line as its cross came in sight. Yes, the old Sixth Corps, with
General Wright, had come once more. It was a proud sight to see
these men deploy into line of battle, in front of Fort Stevens,
their war-worn colors fluttering in the breeze, with that cross so
well known to the rebel hosts.

The siege was raised. The rebels recognized that cross, and, knowing
what it betokened, fell back rapidly before it, and prepared for a
hasty retreat. Confidence was restored to the people. The President
thanked the troops and went home in the very best humor. The
Secretary of War and the Chief of Staff stopped issuing orders; and
the quartermaster's bushwhackers hung up their bill-hooks. The major
and brigadier-generals went to congratulating each other on the part
they had taken in the defense. At two o'clock on Wednesday morning,
an advance was ordered with the two divisions of the Sixth Corps;
but when the skirmish line took possession of Silver Springs, there
was not a rebel in arms to be seen. General Early had made good
speed during the night, and was making the best of his way across
the Potomac, and home to his master.

Thus ended the most remarkable siege history has any account of.

And now, my son, I cannot close this history without a few words on
the character and conduct of Mr. Jefferson Davis, to whose ambition
this siege of our capital was due. It has been said by several of
his friends, who have access to the newspapers, that he went into
this war not only very reluctantly, but with green spectacles on.
Willing as I am to deal generously with him, and to forgive him each
and every one of his sins, and to send him out into the world to
seek atonement for them, I cannot share this opinion. And for the