"Well, it seems longer, but it will prove shorter in the end; the country between Old Church and Mechanicsville is neutral ground, and you would be delayed in going through it."
"Am I to report the conditions between Old Church and Hanover Court-House?"
"Take no time for that, but impress the character of the roads and the profile of the country on your mind--I mean in regard to military obstacles; of course if you find rebels in there, a force, I mean--look into them."
"Well, sir, I am ready."
"You may have everything you want; as many men as you want, mounted or afoot; can you start to-morrow morning, Berwick?"
"Yes, General; by daylight I want to be at Old Church. Please have a good man to report to me two hours before day."
"Mounted?"
"Yes, sir; and with a led saddle horse and three days' rations and corn--or oats would be better. Let him come armed."