human
You have bad news, Mr. President?
gpt
Not yet, dear, but I'm expecting it.
human
We lost the battle yesterday?
gpt
Apparently not. You may read that. I trust you implicitly.
human
We fought a terrific battle here yesterday with the combined forces of the enemy, which lasted with continuous fury from daylight until dark, by which time the enemy was driven from the field which we now occupy. The enemy is still in our front, but badly used up. We lost not less than eight thousand men killed and wounded, but from the appearance of the field the enemy lost two to one. The news has just reached me from the front that the enemy is retreating toward the mountains.
gpt
Isn't that good news?
human
Nothing to brag about. It's the last sentence that worries me----
gpt
But that seems the best!
human
It might be but for the fact that Jackson is leading that retreat toward the mountains! I've an idea that he will turn up to-day on Pope's rear with Lee's whole army on his heels. Jackson is in the habit of appearing where he's least expected----
gpt
If God would only give me such a man to lead our armies!
human
Is General McClellan at Alexandria to-day?
gpt
I'm wondering myself. He should be on that field with every soldier under his command.
human
I've come to ask you for a pass to Alexandria----
gpt
Then my worst fears are confirmed! he broke in excitedly.
human
Your sweetheart's on McClellan's staff--his men will never reach the field in time!
gpt
God bless you, child. See me when you get back and tell me all you learn of McClellan and his men to-day. The very worst is suspected----
human
You mean?
gpt
That this delay and deliberate trifling with the most urgent and positive orders is little short of treason. Unless his men reach Pope to-day and fight, the Capital may be threatened to-morrow.
human
Surely!
gpt
It's just as I tell you, child, but I'll hope for the best. Be eyes and ears for me to-day and you may help me.
human
What has it all to do with my love!