He struck over and over the same chord--the Union must be saved. Every road led back to that one point. Every argument hinged upon it. Every protest was met by it. He hammered down all other questions.
"If we are Union men, this is the time and the place to show it. All other objects, motives, methods, private interests, tastes, loves or preferences must yield to the supreme test--What are we willing to do to save the Union?" Once he said:
"You don't suppose my position is particularly agreeable,'do you? Do you fancy it is easy, or to my liking?"
"No, no, Mr. President, of course not. I understand that; but you are holding a public office, and----"
"So are you," came like a shot. "In times like this _all_ men who are or who have been trusted by their fellow men, are now, in a sense, leaders--are in a public position. Their influence is for or against this Union. There is no neutral ground. I've already been driven a good deal farther than I ever expected to have to go, and it looks as if I'd have to jump several more fences yet; but you'll see me jump'em when the time comes, or I'll break my neck trying it!" He wheeled back to the table. "Here, why not let me put you down as a chaplain? Carry you on the rolls that way? It----"
"No, Mr. Lincoln, that won't do. I won't agree to that. If I go it is not as chaplain. We know that, and there must be no pretense. I will not use my ministerial standing as a cloak. I--"
"You are right, too. I wouldn't, myself. Then you won't be with any one division long at a time. You'll have to transfer as the need comes. Let me see--m-m-m----"
"If I do this thing I will do it outright. I'll ask one thing of you--I don't want it known; for, of course, none of my friends can understand the way you look at it and the way you have made me see it. But when I go, I'll want a good horse, and I'll ride in the lead. I'll not stay back as a chaplain, nor sutler, nor as anything but as what I shall be, God help me! a guide!"
"Well, suppose we just call you that--Government Guide. But since it is to be such extraordinary service--so vital to our cause--we'll make your pay extraordinary, too. How does a colonel's pay strike you?"
Griffith was on his feet in a flash. He stood looking straight at the President, who had not turned as he asked the question. The hands of the preacher were grasping the back of his chair.