[Taken by the Enemy by Oliver Optic]@TWC D-Link book
Taken by the Enemy

CHAPTER XIV
6/9

I have not settled the question in my own mind." "I hope you will settle it soon.

If I am to take my first step in this fratricidal war by defending myself against my own brother, let him speak, and I am ready," replied Horatio, shaken by an emotion deeper than he had ever experienced before.
"Horatio, whatever you may do, whatever I may do, each in the discharge of his duty to his country, his country as he understands it, let us have no unfraternal feeling," continued Homer, almost as much disturbed in his feelings as his brother.
"In other words, if you hand me and my vessel over to your leaders, and consequently take from me the means of bearing my daughter to a place of safety, I am to put my hand on my heart, and say that my brother has done right, for I will not use any stronger terms," said Horatio, struggling with his emotion.
"I must do my duty as I understand it," protested Homer.

"The question I put to myself is this: can I justify myself, before God and my country, if I permit the finest steamer in the world, as you state it, to be transferred to the Yankee navy, to be used in killing, ravaging, and destroying within the free South?
The steamer is here, and within my reach.

After all you have said, she would be the lawful prize of any tug-boat in the bay that could capture her.

I begin to realize that I should be guilty of treason to my country in letting her go." "You must be your own judge in regard to that," replied Horatio bitterly, as he rose from his chair and walked towards the door.
"One word more, Horatio.


<<Back  Index  Next>>

D-Link book Top

TWC mobile books