPTER XIV. TREED! “Come, why don’t you obey orders?” growled Lieutenant Boggs, as Cavalry Curt hesitated a moment. “Danged if I see just how I am going to get up to that first limb,” muttered the scout. “I never was much of a climber,” and he started around the tree, obviously to find a way to ascend its trunk, but really to test the intentions of his companions. No sooner had he moved than their rifles were half-raised and they seemed ready to spring upon him. He no longer doubted their purpose. Neither did he delay further in his course of action. “We’ll show you a way to get your lubberly carcass up there if you don’t try for yourself pretty lively,” exclaimed the lieutenant, impatiently. “If some of you will just give me a boost I guess I can get up here,” declared Curt. With the assistance of a couple of the others he was enabled to reach the first branch when he slowly drew himself up until he had gained its support. Glancing over his shoulder he saw that the squad had covered him with their guns, and that Lieutenant Boggs was smiling triumphantly. Without seeming to notice their hostile movement, however, Cavalry Curt continued his ascent of the pine. Feeling confident of their game the Confederates allowed him to go up higher until his form began to fade from sight. “We can take him as he comes down,” said Boggs. “Look sharp for him, boys.” This was spoken in an undertone which of course did not reach the scout’s ears, though he knew well enough their intentions. Higher and higher he rapidly ascended the tree, until at last he was near the top.