Then the general signified that he had yet a few remarks to
make. The men stood about respectfully as he addressed them.
"Men," he said, "there may be some among you who question the justice of
this move. To those I say that we are engaged in a great effort. To
prevent further war and bloodshed among ourselves and our enemies is a
great duty; for nothing can possibly be gained by the loss of millions of
lives and the destruction of billions of dollars worth of property.
However, if there are any among you who would draw out of this movement,
I would ask that you do so now."
The general paused and looked keenly at the faces about him. No
man spoke.
"Good," said the general, "then I know you are with me."
"And the time? When will the time come?" asked one man in the crowd.
"That I cannot say," responded the general, quietly. "But I can assure
you that it will be before long. You will all be notified by the
messengers, that you may be ready. Now are there any other questions?"
"If we fail, then what?" asked another man.
General Pombrey shrugged his shoulders.
"Probably court martial and a firing squad," he said indifferently. "But
you will have died in a glorious cause, whereas now--"
A glimpse of happiness stole over the general's face.
Pages:
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160