The instruments of war aren't always guns in , which relates the adventures of Union Army drummer Steve Ames. During the Battle of Bull Run, Ames is given a silver trumpet by a dying Confederate soldier-the trumpet being just as important as the drum-and what follows is a story of courage, honor, and duty told through the eyes of a man not carrying a gun, but one playing an equally important role in the war... In , two boys combat Rebel forces and endure insects and disease in the Bayou. Confronting numerous difficulties, Chip and Greg face their true challenges when they become marooned in southern territory. They overcome various obstacles before returning to their ship, but will their espionage efforts save the naval vessel "Dart" from being destroyed?