“When all had left for their respective headquarters, Gen. Silent spoke to Gen. Anderson of Gen. Orden's request.
“Anderson replied: 'General, assign me anywhere; I will try to do my duty wherever I may be placed.'
“Gen. Silent then wrote the order and handed it to him, saying: 'You will proceed to join Gen. Orden in the morning; he will move to the left during the day.' Silent said that he would give him a larger command in a few days, but could not do so then, as they were on the eve of the movement in contemplation.
“Gen. Anderson expressed entire satisfaction, and directed Lieut. Whitcomb, who was with him, to have preparations made for starting at daylight the next morning.
“During the evening, they being entirely alone, General Silent said: 'Gen. Anderson, do you remember a conversation we had at my rooms the night before I left Nashua for the East?'
“'Very distinctly, General; I was much impressed by what you then said as to your views in reference to crushing this rebellion within a certain time, and the mode to be adopted for the accomplishment of this end.'
“'Well, we will do it within the time mentioned. But do you remember my asking you if you believed in dreams, and if you had ever seen anything that you could not explain or understand?'
“'Yes, General, I well remember that also.'
“'Well, sir, I desire to make a confidant of you in this particular. I do not wish what I say known at this time.'
“'You can do so; I will not betray your confidence.'