“That is a fortification commanding the Chickahominy to the northeast of the city. I heard that General Johnston used to stay there, and I also heard the rebels have a large magazine there. And, sir, I heard General Johnston is severely wounded and that General Lee will take his place, and the rebels think Jackson will soon come down to Richmond from the valley.” At this General McClellan smiled again. “You have had your ears wide open for one of your age,” he said. “This map will perhaps prove of value, although it merely corroborates what our regular spies have already furnished us with.” He looked at the paper again and continued to ask questions, all of which Louis answered as well as he was able. In fifteen minutes the interview was over. “One thing I wish to caution you about, Rockford,” were the general’s final words. “Do not mention Robert Dowling by name. The word may get back to Richmond and cause the man who befriended you much trouble.” “I will remember, general.” “For a young man of your age you have done remarkably well. Keep on as you have started and who knows but that you will one day be wearing a general’s shoulder-straps?” and then the general bowed pleasantly and turned away, while Louis saluted in his best manner and walked out. The cordial reception had made Louis the general’s friend for life. [Illustration: “KEEP ON AS YOU HAVE STARTED AND WHO KNOWS BUT THAT YOU WILL ONE DAY BE WEARING A GENERAL’S SHOULDER-STRAPS?”--_Page 387._] It must not be imagined that Louis had forgotten Hornsby. His first words on getting into camp had been concerning his fellow-prisoner. Nothing had been heard of the old soldier. As a matter of fact, the man was recaptured not six hours after dropping from the prison window, and it was only by good luck that he was not shot. Two days later he was removed to Libby Prison, where he remained until the first exchange of prisoners after the termination of the peninsula campaign. Louis received an ovation when he returned to the ranks of the Goreville Volunteers. “He’s been a-dining with General McClellan,” said Callings. “Louis, what did you have, quail on toast or stuffed turkey? Did he treat to Havana cigars or Pittsburg stogies?” “I pet you der cheneral vos calls him a pully poy,” put in Hans Roddmann. “Und dot’s vot he vos--der pulliest poy in der camp, hey?” And he slapped Louis so heartily upon the back that the young soldier had the breath knocked out of him. Jerry Rowe said nothing, but stood by, looking as sour as possible. “The airs Louis Rockford puts on make me sick,” he grumbled to Benny Bruce, later on. “Don’t talk to me, Jerry Rowe,” answered Benny, with flashing eyes. “You’re the biggest coward in the camp and I don’t care to recognize you.”