They were all from the rich farms in the valleys.

Splendid horsemen, fine marksmen, and alive with youth and courage, no deed was too great for them.

Harry was proud to ride with them, and he told more of the story to Sherburne as they covered the short distance to the village.
"Old Jack would order us to do just what we're doing," said Sherburne.
"He wants his officers to obey orders, but he wants them to think, too." Harry saw his eyes flash again, and something in his own mind answered to the spirit of adventure which burned so brightly in this young man.
He looked over the troop, and as far as he could see the faces of all were flushed with the same hope.

He knew with sudden certainty that the Union forces would never take that warehouse and its precious contents.
These were the very flower of that cavalry of the South destined to become so famous.
"You know the village ?" said Sherburne to Harry.
"Yes, I passed there last night." "What defense has it ?" "About two hundred men.

They are strangers to the region, drawn from the Tidewater country, and I don't think they're as good as most of General Jackson's men." "Lack of discipline, you think ?" "Yes, but the material is fine." "All right.