"But the left has not been thrown forward."
"It will be done shortly."
"What would happen if McDowell should not be ordered to reënforce us?"
"McDowell has already been ordered to reënforce McClellan, and the order has been countermanded. The Washington authorities fear to uncover Washington on account of Jackson's presence in the Shenandoah Valley. If McDowell remains near Fredericksburg 'for good,' as we used to say in South Carolina, McClellan will be likely to get everything in readiness, then wait for his opportunity, and throw his right wing also across the Chickahominy, with the purpose of ending the campaign in a general engagement before his supplies are endangered. But this will take time. So I say that no matter what happens, except one thing, there will be nothing done by Hooker for ten days; he will stay in reserve."
"What is that one thing which you except, Doctor?"
"A general attack by the Confederates."
"And you think that is possible?"
"Always possible. The Confederates are quick to attack." "And you think they are ready to attack?"
"No; I think there is no reason to expect an attack soon, at any rate a general attack; but when McClellan throws his left wing over the Chickahominy, the Confederates may attack then."
"Then I ought to be with my regiment," said I.