At the word, the guns spouted flame, and the canister tore through the line of skirmishers, and the Federal line of battle behind; but it did not check them. They came on more rapidly, and the air was full of balls.
“Look out for the guns, Breathed! Take them off!” exclaimed the general.
Breathed turned toward one of the pieces, and ordered:—
“Limber to the rear!”
The order was quickly obeyed.
“Forward!”
The piece went off at a thundering gallop, pursued by bullets.
“Only a few more rounds, general!” pleaded Breathed; “I won’t lose the guns!”
“All right!”
As he spoke, the enemy rushed upon the single gun.