“Yes, Colonel.” Then, turning to the Secretary, he said: “By the way, Mr. Fowler, be so kind as to have an order made out directing Captain Hathaway, Second Cavalry, to report to Colonel Cobb to-night for orders; send it at once.”
“Sir, I will attend to it immediately.”
“Then, Mr. Fowler, we will say good afternoon.”
“Good afternoon, gentlemen;” and then to Cobb: “Come and see me, Colonel, whenever you feel inclined.”
In fifteen minutes they were back at the executive mansion.
After partaking of a cup of coffee, as was the President’s custom at that hour, they entered the drag again, and were rapidly propelled toward the Capitol.
Cobb noticed the handsome exterior of the buildings, their beautiful architecture and harmonious coloring.
Pennsylvania Avenue was, indeed, a beautiful thoroughfare. Its buildings were large and grand; great hotels, clubs, bazars, churches, and theatres were thrown together in one complex but magnificent order. Over the sidewalk, on either side, and also covering the cross-streets, was a glass canopy supported by pillars of the same material, handsomely carved and finished. The windows and doors were grand in their size; and what seemed strange and dangerous to Cobb, no sash was to be observed; nothing but great panes of glass, some white and clear, others of various hues.
The streets and walks were as clean as a parlor floor, and no obstructions were to be seen upon them. The pavement was of a soft gray tint, and like a felt blanket in its appearance. The sidewalks were laid in tessellated work of all the hues of the solar spectrum. Statues and works of art were everywhere observable. Great trees ranged on either side, while beautiful plants and green grass plats surrounded many of the buildings.