“It is no masquerade, sir,” I answered, instantly removing my hat; “it is the rightful uniform of my rank, greatly as I regret its present condition.”
He gazed at me keenly, evidently doubtful as to his best course of action, and I heard an officer behind him laugh.
“Where are you from?”
“I was discharged from St. Mary's Hospital in Richmond day before yesterday, and am now seeking to rejoin my regiment.”
I almost imagined I was looked upon as a soldier crazed by his sufferings; I heard a whisper, “Out of his head,” yet as I gazed earnestly into those stern gray eyes which fronted me, they suddenly grew moist.
“Surely,” he said gravely, “I have seen your face before. To what regiment were you attached?”
“The ——th Virginia Cavalry.”
The buzzing of voices about me instantly ceased, and General Lee took a step nearer.
“The ——th Virginia? You were a captain? Surely this is not Philip Wayne?”
So deeply surprised was his tone, so uncertain his recognition, I scarcely knew what to answer. Had I lost my very identity? was this all a dream?