human
You had better join the Engineering Corps, Dexter,
gpt
It was a work of necessity, father, answered the major.
human
The platoon of the first company was stuck, and it would never have done to have abandoned those horses. We haven't a single animal to spare, even though we did round up those others in Alabama.
gpt
I know we haven't any to spare, Dexter. By the way, how do you like that black charger you have chosen?
human
Oh, he seems to be all right. But he isn't Ceph,--not by a good deal.
gpt
No, you won't find one horse in a thousand like Ceph, my son. I'm afraid the loss of that noble animal will handicap you in making those famous leaps on the heads of Confederate officers, such as you have made in the past.
human
No, this horse would never do such work--I wouldn't dare to try him, answered the major.
gpt
He is of ordinary intelligence, and of good speed and endurance; and that is all I can say of him.
human
I have just been in consultation with the general commanding, went on Colonel Lyon, after a pause.
gpt
He wishes a special piece of work done, and says he would like Major Dexter Lyon to do it.
human
I am ready, sir. What is the work?
gpt
As you know, we are to move up to Winston's Gap. The general imagines a detachment of Wheeler's cavalry is located somewhere at this side of the Gap, or near Valley Head, strongly intrenched, to take us unaware. You are to learn the truth of the situation.
human
I will do my best.
gpt
It was agreed between us that you should take a detachment of six men with you, and one of the number was to be Captain Knox.
human
That just suits me.
gpt
The other men are to be sharpshooters from Captain's Knox's company.
human
That will also be satisfactory.
gpt
Before you go you are to come to the general for instructions. He is just below here, at the Knob, as it is called. You must remember passing the spot.
human
Yes, I remember,