“Unfortunately, the rules of Fort Delaware are very strict, however. To cross the ‘dead line’ is death; to attempt to burrow is confinement in irons, and other degrading punishments; and to bribe the sentinels invariably resulted in having the whole affair revealed, after they had received the money. It really seemed as if Colonel Mohun were doomed to the living death of a filthy prison until the end of the war, since exchanges had ceased, and it was only by devising a ruse of very great risk that I accomplished the end in view.” “What was your plan, Nighthawk?” said Stuart, rising and moving to the fireplace, where he stood basking in the warmth. “Original, I lay my life, and--quiet.” “Exactly that, general.” And Nighthawk smiled sweetly. XVIII. THE UNIFORM. “I have always observed, general,” said Mr. Nighthawk, raising his eyes in pious meditation, as it were, “that there is no better rule for a man’s conduct in life than to make friends with the mammon of unrighteousness--people in power.” “A profound maxim,” laughed Stuart; “friends are useful--that was your principle?” “Yes, general; and I made one of the quartermaster of the post--a certain major Woodby--who was exceedingly fond of the ‘root of all evil.’ I made that gentleman’s acquaintance, applied for the place of sutler in _the pen_; and this place I acquired by agreeing to pay a heavy bonus in thirty days. “This was Saturday night. On Monday morning I presented myself before the gate, and demanded admittance as the newly appointed sutler of the pen. “I was admitted, and taken before the officer of the day, in his quarters. “‘Who are you?’ he asked, gruffly. “‘The new sutler, lieutenant.’ “‘Where are your papers?’ “I had them ready, and presented them to him. He read them carefully, looked at me superciliously, and said:-- “‘That is wholly informal.’ “I looked at him. He had a red nose. “‘I have some excellent French brandy, captain,’ I said, promoting him. “At sight of the portly flask which I drew half from my pocket and exhibited to him, I saw his face relax. “‘You are a keen fellow, and know the world, I perceive,’ he said. “And taking the flask, he poured out nearly a glass full of the brandy, and drank it. “‘Do you intend to keep that article of brandy?’ he said. “‘For my friends, captain,’ I replied, with a wink which he evidently understood. “‘Let me see your papers again.’ “I unfolded them, and he glanced at them. “‘All right--they are in regular form. There is the key of the sutler’s shop, on that nail. Take possession.’ “And my friend the captain emptied a second glass of the brandy, and made me a sign that I could go. “I bowed profoundly; took the key; and went and opened the sutler’s shop; after which I strolled out to look at the prisoners in the area. The sentinel had seen me visit the officer of the day, and go to the sutler’s shop.