Meade and the Army of the Potomac were
not far away, it was said, but the youthful veterans of the South were
entirely willing to fight again. The older men, however, knew their
danger. The disproportion of forces would be much greater than at
Gettysburg, and even if they fought a successful defensive action with
their back to the river the Army of the Potomac could bide its time and
await reinforcements. The North would pour forth its numbers without
stint.
Harry rode to Sherburne with a message of congratulation from General Lee,
who told him that he had selected the possible crossing well, and that
he had shown great skill and valor in holding it until the army came up.
Sherburne's flush of pride showed under his deep tan.
"I did my best," he said to Harry, who knew the contents of the letter,
"and that's all any of us can do."
"But General Lee has a way of inspiring us to do our best."
"It's so, and it's one of the reasons why he's such a great general.
Watch those bridge builders work, Harry! They're certainly putting their
souls and strength into it."
"And they have need to do so. The scouts say that the Army of the
Potomac will be before us to-morrow. Don't you think the river has
fallen somewhat, Colonel?"
"A little but look at those clouds over there, Harry.
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