"
"Don't tease the lad," said the crippled Ewell. "I knew him well on
Jackson's staff, and he was one of our bravest and best."
"A jest only," said Stuart. "Don't I know him as well as you, Ewell?
The first time I saw him he was riding alone among many dangers to bring
relief to a beleaguered force of ours."
"And you furnished that relief, sir," said Harry.
"Well, so I did, but it was my luck, not merit."
"Be assured that you have no better friend than General Stuart," said
General Lee, smiling. "You have done your duty well, Lieutenant Kenton,
and as these have been arduous days for you you may withdraw, and join
your young comrades of the staff."
Harry saluted and retired. Before he was out of ear shot the generals
resumed their eager talk, but they knew, even as Harry himself, that
there was but one thing to do, stand with their backs to the river and
fight, if Meade chose to offer battle.
He slept heavily, and when he awoke the next day Dalton, who was up
before him, informed him that the Northern army was at hand. Snatching
breakfast, he and Dalton, riding close behind the commander-in-chief,
advanced a little distance and standing upon a knoll surveyed the
thrilling spectacle before them.
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