' The result would have been a glowing letter to the war
department, requesting your assignment--you would have attained your
object--you would have been torn from the horrors of Richmond, and once
more enjoyed the great privilege of being shot at!"
I echoed the colonel's laugh.
"Alas!" I said, "I have no genius for all that. I never yet could
'crook the hinges of the knee that thrift might follow fawning,' and I
suppose I shall be compelled to resign, and enter the ranks. Why not?
Better men are there, carrying musket or carbine, or pulling the
lanyard."
"Still you gained your rank by your services--and I am going to make
you an offer which will enable you to retain it. Come and be my
assistant inspector-general--an officer is required to inspect the
cavalry and horse artillery, which is so distant, often, that I have no
time to visit them."
"A thousand thanks, colonel! You could not offer me a more pleasant
duty."
"You will have to ride a great deal, but will have a great deal of
freedom. If you consent to my proposition, I will have the matter
arranged at once, and will request you to make a tour of inspection to
General Early's army, near Winchester."
He looked at me, laughing.
"'The Oaks' is--a charming place," he added, "and you are certain to be
very tired when you reach the vicinity of Markham's! If you find it
convenient to stop there--say, for a day or more--present my regards to
Colonel Beverly, and any of the family you find present!"
With which words he laughed again, shook me by the hand, and then his
tall form disappeared in the doorway of the war office.
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