“It will require a peculiar person for the business,” said Gen. A. in a rather low tone. “It must be a woman--and a woman of intelligence, discretion and courage.”
“I know just such a one,” replied Gen. B., “but I should dislike to ask her to run the risk that must be incurred.”
“These are times,” answered Gen. A., “which demand sacrifices. Our Southern men and women should be willing to incur danger for the sake of their country. Cannot the South furnish an Iphigenia if one is necessary to the success of our arms?”
“No doubt, many can be found,” replied Gen. B., “but I should dislike to sacrifice any of our noble women, if it could possibly be avoided.”
“Would it not be better,” coolly asked Gen. A., “to sacrifice a woman in the prosecution of this business than a good soldier? But who is the lady you mentioned? We can discuss the ethics of the case at some other time.”
“It is the daughter of Dr. Arrington,” answered Gen. B. “I dined with his family last Sabbath, and I was impressed with the idea that the young lady is just such a woman as you have described.”
“I am willing,” said Gen. A., “to take your judgment in this case. When can we have an interview with her, do you suppose?”
“Suppose we go at once, then,” said Gen. A. “The business is urgent.”
Accordingly the two officers mounted their horses. Half an hour later they alighted at Dr. Arrington’s residence. They were met by the Doctor, and shown into the parlor. After talking a short time upon general topics, Gen. B. broached the particular subject that had caused the visit.
“Dr. Arrington,” said he, “Gen. A. is in search of a person to perform a delicate and hazardous duty. The service is of such a nature that no one but a lady can perform it well, and it must be a lady of bravery, discretion and intelligence.”
“I do not know where you can find one in this community who will fulfill such requirements,” said the Doctor.
“I have taken the liberty,” said Gen. B., without seeming to have noticed the Doctor’s remark, “to suggest your daughter, Miss Mildred.”
“I doubt,” replied the Doctor, “that she possesses the qualifications you have named--at least, I do not know that she is brave.”
“Probably,” suggested Gen. A., “you have never seen her courage put to the test.”