"No, sir! We tried hard but couldn't make it."
Morrison's face did not change but his hands tightened until the nails dug deep into his palms. He had played—and lost.
"Go on with your report," he said.
Harris pulled in his fretting horse and delivered his significant news.
"The Rebels are advancing in force. I was sent back to you with orders to join Major Foster at the fork and hold the road at any cost. Two light field pieces are coming to your support. Our main batteries are back there—in the woods."
"Right," said Morrison, "we go at once." Turning back to Virgie he caught her up in his arms and kissed her. "Good-by, little sweetheart. Hide under the rocks and keep close."
"Good-by, Morrison," Gary said, as they struck hands. "I can't wish you luck—but our hearts are with you as a man."
"Thanks, old fellow," said the enemy, as he sprang over the wall "It helps—God knows."
He caught at his horse's mane and threw himself into the saddle without touching the stirrup, while his voice roared out his command.
"Ready, men! Forward!"