"I wish I could banish fear," said I. "Well, sir, determine to do it. Instead of exerting your will to make yourself miserable, use it for a better purpose." "How can a man will? How can he know that his resolution will not weaken in the time of trial?" "It is by willing to do what comes next that a man can again will and will more. Can you not determine that you will do what you are ordered to do? Doubtless we shall march, to-morrow; have you not decided that you will march with us?" "I had not thought of so simple a thing. Of course, Captain, I expect to march." "And if the march brings us upon the battlefield, do you not know that you will march to the battlefield?" "I expect to go into battle, of course, Captain. If I did not, I should have no fear of myself." "Have as great fear of yourself as you wish. Do you intend to run away when we get into battle?" "I have no such intention; but when the time comes, I may not be able to have any intention at all." "At what point in the action do you expect to weaken?" "How can I have any expectation at all? I am simply untried, and fear the test." "You _can_ determine that you will act the man," said he. Then, kindly: "I have no fears that you will do otherwise, but"--and here his voice again became stern--"the determination will rid you of your present fears. Exert your will, and this nightmare will go." "Can a man will to do an unknown thing in the future?" "_You_ can. You can drive away your present fear of yourself, at the very least." "How can I do it, Captain?" "I shall give you one more test." "Do anything you wish, Captain; only don't propose anything that would confirm my fear." "Look at me--now. I am going to count three--understand?" "Yes, sir." "When I say 'three,' you will determine to continue in your present state of mind--" "No, no, Captain; I can't do that!" "Why, you've been doing nothing else for the last hour, man! But allow me to finish. You are going to determine to remain as you are, or you will determine to conquer your fears. Now, reflect before I begin." There was a pause. "Ready!" said the Captain; "hold your teeth together. When I say three, you act--and act for life or death--ONE--TWO--" If he ever said three, I did not hear it; at the word "two" all my fears were gone. "Well, my friend, how is it now?" he asked gently, even hesitatingly. "Captain," said; "I am your grateful servant. I shall do my duty." "I knew, sir, that your will was only sleeping; you must excuse me for employing a disagreeable device in order to arouse it. If I may make a suggestion, I would now beg, while you are in the vein, that you will encourage henceforth, the companionship of the men." "It will be a pleasure to do so, hereafter, Captain." "And I am delighted with this little episode, sir," said he; "I am sincerely glad that the thought of confiding in me presented itself to your mind, since the result seems so wholesome." "Good night, Captain," said I.