In a few minutes
we were all seated again on the grassy bank, and Tom had given me a
history of his adventures, which had not been either numerous or
remarkable. He had been assigned to duty on the staff of General
Fitzhugh Lee, and it was delightful to hear his enthusiasm on the
subject of that gay and gallant officer.
"I tell you he's a trump, old fellow," quoth Tom, with ardor. "He's as
brave as steel, a first-rate officer, a thorough gentleman, generous,
kind, and as jolly as a lark! Give me Fitz Lee to fight with, or march
with, or hear laugh! He was shot in the Valley, and I have been with
him in Richmond. In spite of his wound, which is a severe one, he is as
gay as the sunshine, and it would put you in good spirits only to go
into his chamber!"
"I know General Fitz well, Tom," I replied, "and you are right about
him; every word you say is true, and more to boot, old fellow. So you
are cruising around now, waiting for your chief to recover?"
"Exactly, my dear Surry."
"And have captured the barque _Katy!_"
"Humph!" quoth Miss Katy, tossing her head, with a blush and a laugh.
"Beware of pirates," I said, "who make threats even in their
verses,--and now tell me, Miss Katy, if you are on a visit to
Petersburg? It will give me true pleasure to come and see you.
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