The clouds grew heavier and he would have been glad of shelter, but he put down the wish, recalling to himself with a sort of fierceness that he was a soldier and must scorn such things.

Moreover, it behooved him to make most of his journey in the night, and this forest, which ran almost to Washington, seemed to be provided for his approach.
He had fixed the direction of Washington firmly in his mind, and having a good idea of location, he kept his horse going at a good walk toward his destination.

As his eyes, naturally strong, grew used to the forest, and his horse was sure of foot, they were able to go through the bushes without much trouble.

He stopped at intervals to listen for a possible enemy--or friend--but heard nothing except the ordinary sounds of the forest.
By and by a wind rose and blew all the clouds away.

A shining moon and a multitude of brilliant stars sprang out.