The Old Lion by Jeff Shaara

Author:Jeff Shaara
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: St. Martin's Publishing Group

* * *

SHE STARED OUT the window toward the vast bay, said, “This is beautiful, Teddy.”

“I wish I had time to enjoy that, especially with you. But we received word today to be prepared to ship out at any time. I admit, I am anxious to board that ship. I had thought, truly, that I would miss it all.”

She turned to him, her hands on his shoulders.

“Then I am happy I came, if only to be with you a short time. We do not know what will happen.”

He thought of Trooper Cochran, the sad notes of “Taps.” He had said nothing of that to her and would not now.

“It will be fine. The Spanish are said to be poor fighters with poor weapons. Once we’re there, it should be short work.”

“You are a poor liar.”

“A man is a liar when he doesn’t believe what he says. I believe every word. But it is one thing to march off to war. I am in command of near a thousand good men, well trained, well equipped, who respect their commanders. There has never been an army like this in any part of the world who has failed to succeed. I am grateful to be a part of it.”

There was a knock, and Roosevelt leaned close to the door. “Yes?”

“Sir, forgive the intrusion. General Shafter wishes to meet you, sir. Right away, if it is not inconvenient. I will escort you, sir.”

He turned to her, spoke in a low voice. “When the commanding general calls and sends his aide to fetch you, you had best go.”

“Of course, Teddy. Return as soon as you can. I will go down to the veranda. It looks lovely.”

He hesitated, knew that she was one of a very few women who had come to visit their husbands. Already there was talk of such impropriety. But he knew she could hold her own, whether or not anyone knew just whose wife she was.

“Enjoy yourself, Edie.”

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