“'No, you are wrong,' said Cross. 'If this is the intention of the Administration, we ought to organize the army on a better basis than it now is, have McGregor relieve every one who is not his friend; and let us urge him to march upon the Capital and there we can install him Dictator, recognize the South's independence, with the understanding that they in turn will send their army to the front near to us, so as to sustain him. We could seize all armories, arsenals and war materials. The people would then be powerless. England would at once recognize the South, and if we can maintain ourselves six months, which we can easily do, the whole of Europe would recognize our government.'
“'Just at this moment Gen. McGregor entered the room and said:
“'Gentlemen, I hope you have been enjoying yourselves. I have been out to my Adjutant-General's office, dictating my orders for to-morrow. I hope you have helped yourselves to my sherry and champagne. I had quite a good lot of it brought on, not knowing how long this campaign might last.'
“Farlin said: 'General, I would think that the campaign for the present is almost over; our troops are in no condition for further offensive operations.'
“'Do you think so?' said Gen. McGregor.
“'Yes; most assuredly.'
“'Yes,' added Smite; 'we are in no hurry; this war cannot be rushed through; and if this Administration is going to do what I understand it is, there are some of us who will not submit.'
“'What is that?' inquired McGregor.
“'Free the negroes. We will not stand that. We want you to be up and dressed. We will put you in place of the Administration, and have the country governed properly, make peace with the South and stop the war.'
“Gen. McGregor here put his finger to his lips, indicating silence on their part; and looking in the direction of the bed on which Gen. Anderson was resting, all became silent on this subject, and commenced speaking of the quality of the wine. Very soon supper was announced, and the messenger was told to call Gen. Anderson. The General, turning over and groaning as if awakening from a deep sleep, arose, and addressing Gen. McGregor, said: