CHAPTER XXIV.
BUDD'S FERRY.
Though Tom Somers had been absent from the regiment only a fortnight, it seemed to him as though a year had elapsed since the day of the battle when he had stood shoulder to shoulder with his townsmen and friends.

He had been ordered to report to the provost marshal at Washington, where he learned that his regiment was at Bladensburg, about six miles from the city.

Being provided with the necessary pass and "transportation," he soon reached the camp.
"Tom Somers! Tom Somers!" shouted several of his comrades, as soon as they recognized him.
"Three cheers for Tom Somers!" shouted Bob Dornton.
The soldier boy was a favorite in the company, and his return was sufficient to justify such a proceeding.

The cheers, therefore, were given with tremendous enthusiasm.
"Tom, I'm glad to see you!" said old Hapgood, with extended hand, while his eyes filled with tears.

"I was afeared we should never see you again." The fugitive shook hands with every member of the company who was present.
His reception was in the highest degree gratifying to him, and he was determined always to merit the good will of his companions in arms.
"Now, fellows, tell us what the news is," said Tom, as he seated himself on a camp stool before the tent of his mess.
"There are letters for you, Tom, in the hands of the orderly," added one of his friends.