"I am tired, Alibi," said Nighthawk, briefly, "go to the spring and get
me some fresh water. You needn't come back in a hurry, as I wish to
talk with Colonel Surry."
And Mr. Nighthawk rose, and carelessly sat down near the window,
through which he could reconnoitre.
The object of this movement was soon evident. Mr. Alibi took a bucket,
and went out as though to seek the spring. When he had gone a few
paces, however, he turned to the right and disappeared behind the
house, toward the opposite window, which was open.
Nighthawk rose, went to the door, and caught Mr. Alibi
eavesdropping--the result of which was that the penguin hastily moved
off, muttering. In a minute he had shambled along and disappeared.
No sooner had his figure vanished than Nighthawk turned hastily toward
me.
"Will you go with me to-night, colonel, on an expedition I intend to
make?" he said.
"An expedition, Nighthawk?"
"A work of mercy, colonel; let us talk quickly. That man, Alibi, is a
spy--for both sides--and I wish to arrange every thing before he
returns."
"Explain, Nighthawk."
"I will, colonel. Do you remember that night in Richmond, when Swartz
made an appointment to meet me at a house near Monk's Neck?"
"Perfectly."
"Well, this is the house,--and I expected important results from that
meeting.
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