It was agreed that it would be madness for the infantry; but Brace proposed at a little council that was held, that he should hurry on with his troop, and that the officer in command of the cavalry should go with him in support.
I saw my father hesitate for a few moments, while all eyes were turned upon him, and then he rose.
“Yes,” he said; “it will create a diversion, and give hope to the poor creatures who are making so brave a struggle. What do you say, Brooke?”
Mr Brooke, who was the commissioner of the place, exclaimed eagerly—
“In Heaven’s name, send them! It will show them that help is near.”
“An hour’s rest first,” said my father, “and then go.”
“But the men, sir—” protested Brace.
“I am not thinking of the brave fellows,” said my father, “but of their poor dumb beasts.”
“Yes,” said Brace, “you are right;” and he went to see that the horses were being carefully tended—almost an unnecessary task, for our men were very proud of their mounts, and I followed him silently till he heard my step, and faced round to look at me angrily.
“What do you want?” he said.