X-----!
Our greeting was cordial, and indeed I never had classed Nighthawk
among professional spies. General Stuart assured me one day, that he
invariably refused all reward; and his profound, almost romantic
devotion to Mohun, had deeply impressed me. Love of country and
watchful care of the young cavalier, whose past life was as mysterious
as his own, seemed the controlling sentiments of Nighthawk; and he
always presented himself to me rather in the light of a political
conspirator, than as a "spy."
His first words now indicated that he was a secret agent of the
Government. He seemed to have been everywhere, and gained access to
everybody; and once more, as in June, 1863, when he appeared at
Stuart's head-quarters, near Middleburg, he astonished me by the
accuracy and extent of his information. Political and military secrets
of the highest importance, and calling for urgent action on the part of
the Government, were detailed by Nighthawk, in his calm and benignant
voice; he gave us an account of a long interview which he had had at
City Point, with General Grant; and wound up as usual by announcing an
impending battle--a movement of the enemy, which duly took place as he
announced.
Mr. X----- listened with close attention, asking few questions.
When Nighthawk had made his report, the statesman looked at his watch,
said, _sotto voce_, "Midnight--too late," and added aloud:--
"Come back at ten to-morrow morning, my friend; your information is
highly interesting and important.
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