Six hens were soon killed, and hunting about they discovered several nests and gathered about three dozen eggs.
Vincent aided in plucking the chickens, and they then returned to the house.
"You had best take a bite before you go," she said.

"It's noon now, and you said you started at daybreak.

Always get a meal when you can, say I." She produced a loaf and some bacon from a little cupboard hidden by her bed, and Vincent, who, now he thought of it, was feeling hungry, made a hearty meal.
"I will pay you for these chickens and eggs at once," he said.

"There's no saying whether I shall come back again." "I will not say no to your paying for the chickens and eggs," she said, "because money is scarce enough, and I may have long to wait before my man and the boys come back; but as to lodging and food I would not touch a cent.

You are welcome to all I have when it's for the good cause." Vincent started with the basket on his arm, and after walking three miles came upon the Federal camps.
Some of the regiments were already under canvas, others were still bivouacked in the open air, as the storeships carrying the heavy baggage had not yet arrived.