At nightfall the enemy was still in position, and Stuart had not advanced.
We spent the night at a farm-house, and were in the saddle again at dawn.
The hills opposite were deserted. The enemy had retreated. Stuart pushed on their track down the Sperryville road, passed the village of Griffinsburg, and near Stonehouse Mountain came on, and pushed them rapidly back on Culpeper Court-House.
All at once quick firing was heard on our right.
“What is that?” Stuart asked.
“An infantry regiment, general!” said Weller, one of our couriers, galloping quickly up.
The words acted upon Stuart like the blow of a sword. A wild excitement seemed to seize him.
“Bring up a squadron!” he shouted—for we were riding ahead without support; “bring up the cavalry! I am going to charge! Bring me a squadron!”
And drawing his sword, Stuart rushed at full gallop, alone and unattended, toward the Federal infantry, whose gun-barrels were seen glittering in the woods.
Never had I seen him more excited. He was plainly on fire with the idea of capturing the whole party.