As double-guarded now they rode

Between the files of moody men?

Some sudden consciousness they brook,

Or dread the sequel. That night’s blood

Disturbed even Mosby’s brotherhood.

The flagging horses stumbled at roots,

Floundered in mires, or clinked the stones;

No rider spake except aside;

But the wounded cramped in the ambulance,

It was horror to hear their groans—