Intrusted with no command, and employed only in organizing the forces, or superintending the construction of defences, he had failed to achieve any of those successes in the field which constitute the glory of the soldier.

He might possess the great abilities which his friends and admirers claimed for him, but he was yet to show the world at large that he did really possess them.
The decisive moment had now arrived which was to test him.

He was placed in command of the largest and most important army in the Confederacy, and to him was intrusted the defence of the capital not only of Virginia, but of the South.

If Richmond were to fall, the Confederate Congress, executive, and heads of departments, would all be fugitives.

The evacuation of Virginia might or might not follow, but, in the very commencement of the conflict, the enemy would achieve an immense advantage.