"Yassah. I do de bes' I kin fur ye."
As Sam went back to the kitchen he motioned to a ragged soldier who stood with his wife and little girl gazing at the General.
"Dar he is. Go right up an' tell him."
Sweeney approached Lee timidly. The wife and girl hung back.
He tried to bow and salute at the same time.
"Excuse me for coming, General Lee, but my company's halted there in the woods. You've stopped in a few yards of my house, sir. Won't you come in and make it your headquarters?"
"No, my good friend. I won't disturb your home."
The wife edged near.
"It's no trouble at all, sir. We'd be so proud to have you."
"Thank you. I always use my tent, Madame. I'll not be here long."