“Afraid you might keep him,” laughed Fred; “you are a good judge of a horse, Captain.”
“Right you are,” responded Mathews; “I am sorry I didn’t think of that horse when we were at [pg 111]Richmond. I would have visited you with my friend Conway, and taken the horse. Think I will have to return for him yet.”
Fred thought little of what Mathews said, but that very night Mathews dispatched two of his men back in disguise to steal Fred’s horse.
From Crab Orchard Morgan marched to Somerset, surprising the place, and capturing a large wagon-train. It was also a depot for army supplies, all of which Morgan gave to the torch. Here he again took possession of the telegraph office, and enlightened the Federals as to his movements.
At Somerset Morgan’s raid was practically at an end. There were no Federal troops in front of him; his pursuers were a day behind. After he had completed the destruction of all the United States property in the place, and was ready to leave, he caused the following dispatches to be sent:
Somerset, Ky., July 22, 1862.
George D. Prentice, Louisville, Ky.
Good morning, George D. I am quietly watching the complete destruction of all of Uncle Sam’s property in this little burg. I regret exceedingly that this is the last that comes under my supervision on this route. I expect in a short time to pay you a visit, and wish to know if you will be at home. All well in Dixie.
John H. Morgan,
Commanding Brigade.