[Nicolay exits and Lincoln returns to his desk and writes.]
[Nicolay enters with General McClellan. The General is thirty-eight years old, dressed in a uniform of immaculate cut, flashing with gold. While his figure is short and stocky, in striking contrast to the President, he is a man of commanding appearance, and gives one the impression of a born leader of men. He enters with quick military precision and salutes with studied formality the President as his superior officer. The President answers his salute, as Nicolay exits.]
Lincoln
I suggest, General McClellan, that we forget for the moment that I am the Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy—and we have a little heart to heart talk in a perfectly informal way——
McClellan
[Stiffening.]
May I enquire, Mr. President, at once, to what I owe this extraordinary summons?
Lincoln
[Cordially.]
Will you be seated, General——?