"And when did you last have a drink ?" "Two weeks ago," answered Randolph.
"Great Heaven!" said Hood, starting up.

"Is it possible?
Here, quick, drink it!" He reached out a bottle of whisky.

Randolph drained it to the last drop.
"Now, General," he said, "I am at your service." Meanwhile Hood had cast his eye over the despatches.
"Major Randolph," he said, "you have seen General Bragg ?" "I have." "And Generals Johnston and Smith ?" "Yes." "You have been through Mississippi and Tennessee and seen all the battles there ?" "I have," said Randolph.
"Then," said Hood, "there is nothing left except to send you at once to the army in Virginia under General Lee.

Remount your horse at once and ride to Gettysburg.

Lose no time.".