"I think I must borrow this little lady," he said. "It is not often General Sheridan has anything in his arms as sweet as this."
He still had her in his arms as he turned to leave the room, and she gladly went with him. Presently she was brought back with a parcel in her own arms—figs, bananas, cakes, and nuts.
Captain Lee came in late to bid me good-by, and to reiterate his thanks.
"You really have been so very nice! Now I am going to beg you will allow me to make some return."
I hastened to accept his offer. I told him that my General's pet mare, Lady Jane, was in his command. She had been missing ever since the battles around Richmond. John was sure he had seen her. By some chance she had fallen into the hands of the troops now in Petersburg. Could it be possible for me to reclaim her?
The Captain looked grieved.
"No," he said; "I had no thought of anything of that kind. But a great many ladies have asked for what I am going to give you. I have brought you General Sheridan's autograph."
He instantly interpreted my disappointment. Before I could recover he added, "But it appears you don't wish it," and threw it on the table.
"I can at least, Captain, be grateful that you tried to please me."
That night the adjutant's office was closed. Next morning my husband returned. General Warren came in to see him. General Sheridan stood on our porch to receive the homage of his men, bowing to their cheers. General Warren looked on from our window. Presently the troops he had commanded when he was superseded by Sheridan passed the house. They saw their old commander, and the shouts, "Hurrah for General Warren," must have been harsh sounds for General Sheridan.