Grant's quarters. They had been recognized and
passed through the lines, and as the men caught sight of them
they were given a hearty cheer.
"You seem to have made friends," laughed the lieutenant as he
greeted them, "and there is every reason why you should. The
general will be glad to see you and hear your report. I have no
doubt you have a good story to tell, and he likes a good story."
When the boys reached home they found the gate still locked,
although it was now considerably past the time when the household
was astir. Their knock was answered by the _portero_, who, in
response to a question by Billie, said that Santiago was
seriously ill and had been for thirty-six hours.
"What is the matter?" asked Donald.
"Fever."
"I am not surprised," declared Adrian. "The strange thoughts he
has been thinking so many days were bound to result in something
serious."
"Perhaps it is not convenient for us to remain here," said Mr.
Black. "We can, I am sure, find some other place."
But at this moment Lucia appeared at the head of the stairs.
When made acquainted with Mr. Black's words she would not hear of
his taking Josie to any other house and gave orders for making
her perfectly at home. The only one who did not remain was
Strong.
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