"That's so," answered another. And then he continued, "What a difference between our Jack and his cowardly cousin!"
"We are here to defend property more than to take part in any battle," said Jack. "Do not let the guerrillas steal, no matter what side they pretend to be on. A thief is a thief, whether he says he is a Confederate or a Yankee."
"That's right!" shouted the old storekeeper, who stood by.
A little while later the firing came closer, and presently up the road a cloud of dust was seen.
"The Yanks are coming!" was the cry, as a horseman dashed up.
"Coming?" repeated several.
"Yes, they are in retreat!"
A wild shout went up—cut short by the sudden belching forth of cannon on the mountain side above the town. A little later some Federal troops swept into view.
"They are coming! Get out of the way!"
Soon the soldiers filled the road and the whole of the green. They had been fighting hard and were almost exhausted. Others followed until the streets of the old town were crowded. Then began a systematic retreat northward.