They have made
the prelude, and the importance of their role has passed. The masses of
infantry are drawing together again. Now I see men on horseback with
trumpets to their lips. Yes, the charge is coming. Ah-h! That burnt
them!"
There was a terrific crash much nearer, and Dick knew that it was the
Southern batteries opening fire. The shoulder upon which the colonel's
hand rested shook a little, but it was from excitement. He said nothing
and Colonel Woodville continued:
"The smoke is so heavy I can't see what damage was done! Now it has
cleared away! There are gaps in the Yankee lines, but the men have
closed up, and they come on at the double quick with their cannon still
firing over their heads!"
In his excitement he took his hand off Dick's shoulder and leaned forward
a little farther, supporting himself now against the earthen wall.
Dick stood just behind him, shielded from the sight of any one who might
be passing in the ravine, although there was little danger now from
searchers with a great battle going on. Meanwhile he watched the combat
with an eagerness fully equal to that of the old colonel.
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