Blocque, "delighted to see you, I assure you! You are well? You will
dine with me, to-day? At five precisely? You will find the old
company--jolly companions, every one! We meet and talk of the affairs
of the country. All is going on well, colonel. Our city is quiet and
orderly. The government sees farther than its assailants. It can not
explain now, and set itself right in the eyes of the people--that would
reveal military secrets to the enemy, you know. I tell my friends in
the departments not to mind their assailants. Washington himself was
maligned, but he preserved a dignified silence. All is well, colonel! I
give you my word, we are all right! I know a thing or two--!" and Mr.
Blocque looked mysterious. "I have friends in high quarters, and you
can rely on my statement. Lee is going to whip Grant. The people are
rallying to the flag. The finances are improving. The resources of the
country are untouched. A little patience--only a _very_ little
patience! I tell my friends. Let us only endure trials and hardships
with brave hearts. Let us not murmur at dry bread, colonel--let us
cheerfully dress in rags--let us deny ourselves every thing, sacrifice
every thing to the cause, cast away all superfluities, shoulder our
muskets, and fight to the death! Then there _can_ be no doubt of the
result, colonel--good morning!"
And Mr.
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