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Castlemon, Harry, [pseud.], 1842-1915

"Frank on a Gun-Boat"

"
"You don't believe it, then! Well, how do you think this war is going
to end?"
"Now, see here," said Frank, "I wish you would travel on, and let
me alone. I am a prisoner, and in your power; and I don't want to be
abused for speaking my mind; for, if I answer your questions at all, I
shall say just what I think."
"That is what I like," said the lieutenant. "You need not be afraid to
speak your mind freely. Now, tell me, how do you think this struggle
will end?"
"There is only one way for it to end, and that is in your
subjugation."
"But what is your object in fighting us?"
"To preserve the Union!"
"You're a liar!" shouted the lieutenant. "You're fighting to free the
niggers."
"Well, have it your own way," answered Frank. "But, if I'm a liar,
you're a gentleman, so take it and go on. You need not ask me any more
questions, for I shan't answer them."
The lieutenant muttered something about hanging every Yankee he could
catch if he could have his own way, and moved away; and Frank was left
to finish his dinner in peace.
That afternoon, a soldier, whose name was Cabot, came and sat down
beside Frank, and inquired:
"Didn't you try to escape last night?"
"Yes, but I was discovered.


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