Many thousands had fallen and the Southern
generals were exultant. Johnston would come up, and Grant, having such
heavy losses, would be unable to withstand the united Confederate armies.
But Grant, as Colonel Woodville foresaw, had no idea of retreating.
Fresh troops were pouring down the great river for him, and while he
would not again attempt to storm Vicksburg, the ring of steel around it
would be made so broad and strong that Pemberton could not get out nor
could Johnston get in.
When the last cannon shot echoed over the far hills Colonel Woodville
turned away from the door of his hillside home.
"I must ask your shoulder again, young sir," he said to Dick. "What I
have seen rejoices me greatly, but I do not say it to taunt you. In
war if one wins the other must lose, and bear in mind that you are the
invader."
"May I help you back to your bed, sir?" asked Dick.
"You may. You are a good young man. I'm glad I saved you from that
scoundrel, Slade. As the score between us is even I wish that you were
out of Vicksburg and with your own people.
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