"My own information says that Banks and Pope were surprised by Jackson and that the rebel general has merely drawn off to make a bigger jump.

Did you get that impression ?" "Will you tell me why you ask me these questions ?" said Dick in the same polite tone.
"Because I've a big stake in the results out there.

My name is John Watson, and I'm supplying vast quantities of shoes and clothing to our troops." Dick turned up the sole of one of his shoes and picked thoughtfully at a hole half way through the sole.

Little pieces of paper came out.
"I bought these, Mr.Watson, from a sutler in General Pope's army," he said.

"I wonder if they came from you ?" A deeper tint flushed the contractor's cheeks, but in a moment he threw off anger.
"A good joke," he said jovially.