I remember that, as a boy, I regarded any attempt to mix instruction
with amusement as being as objectionable a practice as the
administration of powder in jam; but I think that this feeling arose
from the fact that in those days books contained a very small share
of amusement and a very large share of instruction. The military facts, with the names of generals
and regiments, the dates and places, are all strictly accurate, and
any one who has read with care the story of "The Young Buglers" could
pass an examination as to the leading events of the Peninsular war. Yours truly,
THE AUTHOR. One of their tricks actually
came to the ears of the Provost himself, and caused quite a sensation
in the place, but in this case, fortunately for them, they escaped
undetected. The boys, therefore, as they were rowing against
stream, steered their boat to pass inside of her. The distance was but short, and
they did not repass the barge before they reached their boat-house. It was a
tiny place, and upon a bench, wrapped up in a blanket, the bargeman
was lying. The next day the whole town was talking of the affair, and in the
afternoon the bargeman went up to the head-master and accused one of
the boys of an attempt to murder him. "Oh, Scudamore, Jackson's been asking
for you both. "I am, of course," she
said, "prepared to do my duty. It was his duty to
apologize. He did not do so. As I was right, and he was wrong, it was clearly not my
duty. I do
not like boys. However, it is not because other people fail
in their duty that I should fail in mine. Therefore, let them come to
me this day fortnight. "Poor aunt," Tom said. "No, my dear, I never was in that part of England. There
is, of course, no way to go across from here. "You're very kind, indeed, Doctor Jarvis. They must expect to find many unpleasantnesses in their way,
but they must take their little trials pleasantly, and make the best
of everything. "I have no fear as to Rhoda," their kind friend said. Try to keep out of scrapes, boys. You know
you are rather fond of mischief, and your aunt will not be able to
understand it. The next day they stayed in town, and Mrs. Jarvis took
them out to see the sights of London--the Tower and St. Paul's, and
Westminster Abbey, and the beasts at Exeter Change. The next day the coach started early for Marlborough. "I hope those dreadful men won't stop our coach," Rhoda said. "They won't hurt you if they do, Rhoda," Tom said assuringly. "I should just think so," Peter said; "the bargee at Eton would be
nothing to it." The moon was up, and they could see that there were three horsemen. he said, "or I will blow your brains out!" "Lie down at our feet, Rhoda, quick!" Tom said, "and don't move
till I tell you." "Get down, every one of you," the highwayman shouted. Now
peep out. "I have not the least idea, but I can try; and if you hit the other
one, the chances are he'll bolt, whether I hit him or not. "Catch hold of the reins, Peter, and help me pull." "This is something like going it," Peter said. "Isn't it, Peter? They will stop at their stable. At any rate,
it's no use trying to steer them. "Shall I help you up, Rhoda?" "No, please, I would rather stop here till it's all over." "Look here," Tom said, with all the composure, and much of the
impudence, which then, as now, characterized the young Etonian, "don't
be staring like a pack of stuck pigs. There has been regular row with some fellows, and I expect two or
three are killed. Now, just put up the ladder; I want to get my sister
down." "It was a
bottom about four miles off. Then we were stopped by
them, and every one had to get down. Then the horses ran away, and
here we are." "You need not be afraid of them," Tom said carelessly; "one got shot,
and I don't know about the other, but the wheel of the coach went over
him, so I do not suppose he will be much trouble. he said. I missed the fellow, and hit the
leader in the ear. However, it comes to the same thing. By the way, we
may as well take the pistols." So saying, he ran up the ladder and brought down the pistols. "Jump up, Bill and Harry. At any rate, an hour's
rest will do you good, Rhoda." Well, I suppose it's no use trying to get any
more sleep." So saying, they roused themselves, and went out to the door just as
the coach drew up. He was a large, stout man, with a face red from the effects of wind
and exposure. "Jack, hold the leader's
head. Thomas, open the door, and let the insides out. Now, these two young gents have done this. They have saved my
coach and my passengers from getting robbed, and so I'm going to give
'em three cheers. I'll trouble you to help me up into the box seat,
gentlemen." "Follow me, gents, with three cheers for those young gents
standing there; better plucked ones I never came across, and I've
traveled a good many miles in my day." So saying, he gave three stentorian cheers, which were echoed by all
the passengers and villagers. You're a good sort, that's certain. If they go on as they have begun, they
will find them useful." Of course,
she had not so much to do as her brothers, but she had the courage to
keep still, and she had to run the risk, both of being shot, and of
being upset by the coach just as they did." "How far is it to aunt's?" Tom asked. "About six miles, young sir," the driver said gravely. "No, my lady, they never so much as asked." "That is right," Miss Scudamore said, turning round and shaking hands
with the boys, who had now got out of the carriage and had helped
Rhoda down. "I am glad to hear what Joseph tells me, for I know that
boys are generally fond of furious driving and like lashing horses
until they put them into a gallop. And now, how are you, niece Rhoda! Give me a kiss. You look quiet and nice, child, and I
have no doubt we shall suit very well. "Oh, you don't, nephew?" Now, Rhoda, I will take you up with me. Your bedroom
leads out of mine, dear. "That is right," Miss Scudamore said doubtfully; "but I have heard
that boys do such things." "I think we shall get on very well with her," Peter said. This is a jolly room, Tom." "What is that, Thomas?" Please call me Tom. For instance, Rhoda is christened Rhoda and
not Rhododendron." It is a very
old name." "What is the
objection you spoke of to the room?" it is the bars to the window, aunt." "Just put up, aunt!" "I do not see any difference, nephew. If you will get out at one
window, you will get out at another. There is mischief to be done in
the country as well as in towns; and so long as there is mischief to
do, so long will boys go out of their way to do it. "How do you like Mr. Jones, nephews?" "We do not like him at all, aunt. Well, we shall see." the man asked. "Because, if you be, I have got a parcel for you." Tom answered him that they were, and he then handed them over a heavy
square parcel. "This is luck, Peter," Tom said. "No; have you, Tom? "Look here, Peter. Of course, we don't want to keep
it, but we would smash it up between a couple of big stones, and send
him all the pieces." "Capital, Tom; but where should we get the cloak?" "The only plan, Peter, is to get in through Rhoda's window. the giant said, "I do not want to take your
wretched life. "What is the use of two shillings to me?--give them to the first
beggar you see." "Yes, sir," the schoolmaster said; "I swear to you that I will." "Give me your watch." "Yes, sir." "Look here, and mark my words well. "Yes, yes, I swear it," he said hastily. Now you may go." "Capital, Peter. "And where would you run to, nephew?" "I am doing, nephew, what I consider to be for your good. You are
willful, and violent, and headstrong. All denied it. When it came to Tom Scudamore's turn, he said. It is a perpetual worry
to you to hear aunt going on, on, on--nagging, nagging, nagging for
ever and ever at us. If it weren't for you, we should not let her off as
easily as we do. No, no, Rhoda, it is better for us all that we should
go." For some time she cried in silence, and then, drying her eyes, she
said, trying to speak bravely, though her lips quivered. No, we shall try and go as soldiers." "Then you won't have to fight, Tom," Rhoda said joyfully. "No," Tom said, in a rather dejected tone; "I am afraid they won't let
us fight; still we shall see fighting, which is the next best thing." ENLISTED. Tom looked older than he really was, although not tall for his age,
while Peter, if anything, overtopped his brother, but was slighter,
and looked fully two years younger. "There we are, Peter; and, oh, what luck! If we were older we could go as volunteers, but
of course we are too young for that." "By Jove, Summers, you are in luck to-day," laughed one of the other
sergeants; "here are two valuable recruits for the Rangers. Come, my fine fellows, let me persuade you to join the
15th. Fine feathers don't always make fine birds,
my man." "You think yourself sharp, youngster," he said angrily. "You want a
licking, you do; and if you were in the 15th, you'd get it pretty
quickly." He struck him first, and
the boy had only given him what served him right. "Hullo, Summers, what is all this about? I am surprised at you. "Quite right," Captain Manley said. Now,
sergeant," he went on, as the others moved away, "do you know those
boys?" "No, sir; they are strangers to me." "We have no friends who will interfere with us, sir, I can give you my
word of honor as a gentleman." "So much the worse," Captain Manley said gravely. "Tell me frankly,
why did you do so? "We have none, sir," Tom said. "We did go to a school near, but unfortunately it is broken up." "We are both strong, and are good walkers," Tom said. "But you cannot be much over fifteen," Captain Manley said, "and your
brother is younger." "They look regular young pickles,"
he said. "I suppose they have run away from school." "Not from school, colonel. They have lost both parents, and live with
an aunt, with whom they don't get on well. "You are full young," the colonel said, "and I think you will be
sorry, boys, for the step you want to take." "Of course, you don't at present," the colonel said. "However, that is
your business. Mind, you will have a rough time of it; you will have
to fight your way, you know." "Oh, ho! At Eton, young gentlemen, eh!" He found it out, and it killed him," Tom said
quietly. "Well, well," he said
kindly, "we must see what we can do for you, boys. "I had rather not say, sir," Tom said. "We have a reason, and a very
good one, but it is not one we should like to tell." "Oh, indeed!" So I will enlist you. "Thank you very much," the boys said warmly, delighted to find their
hopes realized. "What are your names?" "Tom and Peter," Tom answered. "Tom and Peter what?" Tom looked at Peter, and saw that he agreed to give their real names,
so he said, "Tom and Peter Scudamore." Why, Manley, these boys must be relations of the
dear old colonel. Now,
boys, what relation was he of yours?" "I do not admit that he was a relation at all, colonel," Tom said
gravely, "and I hope that you will not ask the question. Supposing
that he had been a relation of ours, we should not wish it to be
known. "Well said, boys," the officers both exclaimed. "You are quite right,"
the colonel went on, "and I respect your motive for keeping silence. "Thank you very much indeed, colonel," both boys exclaimed. Now, your great object will be to get two of these vacancies. "What is the difference exactly, sir?" Tom asked. "Lots of time, Macpherson, lots of time. "Eh, ye know the calls, boys? Hardy and Graves, give them your bugles,
and let us hear them. Now for the advance." "We had rather begin at once," the boys answered together. "Vera gude. "Corporal," he said, "I want to say a word to you about those boys who
have just joined. "Yes, sir, they only know a few, but those they do know they can sound
as well as any of them." "That is right, corporal. Now look here, what I am going to say is not
to go farther, you understand." "Yes, sir, I will keep my mouth shut." "Very well. "I was thinking as much, sir." "The colonel believes that he knows their family, Skinner; but of
course, that will not make any difference in regard to them. "Thank you, sir," the corporal saluted. "No, but really, Manley, who are they? "It is a fact, major. Harding will tell you so," and he nodded to the
adjutant. "The doctor passed them, and I swore them in." "I am sorry for it," the major said. They
have run away from school, of course, and will be claimed. "The colonel's orders, major," the adjutant said. "Manley took them to
him, I believe, and then brought them to me." "The colonel asked him suddenly, and it slipped out." "If they're Etonians, I ought to know them," the ensign said. "Their name is Scudamore." "By Jove, they were in the same house with me. Uncommonly sharp little
fellows, and up to no end of mischief. "Tell us all about, Carruthers." "Well, there was not very much known about it. At any rate they are alone
in the world, and the colonel has no doubt that they are some
relation--nephews, I should imagine--of Peter Scudamore, who was our
colonel when I joined. One of them is called Peter. "What's to be done, Manley?" "I don't like the
thought of poor old Peter's nephews turning buglers. The exercise over, they had returned to dinner. "Look here," Tom said, laughing, "I can't answer you all at once, but
if you put me on the table I will tell you all about us." We go by the
names of Tom and Peter Scudamore, but I need scarcely tell you that
these are not our real names. Strict, and yet kind, just the sort of
fellow to serve under. A TOUGH CUSTOMER. "Look here, Tom," he said, at the end of the first day's work, "from
what the corporal says, we shall have from one till about five to
ourselves. Tom saw at once
that this allusion was meant for them, and took the matter up. "I suppose you mean us, Mitcham. I am sorry
that I did not mention it before, because I can understand that it
must seem as if we did not want to be sociable. Tom asked
quietly. "Yes, if you put it in that way, young 'un," Mitcham said. among the boys, but the men interfered
at once. "You don't know what you are doing, young 'un," one said to Tom;
"when you hit a fellow here, you must fight him. "Of course I will fight him," Tom said. "I would fight him if he were
twice as big, if he called me a liar." "Nonsense, young 'un!" another said, "it's not possible. "I should think so, indeed!" But, if you will apologize to me for calling me a liar,
I'll say I am sorry I hit you." "Oh, blow your sorrow!" "Oh, all right," Tom said cheerfully. As it was evident now that there was no way out of it, no one
interfered further in the matter. This Mitcham
would not hear of, and there was nothing further to be done. "No chance in the world, Peter; but I can box fairly, you know, and am
pretty hard. Don't bother about
it. I would rather you did not come to see it, Peter, if you
don't mind. Time after
time Tom was knocked down, and even his second begged him to give in,
but he would not hear of it. "Come," he said, "there has been
enough of this. Tom asked. "No, I won't," Mitcham answered. I think I
can stand that, and he can hardly see out of his eyes now. Nor could he. "Look here, Mitcham, you
can't see, and I can hardly stand. Mitcham hesitated an instant, and then held out his hand. I can't come up to time, and you can. There, I am sorry I
called you a liar." "It's a fight of course, and a good
one, judging by the cheering. They look very excited over it. "It's two of the band boys, sir." "Oh, only two boys! "One was one of the boys who have just joined, sir. Tom Scudamore,
they call him." 3 Company." was the general exclamation, while Captain Manley got
up and called for his cap. "A brutal shame, I call it," he said hotly. "He won the
fight. "Hurrah for Eton!" By
Jove, he is game, and no mistake. He won a hard fight or two at Eton,
but nothing like this. Sergeant Howden is in charge of the room, and ought to
have stopped it at once. If any one gets into a
scrape about it, it might lessen the effect of the victory. "Yes, you are right, Manley, as it has turned out; but the boy might
have been killed. I think, Dr.
Stathers, that it would be as well if you went round and saw both of
them. Please come
back, and tell us how you find them." "What is that, lads?" "Yes, boys; the company buglers carry knapsacks and muskets." You can use your pistols, I hope," he said with a smile. "We have practiced twelve shots a day for the last six months, sir. Yes, you can get them made, and I will speak to the colonel
about it." "Perhaps," he hesitated, "you may be in want of a little money; do
not hesitate if you do. "No, thank you, Captain Manley; we have plenty of money. "Do, lads, I am going in to lunch now, and will be in in half an
hour." "You need not be buglers here, boys," Captain Manley said. "How are you both?" he said. I did not know you were in the regiment,
Carruthers," the boys said warmly, pleased to find a face they
had known before; and then breaking off:--"I beg your pardon--Mr. This is a change, isn't it? Well, I congratulate you on your
fight. If it had been the right
thing, I would have come and been your backer." "Here, sir," and the boys produced them from under their jackets. They look quite new, too,
though, of course, they are not." But you said you had no relations, and I was
surprised into asking." One of the passengers had pistols,
but was afraid to use them, and hid them among the boxes. And now good-bye
for the present." This was a
gigantic negro, named Sam, a kind-hearted fellow, constantly smiling,
except when the thought of his own importance made him assume a
particularly grave appearance. "What is the joke, boys?" he asked good-humoredly, as he passed them. Sam looked a picture of utter astonishment and
dismay, with his eyes opened to their fullest, and he gave vent to a
loud cry, which completed the effect produced by his face, and set
most of those looking on, and even the band themselves, into a roar of
laughter. "These are not your sticks at all, Sam," he said, looking closely at
them. However, no inquiries could bring to light the author of the
trick. "This is splendid, Tom, isn't it?" "Glorious, Peter; but it's blowing pretty strong. Peter laughed. "Bugler, sound companies one, two, and three to breakfast." He made his way to the caboose, and
begged the cook to give him a handful of flour. he asked. I go up and see." So saying, he put on his cap, and made his way up to the upper deck. "You want me, sergeant?" Sergeant Wilson looked up, and was astonished. "What on earth have you been doing to yourself, Sam?" he asked. "Me been having little nap down below," Sam said. Sam, in his turn, looked astonished. "Nothing whatsomeber, sargeant." "No, no, Sam; not at all right," the colonel said, with difficulty. "Me big enough, Massah Colonel, me plenty big; but me not able to find
him." Then he went to the cook and tried to find out to whom he had given
flour, but the cook replied at once, "Lor, I've given flour to the men
of each mess to make puddings of, about thirty of them," and Sam felt
as far off as ever. "How tremendously she rolls, Tom." Look out, Peter!" "Look, Tom, Sam's overboard!" "There he is, Tom," Peter said, as he saw the
black only a few yards from the side. "Quick, round him, Peter!" The remains of the boat were not ten yards distant, and in a few
strokes they had gained it. "This boat will soon go to pieces, Tom," was Peter's first remark. "I expect it will, Peter; but we must stick to its pieces. The water is pretty warm, that's one
comfort." "Look here, Tom, I remember when I climbed up to look into the boats
yesterday that there were some little casks lashed under the seats,
and a sailor told me they were always kept full of water in case the
boats were wanted suddenly. Peter, capital, let's see." The
boys talked occasionally to each other, and kept up each other's
courage. "It is going to be a splendid day, Peter, and the wind is dropping
fast." "Look, Tom," Peter said, "there are some of the planks of the boat
jammed in with the kegs." "They must be rolling a good deal more in the 'Nancy' than we are
here, Peter. Now, the first thing is to have a drink. Hurrah, Peter, here are the masts and sails, so we shall
have plenty of cord." "Here we lay, all the day, in the bay of Biscay, oh!" Tom laughed. However, we can hold on for a few days, I suppose. "Remain where we are, Peter, I should say. So we must keep watch and watch. "I never thought of that," Tom said, looking at his watch. "Of course
it has stopped. "We have nothing to make hooks with, Peter, and nothing to bait them
with if we had." Tom was silent for awhile; then he said, "Look here, Peter. At
last it was finished, and the bag lowered. To the horror of the boys, it was discovered that it would not sink. "I have got fourpence in halfpence, Tom, and there are our knives and
watches." Do you think that they will go in, Tom?" "I hope the glitter of the bugles and watches will attract them,
Peter." "Wait a minute or two, Peter, to let them get well down, and then draw
up as quietly as possible." There, in the bottom of the canvas, two feet below
them, were a number of little fish moving about. "We will take out one and one, Peter; give them a nip as you take them
up, that will kill them." They quench
the thirst too. "She will not be up
for an hour and a half, Peter," Tom said, "and the sun will be down
long before that. However, we will try. Let us get the net out of the
water, and hold it and the oar up. She was a large ship, but they could
only see her when they rose upon the top of the long smooth waves. They had evidently not been seen. "So do I, Tom," Peter said. We may as well put the oar down, for my arm and back ache
holding it." "Mind how you do it, Peter. "Oh, Tom, the bugles!" "What, Peter?" Tom said, astonished. "We can make them hear, Tom, don't you see?" "Hurrah, Peter! so we can. Again
and again the sharp, clear sound rose on the quiet evening air. "Look, Peter, there are men going up the rigging to look round. the officer in charge exclaimed, "two boys, all alone. Here, boys, take
a little brandy from this flask. asked the captain in surprise of the officer who
had brought them on board. "Doctor, you had better see to them," the captain said. One question though, boys. "No one else, sir," Tom said, and then followed the doctor aft. "I am glad to see you looking so much better," the captain said as
they entered. "Sit down. "The last matter is easily explained, sir," Tom said. But we have lost our father, and are now
buglers in the Rangers." Good-night." Many questions were asked, and it was generally regretted
that they were not sailors. The captain remarked that, after what they had said, although he
should have been glad to have them with him, he thought that they had
decided rightly. The buttons will not be right, but you can easily alter that when you
join. A few alterations were necessary,
and these he promised to get finished in a couple of hours. Just as he was upon the point of leaving the deck, his eye fell upon
the boys. So saying, the captain got into his boat and rowed to shore. The captain at once sent for them. And now good-bye, lads. I wish you every luck, and hope that
some day or other you may win your epaulets." With renewed thanks for his kindness, the boys went up on deck. "Very well, Jones, tell the men they can do as they like." The lieutenant smiled, for he knew what was coming. "Ah, Craufurd," he said, "this is an unexpected
pleasure." Come into my cabin; you can spare time to
take some lunch, I hope." "No, not that I
have heard of. "Why, there was no one else
in the boat. "Well, it was just
these little buglers that the crew of the ship were cheering." "You're joking, Merivale. No, no, that won't do." "It is a fact, though, Craufurd, unlikely as it seems, except that the
buglers belong to the Norfolk Rangers, and not to the Marines." I will speak to
Hill about it, and will keep my eye upon them. And now I
must be off." "Yes, sir," the boys answered in surprise. "Yes, sir." "Follow me, then." "Very well; just put saddles on to two of them. Sam," Tom said; "not by a long way yet, man. Come, get out of that, Sam and shake hands." was the general exclamation of the colonel
and officers, who were just finishing their breakfasts in a cottage
which stood close behind the spot where their tents had been pitched
in the rear of the regiment. Suddenly he left the crowd,
and rushed on ahead at full speed towards the group of officers, still
leaping and yelling and waving his drumsticks. "Oh, Massa Colonel," he said in hoarse, sobbing tones, "only to
think, only to think. Dat no matter, but only to think. Bress de
Almighty, sar! "Calm yourself, Sam--be calm, my man," the colonel said kindly. "Oh, Massa Colonel," Sam said, "me try tell you all 'boat it. "Yes, yes, sar, dat's dem, dey cum back sure enuff," Sam said. Yes,
and, by Jove, it is the Scudamores. "Bugler, sound the assembly; fall in, my lads, or we shall be late. Come in here, boys; you can get something to eat, and tell us in a few
words how you were saved, for, even now that I see you it seems almost
impossible." "I wonder how we are to cross the river, Tom?" Peter
said. "I expect Sir Arthur is reconnoitering, Peter; I saw him go up the
hill to that convent there; he must be able to see from there right
over Oporto." They are going to cross to that great convent
you see upon the other side. They will bring back boats with them, and
you will cross at once, take possession of the convent, and hold it
against any force that may be brought against you until reinforcements
arrive." It was a most anxious moment, as
Colonel Waters and two Portuguese pushed the tiny boat from shore and
pulled across stream. All, however, was as still as death. This was already closed and barred; the captain at once
distributed his men at the upper windows of the Seminary, with orders
not to show themselves until the alarm was given. "The general is up on
the roof; he wants a bugler sent up to him." Here he could see all that was passing, and an exciting sight
it was. "Get behind those big chimneys, lad. "That was a narrow escape," he said with a
smile. "Scudamore, sir," Tom answered. "Scudamore--Scudamore. Yes, I remember the name now. I want to see you. Go down now and join your company;
I do not want you here." Tom gladly went down, for he longed to be doing something. The regiment is dismissed." As the men fell out they gave a loud and general cheer, and Tom and
Peter were surrounded by their comrades, who shook them by the hand,
and congratulated them upon their promotion. The regiment
had now been three months in Spain, and the boys had continued to
work hard at Spanish, devoting several hours a day to its study, and
talking it whenever they could find an opportunity--no difficult
matter, as Portugal was full of Spanish who had crossed the frontier
to avoid the hated yoke of the French. At last, on the 27th of June, the British army advanced. The allies now recrossed the Alberche and took up a position to cover
Talavera. Hill
was in rear. The real
battle was between the 19,000 British troops and 50,000 French. "Look here, Massa Tom, here six eggs; tree for you, tree for Massa
Peter." "Thank you, Sam, that is capital; but you know you will get into a row
if you get caught taking things." "Me no take 'em, massa. Old hen give them to me." Tom laughed. "How was that, Sam?" "Well, Massa, me saw her sitting on nest. Me went up and said to her,
'Give me some eggs, old girl.' I says, 'Cluck means
yes, I suppose?' "Yes, massa; no good make fire; make hole bofe ends, suck 'em." So saying, the boys sucked the raw eggs, and then joined the men,
when, just as they did so, first a dropping rifle shot, and then a
perfect roar of musketry broke out upon the hill above them. The regiments in reserve lay
down to avoid the iron shower, while the Rangers and 48th prepared to
resist the French when they came within fighting distance. As
the French retired, their artillery once more opened fire to cover
their retreat. "This is a grand sight, Peter," Tom said, "but I wish they would
begin; it makes one fidgety waiting for it." But it was now the turn of the left. The
ground was, however, quite unfit for cavalry. It was met by a French army
of 24,000 infantry, 5000 cavalry, and 50 guns. The next day the boys went to Colonel Tritton's quarters, and,
referring to the conversation of the day before, said that they were
willing to carry any messages that the general might require sent, and
to obtain any information wanted. "Nonsense, boys, you would be hung as spies before you had been gone a
week." Besides, who would suspect boys? "I don't like it, boys; you are too young. There are very few officers in the army who
speak Spanish fluently, and you being boys would, as you say, avert
suspicion. "Thank you, sir," the boys said. "Of course that is all we could ask
you to do." The next day, after parade was over, Colonel Tritton walked on
to General Hill's quarters at a sort of half farm-house, half
country-seat, a short distance from the village, round which the
Rangers were encamped. "Where did you live?" he asked in Spanish. "In the village of Oros, near Valencia." "The French burnt the village because the guerillas had killed a party
of theirs in it, and they killed all the people, and then carried off
the mules and horses, and took us to drive some of them. their story is a very common one." Pooh, pooh! it would be out of the question." Why, upon my word, I believe
the fellows are laughing." You said that
very naturally, Tritton. "What," said the general, "were you really taken in too"
"Taken in?" The boys
needed not the exclamation of General Hill, "Here is Wellington." "We'll
stop here till they come out again, Peter. At any rate, we will keep up our disguise till
they've gone. Suddenly he changed his mind, dropped his
rein, and walked up to them. "What are you playing for?" he asked abruptly in Spanish. "Reals, señor," Tom said looking up, but not moving. asked the general. we don't pay," Tom laughed. "We keep count. I will pay him when I get rich. He can wait." Now I have
tried them myself, I see that they will do. They will be written
as small as possible. Of course you will be supplied with money, and
for anything you can think of likely to assist you, speak to Colonel
Tritton. You are beginning well, young sirs. If you like, you ought to
made a noise in the world. Now, Hill, I must be off." And the general left the room with the officers, while the boys were
stammering out their thanks. "Where did you dress up, boys?" "No, colonel; we changed in that little wood there." So saying, Colonel Tritton walked on, leaving the boys to follow at
their leisure. First he looked angrily at the boys, then he went to the side
of the road and looked over the wall. "Here, you, Sambo." you call Sambo, who taught you dat name?" Sam, Sam, you will kill us with laughing," Tom got out at last. "Golly," exclaimed the negro, as he looked at them, "Dose boys again. how you take in dis
chile, me tink you little Spanish trash, sure enuff." "Look here, Sam, this isn't a joke, this is a serious business and
before I tell you anything about it, you must promise to keep the
secret strictly, as it would do us a great deal of harm if it was
known." "Quite impossible, Sam. "Now dat berry unlucky Massa Tom, dat Sam
play big drum. Big drum fine music, but big drum not go well by self. "I should think not, Sam, with the name of the regiment painted on it. No, no, you must stay behind. Tom laughed. Now, Sam, it is time for us to be going. Be sure you keep our secret." They had each, on starting, half a dozen pieces of
Spanish gold coin sewn between the thicknesses of leather of the soles
of each of their shoes, for they did not start in the beggar clothes
in which they had first disguised themselves. The bands, too,
would vary in proportion to the renown of their chiefs. They had eight men with them, all armed to the teeth. "Is it all right, Garcias?" The cavalcade was now in motion again, and wound gradually up into the
hills. "Ay, that's Nunez's
work, I expect," Garcias said coolly. He is a rough boy to play with, is Nunez." Tom asked. "No, no," Garcias replied; "he would not catch much prey that way. There are three other ways out of the valley. "We are just in time," Garcias said; "Nunez
is starting on some expedition or other." "Ah, ah! Garcias, just in time. Garcias asked. He was small and almost humpbodied, but
very broad. His mustache
was thin and bristly and his month wide, but with thin lips. "Any news, Garcias?" he asked shortly, as he came up. Twelve of us altogether, and all as hungry as wolves." mother, but wolves don't pay, and we do, you see." The next day passed slowly, for the band were not
expected to return until late at night--perhaps not until the next
morning, as the pass where the attack would be made was some fifteen
miles off, and the convoy might not pass there until late in the
afternoon. The captain was away at the time and the children
were out in the woods. One of them was ill the other day--a mere
nothing, a little fever--and he sat by her bedside for eight days
without ever lying down." "I suppose," Tom said, "they never bring prisoners up here?" But there, it always comes to the same
thing; there, where you see that mound on the hillside, that's where
they are. They blindfold them on their way up here, lest they might
find their way back after all. One of them asked the
guards for some water, but the men paid no attention to the request,
answering only with a savage curse. One of the guards angrily
ordered them back as they approached. "I am thirsty myself," one of the guard said, "and it does us good to
see them thirst." Tom said, in a tone
of surprise. The boys, on leaving the prisoners, hurried to Garcias. "What are they going to do with the prisoners, Garcias?" One of the men went off last night to
Vittoria with a letter to offer to exchange. One of the officers is a
colonel, and the young one a captain. The lady is, they say, the wife
of General Reynier." Tom
said, in tones of indignant horror. "These messengers want to speak to you for a moment," Garcias said. "British officers, indeed," exclaimed Nunez, "a likely story. Do you
know them as such, Garcias?" Taking a knife
from his pocket, he cut into the skin, and drew forth a tiny silver
tube. The captain read it through, and flung it down. "I again protest," Tom said firmly. "I have promised him a safe conduct," he said,
"and have given my word for his safety. He is only a boy, and a young
fool; don't trouble with him." All were shouting,
"Death to the assassins! Peter asked, leaning over her. he asked, in that tongue. "Yes, yes, a little." "I am a friend. Listen. The lady gave a stifled cry, and pressed
her child close to her. So saying, he slipped away into the crowd again. He had scarcely done
so when Nunez arrived, accompanied by many of his men. The crowd fell
back, and he strode up to the French officers. "French dogs," he said,
"you are to die. Take them
to that wall," he said, pointing to one some twenty yards off. As the men approached, she lifted up her face, pale
as death, and said,--
"Un prêtre, uno padre!" "Wait a minute," Tom said to the children, "your father is busy." I want to be off to my dinner." Tom shouted in a loud, clear tone. all of you," Tom said, "we are English officers, we have
shown our papers to Nunez, and he knows it is so. Now, what is it to
be?" Don't hurt the children,
señors. Give me my children." "No," Tom said; "the lady shall swear not to tell the way up here. "Yes," she said, getting up hastily, but almost falling again. "Garcias will go first, as guide. You will walk on, twenty yards ahead of us. No one is to follow us, or accompany us. asked Nunez, in tremulous
tones. Are you ready,
Garcias!" So saying, the procession set out in the order Tom had indicated,
amidst the curses of the guerillas, who were furious at seeing
themselves thus bearded. "How far is it to Vittoria, Garcias?" "Twenty good miles, señor." "But we shall never get there," Tom said in dismay. "We are safe now," Tom said; "it is not necessary for you to go
farther. Good-by, little ones; I am sorry we have given you such a
fright, but it was not our fault. Good-by, Garcias; thanks for your kindness and fidelity. Remember, except in the middle of a French
regiment, you will never be really safe." "Thanks, Garcias!" the boys said earnestly, "we will do our best to
keep our throats safe. At any rate, if we go down, it shall not be for
want of watchfulness!" Another shake of the hands, and the party separated. "Madam," Tom said in English, "you will soon be among your friends. said the sergeant. "Of course," the sergeant said, lifting the lady, "they don't
understand French; how should they? She looks a lady, poor thing. Who
can she be, I wonder?" Jacques, fetch out
Captain Thibault, and you, Noel, run for Dr. Pasques." After a minute or two, the colonel raised his hand for silence. "Look
you," he said to the men. "You can imagine that, after what these boys
have done, their life is not safe for a moment. So I leave them to
you; you will take care of them, my children, will you not?" A chorus of assurances was the reply, and the boys found themselves as
it were adopted into the regiment. "You and those with you are known," he said. Mind, if one goes on you all
suffer." So saying, the boys dropped behind again until Madame Reynier's cart
came along. Of course," she went on, "I can see that you are not what you
seem. "We cannot well do that," Tom said, "at least not if it can be
avoided. Julie," she asked in French, "do you remember those boys?" They are good boys, nice boys, but they are very
ragged and dirty." "You know," she went on, hesitatingly, "that I know that--that you are
English officers. There are three follows who have passed us
twice, and I am pretty sure they are particularly noticing us. Keep
your hand on your pistol." "Look out, Tom," Peter said sharply. As the men came up to them, one of them exclaimed,
"Now!" First, though, let me tie
up your shoulder." Here they had to go through
much patting on the back, for their friend had described the readiness
and coolness with which they stood at bay, and popular as they were
before they were now more so than ever. And now about your journey. Here are your two disguises, for the one as a young
bachelor of medicine, for the other as a young novice. Then go
boldly to No. The Colonel will be on the look-out for you, and you
will ride up to him and hand him this note. The
colonel, and, following his example, the officers of the regiment were
polite and civil. It was the end of June, 1810, when the 16th joined Massena's force
before Ciudad Rodrigo. THE FIGHT ON THE COA. "The French are advancing in force, Peter; we are just in time;
they are going to attack us in the morning at daybreak. We know the
direction now; let us turn to the left, and try to get on in advance
of them. "The French are advancing in great force to attack," Tom said; "please
forward us instantly to the general." "We have just arrived through the French lines," Tom said, "the enemy
are at hand in force." The casement closed, and an instant afterwards the general came out. I remember," the general said. "Well, your news?" "The French have crossed the Turones in force, sir; at least they have
a good many guns with them." Come in here, gentlemen." "Hurry the infantry up, hurry them up," the general said urgently to
the officers by him. They will join your regiment for the present. "Thank you, sir," Tom replied, "there will be some muskets disposable
before long, and directly they are so we will take our place in the
ranks." Here they were
joined by many of the riflemen, and for a while the French advance was
checked. "Now a volley," Tom cried, "and then
to the bridge." No doubt you would be dining with the colonel, but I know he is
engaged to the general." We are going to have a feast, for Sam has got hold of a sucking-pig;
where he got it from I dare not inquire, and Lethbridge said his
fellow had, somehow or other, found a turkey; as to wine, we shall
have it of the best, for Burke is quartered at the monastery, and the
monks are so delighted at finding him a good Catholic that they have
given him the run of their cellar." "Sam, Sam!" "A likely story that, Sam. Come, out with it. Come, tell us how it
was." Dey drop down on dere knees, and begin to pray as fast as
maybe. I been berry,
berry bad, but don't take me away.' Dere, I will carry off soul of little pig. Gib it me.' I say, 'No; only one--and
now me gib you bit advice. "I'm agreeable," the major said. Well, here
goes--full chorus, and no shirking." "Hurrah for the Rangers, hurrah! was the general exclamation. "I do not know," Major Fanshawe said. But there goes
the bugle." The regiment sprang to its feet, and prepared for action. "The battle has only begun yet, Sam. "Good ting, dat, Massa Peter. "Him cum too fast. Dere, you frog-eating thief." "Dat serve you right," he went
on to himself as the Frenchman fell. Peter Scudamore, ditto, ditto. "Fortune of war," Carruthers said laughing. No, no, you
have fairly earned your step and no one can say a word against it." "Of course it is impossible, but it would be jolly to drop in upon
Rhoda. By her letter she seems well and happy, and aunt is very kind
to her. "No," Tom laughed, "or be afraid of our pelting her pigeons and
Minnie." "No," Peter said. Rhoda said that
since she has heard that we have got our commissions she has given
up prophesying once or twice a day that we shall come to a bad
end--probably hanging." ALBUERA. The next day the French crossed the Coa and Turones, and took up their
position under the guns of Ciudad Rodrigo, which they had left six
months before with the full assurance that they were going to conquer
Portugal, and drive the British into the sea. He read it, and at once
summoned the Scudamores at his side. "An order from the commander-in-chief," he said, "for you to go to him
at once." "You can ride, I hope?" "Yes, sir, we can both ride, but at present--"
"You have no horses, of course?" "But we shall be mounted now, Sam, and must have mounted men with us. You can't ride, you know." "Yes, massa, dis child ride first-rate, he can." Berry
easy ting dat. Sit on saddle, one leg each side--not berry difficult
dat. "Look here, Sam," Peter said at last, "you practice riding a little,
and then next time we get away we will ask for you to go with us." "Stop him--stop him," yelled Sam. "Gracious me, dis am drefful." "Hold on, Sam!" "Look, look," Tom said, "there are the staff, and Lord Wellington
among them. The
staff did the same, and a general shout was raised to check or divert
her wild career. Acting with him, and
nominally under his orders, was a Spanish force under Blake. All was confusion. "Look out, sir!" In the pause which ensued, the British regiments began to make their
way to the front. Not a third were standing unhurt, and fresh columns of
the French were advancing. "Ah, Scudamore! Are you hit too?--not very badly, I hope? I did not see him afterwards. Tom asked. "Awful--awful," the officer said. "What, altogether?" "Altogether," the officer answered sadly. "Thank you," Tom said. "Up on the hill. The distance he had to traverse was but short, but the journey was a
ghastly one. "Yes, sir, most of them are there at the right flank of the regiment." "No," the surgeon said, answering the question, "he has only fainted
from loss of blood, but he is hit hard, the bullet has gone in just
above the hip, and until I know its course I can't say whether he has
a chance or not." Ah, I thought so; it has gone out on
the other side. Well, I think it has missed any vital part, and in
that case I can give you hope. Now, sir, I will look at your shoulder." "He'll come round all right," he said. "I will go on in the mean time," and set to work at the next in the
ghastly line. "Lie quiet," the surgeon said, "I shan't be long about it." "You'll do," he said. "How are you, Scudamore?" he asked. "The general has just sent me to
inquire." "He is very kind," Tom said. "I think that I am all right, only I am
horribly thirsty." I am sorry to hear
your brother is so bad, but the doctor gives strong hopes of him in
his report." Tom bent down over Peter. "He is breathing quietly," he said. Tom asked. "No," the officer said bitterly. Tom asked. But I
must be going now. Good-bye." Tom bent over him. "Don't try to move, Peter; lie
quiet, old boy." Peter asked with a puzzled look. There, drink some brandy-and-water, and go off to sleep again,
if you can." The next day, the bulk of Beresford's army returned to the
neighborhood of Badajos, which they again invested, while a long
convoy of wounded started for Lisbon. "Hush, Sam, hush," Tom said soothingly. "My poor fellow, why, where
have you come from? But first give me some lemonade out of
that jug, then you can tell me all about it." I
ask. 'I been cook on board English merchant ship,' he say. Natural, I not want go prison, so I conclude be French
soldier. Well, massa, a wink as
good as a nod to blind hoss. Ob course
I accep' offer, and harp an hour after me in French uniform. Dat
all, Massa Tom. We
trust, however, that he will pull through. Yours
truly, J. Tritton." His fever
abated, and he awoke to consciousness. The next day the coach took them to London,
and they started the morning after for Marlborough. no, why you're the werry
boys as shot the highwaymen. "I expect that aunt has not got
our letter, Peter," Tom said. Well, we must have a post-chaise. yes,
there's Rhoda." "Please, aunt, you must kiss me," he said, "for I want my
arms for my crutches." His aunt leaned forward and kissed him, and
then wiped the tears from her eyes. "I am glad to see you back, my dear nephews," she said. "How do you do, Sam?" Rhoda said, when he came up. "We have heard so
much of you, and how kindly you nursed my brothers." Rhoda sat on the grass at his feet,
and Tom threw himself down at full length. "You are neither of you altered so much as I expected," Rhoda said. Of course you are big, and Peter looks very tall; how
tall are you, Peter?" "Just over six feet," Peter said. "It seems ridiculous, doesn't it," Rhoda said. If he must fall in love
with one, my dear, let it be the cook." Good night, aunt." So saying, Tom went upstairs, where he repeated to Peter, who was
still awake, his conversation with his aunt, and the two went into
shouts of laughter over the idea of Sam making love to the prim
Hannah. When he had passed, they turned their horses and continued their way. There are few things more annoying than, after having got through all
the trouble of packing and getting fairly on the road, to be stopped;
but there was no help for it, and the boys rode back to their hotel
again, where, putting up their horses, they told Sam not to let the
muleteer leave, for they should probably be on the road again in an
hour. "Gentlemen," he said, "I have news which I think will be pleasant to
you both. Here is an order to Captain Halket, the
officer in charge. Tom asked. By-the-way,
you will want to get staff uniform. "Gentlemen, I am sorry to disturb you, but orders must be obeyed. Gentlemen, I
should recommend you all to look to your horses. "What is up, colonel?" was the general question. We are going to take Ciudad." The next day the first division,
relieved the light division. "This is a thousand times
worse than a battle. On the 11th of March the army arrived at Elvas, and on the 15th a
pontoon bridge was thrown across the Guadiana. Wilson, with the
troops in the trenches, was to attack San Roque. It was the touch of the
magician's wand, for a crash of thunder followed, and with incredible
violence the storming parties were dashed to pieces by the explosion
of hundreds of shells and powder-barrels. On the 17th
it was within six miles of Salamanca, and Marshal Marmont, unable for
the moment to stem the tide of invasion, evacuated the city, which
that evening blazed with illuminations, the people being half wild
with joy at their approaching deliverance. The news
was important, indeed. For
a few minutes it was a wild mélée. Clausel, however, proved equal to the emergency. CAUGHT IN A TRAP. "Peter, I believe those scoundrels are up to their old game, and
that we are watched. Sam opened it. "Nothing new, Sam?" "No, sar, nothing new." It
was in darkness. "Asleep, old man?" he asked. He came back into the sitting room, where two
lamps were burning, and looked at his watch. He is
off to bed early. Sam came in, in a minute, with a small tray. "Me did not know he gone to bed at all," Sam said, in surprise. Tom took up a light, and went into the bedroom, it was empty. "Peter is not here." Sam came into the bedroom, and looked round in astonishment. he said. "That's what I want to know, Sam. Now, then, just give all your
attention. Dey have bottle
wine, and sit here and smoke. Tom asked. Tom looked very grave. Then he looked round the room, and said, almost with a cry, "Sam,
look there, there are his cap and sword. "Well, it may be an hour, or an hour and a half back, sir. Is anything wrong, sir?" Sam, fetch a lamp, the
stairs are not lighted, and I want to examine them." Then he looked at the floor, which was of
polished oak, and knelt down to examine it more closely. "There have
been men with dirty shoes standing here," he cried. There has been a scuffle. Then he went out from the door,
and up the next flight of stairs. "There," he said, "just as I thought." "I suppose they knew I was out, and
watched here, for hours, perhaps. For some time there was silence. "You are not to blame, Sam, there was, probably, no noise whatever. But, what can it all mean? Johnstone, you had better go to bed, you
can do no good now. Tom was silent for a minute. "I don't suppose the chief would refuse me leave," Tom said. "If he
does, I must throw up my commission." "They
know me as that now. At least, if I do I must get up as an old man
and change my appearance. But there, I have time to think it over before
morning. Good-night." "Look here, Massa Tom, Sam only one word to say. Sam know dat him color berry spicuous, dat people look
at him and tink he de debil. Dese fellows watch him, know dat black fellow here. He trabel night, hide up at day time. Anyhow,
Sam must go. If can get leave, berry well, if not he desert. Anyhow he
go, dat sartin. "As you say, you can't go with me, but you shall go
somehow." "Thank you, Massa Tom," the negro said gratefully, "You berry sure if
Massa Peter die Sam die too." So saying, the general sat down and wrote as follows:--
"To the French officer commanding.--The Earl of Wellington,
commander-in-chief of His Britannic Majesty's forces in Spain, gives
his assurance that the bearer of this, Captain Scudamore, although not
in English uniform, is not engaged upon any mission connected with the
army, or to obtain information respecting the strength and position of
the French forces. "Yes, I remember," the general said; "that is the man whose life you
saved. "No, sir; I am thinking of riding with you to-morrow at any rate. The
route lies on the way I have to go, and I am sure to be watched here." "Very well," the general said; "I wish you good fortune; but you have
a difficult, almost a desperate, service before you." The dawn had broken, but it was still twilight. Upon seeing the pedlar rise, he ran forward to meet him. "Ah, Massa Tom, tank de Lord me find you safe and sound. "I have thought the same of you, Sam, for your risk has been far
greater than mine. Well, thank God, it is all right thus far. But come
back into the wood, I have got some food there, and here any one might
come along." "Are you hungry, Sam?" "Well, sit down now, Sam, and eat away; we have plenty of time." "I do not think, Sam, that the party who have got Peter have arrived
yet. We will stay where we are till dark, then we
will push on; it is only a couple of miles or so from here. Thus he trusted, if surprised in the dark, to pass as one of
the band. I am sick of
it. But Nunez will be back in three days, and we shall be merry enough
then." There are no women, not even old mother Morena, who
used to cook well, if she was free of her tongue. That was
a go. Yes, Nunez was always a devil, but he is
worse now. JUST IN TIME. "I shall go straight back to Vittoria, Sam. Now look
here, Sam. "Your pardon," Tom said humbly. "Thank you very kindly, señor, it must be the general himself; I will
wait here." It was empty,
and was evidently intended for some one in the house. She will recognize the ring, it is her own," he added, as the young
officer in surprise hesitated. "My dear aunt,"
he said, "here is a mystery. "Who gave it to you, Jules?" she asked eagerly. "That old pedler," Jules said. "My dear aunt," began her nephew. she asked. "How glad I am, but oh! "Oh, it is the good
boy!" she cried, and leaped into Tom's arms, and kissed him heartily. "But, madame," he began, "you are wrong
to tell me this." Where is your brother, and why has he
been carried off? An English
officer, too, it makes it the more strange!" Jules asked. there is the general." he said, wiping his eyes. "I have prayed
that I might some day meet you, to thank you for my wife and child,
who would have been lost to me, but for you. "I do not think that he will have above fifty men with him, general;
say eighty, at the outside. They must dismount at the bottom of the hill, and I will
lead them up. We shall know if they have arrived, by a fire my
man is to light. and we know he's brave, and he would help papa
and Jules to kill the wicked English." Two men walked beside it, and
Sam could see one, if not two more perched upon the top of the load. Der's too many for Sam to fight all by himself, but he must
do someting." "Dat will do for de present," he said; "now for business. It was a mere hut, and had not been repaired. It was the very place from which to see without being seen. muttered Sam, "me neber able to stand dis. Take the gag out of his mouth,
throw some water over him to bring him round, and pour some wine down
his throat. The logs were burning well, but gave
out but little smoke. Sam looked at the sky. If he see
fire, he hurry up sharp." So saying, Sam heaped on a pile of wood,
and then made his way back. dis de berry ting." "I don't like dat gentleman's look," Sam said to himself. Thus saying, Sam began to deliberately undress. But not yet. "Massa Peter, you keep up your heart. If dey go to kill you
before dat, Sam play dem trick. Can you run, Massa Peter, if I cut de
cord?" "No, Sam." Neber mind, Massa Peter, you keep up your heart. "Don't show yourself, Sam. It would only cost you your life, and
couldn't help me; besides, it would put them on their guard. They will smoke me, and so on, but they will make
it last as long as they can." His heart beat rapidly; but it was with hope, not fear. "That's enough for the present," Nunez said; "cut him down." Massa Tom, dis is me sure enough: and what is much
better, here is Massa Peter." Why don't you speak,
Peter?" "He all right, Massa Tom. Now smoke choke
him, he better presently. Here, massa, you take him down to fire, pour
a little brandy down his throat. Now, massa officer, I lead de way
back to village." "Our fellows have got them," Jules said. Jules,
keep by the negro, and see that he comes to no harm. General Reynier asked. "What do they mean by such folly as that," the general asked angrily. "It's a curious story," the general said. The next day they moved down to Vittoria, where Peter was tenderly
nursed by Madame Reynier. VITTORIA. It was the beginning of December when the allied army reached their
winter quarters around Ciudad Rodrigo. This, however,
like the other, was choked with carriages. They carried off two guns only, and 143
fell into the hands of the British. Last of all, they lost Spain. "Well, massa, de matter berry simple--just easy as fallin' off log. Den she say, 'What you want? Quarter-master take him
up for three, four officer.' Den
she hesitate a little, and not believe Sam mean to pay. Den she say,
'No fowls here.' On the 17th the convent was in ruins, and an assault was
made upon the position. They had,
however, to make their way under a storm of fire. When, however, they reached the top they could go no
farther. "This is awful, horrible, Tom!" "Will you go across, Peter, and enter the town?" "No, no, Tom; the sight of that horrible breach is enough for me. Let us mount, and ride off at once. As Rapin
says, hell seemed to have broken loose. The allies lost 2300 men, and the
French 4000. TOULOUSE. When Tom returned, Peter was surprised to see him looking pale and
excited. "What is the matter, Tom?" "You don't say so, Tom." "It is a fact, Peter, I could swear to him." "What shall we do, Tom?" he asked. "Very well," said Lord Beresford, "we will make the scoundrel pay up
with interest. Make no noise, but show me directly to your
master." No one
will be hurt; but if any one moves from the hall, he will be shot." "I am Lord Beresford," the general said quietly, "and quite know what
I am doing. Walsh." Then he said, in a husky tone, "It is false; I am
an American citizen. "James Walsh!" It is
you who have told us his Christian name, which is, I have no doubt,
the correct one." He looked to Tom, who nodded assent. "I know nothing about any Walsh," the banker said doggedly. "We do, James Walsh," Tom said, stepping forward. "Tom and Peter
Scudamore, the sons of the man you robbed and ruined." "James Walsh," the general said sternly, "your life is doubly forfeit. "In the second place, as a traitor. the wretched man said, slipping off his chair on to his
knees. "Spare my life, and take all that I have. I am rich, and can
restore much of that which I took. I will pay 50,000_l._"
"Fifty thousand pounds!" The military chest is empty, and we want
money. "Never, I will die first." "Very well," Lord Beresford said quietly. "Major Scudamore, please
call in the officer and four men." Pale and desperate, the banker was led out. "He will give way, I hope," Tom said, as the door closed behind him. "He will give way before the time is up," Lord Beresford said. This was his private
parlor, and in a corner stood a safe. He unlocked it, and, taking out
some books and papers, sat down to the table. How will you have the money, gentlemen? The 100,000_l._ you may pay these gentlemen in drafts on
England. "It will be all right," Walsh said. Weale." So saying, without further word, the three went out. On the 11th all was quiet, Wellington preparing for an attack upon the
city on the following day. This was a
matter of delight to Rhoda, and of satisfaction to themselves. Neither were hurt, nor was Sam, who had of course accompanied them. It was their last war. THE END. End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Buglers, by G.A.