He dared not speak on the matter as he went home with George.

They rode for miles in silence, or strove to talk upon indifferent subjects; each knowing what was passing in the other's mind, and afraid to bring the awful question to an issue.
On their arrival at home the boys told their mother of General Braddock's offer.

"I knew it must happen," she said; "at such a crisis in the country our family must come forward.

Have you--have you settled yet which of you is to leave me ?" and she looked anxiously from one to another, dreading to hear either name.
"The youngest ought to go, mother; of course I ought to go!" cries Harry, turning very red.
"Of course he ought," said Mrs.Mountain, who was present at their talk.
"There! Mountain says so! I told you so!" again cries Harry, with a sidelong look at George.
"The head of the family ought to go, mother," says George, sadly.
"No! no! you are ill, and have never recovered your fever.

Ought he to go, Mountain ?" "You would make the best soldier, I know that, dearest Hal.