It seems you have an application pending for a furlough." "Yes, sir." "It is my pleasure to inform you that it has been granted--sixty days, with permission to proceed east.

There has been considerable delay evidently in locating you." A sudden vision arose before me of my mother's face and of the old home among the hills as I took the paper from his extended hands and glanced at the printed and written lines.
"The date is a month ago." "That need not trouble you, Knox.

The furlough begins with this delivery.

However, as I shall require your services as far as St.
Louis, I shall date its acceptance from the time of your arrival there." "Which is very kind, sir." "Not at all.

You have proven of considerable assistance here, and I shall part from you with regret.