Before the sun was well up the Federals were defeated, and their
camp and cannon were in the hands of the enemy. Meanwhile Sheridan
had reached Winchester on his return journey from Washington. He
had slept the night there, and had been awakened by the sound of
firing. At first he thought little of it, but as the roar continued
he became sure that a great battle was being fought-and he was
twenty miles away! He set spurs to his horse, and through the cool
morning air,
"A steed as black as steeds of night, Was seen to pass, as with
eagle flight. As if he knew the terrible need, He stretched away
with his utmost speed."
Mile after mile the great black horse ate up the roads. The sound
of firing grew louder and louder, and at length men fleeing in rout
and confusion came in sight. There was every sign of a complete
defeat. Wounded, unwounded, baggage wagons, mule teams, all were
fleeing in confusion.
It was a grievous sight for Sheridan. But he refused to accept
defeat. Rising high in his stirrups he waved his hat in the air,
and shouted cheerily, "Face the other way, boys. We are going back
to our camp. We are going to lick them into their boots."
At the sound of his voice the fleeing soldiers paused, and
with a mighty shout they faced about. Even the wounded joined in
the cheering. The beaten, disheartened army took heart again, the
scattered, disorganized groups were gathered, a compact line of
battle was formed, and at the end of two hours the men were not
only ready but eager once more to grapple with the foe.
Pages:
646
647
648
649
650
651
652
653
654
655
656
657
658
659
660
661
662
663
664
665
666
667
668
669
670