It was about ten o'clock in the morning when Captain Hayward left his friends, and proceeded toward the camp of General Price, which was about four miles from the spot where the horses had been secured and the party concealed. Several of the picket guard were passed, who came at once to the shoulder arms and salute, as Hayward approached. He soon reached the guard-house. Here the inspection was a trifle more critical, although the captain passed within the lines without the slightest difficulty. He walked along as one familiar with the place, his eyes surveying each surrounding object at a single glance, and seeking, among the better class of tents, one which, by the rebel flag, he could recognize as headquarters. But he could not readily find the general's tent, concealed, as it was, among the trees. Soon, however, he met one of the rebels, wearing the shoulder-straps of captain, and his sash worn in the manner indicating an "officer of the day." Hayward saluted, and asked: "Will you take me to the general's tent?" "You are a stranger here?" asked the officer. "Yes." "You come from below?" "From below Springfield--from McIntosh." "Anything important?" "Yes, but it is for the general's ear first. If _he_ chooses to communicate with you, very well; but I shall not!" "Oh! your pardon, sir. You will find the general's tent to the right, on the hill yonder, just in the edge of the woods. He is now examining a spy--an Indian!" Hayward saluted the officer, and passed on toward the spot indicated. He had proceeded but a short distance, when he saw an Indian dart from among the trees, and run as if for life. Several shots were instantly fired after him, but without effect. It was but an instant before several horsemen appeared, and dashed after him at a furious speed. They passed Hayward, and were soon out of sight. Hayward passed on, and soon reached the general's tent. He was informed by an orderly in attendance that Price had just left in pursuit of the Indian spy who had just escaped, and might be absent some time. "These red devils are slippery as eels," said the orderly, "and I doubt if they can overtake him." "Well, I am in no particular hurry," replied Hayward. "I come from McIntosh with messages for the general, and I will await his return here." "Then you are a stranger in our camp?" "Yes, I have just arrived!" "Well, sit down. Take a cigar--and here is some excellent brandy. Help yourself." "You appear to be well provided for," said Hayward, lighting a cigar. "Better with drink than anything else. But I can offer you something to eat, such as it is." "Thank you, orderly; but I was well supplied at a farm-house this morning. However, I will drink with you. Fill, and we will drink to the general, and success to our cause!" "I will drink that in a pint bumper," said the orderly, as he drained his glass. "That is excellent," said Hayward. "Take another." "I don't care if I do!" "Still another!"