Lincoln Story Book, The

<h3>IF HE FELT THAT WAY--START!</h3> <p>Although Colonel Dana, of the private branch of the War Office Intelligence Department, might have claimed exemption from active service, he never spared himself, though such a messenger ran not only the common military dangers, but of the Johnnies treating him as a spy. During the battles of the Wilderness, acute was the trepidation in Washington, where no news had come since a couple of days--Grant having "cut loose" and buried himself in the midst of the foes. Nevertheless, Dana had a train at Maryland Avenue to take him to the front, and a horse and escort to see him farther; he came to take the President's last orders. But the other had been reflecting on the perils into which he would be sending his favorite despatch-bearer.</p> <p>"You can't tell where Lee is, or what he is doing; <i>Jeb</i> Stuart is on the rampage pretty lively between the Rappahannock and the Rapidan. It is considerable risk, and I do not like to expose you to it."</p> <p>"But I am all ready; and we are equipped, if it comes to the worst, to run!"</p> <p>"Well, now, if you feel that way--start!"--(E. P. Mitchell, from Dana.) <br/> <br/> <br/></p> <div style="break-after:column;"></div><br />