Every day had been a growth to him, and every trial had knit his spirit into firmer texture.

For awhile he had made it a matter of conscience to take an active part in everything that his comrades were called upon to do.

Soon this became a matter of pleasure, for the satisfaction of successfully leading them through difficulties and dangers more than compensated for the effort.

But while he had vindicated himself in their estimation, he yet lacked that which the ordeal of a battle would give him at home, and more than all, in Rachel's eyes.

He heard nothing from or of her, but he consoled himself with the hope that the same means by which she had been so promptly informed of his misstep, would convey to her an intimation of how well he was deserving her.