Part 86 (1/2)

Again the agony stilled the musical voice.

”My spurs,” he went on, ”which I have always worn in battle, I promised to Mrs. Lilly Lee of Shepherdstown, Virginia--”

He paused.

”My sword--I leave--to--my--son.”

A cannon roared outside the city. With quick eagerness he asked:

”What's that?”

”Gracey's brigade has moved out against Sheridan's rear as he retreats.

Fitz Lee is fighting them still at Meadow Bridge.”

He turned his blue eyes upward and prayed:

”G.o.d grant they may win--”

He moved his head aside and said:

”I must prepare for another world.”

He listened to the roar of the guns for a moment and signaled to his aide:

”Major, Fitz Lee may need you.”

McClellan pressed his hand and hurried to the front.

As he pa.s.sed out the tall figure of the President of the Confederacy entered. Jefferson Davis sat by his side and held his hand. He loved his daring young Cavalry Commander. He had made him a Major-General at thirty. He was dying now at thirty-one. The tragedy found the heart of the sorrowful leader of all the South.

When the Reverend Dr. Peterkin entered he said:

”Now I want you to sing for me the old song I love best--

”'Rock of Ages cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee--'”

With failing breath he joined in the song.

A paroxysm of pain gripped him and he asked the doctor:

”Can I survive the night?”

”No, General. The end is near.”

He was silent. And then slowly said:

”I am resigned if it be G.o.d's will.

But--I--would--like--to--see--my--wife--”