Eloise and Watson, that's what I would think, however I clearly remember hearing the Roman soldier theory. Not being from there, and never having been there, it would be interesting to find out the origin of the phrase.

Lonesome EJ, not being a big fan of Martin Sheen as an actor, I do think he did a great job as Robert.E.Lee all through the movie. I admire him as a person for many things not associated with acting. You are right about the beards, especially Tom Berenger as Longstreet. It looked like something one would were at Halloween.