They roamed through the forest dragging in fallen timber, and now and then, an old rail fence was taken panel by panel to join the general heap.
The fires presently began to crackle in the darkness, running in long, irregular lines, and the young soldiers crowded in groups about them.
At the same time they ate the scanty rations they carried in their knapsacks, and wondered what had become of the wagons.

Jackson sent detachments to seek his supply trains, but Harry knew that he would not wait for it in the morning.

The horses drawing the heavy loads over the slippery roads would need rest as badly as the men, and Jackson would go on.

If food was not there--well then his troops must march on empty stomachs.
Youth changes swiftly and the high spirits with which the soldiers had departed in the morning were gone.

The night had become extremely cold.
Fierce winds whistled down from the crests of the mountains and pierced their clothing with myriads of little icy darts.