74 THE FAIR COURIER.

 

“ And now, my good girl,” said the ge-
neral, with an emotion that he could not
conceal, as he handed her the despatch, “I
commit to your care this important mes-
sage. Every thing depends on its safe de-
livery. Here is money for your expenses
on the journey,” and’ he reached her a
purse. But Emily drew back, saying—

“1 have money in my pocket. Keep
what you have. You will need it, and more,
for your country.”

At this point, the officer re-entered the
tent, and announced that the horse was
ready.

“And so am I,” said Emily, as she step-
ped out into the open air. Already a whis-
per of what was going on in the general’s
quarters had passed through the camp, and
many officers and men had gathered before
his tent to see the noble-minded girl as she
came forth to start upon her dangerous
journey.

There was no sign of fear about the fair
young maiden, as she placed her foot in the

-