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July 2, 1863, 7:00 p.m.
Headquarters, Army of Northern Virginia
West of Cashtown, Pennsylvania

Robert Edward Lee leaned over a true-to-scale map of the area and waved his most trusted subordinate, Lieutenant General James Longstreet, to his side. Major Walter Taylor had filled in the latest troop dispositions just minutes earlier.

'General Stuart reports that all seven Union army corps are assembled east of us. Those people's positions show no apparent weaknesses and they arguably hold the most important road junction in this part of Pennsylvania. Getting between them and Washington seems almost impossible', Lee told matter-of-factly.

'We would have had other options if Stuart had followed his orders and we had updated information days ago', Longstreet replied coldly.

'That may be true, but this discussion is of no help right now. Rather, the question arises as to how we should act now. What do you think, Pete?'

'Our position is impressive, but not too strong to make the Yankees categorically shy away from any attack. We have the interior lines to Virginia, the men do not have to starve in this landscape, and we have enough ammunition for at least one major battle. Let them come and let us bleed them in these hills.'

'We have to keep our focus, General Longstreet. We wanted to take the war home to those people, relieve Virginia, and deal a devastating blow to the enemy. Or do you think otherwise?'

'So far, this war does not look like it will allow either side a Waterloo. We should concentrate on trying to break the will and morale of the enemy rather than his armies. So for the bluebellys have always come back no matter how we humiliated them.'

'Your words sound wise, Pete. But our stay here is quite suitable to demoralize the opposing civilian population. In either case, we have to be determined, but must not be reckless. This army may seem invincible even to me on many days, but numerous wolves can cause the demise of the most powerful and mighty bear. We should be especially careful not to get surrounded. In contrast to the fate of Vicksburg, ours has not yet been sealed. So i am worried about the militias in the Carlisle area. If the main enemy does not budge by tomorrow morning, it seems advisable to give them a bloody nose.'

'With your permission, sir, I would suggest sending Gordon's brigade from Early's division along with Grumble Jones' cavalry. That should be enough to disperse them to the wind. Our other flank, the right, is secured as well. I have old George Pickett in reserve. His men are rested and eager to fight. But I do not think they will be tested anytime soon.'