If the narrow
roads and weak bridges across the river were guarded, an army of half
his size could hold McClellan for months. The nearest crossing was
twenty-five miles from Richmond.
General Reagan of the Cabinet rode down that night to see Hood at the
head of his Texas brigade.
At noon next day on returning to the city he saw the President coming
out of his office.
The long arm of the Chief was lifted and Reagan halted.
"Wait a minute--"
"At your service, Mr. President."
"Get your dinner and ride down to the Chickahominy with me. I want to
see General Johnston."
Reagan shouted an answer which the President failed to catch:
"You won't have to go to the Chickahominy to see Johnston!"
Joining Reagan after dinner the President rode rapidly through the
suburban district called "The Rockets," and had reached the high ground
beyond. A half mile away stretched a vast field of white tents.
"Whose camp is that?" Davis asked in surprise.
"Hood's brigade," Reagan replied.
"Why Hood's on the Chickahominy twenty-odd miles from here--"
"I camped here with them last night, sir--"
"Impossible!"
Reagan watched the thin face of the Confederate Chieftain grow deadly
pale.
"If you wish to see General Johnston, Mr.
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