Said he: "You will never have a better opportunity to accept that invitation than now.

I have had a talk with General Ord concerning you, and he will give you a leave of absence whenever you are ready to start.

Write a letter to General Stager, of Chicago, that you are now prepared to accept the invitation, and he will send you a pass." Thanking the General for his kindness, I then bade him and the Grand Duke good-bye, and soon their train was out of sight..