Hal briefly sketched the plan, as he understood it, of attacking the camp by moving up through the ravine.
"We've a sentry down at the ravine," declared Captain Cortland. "But, Mr. Prescott, I believe you would do well to rouse enough men to create an emergency outpost beyond the other end of the ravine. Also send a small scouting detachment out considerably beyond the ravine. But instruct the scouts to be prepared for a quick recall at any moment."
Lieutenant Prescott saluted his superior officer, then hastened away to rout out the needed men and post them.
"Go on with your story, Overton. Better give it all to us in order, but be brief in the telling, my man."
So Hal plunged promptly into the narration of what he and Noll had been through, beginning with the false scent on which they had been sent by the hunter at the cabin.
Captain Cortland held out his hand almost impulsively, both to Hal and to Noll.
"My men," he said earnestly, "I must tell you that I believe you both did wisely in adopting the profession of arms. Obedience is the first requisite of the soldier. The records of both of you stand well in that respect. But scouting work, which comes under the head of the service of information and security, is of the utmost importance in a campaign, and you two show positive genius as scouts. This is all of a piece with your great work of last night, Overton. I shall not forget it. As every man will be called within fifteen minutes, you may remain here under Sergeant Hupner's orders. Mr. Hampton, you and I will take a brief stroll and decide swiftly upon what we are to do."
"Lads," broke in Sergeant Hupner, as the officers strolled away, "either you're mighty lucky or else you're born soldiers. I believe it is the latter."
Five minutes later the two senior company officers returned.
"Sergeant Hupner, we are going to call the men, but no bugle will be sounded," stated Captain Cortland. "Rouse the remaining sergeants first; then instruct them to rouse all the men and with great quietness."