His guest surveyed Lee with an expression of deep pleasure in the unfolding of his message.
"In part, yes, you may have guessed my purpose. But I have something to say that even your keen mind has not surmised—"
"I am honored, sir, in your call and I shall be glad to hear you."
Blair drew himself erect as if on military duty.
"Colonel Lee, I have come after a conference with President Lincoln, to ask you to throw the power of your great name into this fight now to put an end to chaos—"
"You have come from the President?"
"Unofficially—"
"Oh—"
"But with his full knowledge and consent."
"And what is his suggestion?"