Part 20 (1/2)

_Lee was a free man_

When the General returned to the den he looked long at Frank, and the Major was inspired to ask permission to leave for a few moments

”Please call if you want us,” he said, and nodding to Lee and Bill to follow, he took thenal fro the General ht say to Frank would be burned forever on his reat man but a wise one as well, and his words were alords of wisdoiveness as well

So the deep old voice rumbled on in the den, with only a brief word in Frank's boyish tones once in awhile

Presently the door was opened and the General called

The group advanced

”Lee,” said the General, ”have you anything to say to this boy?”

There was a silence Lee stiffened Then Mrs Sherers and pressed them in the warmest, tenderest clasp It was very un

Lee looked down at the little lady and smiled; the first smile for many weeks

Then he stepped forward a pace, still holding Mrs Sherman's little hand Lee raised it, looked at the General, at Mrs Sheresture of reverence he let the little hand drop

”I forgive you!” he said, ”Let's begin new” He held out his hand to the boy, but with a cry Frank turned away

”Not yet, not yet! I can't take it!” he cried

”You can if I can,” said Lee

”No, no, I can't; not yet!”

”He is right,” said the General ”Let _ iveness”

”My car is outside,” said Major Sherly

”Thank you,” said the General ”Anderson, the hardest part is before you Go hoht confession to your father and mother, and then close this black chapter Somehow or other I will see that our part of it is taken froe”

Looking at no one, Frank left the roohtened, despairing culprit

”General,” cried Lee suddenly, ”if you please, sir, let o with hio!”