Each had scored largely over the other from
time to time, but Harry believed that he was at least even.
He steadied his nerves now and rode calmly toward Longstreet, coming soon
upon his scouts, who informed him that the heavy columns were not far
behind, marching with stalwart step to their appointed place in the line.
But it was Harry's business to see Longstreet himself, and he continued
his way toward the center of the division, where they told him the
general could be found.
He rode forward and in the moonlight recognized Longstreet at once,
a heavy-set, bearded man, mounted on a strong bay horse. He had a very
small staff, and he was first to notice the young lieutenant advancing.
He knew Harry well, having seen him with Lee at Gettysburg and with
Jackson before. He stopped and said abruptly:
"You come from the commander-in-chief, do you not?"
"Yes, sir," replied Harry, "and I've been coming as fast as I could."
He did not deem it necessary to say anything about his encounter with
Shepard.
"There has been heavy fighting. What are his orders?"
Harry told him, also giving him a written message, which the general read
by the light of a torch an aide held.
"You can tell General Lee that all my men will be in position for battle
before dawn," said the Georgian crisply.
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