Dalton, a Virginian, had been there, and he told Harry that in ordinary times one could walk through it for many miles without meeting a single human being.
"And they say that Hooker is along its edge with the bulk of his army," said Dalton.

"He is in our rear ready to attack with his veterans.
What conclusion do you draw from it, Harry ?" "I infer that Lee and Jackson will not attack Sedgwick at Fredericksburg.
They will go for Hooker.

They will strike where the enemy is strongest.
It's their way, isn't it ?" "Right, of course, Harry.

We'll be marching against Hooker long before the dawn." Dalton's prediction came true earlier than he had expected.

Jackson marched at midnight from his position on the Massaponnax Hills to join the small command of Anderson, which alone faced Hooker.