He had ceased to wonder why Jackson refused to reveal his identity.

If he did not do so it must be for some excellent reason, and, meanwhile, the boy waited placidly.
"So you won't let us pass," said Jackson.

"Is the commander of the picket near by ?" "I can whistle so he'll hear me." "Then will you kindly whistle ?" The sentinel looked again at the quiet man on the horse, put his fingers to his lips and blew loudly.

An officer emerged from the woods and said: "What is it, Felton ?" Then he glanced at the man on the horse and started violently.
"General Jackson!" he exclaimed.
The sentinel turned pale, but said nothing.
"Yes, I'm General Jackson," said the general, "and I ride with this lieutenant of my staff on an errand.

But both of you must swear to me that you have not seen me." Then he turned to the sentinel.
"You did right to stop us," he said.