"Why, you see, Branch took a young gal prisoner, and has kept her in camp some time. At first he was harsh and done just about as he pleased--that is, he said about what he pleased. But he never couldn't come near the gal. She struck him once with a dagger when he tried to kiss her, and nearly killed him. During the time he was sick he fell in love in real earnest with the gal, and now she does anything she pleases, _except_ leave. That she can't do, as Branch has detailed a guard to watch her, and although they are just as much in love with her as Branch is, they dare not let her escape." "Indeed! She must be a fascinating creature. Is she in camp now?" "Oh, yes; she has a tent to herself." "What is her name?" "I believe they call her Alibamo." "She is a Spanish beauty, then?" "That is her Christian name. But I believe she _is_ of Spanish origin." "I must see this beauty," said Hayward, laughing. "You had better look out for your heart." "Oh! no danger. I am not susceptible. Here is a young gentleman who is, however. How is it, Harry, do you think _you_ will love this--this--what is her name?" "Alibamo." "Alibamo! Yes--soft--musical--poetical. Will you love Alibamo, Harry?" "Very likely, captain," replied the adjutant. "Well, we must proceed. Good-by, captain. I hope you will secure the powder!" The parties now separated, Captain Hayward and his friends riding leisurely forward, until the others were no longer to be seen. "I guess he'll git that powder over the left," said Nettleton, grinning a smile that reminded one of a large hole in the mountain. "Search for your revolver, captain. _Perhaps_ you have not lost it at all." "I brought but _one_, and that is here. But never mind." In the course of a few hours, the captain rode into a thick cluster of oaks, followed by his friends. The horses were secured in a position where they were entirely concealed from view. The negro was instructed to watch them, and the others were to remain quiet until the return of Captain Hayward, provided he should return by twelve o'clock the following night. If not, they were to act as they thought best. CHAPTER V. _Hayward in Camp--The Spies--The Maiden Alibamo--The Interview with Price--The Perilous Situation._ Columbia's sons! the heavens above us Sent angels of glory, who brought down our stars! With part of heaven's blue Which they gave Washington, And through him to you, When first you begun To form our proud standard. Then lacking the bars, Columbia's daughters exclaimed, "Those who love us Must add to that portion with streams of their blood, Binding it to the blue and the stars, though a flood Be required." _Colonel Weeks._