CHAPTER XXVI.
TOM IS SENTIMENTAL.
The little schooner which the picket guard had captured was loaded with valuable supplies for the rebels, which of course were confiscated without ceremony.

The mail bag which was on board contained a great many letters from traitors in Baltimore, some of whom were exposed by the capture of their treasonable correspondence.
Tom's wound proved to be more serious than even the surgeon had anticipated; but the best care which it was possible to give in a military hospital was bestowed upon him.

Old Hapgood, in recognition of his services on that eventful night, was permitted to be near the patient as much as the interests of the service would permit; and the old man was happy when seated by the rude couch of the soldier boy, ministering to his necessities, or cheering him with bright hopes of the future.

A strong friendship had grown up between them, for Tom's kind heart and brave conduct produced a deep impression upon the old man.
"Here, Tom," said Captain Benson, as he approached the sufferer, a few days after he entered the hospital, and laid a paper upon the bed.

"Here's a prescription which the colonel says you must take." "What is it ?" asked Tom, with a faint smile.
"A sergeant's warrant." "Glory, glory, hallelujah, as we go marching on!" exclaimed old Hapgood, jumping up like a youth of sixteen, and swinging his cap above his head.
"Shut up, there!" shouted the hospital steward.