"Strange that their purpose should not have been discovered. Their work has been carefully and secretly planned."
"Beyond a doubt."
"They could not have done it without big backing somewhere."
"They've had it. They've had plenty of money. They have rifles of the finest make. And they're not the type made in this Arsenal."
"They expected to use the rifles in the Armory, of course. And they expect reinforcements. Any sign of their reserves?"
"Not yet, sir. We have the roads guarded for ten miles."
"We'll settle it before they can get help," Lee said sharply.
He hastily wrote a summons to surrender and handed it to Stuart.
"Approach the Engine House under a flag of truce. Ask for a parley with their leader and give him this."
Stuart saluted.