"No."
"Thank you," she said, rising and extending her hand. "I learned exactly what I wished to know."
"And you'll stop quarreling?"
"If he's reasonable——"
He lifted his long finger in solemn warning.
"Remember now! This administration is honestly and sincerely backing General McClellan for all it's worth. It has always done this. We are going to try to make even a better record in the next campaign——"
"When will it open?"
"Sooner than any of us wish it, if our scouts report the truth. Flushed with his great victory over Pope, General Lee is sure to invade Maryland. The campaign will be a dangerous and crucial one. The moment Lee crosses the Potomac, his communications with Richmond will be imperiled. If he dares to do it we can crush his army in a great battle, cut his communications with Richmond, drive his men into the Potomac and end the war. I have given McClellan the opportunity of his life. I pray God to give success——"
Edward appeared at the door.
"Well, what is it?"