He heard all around him the splashing of his comrades, and their murmurs of satisfaction.

They realized now that they were not only able to retreat before a much superior force, but this same stream, when crossed, would form a barrier behind which they could fight two to one.
The Confederate leader, whoever he might be, and Dick had no doubt that he was the redoubtable Turner Ashby, also appreciated the full facts and he drove his whole force straight at the regiment.

It was well for the young troops that part of them were already across, and, under the skillful leadership of Colonel Newcomb, Major Hertford, and three or four old, regular army sergeants, of whom the best was Whitley, were already forming in line of battle.
"Kneel," shouted the colonel, "and fire over the heads of your comrades at the enemy!" The light was still growing brighter.

The rain came only in slight flurries.

The clouds were trooping off toward the northeast, and the moon was out.