“I beg your pardon, sir,” says Colonel Desperade, twirling his mustache in a warlike manner; “do I understand you to call in question the nerve of our brave soldiers, or the generalship of our great commander?” “I do, sir,” says Mr. Croker, staring haughtily at the speaker. “I am not of those enthusiasts who consider General Lee a great soldier. He has succeeded in defensive campaigns, but is deficient in genius--and I will add, sir, as you seem to be surprised at my remarks, sir, that in my opinion the Southern Confederacy will be overwhelmed, sir, and the South compelled to return to the Union, sir!” “Upon what do you ground that extraordinary assumption, may I ask, sir?” “On common sense and experience, sir,” returns Mr. Croker, severely; “look at the currency--debased until the dollar is merely a piece of paper. Look at prices--coffee, twenty dollars a pound, and sugar the same. Look at the army starving--the people losing heart--and strong, able-bodied men,” adds Mr. Croker, looking at Colonel Desperade, “lurking about the cities, and keeping out of the way of bullets.” The mustached warrior looks ferocious--his eyes dart flame. “And who causes the high prices, sir? Who makes the money a rag? I answer--the forestallers and engrossers--do you know any, sir?” “I do not, sir!” “That is singular!” And Colonel Desperade twirls his mustache satirically--looking at the pompous Mr. Croker in a manner which makes that worthy turn scarlet. I was laughing to myself quietly, and listening for the expected outbreak, when Mr. Blocque interposed with his winning voice. “What are you discussing, gentlemen?” he said, with his charming smile. “But first tell me your opinion of this Madeira and those cigars. My agent writes me word that he used every exertion to procure the best. Still, I am not entirely pleased with either the wine or brand of cigars, and hope you will excuse them. Were you speaking of our great President, Mr. Torpedo? And you, Mr. Croker--I think you were referring to the present state of affairs. They appear to me more hopeful than at any previous time, and his Excellency, President Davis, is guiding the helm of state with extraordinary courage and good judgment. I know some of you differ with me in these views, my friends. But let us not be censorious--let us look on the bright side. The troubles of the country are great, and we of the South are suffering every privation--but we must bear up, gentlemen; we must keep brave hearts, and endure all things. Let us live on dry bread if it comes to that, and bravely fight to the last! Let us cheerfully endure hardships, and oppose the enemy at all points. Our present troubles and privations will soon come to an end--we shall again be surrounded by the comforts and luxuries of life--and generations now unborn will bless our names, and pity our sufferings in these days that try men’s souls!”