A slight variation of the traditional sentry story is related by C. C.
Buel. It was a cold, blusterous winter night. Says Mr. Buel:
“Mr. Lincoln emerged from the front door, his lank figure bent over as
he drew tightly about his shoulders the shawl which he employed for such
protection; for he was on his way to the War Department, at the west
corner of the grounds, where in times of battle he was wont to get the
midnight dispatches from the field. As the blast struck him he thought
of the numbness of the pacing sentry, and, turning to him, said: ‘Young
man, you’ve got a cold job to-night; step inside, and stand guard
there.’
“‘My orders keep me out here,’ the soldier replied.
“‘Yes,’ said the President, in his argumentative tone; ‘but your duty
can be performed just as well inside as out here, and you’ll oblige me
by going in.’
“‘I have been stationed outside,’ the soldier answered, and resumed his
beat.
“‘Hold on there!’ said Mr. Lincoln, as he turned back again; ‘it occurs
to me that I am Commander-in-Chief of the army, and I order you to go
inside.’”