They hang on too long.

After we drove them out of the fort they ought to have retreated up the valley and left us in peace.

If they act this way when they're raw, what'll they do when they are seasoned ?" After the conference with Colonel Talbot, Stuart and his cavalry pursued the Northern force up the valley, not for attack, but for observation.
Stuart came back at nightfall and reported that their retreat was covered by the heavy guns, and, if they were attacked with much success, it must be done by at least five thousand men.
"Carrington again," said Colonel Talbot, smiling and rubbing his hands.
"You and your horsemen, Stuart, could never get a chance at the Northern recruits, unless you rode first over Carrington's guns.

From whatever point you approached their muzzles would be sure to face you." "The colonel is undoubtedly right about his friend Carrington," said St.Clair to Harry and Langdon.

"I guess those guns scared us more than anything else." Stuart and his command left them about midnight.