This was our morning newspaper, our Herald and Tribune; I never got tired of it.

Then the couriers must be furnished with countersign and instructions, and sent off again.

Then we scattered to our various rides, all disguised as duty; one to inspect pickets, one to visit a sick soldier, one to build a bridge or clear a road, and still another to head-quarters for ammunition or commissary stores.

Galloping through green lanes, miles of triumphal arches of wild roses,--roses pale and large and fragrant, mingled with great boughs of the white cornel, fantastic masses, snowy surprises,--such were our rides, ranging from eight to fifteen and even twenty miles.

Back to a late dinner with our various experiences, and perhaps specimens to match,--a thunder-snake, eight feet long; a live opossum, with a young clinging to the natural pouch; an armful of great white, scentless pond-lilies.