John was by his side, and saw that he was deeply moved by the speech, but he did not join in the acclamations.

When all was over, he laid his hand on John's shoulder: "The die is cast, my boy.

I am glad that no act or voice of mine has had aught to do with bringing it about, and that the weight of what is to come will not rest upon my conscience.

But, now that it is decided, I shall not be one to draw back, but will do my share with what strength the Lord has given me." "May I join one of the regiments, too ?" John asked.

"I am young, but I am as strong as many men." "It were better not, at present, John.