The General gave a short exclamation of impatience, and struck the papers on his desk with the flat of his hand.
"And that is proved," he said, sharply. "Proved by several officers who stopped your spy at points along the road."
He singled out a soiled piece of paper from the sheaf before him and held it up, a piece of paper which bore writing on both sides.
"When taken, this pass was found on his person. Not circumstantial evidence, but fact. Signed on one side by R.E. Lee and, on the other, by Colonel Morrison." He laughed shortly over the futility of argument under such circumstances. "Do you presume to contest this, too?"
To his amazement the young officer facing him bowed easily and smiled in turn.
"I do. Emphatically. No pass was given Herbert Cary either by Colonel Morrison or General Lee."
"What?" cried the General angrily.
Harris only pointed.
"Read it, sir—if you please." He watched till Grant's eyes started to scan the pass again, and then repeated the words which he knew so well.
"Pass Virginia Cary and escort through Federal—and Confederate lines."