The General had grown thoughtful, but he shook his head incredulously.
"I say it is impossible; but what is this man's name?"
"Joseph Tanner."
"Private?"
"Yes, he entered voluntarily."
"You know him, then?"
"Yes, Your Excellency; he is perhaps the best rider in the whole army; dauntless to foolhardiness, and capable to act in such a case with the circumspection of an officer. If the thing can possibly be done, he will do it."
"And you believe--such a thing cannot be commanded--it is, indeed, an act of despair--you believe that the man would take this message of his own free will?"
"I stand for it."
"Then, indeed, I cannot nor dare not say no where so much is at stake. I will order Tanner up immediately."