"You say the army? General Lee's army?"
"Yes, sir; all but Longstreet's corps, which has gone to Georgia."
"Did you see the other troops?"
"Yes, sir; all of the Second and the Third corps."
"Did you see both corps?"
"I was in Hill's corps, General, and Ewell's passed Hill's in the afternoon of yesterday; Ewell's corps was many hours passing."
The officers standing about were attentive, even serious. General Meade's face showed interest, but not grave concern.
"How can I know that you are not deceiving me?"
"I have nothing on me to prove my character, General, but there are some officers and men in your army who would vouch, for me if they were here."
"Who are they?"