The cold days were passing, nature was bursting into its spring bloom, and the crisp fresh winds that blew from the west and south were full of life and strength.

It was a joy merely to breathe.
One rainy day the three boys, who had met by chance, went into the little church for shelter from a sudden spring rain.

From the shutterless window Dick saw Sergeant Whitley scurrying in search of a refuge, and they called to him.

He came gladly and took a seat in one of the rough wooden pews of the little church of Shiloh.

The three boys had the greatest respect for the character and judgment of the sergeant, and Dick asked him when he thought the army would march.
"They don't tell these things to sergeants," said Whitley.
"But you see and you know a lot about war." "Well, you've noticed that the army ain't gettin' ready to march.