Unmindful of the curious glances cast at two soldiers in full field equipment, Hal and Noll enjoyed their treat to the utmost. Then they started back, traveling fast.
Nor did they run into any lurking detachments from C Company. Their "hike," as a fast march is termed, was uneventful until they reached the old hunter's cabin.
"Pop" was awaiting their coming, and a keen look flashed into his old eyes when he saw them and recognized them from Raynes's description.
"Sogers, hey?" he demanded, going sociably down to the road.
"Yes, sir," nodded Hal respectfully as he paused.
"Seen a lot of 'em go by to-day," continued the hunter.
"Then you're the man we want to see, sir," went on Private Overton. "Did two companies go by this way?"
"Yes, soger boy. They was 'bout three-quarters of an hour apart. And I reckon ye belong to the second one. Let me describe yer captain."
The old hunter gave a clear description of the personal appearance of B Company's commander. There is little that escapes a hunter's eyes or recollection.
"Yes," broke in Hal eagerly. "That was our commander, Captain Cortland."