September 1864 (near Atlanta, GA)William T. Sherman stands inside his tent; he proctors strategy for the battle to come along with his Lieutenants. A rap is heard against the heavy tarp acting as a doorway for the Union general.
"Enter!"
"We have Corporal McGee sir."
A gaunt, young soldier steps into the tent. He is rigid at attention but obviously breathing hard- the anxiety of an audience with the General over The West.
"At ease Corporal. I am told that you have an ability that might be of use to the Union. Is this true?"
"Yes General. I, um, have a gift."
"Let's see it then soldier!"
At the general's order the timid young man observes the general's cot to the left of the men. Pointing his hand toward the wooden bed, the men turn their attention toward it and then stumble back as the cot bursts into flames.
"My God! The boy has the devil in him." Exclaimed one Lieutenant.
But the general only smiles and flings a bucket of water onto the burning bed smoke billowing where flames had spontaneously combusted.
"Devil? Nay. He’s our angel. Corporal McGee, you do have a special gift. You are going to preserve the Union. And we are going to scorch these damned gray dogs into submission. Send word to Washington that victory is imminent."
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