"You need not trouble yourself to name that one thing," said Hayward. "I see, you understand me. But, the proposition I was about to make was not intended to insult you. _I_ honestly believe that I am right, while _you_ believe that _you_ are. Both of us have sense and judgment. One of us _must_ be _wrong_. I believe I have thoroughly examined this matter, and I can but feel that if you would do the same, impartially and without prejudice, you would feel as I do. Understand, our interests at the South are different from yours at the North. We do _not_ wish to interfere with _your_ government or your interests. We only ask a government of our own, and that you should not interfere with _our_ interests. We do not march our armies into _your_ territories, and we feel that you have no right to march into _ours_. It will not damage the great North to permit the Southern States to form a government of their own, one that will correspond with their interests; and, so long as we could derive great benefit from it, why should you object? The North is prosperous, because its government is in accordance with its interests and institutions. The South is _not_ prosperous, because the North, governing the whole, has forced upon us a government antagonistic to our interests and institutions. Why not give us a chance for ourselves? But you will not; and so we are compelled to strike for our rights." "If you truly feel as you speak, you are an honest enemy, at least. You may tell me what the proposition is which you wish to make." "You are a brave man, and I would like your services and influence in our army and cause. I do not wish you to act against your feelings or principles; but, I heartily wish you could view our cause as I view it, and come with us. You shall have command of a regiment--perhaps of a brigade!" "General Price," replied Hayward in a mild tone, "I thank you for the delicate manner in which you have made this proposition. I cannot deem it an insult, as your manner is that of a man who makes an offer, sincerely and in good faith, not as a bribe. But I cannot view this matter as you do, and consequently cannot accept your offer or entertain it for a moment. My country, my whole country, right or wrong, is my motto. There is but one flag, and that is the Stars and Stripes, for me." "I regret it, as I really _do not_ wish to see so brave a man die so young!" "A truce to compliments, General Price. I have done that which I deemed my duty. If you have a duty to perform, and the performance of it calls for my blood, don't let 'my bravery' influence you!" "Will you give your parole of honor never to take up arms against us again, if I release you?" asked Price. "No, sir!" was the firm but mild reply. "You are proud, Captain Hayward!" "That is not to the purpose, General Price. I shall do nothing, excepting to escape if I can. I ask but one favor of you." "What is that favor?" "That you will tell me what is to be my fate!"