How far are we from the arsenal ?" "About eight miles, sir." "Isn't it nearer nine ?" "I should say nearer eight, sir." "You should know, and at any rate we'll soon see." Jackson did not speak to him again directly, evidently keeping him at his side now for sure guidance, but he continually sent other aides along the long lines to urge more speed.

The men were panting, and, despite the cold of the winter night, beads of perspiration stood on every face.

But Jackson was pitiless.

He continually spurred them on, and now Harry knew with the certainty of fate that he would get there in time.

He would reach Hertford before fresh Union troops could come.