"Simply because they would be too many," said I; "all I want is Jones and another man as good as Jones; if no such man can be found, I want only Jones."
"What would be your plans?"
"I should report by the third man the first information of importance; then report by Jones when we find Branch's right; hang to it myself, and report if it moves. You will need to know where Branch's right is at the moment when you are ready to strike--not where it was an hour before."
"Right," said he; "you shall have Jones the second if he can be found."
"We must not risk a common man, General; better do without such a man. He might get himself caught and endanger your whole plan."
"I think we can find a good man. Now, before we leave this, I must tell you that Colonel Warren's brigade will join in the movement. Warren is now at Old Church; he will march by the road that you were on yesterday, while we march upon roads at his left. You understand?"
"Yes, General."
"Then that is all."
"May I say a word, General?"
"Yes; certainly."