The division to which Dick belonged was advancing slowly.

He often saw Thomas, and his admiration for the grave, silent man grew.

It was said that Thomas was slow, but that he never made mistakes.

Now the rumor was spreading that he had warned Rosecrans to be cautious, that Bragg had a powerful army and when he reached favorable positions, would certainly turn and fight.
Not many were impressed by these reports.

They merely said it was "Pap" Thomas' way of looking at the dark side of things first.