made in doubt of the result, and indicated forcibly enough that
something was wrong at the rebel headquarters. We want now to see
what that was.

While the booming of cannon and the rattle of small arms was going
on in the vicinity of Fort Stevens, without any very serious damage
to either side (for I may mention here that the rebels kept at a
respectful distance from the forts), Generals Early, Ewell, and
Breckinridge were enjoying themselves on the sumptuous fare found at
Silver Springs and other neighboring plantations. In short, it is
asserted that these generals had been short of rations for some
days, and were very hungry when they reached the outskirts of
Washington. It is also asserted that they took themselves to
feasting and making merry with their friends; so much so that they
had all the cellars and larders of the houses round about examined
for bounties to supply their table. And to such an extent was this
feasting and merrymaking carried, that General Early quite forgot
that he was sent to capture Washington, and indeed set such a bad
example to his subordinates as to destroy all discipline.

There were two great events in this remarkable siege, my son, and I
must tell you what they were. If I do not, you will not get a clear
idea of how the siege was carried on by the rebels. The generals
(rebel) had not tasted fresh beef for several days, and had a sharp
appetite which their commissaries were inclined to gratify. Now,
there was on the plantation of Mr. George Riggs, near where these
generals had their headquarters, a celebrated Alderney bull, much
valued by its owner. Here was a temptation not to be resisted by
these commissaries, who had the animal led to slaughter and served
up for their masters. Yes, my son, these generals and their staffs