She put her foot out, and--well, I came very near telling--she tramped on a cat.

The cat squalled.
THE TALISMAN But then, you know, reader, that I was engaged to Jennie and I had a talisman in my pocket Bible, in the way of a love letter, against the charms of other beautiful and interesting young ladies.

Uncle Jimmie Rieves had been to Maury county, and, on returning to Atlanta, found out that I was wounded and in the hospital at Montgomery, and brought the letter to me; and, as I am married now, I don't mind telling you what was in the letter, if you won't laugh at me.

You see, Jennie was my sweetheart, and here is my sweetheart's letter: My Dear Sam.:--I write to tell you that I love you yet, and you alone; and day by day I love you more, and pray, every night and morning for your safe return home again.

My greatest grief is that we heard you were wounded and in the hospital, and I cannot be with you to nurse you.
We heard of the death of many noble and brave men at Atlanta; and the death of Captain Carthell, Cousin Mary's husband.