If you are in imminent danger of capture destroy the paper, but to provide for such a chance, in case you escape afterward, I will read the dispatches to you." He read them over several times and then questioned Dick.

But the boy's memory was good.

In fact, every word of the dispatches was burnt into his brain, and nothing could make him forget them.
"And now, my lad," said General Thomas, giving him his hand, "you may help us greatly.

I would not send a boy upon such an errand, but the demands of war are terrible and must be obeyed." The strong grasp of the general's hand imparted fresh enthusiasm to Dick, and for the present he did not have the slightest doubt that he would get safely through.

He wore a strong suit of home-made brown jeans, a black felt cap with ear-flaps, and high boots.