May I bring you rations ?" "You are generous, young man, and my daughter and I appreciate the obvious nature of your errand here.

Speaking for both of us, a little food will not be unwelcome." "Tell me first, what has become of your nephew.

Has he escaped from the city ?" "He slipped out nearly a week ago, and will join his father's regiment in Bragg's command.

That scoundrel, Slade, is gone too.

Since the city had to be surrendered I would gladly have made you a present of Slade, but it's out of my power now." Dick soon returned with ample food for them and helped them later, when they moved to quarters outside in the shell-torn city.