Night came again and the scouts reported to Lee that the Union army
was breaking camp, evidently with the intention of getting out of the
Wilderness and marching to Fredericksburg. Harry was with the general
when he received the news, and he saw him think over it long. Other
scouts brought in the same evidence.
Harry did not know what the general thought, but as for himself, although
he was too young to say anything, it was incredible that Grant should
retreat. It was not at all in accordance with his character, now tested
on many fields, and his resources also were too great for withdrawal.
But the night was very dark and no definite knowledge yet came out of it.
Lee stayed by his little campfire and received reports. Far after dusk
Harry saw the look of doubt disappear from his eyes, and then he began
to send out messengers. It was evident that he had formed his opinion,
and intended to act upon it at once.
He beckoned to Harry and Dalton, and bade them go together with written
instructions to General Anderson, who had taken the place of General
Longstreet.
"You will stay with General Anderson subject to his orders," he said,
as Harry and Dalton, saluting, rode toward Anderson's command.
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