"What is it, Senator?"
Rives hesitated, glanced at the doors of the tent and answered rapidly.
"The Confederate Congress has just held a secret session without the knowledge of President Davis—"
He drew from his pocket a letter and handed it to the Adjutant.
"You will see from this letter of the presiding officer my credentials.
They have sent me as their agent on an important mission to General
Lee."
He paused as Taylor carefully read the letter.
"How soon can I see him?"
"I'm expecting him in a few minutes," Taylor answered. "He's riding on the front lines trying to feel out Grant's next move. He is very anxious over it."
"This battle was desperate?" Rives asked nervously.
"Terrific."