Cavalry horses pawed the ground restlessly in that part of the field where they were picketed. The troopers slept or sprawled on the hard ground nearby. To the south were parked the American batteries, while on all sides infantrymen were to be seen by the thousands.
Suddenly, from the direction of General Rhodes' quarters, came a loud hurrah. It was taken up on all sides, and directly the camp became a pandemonium.
"Wonder what's going on?" said Hal.
"Don't know," replied Chester. "We'll find out."
The lads hurried toward the general's quarters. Toward them came a crowd of shouting men, throwing their hats in the air and cheering wildly. Hal stopped one of them.
"What's all the excitement?" he asked.
"Haven't you heard the news, sir?" he asked.
"No," said Hal. "What is it?"
"A truce has been signed with Austria," replied the soldier. "Hurrah!"
"Hurrah indeed," said Hal fervently. "And have you heard the nature of the truce?"