"One who can give up his commission in the army and come back to us as you have done is the kind of man we need." Colonel Talbot gave a reluctant hand.
"I am proud to have felt the grasp of one who will win many honors in the coming war," said Ramsay.
"Or more likely fill a grave," said Colonel Talbot, dryly.
The silent young man across the table looked at the South Carolinian with interest, and Harry in his turn examined this stranger.

He was built well, shaven smoothly, and did not look like a Tennesseean.
His thin lips, often pressed closely together, seemed to indicate a capacity for silence, but when he saw Harry looking at him he smiled and said: "I gather from your conversation that you are going to Charleston.
All southern roads seem to lead to that town, and I, too, am going there.

My name is Shepard, William J.Shepard, of St.Louis." Colonel Talbot turned a measuring look upon him.

It was so intent and comprehensive that the young man flushed slightly, and moved a little in his seat.
"So you are from St.Louis ?" said the colonel.

"That is a great city, and you must know something about the feeling there.