These circumstances might make them wish to change his orders, and at any rate the commander of the regiment wished to be sure of what he was doing.
"You're a Kentuckian and a good horseman," said Colonel Newcomb to Dick.
"The villagers have sent me a trusty man, one Bill Petty, as a guide.
Take Sergeant Whitley and you three go to the station.

I've already written my dispatches, and I put them in your care.

Have them sent at once, and if necessary wait four hours for an answer.

If it comes, ride back as fast as you can.

The horses are ready and I rely upon you." "Thank you, sir, I'll do my best," said Dick, who deeply appreciated the colonel's confidence.