And now, who are you, my friend?
My correspondents here mention your name--Israel Potter--and say you are an American, an escaped prisoner of war, but nothing further.

I want to hear your story from your own lips." Israel immediately began, and related to the Doctor all his adventures up to the present time.
"I suppose," said the Doctor, upon Israel's concluding, "that you desire to return to your friends across the sea ?" "That I do, Doctor," said Israel.
"Well, I think I shall be able to procure you a passage." Israel's eyes sparkled with delight.

The mild sage noticed it, and added: "But events in these times are uncertain.

At the prospect of pleasure never be elated; but, without depression, respect the omens of ill.

So much my life has taught me, my honest friend." Israel felt as though a plum-pudding had been thrust under his nostrils, and then as rapidly withdrawn.
"I think it is probable that in two or three days I shall want you to return with some papers to the persons who sent you to me.