They are the first, and they must and
always will be the first. Doubtless, other rivers will be swallowed
later on. As the population increases, larger rivers will be swallowed,
but the credit for initiating the first and greatest pure-water drinking
movement in the history of the world will always belong to a brave army
division from the state of Ohio."
A roar of applause burst forth, and Warner, standing up, bowed gracefully
with his hand upon his heart. Then came a dead silence, as a hand fell
upon the Vermonter's shoulder. Warner looked around and his jaw fell.
General McCook, who commanded this part of the army, was standing beside
him.
"Excuse me, sir, I--" began Warner.
"Never mind," said the general. "I had come for a drink of water,
and hearing your debate I stopped for a few moments behind a tree to
listen. I don't know your name, young gentleman."
"Warner, sir, George Warner, first lieutenant in the regiment of Colonel
Winchester."
"I merely wished to say, Lieutenant Warner, that I listened to your
speech from the first word to the last, and I found it very cogent and
powerful.
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