"No, for he spoke of Captain Hayward, and remarked that he had an account to settle with him, and had sent for his description, which he expected every moment. I had it in my pocket at the time, and those who took it were under arrest by my order. They would have recognized me in an instant if they had seen me. The reason that Price did not recognize me was, that when he saw me at the well, I was almost black with dust, and I took pains to-day to change the tone of my voice as much as possible." "It was a terrible risk!" "By gracious, captain, if you ain't a trump," said Nettleton, as he opened wide his green eyes. "But they have discovered all by this time, and we have not a moment to lose. It is eleven o'clock now, and you are expected at yonder rock!" "You have seen Alibamo?" "Yes, and kissed her!" "She knew you, then?" "No--she didn't--I told her before a large crowd that I was Harry Hinton. She understood me, and said I might kiss her. I did so--_on the ear!_" "And whispered at the same time. Thank you, my best friend." "Well, don't stop for thanks now. That rock is outside the picket guard, but she will be attended by ten or twelve soldiers. Go to her at once. I will see our horses placed in a position where we can easily mount. The negro shall ride behind Nettleton, and Alibamo shall have White Surry." "We must fight, of course." "I think it will not be necessary--that is, only you and I!" "What do you mean, captain?" "Why, her guard have all seen you, and by your own story, they think you a lover, although not altogether a favored one. I have met the beauty to-day--they have all seen me. They saw me kiss her, and think, that for a short acquaintance, I am a remarkably favored lover. You are a private, and I am an officer, and in that particular, of course, have the advantage. I will come upon you, after you have conversed a few moments, and take the lady under my protection. Her guard will be much more likely to permit me to walk with the lady alone than you, as I am an officer in favor with the general. Once near our horses, we have nothing to fear, and none of her guard are mounted. Now go Harry. If we must fight, all right." As Adjutant Hinton started for the rock, Captain Hayward directed that the horses be brought into the main pathway. It was done, and all was in readiness. As Harry reached the rock, Alibamo sprang forward to receive him. "Let your action be constrained--do not embrace me--and speak low, dear Alibamo. The reason for this, you will discover presently." "I know you have good cause for this request, my own Harry, but I must tell you how I love you!" replied Alibamo, as she bowed her head upon the breast of her lover. "But I have been here an hour--and I sang, in the hope you would hear my voice." Some words of tenderness passed between the lovers, when Alibamo cried: "What is that?"