.

THE CLOSING CIRCLE.
"George," said Harry, "we must chance it now and get back to the horses.
We've got to reach General Jackson before the Northern army is through the pass." "You lead," said Dalton.

"I don't think we'll have any danger except when we are in that strip of grass between these bushes and the woods." Harry started, and when he reached the grass threw himself almost flat on his face again, crawling forward with extreme caution.

Dalton, close behind him, imitated his comrade.

The high grass merely rippled as they passed and the anxious Northern officers walking back and forth were not well enough versed in woodcraft to read from any sign that an enemy was near.
Once Dalton struck his knee against a small bush and caused its leaves to rustle.