Part 83 (1/2)
”Not if you can approach him more carefully,” Alexander cautioned.
”I can first propose that as Commanding General he might accept the peace proposals which Francis Preston Blair has brought from Was.h.i.+ngton--”
”What kind of peace proposals?” Gorden asked sharply.
”He proposes to end the war immediately by an armistice, and arrange for the joint invasion of Mexico by the combined armies of the North and South under the command of General Lee.”
Alexander snapped at the suggestion.
”By all means suggest the armistice first. General Lee won his spurs in Mexico. The plan might fire his imagination--as it would have fired the soul of Caesar or Napoleon. If he refuses to go over the head of Davis, you can then announce the vote of Congress giving him supreme power.”
The general suddenly paused at the familiar sound of Traveler's hoofbeat.
The officers stood and saluted as Lee entered. He was dressed in his full field gray uniform of immaculate cut and without spot. He wore his sword, high boots and spurs and his field gla.s.ses were thrown across his broad shoulders.
He glanced at the group in slight surprise and drew Stuart aside.
”I sent for you, General Stuart, to say that I am expecting a courier at any moment who may report that General Grant will move on Spottsylvania Court House.”
He paused in deep thought.
”If so, Sheridan will throw the full force of his cavalry on your lines, to turn our right and circle Richmond.”
Stuart's body stiffened.
”I'm ready, sir. He may reach Yellow Tavern. He'll never go past it.”
In low, tense words Lee said:
”I'm depending on you, sir.”
Stuart saluted in silence.
Lee turned back into the group and Taylor explained:
”I have called an informal meeting at the request of Senator Rives.”
Lee smiled.
”Oh, I see. A council of both War and State.”
Rives came forward and the Commander grasped his hand.
”Always glad to see _you_, Senator. What can we do for you?”
”Everything, sir. Can we enter at once into our conference?”
”The quicker the better. General Grant may drop in on us at any moment without an invitation.”
Rives smiled wanly.
”General Lee, we face the gravest crisis of the war.”