"A number of Secret Societies have overspread the North and Northwest, whose purpose is to end the war at once and on any terms. I have the best of reasons for believing that the men back of these Orders are now in touch with the Davis Government in Richmond. I am informed that a coterie of these conspirators, a sort of governing board, have gotten control or may get control of the organization of your Party. I have heard the ugly rumor that they are counting on you——"
"Stop!" McClellan shouted.
The General sprang to his feet, the President rose and the two men confronted each other in a moment of tense silence.
The compact figure of McClellan was trembling with rage—the tall man's sombre eyes holding his with steady purpose.
"No man can couple the word treason with my name, sir!" the General hissed.
"Have I done so?"
"You are insinuating it—and I demand a retraction!"
The President smiled genially:
"Then I apologize for my carelessness of expression. I have never believed you a traitor to the Union."
"Thank you!"