Harry saw that the faces of all were eager as they heard the thunder of the guns in the valley below.
Among the most eager was a regiment of Georgians arrived but recently with the reinforcements.
Many of the men, speaking from the obscurity of the crowded ranks, did not scorn to hurl questions at their officers.
"Are we goin' to fight the Yankees at last ?" "I'd rather take my chances with the bullets than march any more." "Lead us down an' give us a chance at 'em." Colonel Leonidas Talbot and Lieutenant-Colonel Hector St.Hilaire were among the officers who had gone with Jackson to the verge of the cliff, and now when they heard the impertinent but eager questions from the massed ranks they looked at each other and smiled.

It was not according to West Point, but these were recruits and here was enthusiasm which was a pearl beyond price.
General Jackson beckoned to Harry and three other young staff officers.
"Take glasses," he said, "go back to the verge of the cliff, and watch for movements on the part of the enemy.

If any is made be sure that you see it, and report it to me at once." The words were abrupt, sharp, admitting of no question or delay, and the four fairly ran.

Harry and his comrades lay down at the edge of the cliff and swept the valley with their glasses.

The great guns were still firing at intervals of about a minute.