B Company was soon aroused; in ten minutes more all of the guard except the soldiers down by the ravine had been recalled.
"We won't strike our tents," Cortland informed his sergeants. "It will do no harm to leave the camp standing, especially if the enemy's commander uses his night glasses at a distance. He will feel certain that we are nicely bagged. Now, pass the word, without loud command, for the company to fall in."
Two minutes later, in single file, B Company marched toward the ravine like so many unsubstantial spectres.
CHAPTER X
TRAPPERS AND TRAPPED
"HALT, who's there?"
A single sentry, just at the opening of the ravine, called the challenge in a low voice.
There was no response.
"Halt! Who's there?"