The florid face grew redder, but I gave him no chance to speak, and in my most agreeable manner I talked and talked of everything I could think of, despite his many efforts to get in a word. Finally I grew tired of the fun, as were also some friends and listeners in the adjoining tent. Then, as if just remembering his attempts to speak, I said, “O, doctor, had you something to say to me?”
Growing still redder, if possible, and sitting uncomfortably on the edge of the barrel chair that I had insisted on his taking, he said, “O, only that an order is received that all persons not having authority must report to Washington. Er— er—have you a pass?”
“Doctor, you know that my pass was stolen.” And I asked demurely what I should do.
With an air of exultation he sprang up and said—“Unfortunately, Miss Smith, you will have to report to Washington to-morrow.”
Then slowly taking the pass from my pocket, I said hesitatingly, “Well, Doctor, here is a paper that perhaps will help me,” and I handed him the Grant pass.
“Headquarters Armies United States,
City Point, Virginia, March 16, 1865.
Miss Smith will be afforded all facilities that Army Commanders afford to other State Agents.
Free transportation will be given her on all Government steamers and Military Railroads. Guards and pickets will pass her accordingly.
By command of
LIEUTENANT GENERAL GRANT
T. S. Bowers, A. A. G.”
I watched him in silence till he finished reading. His face was crimson and he said with a nervous giggle, “O, yes, er—I’ll fix you up at medical headquarters all right!”