“'Mr. Jackson, I will not meet them anywhere away from here to assist in carrying out their murderous plots and schemes! Thomlinson has the money to his credit, and can buy and pay for what he pleases. I will no longer be responsible; and the fact that so much money is placed to his credit causes me to have suspicion that these schemes, as they say, have been indorsed by the authorities at Richmond. Now, my dear sir, if I knew that to be true, so help me Heaven, I would renounce the whole concern, as much of a rebel as I am. I would go to Mexico or some other country and live. What! I, Thomas P. Redingson, a man of reputation, born of Christian parents, assisting in spreading disease amongst poor soldiers, who are merely obeying the orders of their Government? No, sir! no sir! never I I do not believe that the All-seeing God will allow this infamy to prosper.' “Jackson then said: 'Captain, let us go; they may be waiting for us.' “They proceeded to the meeting place. Upon entering they found all present, and apparently feeling very much gratified at something. The champagne was flowing freely and the conversation became quite loud. A new face appeared in their midst. They were introduced to him. His name was given as Dr. Mears, formerly of Washington City. In the course of the evening it was disclosed that he was the man referred to by Prof. McCullough as the only man other than himself possessing the secret of the discovery of the great combustible that was to burn up the world. Jackson excused himself from taking any wine on account of his head not being in good condition. After many bumpers they all sat down to review the situation. “C. C. Carey said that the first thing now, since the necessary money had been provided, was to ascertain what length of time would be necessary to perfect the arrangements, as well as for Dr. Blackman to complete his collection. “Dr. Blackman, always loquacious, spoke up instantly, 'I will be ready in two weeks.' “Prof. McCullough thought it would require a greater length of time for him and Dr. Mears to make proper preparations. He thought that four weeks would be sufficient time.