"
The other stood bareheaded, his face showing pale under its sunburn,
his hand trembling violently where it rested against his horse's mane.
"There is little I desire," he replied, slowly, unable to altogether
disguise the quiver in his voice, "and that is to be permitted to ride
once more into action in the ranks of the Seventh."
The true-hearted, impulsive, manly soldier fronting him reddened to the
roots of his fair hair, his proud eyes instantly softening. For a
second Hampton even imagined he would extend his hand, but the other
paused with one step forward, discipline proving stronger than impulse.
"Spoken like a true soldier," he exclaimed, a new warmth in his voice.
"You shall have your wish. Take position in Calhoun's troop yonder."
Hampton turned quietly away, leading his horse, yet had scarcely
advanced three yards before Custer halted him.
"I shall be pleased to talk with you again after the fight," he said,
briefly, as though half doubting the propriety of such words.
The other bowed, his face instantly brightening. "I thank you
sincerely."
The perplexed commander stood motionless, gazing after the receding
figure, his face grown grave and thoughtful.
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