The sweep of the cavalry charge exhilarated Dick. The thought of danger
passed away for the moment. He saw all around him the eager faces of men,
and horses that seemed just as eager. Dust and dirt flew beneath the
thudding hoofs, and the dust and floating smoke together made a grimy
cloud through which they galloped.
They passed around still further on the flank. They seemed, for a few
minutes, to be leaving the battle, which was now at its height, the
Southern artillery still holding the road and presenting an unbroken
front.
Dick saw a flash of water and then the whole troop thundered into the
creek, almost without slackened rein. Up the bank they went, and with
a wild shout charged upon the Southern infantry. On the other flank
another Northern force which also had crossed the creek attacked with
fire and spirit.
But the battle still swayed back and forth. Hertford and his cavalry
were thrown off, merely to return anew to the charge. A portion of
the Northern force was driven back on the creek. The strong Southern
batteries poured forth death.
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