Thousands
of horses and cattle were driven off, and the rich and smiling
valley made a desolation, with nothing left in it, as Grant said,
to invite the enemy to return.
Having finished this work Sheridan dashed off to Washington, to
consult with the Secretary of war about his future movements. The
Confederate army had meanwhile encamped again near Fisher's Hill.
And Early, hearing of Sheridan's absence, determined to make a
surprise attack on the Federal army.
In the darkness of the night they set out, and stealthily crept
towards the Federal camp at Cedar Creek. Every care was taken so
that no sound should be made. The men were even ordered to leave
their canteens behind, lest they should rattle against their rifles.
Not a word was spoken as the great column crept onward, climbing
up and down steep hillsides, fording streams, pushing through
thickly growing brushwood. At length before sunrise, without alarm
or hindrance of any kind the Confederates reached the camp of the
sleeping Federals.
Each man was soon in his appointed place, and in the cold grey
dawn stood waiting the signal. At length a shot rang out, and with
their well-known yell the Confederates threw themselves into the
camp.
As quickly as might be the Federals sprang up and seized their
arms. But they had been taken utterly by surprise, and before they
could form in battle array they were scattered in flight.
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