This battle, while it has not wounded you, has covered you with its grime.
Come, the fighting is over for this day at least, and the regiment is going to take a rest--what there is left of it." He spoke the last words sadly.

He knew the terrible cost at which they had driven the Southern army back into the fort, and he feared that the full price was yet far from being paid.

But he preserved a cheerful manner before the brave lads of his who had fought so well.
Dick found that Warner and Pennington both had wounds, although they were too slight to incapacitate them.

Sergeant Whitley, grave and unhurt, rejoined them also.
The winter night and their heavy losses could not discourage the Northern troops.

They shared the courage and tenacity of their commander.