One of the tall mountaineers, whom he had seen crossing the ford, stood before him; and the reality was even more appalling than the vision.
"Who mought you be ?" demanded the tall soldier, with a good-natured grin upon his greasy face.
"Faith! I believe I've been asleep!" said Tom, rubbing his eyes, and looking as innocent as a young lamb.
"You may bet your life on thet, my boy," replied the rebel, laughing.

"Hi! Jarvey!" added he, apparently addressing a companion at no great distance from the spot.
Heavy footsteps announced the approach of Jarvey, who soon joined them.

He was not less than six feet three inches in height, and, with two such customers as these, Tom had no hope except in successful strategy.

He had no doubt they had obtained information of him from the persons in the vehicles, and had come to secure him.

He fully expected to be marched off to the rebel regiment, which could not be far off.
"Who is he, Sid ?" asked Jarvey, when he reached the spot.
"Dunno.