The marches, battles and sieges
that have signalized this campaign must render it famous in the
annals of war, and have entitled you to the applause and thanks of
the Nation.
"ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
"_President of the United States_."
His sombre eyes flamed with a new light. He took the copy of his message
from Sherman and started to the White House with long, swift strides.
Betty greeted him outside with tearful joy still mixed with deep
anxiety.
"You have no word from him, of course?"
"Not yet, child, but it will come--cheer up--it's sure to come. You see
that he reached Atlanta and delivered my message!"
"We are not sure. The city may have fallen, anyhow----"
"Yes, yes, but it didn't just fall, anyhow. Sherman took it. He got my
message. I know it. I felt it flash through the air from his soul to
mine!"
His faith and enthusiasm were contagious and Betty returned home with
new hope.
In half an hour the Committee who were waiting for his resignation from
the National Republican ticket filed into his office to receive as they
supposed his final surrender.
The Chairman rose with doleful countenance:
"Since leaving you, Mr. President, we have just heard a most painful and
startling announcement from the War Department.
Pages:
537
538
539
540
541
542
543
544
545
546
547
548
549
550
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558
559
560
561