But the commanding generals were afraid to risk the attempt with an army which had been drilled only a few weeks and which had so little discipline; and, thus, the moment to strike passed by.
In a few days the North had chosen a new commander, General McClellan, who set himself to raise new armies to defend Washington and to scourge the South.
Soon after the battle, General Jackson moved his men to a piece of woodland near by, where he employed the time in drilling his troops. After a time the Confederate lines were pushed forward to within sight of Washington city, but no battle took place, as General McClellan was too wise to risk another engagement so soon after Manassas.
In October, General Jackson was promoted to the rank of Major-General, and was sent to the Shenandoah Valley to take command of the army which had been fighting in West Virginia.
The Stonewall Brigade was left behind with General Johnston. This was a great trial, both to General Jackson and to the brigade.
When the time came for him to leave for the new field of war, he ordered the brigade to march out under arms, and then rode to their front with his staff. Dr. Dabney says that no cheer arose, but every face was sad.
After speaking a few words of praise and love, he threw his bridle reins on the neck of his horse, and stretching his arms towards them said: “In the Army of the Shenandoah, you were the First Brigade. In the Army of the Potomac, you were the First Brigade. In the Second Corps of the army, you are the First Brigade. You are the First Brigade in the affections of your General; and I hope, by your future deeds and bearing, you will be handed down to posterity as the First Brigade in this, our second War of Independence. Farewell.”
He then waved his hand, and left the grounds at a gallop, followed by the cheers of his brave soldiers. This separation, however, was for but a short time. In November following, the First Brigade was ordered to join Jackson at Winchester, and it remained with him until the fatal hour at Chancellorsville, when it lost him forever.
Rüse (rooz), a trick. Stáff, certain officers attached to an army. Rout, fleeing in a confused and disorderly manner. Ĭn′strū-mĕn′tăl, conducive to some end. Dĭs′ciplĭne, order, rule.